Radio 2 in the Park 2025: All you need to know

Radio 2 in the Park is set to be one of the biggest music events in Essex this year, drawing tens of thousands of fans to Hylands Park in Chelmsford. The festival, organized by BBC Radio 2, has been a popular annual event since 2011, previously held in London’s Hyde Park before moving to different locations after the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, the festival will take place at Hylands Park, a large public park owned by Chelmsford City Council, featuring the historic Hylands House and sprawling gardens and woodlands. The park has a rich history of hosting major music events, including the famous V Festival, which saw performances from stars like Oasis, Radiohead, and Beyoncé.

The festival will run over three days, starting on Friday with a pre-party featuring well-known presenters and DJs such as Rylan Clark, Scott Mills, and DJ Spooney. Gates open at 4 pm, and the festivities continue until 10:30 pm. Saturday’s lineup includes Canadian singer Bryan Adams, Jessie J, Ella Henderson, and Stereophonics on the main stage. The DJ stage will feature Fearne Cotton playing 1990s hits, comedian Romesh Ranganathan sharing his favorite hip hop tracks, and Jo Whiley hosting her “shiny happy playlist. ” Gates open at 11 am, with the event ending at 9:45 pm. On Sunday, the festival will showcase Essex’s own Olly Murs, legendary rock band Def Leppard, Soul II Soul, Anastacia, David Gray, and Sophie Ellis Bextor. The last entry is at 8:30 pm, and the festival wraps up at 9:30 pm.

Getting to the festival is easy, with several options available. Chelmsford railway station is the nearest train stop, and a shuttle bus service will run between the station and Hylands Park. Tickets for the shuttle can be purchased in advance, with return and single options available. For those who prefer to walk, there are safe routes to the park, and cyclists can use a bike rack at St Mary’s Church, but must bring their own locks. Drivers can pre-book parking spaces online, though some days are already sold out. There is also a dedicated pick-up and drop-off area at the Blue Gate.

Tickets are still available for Friday and Sunday, but Saturday is completely sold out. The festival is a cashless event, so attendees should bring a debit card or use Apple or Google Pay. Food options will cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal choices. Free water stations will be available, and guests are encouraged to bring refillable bottles. During the festival, the entire park and its facilities will be closed to the public, reopening on Monday.

Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair users needing to apply for a Nimbus Access card after purchasing their ticket. Children over two require a ticket, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Baby changing facilities will be provided. Attendees can bring a small bag, a sealed drink, and an empty water bottle, but alcohol, glass, large umbrellas, and certain other items are not allowed. Vapes are permitted.

For those unable to attend in person, the festival will be broadcast online and on TV, allowing music fans to enjoy the performances from home. Radio 2 in the Park promises an exciting weekend of live music, great food, and a lively atmosphere, making it a highlight of the year for Essex and music lovers everywhere.