Fatboy Slim will headline this year's Camp Bestival - as family friendly festival announces 2026 line up

Fatboy Slim will be swapping Brighton beach for Lulworth Castle when he headlines this year's Camp Bestival.

The iconic DJ - real name Norman Cook - will take to the decks and entertaining families in Dorset just along the south coast from his spiritual home - as the family friendly festival celebrates its 18th birthday.

As his appearance was confirmed, Fatboy said: 'Given that there's a seaside theme at Camp Bestival this year, I can't think of anybody more qualified than me to be providing the authentic seaside experience. 

'I'll be bringing all my seaside friends on 2nd August for the Castle Stage takeover. Fatboy Slim with a seagull… I think the genius of Camp Bestival is the multigenerational raving: it's kind of for kids, but it's kind of for adults too. The two seem to co-exist in a very interestingly symbiotic way!' 

Norman will headline a day of non-stop, feel-good-vibes with surprise special guests, including hip hop royalty De La Soul. 

Example will warm up for British chart-toppers, Bastille on Saturday evening, and Fearless pop icon and cultural force Self Esteem takes to the stage on Friday night with living legend Billy Ocean.

Joining them in a stellar line up will be the iconic indie rockers Black Grape, Fabio and Grooverider, DJ Fat Tony, Alison Limerick, Josh Wink and British band, Toploader.

The festival is would be nothing without its founders, DJ Rob Da Bank and his wife Josie, from whom it's been a labour of love of the years.

But Rob is as excited as ever, saying: 'Hi de hi Campers! Josie and I are really excited about Camp Bestival 2026. 

'Norman Cook aka Fatboy Slim has been part of our story since the beginning, and we know he's gonna bring the party for the Sunday night finale, with support from legends De La Soul. 

'We're also super-excited that Bastille will play their debut for us this summer, as our Saturday night Castle Stage headliners, with Example warming up for them. The double bill of the incredible Self Esteem's joyous and insanely creative Friday headline show - with a special guest show from living legend Billy Ocean - is one not to miss too. Camp Bestival is go! See you down the front.'

Meanwhile Josie says: 'Curating Camp Bestival is my favourite time of year. I teleport myself back to my own childhood and think about all the things that made me feel really happy and free. 

'This year we have so much for families, including lots of new launches - a whole tent dedicated to corn doll workshops with the Braided Grain (a heritage craft that's quickly disappearing), and a brand new allotment and Vegetable Museum to explore. 

'Whatever your age, there's so much to do and learn this year: spend the day learning to make bread, watch circus, do yoga, dance, eat food from all over the world and get creative with arts & crafts. 

'Using your hands to make and create, immersing yourself in colour and texture is everything to me, and passing this onto my four sons and the Camp Bestival audience is such an honour. See you in July.'

Beyond the music is a series of fun-filled family events such as 'The Allotment – featuring five 'beautiful' greenhouses and beekeeping workshops and Shakespeare's Globe theatre workshops.

Sponsored by Debenhams, the festival takes place July 30th to August 2nd, 2026.