Deva Fest 2025: The Ultimate Visitor Guide to Cheshire’s Family‑Friendly Festival

Deva Fest 2025

If you’re searching for Deva Fest 2025 dates and lineup, how to get to Deva Fest at Cholmondeley Castle, or Deva Fest camping and family activities, you’ve landed on the right guide. Below you’ll find everything first‑timers and returning fans want to know—tickets, travel, packing lists, food and drink policy, accessibility, where to stay, and pro tips—so your Deva Fest weekend is smooth, fun and unforgettable.

Quick facts: Deva Fest returns Thursday–Sunday, 7th–10th August 2025, at Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire, about 13 miles south‑east of Chester.


Deva Fest 2025 dates, location & headliners (what to expect)

  • Dates & place: 7th–10th August 2025 at Cholmondeley Castle, Cheshire (SY14 8AH)—a historic estate with sweeping grounds perfect for a multi‑day festival.

  • Music highlights: This year’s bill features global and UK names including Gloria Gaynor, Happy Mondays, Matt Goss, Sigala, plus more across the weekend; the festival notes that acts are original unless clearly stated otherwise.

  • Who it’s for: Deva Fest prides itself on being family‑ and dog‑friendly, welcoming everyone from first‑timers to hen parties—so you’ll see a broad mix of ages and vibes.


What’s on at Deva Fest: family fun, free fairground & unique experiences

  • Free fairground rides are a beloved signature (yes, free once you’re inside), with additional activities throughout the site.

  • Water sports on site return via Paddle the Dee (fee applies), plus Gin Journey tastings and new beer, whisky and prosecco sessions for 18+.

  • Chester Zoo will make its first Deva Fest appearance with games, shows and animal‑science fun—great for curious kids.


Tickets, wristbands & resale: how it works

  • Ticket types: Options include day, weekend without camping, and weekend with camping; covers Fri–Sun 8th–10th Aug 2025.

  • Under‑5s: Children under 5 attend free—select a free ticket at checkout.

  • Can’t go anymore? The official resale partner is Tixel; you can also gift tickets by forwarding your booking email.

  • Wristbands & post: The festival explains how and when posted wristbands/parking passes go out for campers and day visitors each year—watch their updates close to the event.


Deva Fest camping & glamping: where to stay and what to expect

  • Overnight camping pitches (one per tent or live‑in vehicle) include parking for that pitch.

  • Accessible camping and Blue Badge parking are provided near the entrance, with a free carer/assistant ticket policy for eligible attendees.

Packing pointers for campers (value‑packed):

  • A sturdy mallet, spare pegs, high‑tog sleeping bag (nights can be cool even in August), microfibre towels, head torch, power bank, duct tape and a compact first‑aid kit.

  • Groundsheet/footprint for dew, reusable water bottle, collapsible wagon for kids’ kit, and ear defenders for little ones.

  • Label kids’ coats and sun hats; add a bright windsock or flag to spot your tent in the field.


Getting to Deva Fest: driving, shuttle buses & navigation

  • By car: Cholmondeley Castle is directly off the A49 and close to the A41; pop “Deva Fest” into your sat nav for the on‑site routing.

  • Parking: Day and overnight options are available (overnight pitch includes parking).

  • Shuttle buses: Festival communications advertise shuttle routes serving multiple nearby towns (e.g., Chester, Wrexham, Crewe, Shrewsbury)—watch official updates and socials for the exact 2025 timetable and stops.

Pro tip: Arrive earlier than the act you care most about—country‑lane traffic compresses close to set times.


Food, drink & what you can (and can’t) bring

  • On the festival field you may bring your own food and soft drinks, but no alcohol and no glass due to licensing and safety rules.

  • In camping areas you can consume your own food and drink, including sensible levels of alcohol.

  • Allowed items on the field include baby food, medication, bags, non‑commercial cameras, dogs on leads, festival chairs, gazebos, picnic blankets, windbreaks, vapes (outside), and picnics with soft drinks—keep bulky items away from the stage fronts.

Smart packing for day‑trippers:

  • Picnic and refillable bottle, fold‑up chairs/blanket, lightweight poncho, SPF 50, hat, hand sanitiser, tissues, portable charger, ID, and a small torch for evening walks back to the car/coach.


Accessibility at Deva Fest

  • Deva Fest offers Blue Badge parking, accessible camping, and free carer/assistant tickets for those who qualify—apply in advance and check the full guidance before you travel.


Sample one‑day plan (with kids)

  • 10:30 Arrive early; set up your base (chairs/blanket) well back from the stage for space.

  • 11:00–13:00 Hit the free fairground rides; break for a picnic.

  • 13:30–15:00 Chester Zoo activities and face‑painting.

  • 15:30–17:00 Water‑sports session (pre‑book) for older kids; quiet time for little ones.

  • Early evening Food traders + a restock on water.

  • Evening Stake out a good viewing spot for the headliner; bring ear defenders for children.


Money, safety & festival‑savvy tips

  • Payments: Assume a mix of card/mobile; carry a small cash float in case of rural signal wobbles.

  • Sun‑and‑showers strategy: Light layers, fast‑drying clothes and waterproof shoes.

  • Keep kids safe: Write your phone number on a wristband; agree a meet point (e.g., a distinctive tree/flag) and take a family photo at arrival to capture outfits.

  • Battery life: Airplane mode between acts; use a power bank and short cable.

  • Comfort: A compact cushion for chairs, and a scarf/bandana for cool evenings.


Final checks before you go

  1. Tickets & wristbands received? If camping, check pitch details and parking included.

  2. Transport plan set—route, shuttle times, parking pre‑booked?

  3. Food & drink packed to suit the no alcohol/glass on the field rule; campers sorted separately.

  4. Activities booked (water sports, tastings) if desired.

  5. Weather‑ready kit: poncho, hat, SPF, layers, waterproof footwear.

Deva Fest 2025 – Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is Deva Fest 2025?
A: Deva Fest 2025 is scheduled for Thursday–Sunday, 7–10 August 2025. Always check the official site the week before you travel in case of late changes.

Q: Where is Deva Fest held?
A: Deva Fest takes place at Cholmondeley Castle in Cheshire, around 13 miles south‑east of Chester, with signposted routes from the A49 and A41.

Q: Is Deva Fest family friendly?
A: Yes. It’s a family‑focused festival with a welcoming crowd, free fairground rides once you’re inside, and loads of children’s activities across the weekend.

Q: Does Deva Fest have free fairground rides?
A: Yes. The fairground rides on the main festival field are included with your ticket and are free to use, subject to height/age restrictions and operational hours.

Q: What is the Deva Fest 2025 line‑up?
A: The line‑up includes a mix of heritage acts, pop, indie and dance names, plus daytime entertainment for all ages. Headliners and day splits can update close to the event, so check the latest bill before you buy or travel.

Q: Can I buy day tickets for Deva Fest?
A: Yes. Day tickets are typically available for individual days alongside weekend options with or without camping. Popular days can sell out—book early.

Q: Is camping or glamping available at Deva Fest?
A: Yes. You can book regular camping (bring your own tent), live‑in vehicles, and usually a choice of glamping upgrades. Camping tickets are separate from admission—check what each pitch type includes.

Q: What are the food and drink rules at Deva Fest?
A: On the festival field you can bring your own food and soft drinks but no alcohol and no glass. In the campsite you may bring and consume your own food and sensible amounts of alcohol.

Q: Are dogs allowed at Deva Fest?
A: Dogs are welcome on leads on the festival site. Bring water, waste bags, and be mindful of noise levels near stages. Dogs are not permitted in glamping tents.

Q: How do I get to Deva Fest by car, train, or shuttle bus?
A: Most visitors drive; follow event signage as you approach Cholmondeley Castle. Trains run to nearby hubs such as Chester or Crewe, from which festival shuttle buses usually operate—check the official shuttle timetable for stops and times.

Q: Is there parking at Deva Fest?
A: Yes. Day parking is available and camping pitches typically include one parking space for the pitch or live‑in vehicle. Pre‑book where required and display your permit as instructed.

Q: What time does Deva Fest open each day?
A: Opening times vary by day and by campsite vs. arena. Expect late‑morning opening for the arena and earlier access for campers on arrival day. Check the final schedule the week of the event.

Q: Can I leave and re‑enter the festival?
A: Re‑entry policies can differ for day ticketholders and campers. Keep your wristband intact and follow gate staff instructions.

Q: Are there age restrictions? Can teenagers attend without an adult?
A: Under‑18s must enter the site with a responsible adult. Once wristbanded, movement in/out follows re‑entry rules, but the recommendation is that minors are accompanied by an adult.

Q: What is the Deva Fest ticket policy for young children?
A: Children under 5 usually go free but must hold a free child ticket. Always add the correct child ticket when booking.

Q: Is Deva Fest accessible? Do you offer carer/companion tickets?
A: The festival provides accessible viewing/parking and usually offers a free carer/assistant ticket for eligible guests. Apply in advance and bring supporting documentation.

Q: What are the bag and security rules?
A: Bags are subject to search. No glass, illegal substances, flares, or professional camera gear without permission. Allow extra time for security checks at peak entry times.

Q: Can I bring camping chairs, gazebos, or picnic blankets?
A: Yes, these are generally allowed on the festival field—set up away from stage fronts and follow steward guidance to keep aisles and sightlines clear.

Q: What should I pack for Deva Fest?
A: Refillable water bottle, picnic or budget for traders, light layers, waterproofs, sturdy shoes, sun protection, portable charger, ear protection for kids, ID, and cash/card. Campers should add spare pegs, mallet, head torch, and a warm sleeping bag.

Q: Does Deva Fest accept cash or card?
A: Most vendors accept cards and mobile payments, but rural signal can vary; a small cash float is handy as a backup.

Q: Is there an official resale for Deva Fest tickets?
A: Yes. When you can’t attend, use the festival’s official resale partner (often Tixel) or transfer your booking per the organiser’s instructions to avoid scams.

Q: What happens if it rains at Deva Fest?
A: The show goes on. Wear waterproof footwear, pack a lightweight poncho, and protect valuables. Ground conditions can get muddy—plan accordingly.

Q: When do tickets or wristbands get sent out?
A: Wristband and parking pass dispatch typically starts shortly before the event. Watch your email and bring the original booking confirmation and photo ID just in case.

Q: Are there activities for kids besides music?
A: Yes. Expect family shows, craft areas, roaming performers, and education‑meets‑fun partners (e.g., zoo or science‑themed drop‑ins) announced in the run‑up to the weekend.

Q: What are the best insider tips for first‑timers at Deva Fest?
A: Arrive early for smoother entry, set a family meeting point, ride the fairground before peak times, book shuttles or water activities in advance, and check the app or socials for set‑time changes and weather advisories.

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