The basics
For those who want the madcap craziness of Glastonbury or Bestival, but don't want to trek for an hour between tents to get to all the fun stuff, Standon Calling might be your baby. Most importantly, it's also a place where scoffing a burger from one of London's hottest street-food traders is as important as listening to cool new music
The festival
An eclectic line up that revolves around food, music and offbeat activities is Standon Calling's calling card, so this small(ish) and mighty festival is one to watch. Here are three reasons why it should be on your hit list this summer:
1. The vibe. It started as a birthday party in a field in 2009 and somehow held on to the small-scale feel while expanding to the point where it attracts some real big hitters when it comes to the music.
2. The food – from vegan junk food to a diner from burger maestros Le Bun, the food line up is considered to be as important as the music.
3. It's 45 minutes from London. Seriously. We got an Uber back last year.
But there's more: this cheeky now-not-so-little number also has a pool and – wait for it – a dog show. Yes! So when you're really hungover on the last day, plonk yourself down in the right spot and you'll be able to pet loads of friendly pooches as they trot past you, then go for a swim. We can't promise it'll fix you, but it'll probably help.
Each year has an off-the-wall theme that sees everyone dress up with some of the most inventive costumes you'll ever see – this is a place where fancy dress is taken seriously. This year's theme is 'The 2018 Story of The Future'.
There are also plenty of late-night bars, art installations, cultural events, and a nightclub housed in an abandoned cowshed. If you're looking for a festival that's got personality in spades, this is it.
Our tip
Most years, the festival's line up play intimate DJ sets next to the swimming pool before they take to the main stage. Dance with a handful of people rather than in a field of thousands.
Lineup
Full lineup here.
Getting there
How do I get there?
Car Sharing: Visit either Lift Share or Go Car Share for more information
Travelling by Train: Bishop's Stortford or Ware are the closest stations to Standon Calling. From London you can catch a train from Liverpool Street or Tottenham Hale. A cab from either Bishop's Stortford or Ware takes around 15-20 minutes and costs between £15-25 depending on the time of day.
Tickets
Pricing
Tier 5 Weekend Ticket: £159 ON SALE SOON
Tier 4 Weekend Ticket: £149
Tier 3 Weekend Ticket: SOLD OUT
Tier 2 Weekend Ticket: SOLD OUT
Tier 1 Weekend Ticket: SOLD OUT
When can I get them?
Tickets on sale now
Tickets for 2018 are already on sale.
Where can I get them?
Tickets are available via Festicket.
