GuilFest Returns to Stoke Park with Global Names and Local Soul

Published on: 11 Jun, 2025
Updated on: 15 Jun, 2025

The Jacksons will be in attendance previously known as the The Jackson 5

By Stella Kuchanny

GuilFest is officially back this July, bringing two days of music, family fun, and community spirit to the heart of Guildford.

This year’s Saturday headliner is The Jacksons. Yes, the Jacksons. Formerly the Jackson 5. Known for classics like Can You Feel It and hailed by organiser Tony Scott as “the world’s greatest family entertainers.” Tony is clearly excited. “Everyone knows Michael Jackson, but The Jacksons as a family are incredible,” he told me. “To have them in Guildford feels huge.”

Razorlight will take over the main stage on Sunday, performing hits including their indie anthem America. Also joining the line-up are the Bay City Rollers. “I remember them being even bigger than The Beatles,” Tony said with a smile.

But music is only one part of what GuilFest has to offer. The weekend will also feature bushcraft workshops where festivalgoers can learn how to build a fire or forage in the wild. Bubbling Ink, known for holding the Guinness World Record for the biggest bubbles, will be performing too. For younger visitors, Peppa Pig and Blooey will both be making appearances.

There’s space for hands-on creativity too. Visitors can join drumming and ukulele workshops and try something new.

Tony started GuilFest back in 1992. What makes the festival special, he says, is the way it’s rooted in the local community. “It’s all run by locals. A big family. Everyone from the main stage crew to those working in the literary tent or comedy stage lives around here. A lot of us went to school in Guildford or Woking.”

After several years away, the festival is returning once again to Stoke Park. Tony praised Guildford Borough Council for making it possible. “They’ve been amazing. The park is looking beautiful. We’re so pleased to be back.”

There are plenty of ways for people to get involved. Volunteer steward roles are available. Or as Tony put it, “The best way to get involved is to get a ticket and come to the event.”

GuilFest runs on the weekend of 5–6 July. Tickets are on sale now and early birds won’t hang around for long.

If you’re after chart-topping acts, creative workshops, or just a great day out, Stoke Park will be the place to be.