FAQs

Tickets & Booking

When are tickets released?

Early bird tickets are available now until 28th February. Keep an eye on our social media for updates!

Can I buy tickets on the day?

Yes - Saturday Day Tickets only can be purchased at the gate (subject to availability). All weekend tickets, glamping, dorms, and campervan passes must be pre-booked.

Are refunds permitted?

No - refunds are not available. Please make sure you can attend before purchasing your ticket.

How much is parking?

£10 per car for the weekend or £6 for Saturday-only tickets. Parking passes can be purchased in advance with your ticket.

Can I bring a carer with me?

Yes - carers can attend free of charge. You’ll just be asked to upload documentation when purchasing your ticket.

Do you offer group discounts?

Yes - groups purchasing 10 or more tickets are eligible for a discount. Please email festival@essexrecoveryfoundation.org to arrange this directly.

Can I bring Children?

Unfortunately, the festival is an adults-only event at this time. However, we may consider welcoming children at future events

I’m coming alone - will I fit in?

Absolutely! The Essex Recovery Festival is really friendly and welcoming, and lots of people attend on their own. To help you connect, we’ll be running dedicated solo meet-up sessions on Friday evening and Saturday daytime, so you can meet other solo festival-goers before diving into the weekend.

Timings & Entry

When does the festival take place?

· Weekend ticket holders: Entry from Friday 24th July 2026 at 17:00, departure by Sunday 26th July 2026 at 13:30.

· Saturday Day Ticket holders: Entry from 10:00 Saturday 25th July 2026, festival closes 22:30 that evening.

Location

Where is the Essex Recovery Festival held?

Lambourne End Centre for Outdoor Learning, Manor Road, Lambourne End, Essex, RM4 1NB

Accommodation & Camping

What’s included with weekend tickets?

Access to the General Campsite - bring your own tent. Toilets, hot showers, and food stalls will be available.

What about glamping?

Yes! The glamping (Bell Tent) area will be upgraded for 2026 with camping beds, rugs, lighting, and added comfort. Guests also have access to a separate building with facilities for tea and coffee.

Are dorms available?

Yes - dorm accommodation is available for £40 per person for the weekend. One women-only dorm and one men-only dorm, each with its own private bathroom.

Can I bring a campervan?

Yes - campervan spaces can be booked online with your ticket. You’ll need to provide vehicle make, model, and registration. Note: spaces are for standard campervans only - no oversized vans, caravans, or large motorhomes.

How far is it from the car park to the general campsite?

Good news-it’s super close! The General Campsite is right next to the car park, so at most, it’s a quick 5-minute walk.

Accessibility

How accessible is the site?

Lambourne End is an easily accessible site and hosts events all year round for those less able-bodied. However, paths can get muddy, and the woodland area can be rough going but the majority of the site is grass fields and should prevent little difficulty. If you have any concerns, please email festival@essexrecoveryfoundation.org

Food & Drink

Can I bring my own food and drink?

Snacks, squash, and soft drinks are fine. Please don’t bring full meals - we have food vendors on site.

Are BBQs allowed?

Small BBQs are permitted for tea/coffee or simple snacks (e.g. bacon sandwiches). Large BBQs are not permitted.

Facilities

Is there Wi-Fi?

Yes - Wi-Fi is available in the main stage field.

Is there swimming?

Yes! A swimming pool will be open during scheduled sessions. Bring swimwear and towels.

Is there first aid on site?

Yes - first aid and medical support will be located near the main stage.

Are pets allowed?

No pets allowed, except assistance dogs.

Stalls, Performances & Activities

I’d like to host a stall - how do I apply?

Please email festival@essexrecoveryfoundation.org. Note: All stalls must stay for the full festival (Fri–Sun).

I’m a food vendor - can I apply?

Yes - we welcome food stalls. Please email festival@essexrecoveryfoundation.org to discuss. Food vendors must also remain for the full duration of the festival.

I’m a musician/band/facilitator - can I get involved?

Yes - email festival@essexrecoveryfoundation.org with your details.

I have an activity I'd like to host at Essex Recovery Festival. Is this possible?

We do have a small amount of limited space available. Please get in touch on festival@essexrecoveryfoundation.org and we’ll see what we can do.

Workshops & Sessions

How do I take part in workshops, sports, and wellbeing sessions?

For 2026 we are introducing a fairer booking system. Pre-booking will be available for popular sessions. We’re exploring token/pre-booking options - details will be shared before the festival.

What activities and entertainment will there be?

There’s something for everyone at Essex Recovery Festival!

Sports Zone

  • Obstacle Course

  • Abseiling

  • Climbing

  • Zip Line

  • Swimming

  • Axe Throwing

  • Boxing

  • Plus more

Music

Enjoy a vibrant lineup of live performances, from acoustic sets and local bands to upbeat DJs spinning tracks to get you moving. Whether you’re in the mood to dance, relax, or simply soak in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Wellbeing & Mindfulness Zone

  • Yoga

  • Meditation/Breathwork

  • Pilates

  • Drumming

  • Chakra Dancing

  • Forest Bathing

  • Campfire

  • Mental health talks

  • Holistic Therapies

  • Massage Station

  • Plus more

Workshops & Recovery Stories/Inspiration

Take part in inspiring workshops and hear incredible recovery stories from people who’ve overcome life’s challenges.

Creative Arts & Expression Zone

  • Comedy

  • Painting

  • Spoken word poetry

  • Tie-dye

  • Mask Making

  • Plus more

Chillout Lounge

A cozy space with bean bags where you can unwind and connect with others.

General Info

Can my business sponsor the festival?

Yes! We’d love to work with organisations who want to raise awareness of their brand or products while supporting our mission to empower individuals on their recovery journey. If you’re interested in sponsorship opportunities, please email us at festival@essexrecoveryfoundation.org

What items are prohibited?

Prohibited items include: alcohol, illegal drugs, fireworks, drones, glass bottles, weapons, oversized BBQs, and animals (other than assistance dogs).

What happens if it rains or the festival is cancelled?

The festival runs rain or shine. In case of extreme weather or safety concerns, organisers may cancel or adjust timings. Updates will be communicated immediately.

What payment methods are accepted on site?

Most vendors accept card, but we recommend bringing some cash.

I am not in recovery - can I still attend?

Yes! The Essex Recovery Festival is open to all. Please respect that it’s a sober event: alcohol and illicit drugs are strictly prohibited.

Is the festival only for people in Essex?

No - everyone is welcome!

Is photography / video allowed?

We may take photos or video during the event. By attending, you consent to being used for promotional purposes. If you do not wish to be photographed, please notify staff at the Info Point.