Glastonbury Chilkwell Carnival returns on Saturday 15 November 2025 with the procession confirmed to start at 6.45pm.

This year's parade promises dazzling carts, creative masqueraders and a community spectacle that lights up the night - here's your full guide to make sure you don't miss a thing.

Start time & procession details

The main procession begins at 6.45pm. Spectators are strongly advised to arrive early to secure good viewing.

Route map & best spots to watch

• Assembly is on Glastonbury Relief Road, between Northload and Tinbridge Roundabouts.
• The parade moves along the A39 to Wirral Park Roundabout (B&Q), then turns left onto Street Road (A361). This stretch includes a rest area where entries pause but do not perform.
• The procession then continues into Magdalene Street, up High Street, turns left onto Wells Road, and finishes near the junction with Manor House Road.
• Avoid the assembly area on the Relief Road for viewing—it's not suitable for spectators. For clearer views, the High Street or finishing point near Manor House Road offer better visibility.

Parking, coach & disabled access

• Town centre parking is limited. Official car parks (Tesco, B&Q, St John's, Morrisons, and Herbie's Field) are available - some charge £5. Receipts are issued and refunds possible for shoppers leaving before 5pm.
• Tor Leisure car park
• Coaches must be pre‑booked through the carnival's parking team. Access to the town centre ends at approx. 5pm; once closed, coaches parked outside can't return until roads reopen (likely around midnight). Official coach park: Northload Car Park next to Proper Job.
• Disabled parking: Pre‑booked spaces are available behind Morrisons, with an accessible viewing area outside Covenstead on Magdalene Street (near St Mary's Walkway). Spectators cannot safely watch from vehicles along the route—pre‑booked spaces are essential.

Road closures & travel advice

• Final 2025 road‑closure times are yet to be confirmed. Based on past years:
• A39 Relief Road between Northload Bridge Roundabout and Tinbridge Roundabout likely closes from early evening.
• Roads including Magdalene Street, High Street, and Wells Road may close earlier in the day.
• Expect access to many town centre areas to be limited by 5pm.
• Use official car parks. On‑street parking along the route will be restricted or unavailable.
• Arrive well in advance—traffic congestion builds early.

Where to stay

• Old Oaks Touring & Glamping near Glastonbury offers glamping units and touring pitches; they run carnival packages and often organise coaches to avoid parking stress.
• Premier Inn Glastonbury – budget hotel with parking and great access
• The Overlook B&B – centrally located with modern amenities
• The Covenstead – themed decor and strong guest ratings
• The Glastonbury Townhouse – elegant Edwardian townhouse
• St Anne's B&B – near Chalice Well
• Camelot Retreat ‐ Tor View – peaceful setting with Tor views
• Belle Vue Guesthouse – garden and welcoming atmosphere
• A Room with a View — Views, comfort and charm; a top choice for people who want something memorable.
• The Market House Hotel, Glastonbury — Located in town, has a restaurant + bar, good option if you want everything close.
• The Crown Hotel, Glastonbury — Central, reliable, decent facilities, great for staying right where the action is.

Top tips for carnival night

• Arrive by mid‑afternoon if possible; many routes into Glastonbury close around 5pm.
• Pre‑book coach or disabled parking; official car parks are your best bet.
• Wrap up warmly - November nights in Somerset get cold.
• Bring cash; charity collections happen along the route.
• Avoid the Relief Road area for viewing; for best experience head to High Street, Magdalene Street, or the finish near Manor House Road.

Why this event is unmissable

Glastonbury Chilkwell Carnival is one of Somerset's best-loved illuminated processions. The final stop on the Guy Fawkes carnival circuit, the clubs and performers are always in a celebratory mood. The parade combines artistry, community, lanterns and light, all set against the magical backdrop of Glastonbury's streets. Come for the spectacle, stay for the atmosphere.

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