Queues, crowds and excitement as Glastonbury Festival 2025 begins

Thousands of people have poured into Worthy Farm after the gates officially opened for the 2025 Glastonbury Festival.

Co-founder Sir Michael Eavis and his daughter Emily Eavis, who now runs the festival, led the countdown shortly before 08:00 BST.

More than 200,000 people are set to descend on the site in the coming days ahead of the main festival programme launching on Friday.

Speaking shortly before the gates opened, Ms Eavis told the BBC: “It’s been such a build-up this year, it’s been an amazing amount of excitement.”

Ms Eavis said: “We’re all so looking forward to opening the gates and to be able to do it with my dad has been amazing.

“It’s the best moment to let them all in and it’s just such a joyful city, the most joyful city in the UK for the next five days.”

Hundreds of people arrived on Tuesday night, sleeping under the stars in queues in a bid to be the first on site.

Among them were James Trusson, 31, from Ash, Somerset, Grace Ball, 29, from Bournemouth and Dan Mortimore, from Compton Dundon, Somerset, who made it to the front of the line for the second year in a row.

Having put themselves in prime position for a top camping spot, Ms Ball said their plans for the rest of the day were to go “back to the car for snacks, and then sleep”.

“I’ll crack a beer I think,” added Mr Trusson.

Hundreds of people have got in touch with the BBC with photos and stories of travelling to the festival – whether that’s a train into Castle Cary, a long coach journey or by bike.

Apart from the expected traffic on the A361 between Glastonbury and Worthy Farm, the main travel routes to the festival have remained relatively clear throughout the day.

While the main acts might not start performing until Friday, there is plenty for revellers to enjoy away from the music.

There are performances at the circus and theatre fields, seaside entertainment on offer at “Glastonbury-on-Sea” and plenty of food and drink stalls.