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Forwards Festival | Downs Festival
The Downs Bristol, the city’s largest music festival returns
The Forwards Festival 2025 in Bristol
The very popular music festival takes place in The Downs on 23 and 24 August 2025
Forwards Festival Bristol 2025
Forwards Festival is a dynamic music and arts festival held annually in Bristol, that combines a celebration of live music with a platform for social and political dialogue. First launched in September 2022, the festival is hosted on Clifton Downs, an expansive green space overlooking the city.
1. Diverse Lineup of Music Acts
Forwards Festival is known for its eclectic mix of music genres, featuring established and up-and-coming artists. It spans various styles, including indie, electronic, hip-hop, and pop. Past lineups have included big names such as Jamie xx, Little Simz, The Chemical Brothers, and Charlie XCX, attracting many music lovers.
2. Socially Engaged Programming
One of the unique aspects of Forwards Festival is its focus on social change and activism. The festival includes a curated lineup of speakers, panel discussions, and debates on topics such as climate change, equality, mental health, and community building. This reflects Bristol’s reputation as a progressive and inclusive city, making the festival not just about music but also about engaging with pressing societal issues.
3. Sustainability and Inclusivity
Forwards Festival places a strong emphasis on sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing the festival’s environmental impact. These include waste reduction, recycling efforts, and encouraging attendees to use public transportation. It also focuses on creating an inclusive environment, with accessibility measures for attendees with disabilities.
4. Local Community and Culture
The festival showcases local talent, businesses, and culture, featuring Bristol-based artists, food vendors, and organizations. This helps support the local economy and fosters a sense of community.
5. Family-friendly
The two-day event is for all the family and ensures younger music fans have a great time; the Children’s Area is returning bigger and better than ever, with activities, workshops, dancing and much more.
Forwards Festival Lineup
Acts live on stage in 2025 are to be announced.
MORE INFORMATIONStay at Future Inn Bristol
Future Inn Bristol is a modern and comfortable hotel in Bristol city centre. It offers easy access to key attractions and vibrant areas. Alongside its excellent location, the hotel boasts spacious and airy bedrooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, a desk and workspace, and a laptop safe. Guests can also enjoy added comforts such as complimentary robes and slippers, tea and coffee-making facilities and bottled water, enhancing the overall experience. The biggest perk of staying at our Bristol hotel is the parking at Cabot Circus, directly across the road from Future Inns, and costs £9 per night.
Make a Reservation
Book direct for the best rates guaranteed.
Book your stay online or with our Reservations Team on 0117 304 1010 or email reservations.bristol@futureinns.co.uk.
Book RoomFuture Inns Rewards
For additional benefits, you can join the Future Inns hotel loyalty program.
Alongside a member's discount rate, for every £1 you spend on accommodation, you earn 1 reward point.
You also get a complimentary drink voucher to redeem in the bar when you dine. Plus, you get double points when you eat in the restaurant.
Points collected can then be used to upgrade your bedroom to a suite or a free night's stay. It's also completely free to join!
Bristol Restaurant
Chophouse Restaurant offers a modern twist on classic dishes showcasing the best of the region's produce.
From hearty breakfasts to indulgent dinners, it is ideal for both hotel guests and locals alike.
Whether you enjoy a succulent steak, a hearty burger, or a fresh fish dish, every meal delivers bold flavours and satisfying portions.
Additionally, the restaurant features an inviting bar area, perfect for enjoying a drink.
A large selection of drinks is also available, including popular local brands Buttcombe, Bristol Harvey Cream and Bristol Rum.
Naturally, there's a good choice of soft drinks, including refreshing fruit juices, tea, coffee, and mocktails.
If you are staying in the hotel, room service is available 24/7.
Reservations can be made on 0117 304 1010 or by emailing chophouse@futureinns.co.uk. Alternatively, you can book online:
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