A Guide to Truck Festival

Truck Festival is an acclaimed annual music festival held in Hill Farm, Steventon near Oxfordshire. Set across multiple stages and areas, Truck Festival hosts a diverse lineup of critically acclaimed musical acts and talented newcomers across various genres like indie rock, alternative, hip hop, electronic and more.

With a laidback, friendly atmosphere and picturesque location, Truck Festival Oxfordshire offers a vibrant festival experience that brings people together to enjoy brilliant live music, arts, comedy and local food & drinks.

Birth of an Alternative Festival: Truck's Humble Origins

Since its humble beginnings in 1998, Truck Festival has blossomed into an beloved annual event that provides a spirited alternative to mainstream commercial events like Glastonbury. Truck Festival was founded by the Bennett family, including brothers Robin and Joe of beloved local indie band Goldrush, who dreamed of creating a independent music festival celebrating Oxfordshire's thriving local scene alongside acclaimed artists from across the UK and beyond.

The festival's unusual name has an endearing origin story: during the inaugural 1998 edition, the improvised 'stage' actually consisted of two trucks parked and connected together on Cowley Road, upon which the bands performed throughout the day. This set the blueprint for the festival's passionate DIY ethos and intimate atmosphere between artists and attendees.

Truck Festival 2023: Indie Icons Meet Local Talent

Continuing a rich 25 year history, the 2023 edition of Truck Festival once again provided an artistically vibrant soundtrack to Oxfordshire's summer with a characteristically genre-spanning lineup. Revellers danced and swayed euphorically as iconic indie bands The Wombats and Two Door Cinema Club played sun-dappled hits alongside art pop legends Alt-J unveiling sophisticated new textures.

Royal Blood brought the weekend to an exhilarating close with pummelling riffs as fireworks lit up the balmy Sunday night sky. Woven between the major acts, bands like The Bug Club and Dead Pony proved why the UK remains such a hotbed of emerging talent - Truck 2023 spotlighted these rising stars while retaining its intimate, community-centric roots.

Standout Moments & Memories from Truck 2023

From its opening Thursday evening warm-up to the closing firework spectacle, Truck 2023 created treasured memories across four jam-packed days:

Swim Deep kicked off proceedings with breezy, loved-up indie tunes perfect as the summer sun began to set. The Vaccines then made history as the first band to ever play the main stage twice, cementing their Truck Festival legacy. Beyond the music, Friday afternoon's inaugural chaotic Truck Gameshow presented hilarious on-stage challenges.

The weekend climax saw Clean Bandit get the crowd jumping alongside a orchestra before alt-J revisited iconic tracks like 'Breezeblocks' that have soundtracked so many life moments for attendees over the years. Truck Festival 2023 affirmed why crowds flock back annually to immerse themselves in the balmy musical escapism.

Brimming with critically acclaimed talents, beloved chart toppers and breakthrough genre trailblazers, the exciting Truck Festival 2024 lineup features some of the most gifted and energetic performers in alternative rock, indie pop, rap and electronica today.

Taking to the floral stage on Friday 25th July is Jamie T; the immensely gifted singer-songwriter makes his long-awaited comeback to dazzling festival crowds after 6 years away. With indie-rock hits like 'Sheila' and 'If You Got the Money' in his locker alongside new tunes, Jamie T's set promises to get the Oxfordshire crowd moving with his infectious melodies and lyrical brilliance.

In a special career moment, Isle of Wight indie rock duo Wet Leg will headline their very first UK festival on Saturday night. Propelled rapidly to prominence after their witty viral hit 'Chaise Longue', Wet Leg are one of music's most talked-about new acts - their self-titled debut LP earned rave reviews with its wry lyrics, swagger and distinctive guitar lines. With infectious tracks like 'Angelica', 'I Don't Wanna Go Out' and 'Ur Mum' in their arsenal, Wet Leg are set to deliver an unforgettable experience.

Sunday sees acclaimed rapper Mike Skinner storm the stage with his genre-blending group The Streets in tow, airing garage-inflected retro classics like ‘Fit But You Know It’ alongside brittle new cuts. Skinner’s vivid vignettes set to bouncing beats have soundtracked many formative memories - expect Oxfordshire crowds to rap along word-for-word while The Streets soundtrack a poignant Sunday night.

After demolishing Truck Festival in 2016, IDLES return on Thursday to headline 2024 with explosive punk energy and pummelling socio-political anthems fit to inspire intense mosh pits. Led with raw authenticity by frontman Joe Talbot, tracks like ‘Colossus’, 'Danny Nedelko' and 'The Beachland Ballroom' radiate with frustration and hope, matched by blistering instrumentation - the Bristol band have earned a reputation for incendiary festival sets not to miss.

Beyond the stellar headliners lies a kaleidoscopic lineup overflowing with alt-rock royalty, indie trailblazers and local talent due to ignite the various Truck Festival 2024 stages. The Kooks will air sun-dappled pop anthems, Declan McKenna will unveil sophisticated psych-pop missives, whilst English Teacher and The Magic Gang fly the flag for Oxford's thriving scene. Rap, electronica and more permeate the 2024 bill set for mosh pits and lyrics to live forever.

Whether you're thrashing in the crowd, discovering new favourites at the Nest Stage or enjoying family entertainment and comedy, Truck Festival 2024 promises to be the best yet when it returns to the rolling hills of Oxfordshire's Hill Farm from 25th-28th July. An artistically vibrant, hugely enjoyable weekend under the sun awaits.

Nestled in the sleepy village of Steventon amongst the rolling green hills of Oxfordshire countryside, Truck Festival's charming rural location is a integral part of its welcoming atmosphere. Known affectionately as the "Godfather of the small festival scene", navigating to this tastemaker event's home at Hill Farm is part of the iconic experience.

Arriving Without Hassle: Coach Travel

For saving money and effortless travel directly to the festival gates, dedicated coaches from major towns and cities are ideal. These coaches have ample room for luggage and camping gear. Truck Festival partners with major coach companies to provide direct routes from locations including Basingstoke, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Reading and Southampton. Sit back and soak up the scenery enroute to Oxfordshire's fields.

Navigating By Car

For those wishing to drive, well-signposted routes lead to Hill Farm. If you're travelling southbound, leave the A34 dual carriageway at the Chilton Interchange. Travelling from the north near Didcot, exit at the Milton Interchange to join local roads towards Steventon. With special parking zones and friendly stewards onsite, arrive early to avoid queues.

Public Transport Connections

Without a car, check National Rail and local bus routes to stations near Steventon like Didcot Parkway, Wantage and Abingdon - continuing to Truck via taxi or shuttle bus. Advance coach and travel packages from all over the UK are also available.

Embrace the festival spirit with affordable on-site camping spots and glamping options. Alternatively, nearby towns like Wantage and Abingdon offer hotels, cosy B&Bs and guesthouses within a quick taxi ride from Truck Festival to recharge.

General Camping: Ideal Arena-Adjacent Stay

For those seeking an affordable and lively base at the heart of Truck Festival, the General Camping area delivers prime real estate. Conveniently positioned right next to the pulsating Main Arena, general camping attendees can roll out of bed and immerse themselves in the action within minutes.

The general campground hums with festive energy long after the last encore finishes, as groups of friends merrily continue the party amongst fellow campers. Join rowdy singalongs or newfound neighbours for late night revelry under the stars before retiring to your tent just steps away when you finally tire out.

With multiple toilet and water points dotted around the campground, amenities stay accessible. Remember to bring reusable bottles to fill up and reduce waste - keeping hydrated between all the dancing and moshing is a must!

General Camping puts the musical magic of Truck Festival's stages within earshot. For those unfazed by lack of sleep and seeking an affordable, lively homebase immersed in the festival's beating heart, claim your patch of Oxfordshire meadow amongst the tents. Keep the summer fun going long after the headline act finishes!

The Zodiac Fields: Hassle-Free, Spacious Camping

Tired of scrambling to pitch your tent with friends in crowded campsites? The Zodiac Fields at Truck Festival offer a pampered camping experience so you can relax and make the most of your weekend.

Within a secluded area near the new Purple Car Park, Zodiac campers can enjoy prime real estate. Spread out and stake your claim on ample space to gather your group without worrying about encroaching on other Truckers' tents.

Priority entry means no bothersome queues or worrying you'll miss the start of the fun - Zodiac ticketholders have their own fast-track lane. You’ll be set up and ready to dive into the festival in no time.

After a great night watching top acts, you'll appreciate the hot showers and posh, flushing loos in the mornings rather than basic festival facilities. Feel fresh and revived with creature comforts.

The Zodiac Fields deliver a comfortable, convenient Truck Festival stay so you can focus on what matters - soaking up our vibrant atmosphere and world-class talent without any hassle.

Experience Truck Festival in Comfort: Glamping and Pre-Pitched Tents

For those seeking a elevated stay, Truck Festival offers deluxe glamping and pre-setup tent options so attendees can arrive to find their accommodation fully prepared and ready to enjoy.

The Butterfly Fields Glamping provides a touch of luxury with its spacious bell tents kitted out with real beds, cosy blankets, fairy lights and other comforts to make getting a good rest easy after days packed with top musical performances.

Similarly, Pitch Village tents come pre-erected with sleeping equipment provided so you can skip pitching hassles and claim your readymade weekend home. With Pitch Village located close to the arena, these tents let you settle in faster.

Both the Butterfly Fields glamping and Pitch Village pre-pitched tents allow you to maximise your time at Truck Festival absorbing the thrilling atmosphere and varied lineup of artists instead of fussing over camping logistics. Upgrade your stay for a team that takes care of the hard work for you!

Accessible Camping and Parking at Truck

Truck Festival aims to provide an inclusive, welcoming experience for all attendees. For those requiring disability access or medical accommodations, dedicated facilities are available.

The Access Campsite is positioned near the Main Arena for easy reach of the performances and amenities without difficult travel across the grounds. With level ground and ample space between tents, the area provides suitable terrain for wheelchairs, mobility scooters and equipment.

Adjacent to the Access Campsite lies the Access Car Park. With accessibility parking spaces and short travel distance over smooth paths to the arena, medical tent and facilities, the car park makes navigating the festival straight-forward.

By offering these accessible spaces and convenient location minimising distance between key locations on-site, Truck Festival enables attendees of all mobilities to immerse themselves in the vibrant musical weekend with independence and comfort.

Beyond the chart-topping acts rocking the giant Main Stage, Truck Festival attendees can discover hundreds of up-and-coming talents across 4 additional arenas - each with their own vibe and lineup personality.

The Iconic Main Stage

Towering over the arena, the epic Main Stage hosts Truck's headline artists and most buzzworthy breakout bands for thumping live spectacles under the sun and stars. Past headliners like kinetic rockers Wolf Alice, intricate indie icons Foals, and the anthemic Sam Fender have topped the bill. With space for thousands of jumping, jiving fans, expect mosh pits and crowd surfing aplenty!

The Market Stage: Hidden Gem

Tucked discretely near the food stalls, The Market Stage offers a more intimate setting to sample tomorrow's stars. With room for a few hundred fans, expect a party atmosphere and new musical crushes. Genre-hop from folk to electronica and soulful sounds - past artists to rise from this stage include Sundara Karma, Sam Ryder and Rat Boy. At sundown, the stage's Palm City takeover kicks off dance-ready beats from drum & bass to techno.

The Nest: Raw & Unfiltered

Embracing left-of-centre talent, The Nest pumps out genre-bending acts spanning post-punk, psychedelic rock and electronic for avid gig-goers keen to discover their next fixation. With limited capacity, expect energy and mayhem from both the artists and die-hard fans who pack out the tent.

The V&V Stage: All Ages Talent

Cramming legends and fresh faces together on one stage, Veterans & Virgins offers an eclectic lineup. Rising indie bands share the schedule with alt-folk veterans and rock icons - anyone from a grizzled guitarist who toured in the 60s to a teenager with a guitar could take the stage for riotous intergenerational entertainment.

With distinct stage identities, Truck Festival has a space for every musical taste to fall in love with their next favourite performer.

Prepare for four blissful days of dancing and discover with Truck Festival 2024 adult weekend camping tickets, starting at the early bird price of £140 plus booking fees. For even more musical magic, upgrade to a Weekend + Thursday passport for £175 plus fees to start the revelry a day early on Thursday.

Cosmic Upgrades & Family Savings

Wish upon a star with our Weekend + Zodiac ticket at £205 plus fees for exclusive glamping site access, fast-track entry and more creature comforts. Go all out with the Weekend + Zodiac + Thursday combo at £250 plus booking fees - the ultimate VIP experience under the summer stars!

Little truckers ages 6-12 enjoy discounted weekend prices of £10 plus fees, while tiny tots ages 5 and under enter free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Accessibility & Campervans

Those requiring disability access accommodations can apply via our online 2024 Access Facilities Application. Campervans and caravans need a special pass for the dedicated parking areas.

Nestled on a working farm amongst the rolling hills of Oxfordshire, Truck Festival aims to protect the beautiful natural habitats and wildlife found across our green site during the event and year-round. That’s why sustainability is important for the future of Hill Farm and the festival.

Travel & Transport

When journeying to Truck, opt for public transport like trains or coaches rather than driving individually to reduce emissions. Shuttle buses also connect local stations for greener travel. Those driving can car share with friends to cut vehicle numbers.

Prevent Litter & Waste

Truck Festival provides ample bins across the site so rubbish can be disposed easily without littering the farm land. Take tents/belongings home rather than abandoning them. Don’t drop cigarette butts which harm local wildlife - use portable ashtrays if needed.

The 2023 event saw trader leftovers donated to 200 Oxfordshire charities via the Oxford Food Hub, while future editions will continue reducing edible waste.

Glitter & Plastic Bans

Glitter's microplastics and non-biodegradable nature causes long-term pollution, harming plants and animals near waterways. As such, glitter is banned at Truck. To lessen single-use plastics, reusable bottles are encouraged along with responsible disposal.

Truck Festival Commits to Cleaner Energy Solutions

As part of Truck Festival's expanding sustainability program, the event continues to implement cleaner energy sources to reduce its environmental impact.

In 2022, the festival introduced hybrid generators and GreenD+HVO biofuel to substantially cut diesel emissions across the site. Energy-efficient LED lighting was also installed in place of traditional bulbs to lower power consumption, with special effects equipment as the only exception.

For the 2023 edition, Truck Festival added more hybrid generators specifically customised to further minimise fuel usage during the event operations. Combined with the 100% HVO biofuel, on-site emissions have been slashed by 90% compared to previous years.

Additional power infrastructure improvements this year include more efficient equipment specifications to streamline energy use across the site.

By progressively adopting alternative energy generators, biofuels and efficient lighting/hardware, Truck Festival aims to significantly decrease its energy consumption and carbon footprint as part of an expanding sustainability program. These solutions provide cleaner, greener festival power while maintaining the iconic Truck atmosphere.

By collectively making sustainable choices around travel, waste and environmental protection - Truck Festival aims to host revellers whilst safeguarding Oxfordshire's cherished farmlands and nature for future generations to enjoy.

Since its humble beginnings in 1998, Truck Festival has blossomed into one of the UK's most beloved indie music events - repeatedly punching above its weight with iconic headline sets and by spotlighting rising stars who ascend to critical acclaim. Yet it retains an intimate, community-centric atmosphere.

Set amongst the verdant farmlands and rustic charms of Oxfordshire, Truck Festival's scenic Steventon location provides a perfect backdrop for an artistically vibrant weekend. Beyond the music, you'll discover local food, comedy, immersive art and rolling hills set the scene for blissful musical escapism and warm summer nights under the stars.

The 2024 lineup sets the stage for another spectacular Truck Festival edition from July 26th-28th. Genre-hop from punk iconoclasts IDLES' blistering socio-political anthems to The Streets' witty hip-hop missives, Jamie T's lyrically poignant return and much more.

Complementing the major acts is a kaleidoscopic bill of rising indie trailblazers, local talent and surprise secret sets across intimately-sized tents like The Nest and Market Stage. Truck is your ticket to future superstars in the making.

With good times and standout live acts guaranteed at one of Britain's best boutique festivals, Truck Festival 2024 promises to be another magical celebration of music, friendship and freedom.