Getting to Glastonbury this year has been a difficult journey for ticket holders.
In addition to the two-year postponement of the pandemic, when this week’s rail strikes were announced, thousands had to find a new route to Worthy Farm.
With half of the special services canceled, there was a crazy fight to reserve seats on the coaches. For others, driving became the only option.
Many feared that Wednesday – usually the busiest day to travel to the festival – would be blocked on the roads.
Fortunately, the reality was much more manageable, as the festival-goers we spoke to explain.
Your guide to this year’s Glastonbury AZ
Image: Michelle planned a “horrible trip” but says it has been “perfect” so far.
Michelle Jones, 32, of Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, came by coach.
“We planned a horrible trip and it was perfect,” he said.
“This is our fifth time; it’s been so weird, but we’re excited to be here and enjoy the sun. We’re excited to hear good music.”
Mark and Rebecca Brown and their 21-year-old son Ewan from Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, came in a caravan.
Image: The Browns were amazed at how their trip from Leicestershire was
“We left around 9.30am thinking it would be a difficult trip, but it wasn’t,” Mark said.
“It’s been almost three years since we got the tickets, a long time ago. My beard was black then, now it’s a little grayer.”
Rebecca said they left early, ready for a trip of about eight hours: “We’ve been there three times before and they’ve taken us up to 24 hours, which was awful – we had to be towed through the mud.
“We expected it to be at least the same and, with the train strikes, potentially worse. But it was nice: we went straight in. It took just over five hours, and that was with a 45-minute stop.”
Subscribe to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Her son, Ewan, said that after three years of having the tickets, she feels “quite special to finally get here.”
“I have a girlfriend and I bought a house at the time,” she said. “I was a little upset when it was canceled, but it couldn’t be avoided.
“We always have a great time. I’m really excited about Arcardia, this is my favorite part. I’m really looking forward to Fatboy Slim, Chase and Status and Carl Cox.”
Image: Joseph Clarkson is having his first experience in Glastonbury
Glastonbury Virgin Joseph Clarkson, 26, from London, traveled by bus.
“It’s my first time, so yeah, I’m hot, sweaty and ready!” He said.
“I’m excited to walk around and see some crazy costumes. It’s been a long time coming, and it looks like it’s time.”