Introduction to Radio 2 in the Park
The Radio 2 in the Park festival is expected to draw in tens of thousands of music fans. The event, which has been an annual affair since 2011, is being held on the grounds of a stunning Georgian mansion in Essex. For those planning to attend or follow from home, we’ve put together all the essential information you need to know.
Where is the Festival Held?
The festival was previously held in Hyde Park in London but has been on the move since the Covid-19 pandemic, including a stint in Moor Park in Preston, Lancashire, in 2024. This year, it’s taking place in Hylands Park in Chelmsford, which is owned by the city council and features the beautiful 18th-century Hylands House. The park itself is a Grade II* listed public park, covering 574 acres of fields, forests, and gardens. It’s no stranger to large music events, having hosted big acts like Oasis, Radiohead, and Beyoncé as part of the annual V Festival, which last took place in 2017.
Lineup: Who’s Performing?
A plethora of talented artists are set to perform, including:
- On Friday, Rylan Clark, Scott Mills, and DJ Spooney will be spinning the decks to get the party started. Gates open at 4:00 p.m. BST, with the last entry at 9:30 p.m. and the day’s celebrations wrapping up at 10:30 p.m.
- Saturday’s lineup features Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams, Jessie J, Ella Henderson, and Stereophonics on the main stage. Over on the DJ stage, Fearne Cotton will be bringing the noise with her nineties sounds, while comedian Romesh Ranganathan will share his love for hip hop, and Jo will align her "Shiny Happy Playlist." Gates open at 11:00 a.m., with the last entry at 8:45 p.m. and the event ending at 9:45 p.m.
- On Sunday, Essex singer-songwriter Olly Murs, rocker Def Leppard, Soul II Soul, Anastacia, David Gray, and Sophie Ellis Bextor are among the headliners. The last entry is planned for 8:30 p.m., with the event concluding at 9:30 p.m. Note that timings are subject to change, so fans are encouraged to check the website for further updates.
Getting There: Travel Information
By Train
The journey from London Liverpool Street to Chelmsford train station takes 30 to 40 minutes on the Great Eastern Main Line, which runs to Norwich. However, Greater Anglia does not plan to operate any additional northbound services to Colchester on Saturday or Sunday.
By Bus
A shuttle bus service will run between Chelmsford train station and Hylands Park. Visitors can book return tickets in advance for £9. The operating times are as follows:
- Friday: Chelmsford to Hylands Park from 3:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Hylands Park to Chelmsford from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m.
- Saturday and Sunday: Chelmsford to Hylands Park from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and Hylands Park to Chelmsford from 7:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
On Foot or by Bike
Festival organizers have suggested two walking routes for those who prefer to walk to the event, which can be found on the website. Both routes will bring fans to St. Mary’s Church on the corner of Hylands Park. Cyclists can use a bike rack located in the church; please bring your own locks.
By Car
For those who wish to drive, pre-booked parking spaces are available in several car parks. Parking is on grassland, and some parking spaces are a 20-minute walk from the arena. Note that Saturday parking is sold out.
Pick-up and Drop-off
There is a designated pick-up and drop-off area at the Blue Gate of the festival, which can be located using What3words: layers, patrol, bills.
Tickets: Are They Still Available?
Yes, tickets are still available for Friday at £35 and for Sunday from £68. Unfortunately, Saturday is sold out. Tickets can be purchased through the festival’s website.
Cash and Payments
The event is a contactless site, meaning visitors can pay using debit cards and Apple or Google Pay. No cash will be accepted.
Food and Drink
A variety of hot and cold food options will be available for purchase during the event, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal choices. Attendees are encouraged to bring refillable water bottles, as free water stations will be available on site.
Accessibility and Facilities
People who require wheelchair access must apply for a Nimbus access card as soon as they have purchased their ticket. They can also apply for a free digital Nimbus Access Pass. Baby change facilities will be available in the event area, located in the toilet units and the welfare tent.
Bringing Children
Anyone over the age of two will need a ticket, and all children up to the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Closing and Access
During the event, the entire park and its footpaths will be closed to the public, including the Stable Visitor Center, Deli Cafe, Pleasure Garden, World Garden, and all parking areas within the estate. Entry to the park via the A414 dual carriageway entrance will only be available for pre-authorized access. The park will reopen on Monday.
