2025 would mark 21 years since I first attended Download Festival at Castle Donnington, and years later - a little bit older and unfit - I plan to do it all again this year.
Taking place at the former home of Monsters of Rock across June 13 to June 15 2025 this year, gone are the days where I’ll be up until the crack of dawn drinking with other campers - instead, I plan on getting a good night sleep somewhere, preferably with a shower and some nice bedding.
I can hear some of you using the term ‘glamping’ and I’m not afraid to admit yes, I think I’ll be glamping this year.
But this year’s line-up has a host of nostalgia for those of us who grew up during the era of P-Rock, Kerrang! TV and Scuzz, including headliners Korn and Green Day. But a look further down the bill, there are some hidden gems worth checking out too at this year’s event.
So who are the 21 acts I am looking forward to seeing already confirmed for Download 2025? Read on and find out!
17. Sikth
A little bit more technical metal if Meshuggah wasn't enough, Sikth have been an enduring act for many in the British metal scene, as many can recall where they were the first time they saw the video for How May I Help You in 2003. | Getty Images
18. The Meffs
The Meffs are an electrifying punk band from the UK, known for their raw energy, unapologetic attitude, and fast-paced, riff-heavy sound. Formed in the mid-2010s, the group quickly became a staple in the underground punk scene with their bold, no-holds-barred approach to music. Drawing influence from classic punk acts like The Clash and The Sex Pistols, as well as more modern-day artists like Idles and Fontaines D.C. | Provided
19. Turbonegro
The last time I saw Turbonegro on a festival stage was at Download, though not an ideal moment for us as fans - we bottled them off stage in 2004 when many of us turned up thinking Soulfly were on next. | AFP via Getty Images
20. Whitechapel
Whitechapel is an American deathcore band formed in 2006 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Known for their crushing blend of death metal, grindcore, and hardcore elements, the band quickly became one of the leading forces in the deathcore scene. Named after the infamous district in London known for its association with the Jack the Ripper murders, Whitechapel’s music often explores dark and intense themes. | Metal Blade Records