August 16-19, 2024
Dummer Down Farm, Dummer Down Ln, Dummer, Basingstoke RG25 2AR
(The event opens Friday 4pm, and closes Monday 2pm)
The Witchfest Pagan Festival is a Pagan camp held over a long weekend on the 16th – 19th August. There are talks, workshops, live bands, Fire performers, an awesome Fire Sculpture, the famous Witchfest Bar, serving mead and a full selection of drinks, and the ever popular Artemis Cafe. Once you have setup your tent you can relax as everything you need is here with food, drink entertainment and a packed schedule of events the whole weekend. All events are included in the single entry price making this unbelievable value. For campers there are the essential hot showers available all weekend.
The Witchfest Pagan Gathering has a friendly family atmosphere set deep in the Hampshire countryside, but easily accessible from London and near to Basingstoke, and minutes from the M3. The event has catering & bar facilities for vegetarians, & omnivores. Talks and workshops are held in the large marquees on site, in the magical grove of trees at the centre of the site or in the open depending on the weather. Dogs are welcome, you need to pre-book at £5 per dog. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and all mess must cleaned up. Please allow plenty of time for the journey as we are anticipating heavy traffic on some main routes to the site at this time of year. Please remember to bring your own tent and camping equipment. The camping area is divided into zones for your comfort and convenience, details below.
Please note we can only accommodate a limited number of campervans, caravans, or trailer tents, please ensure you book your place early, there are no hook-ups available at this venue. If you are coming by car it is essential you book a parking space for your car at the same time as booking your tickets so we need to ensure there are enough spaces for everyone.
Please note that the camping area is divided by zones, each with their own rules, so please chose your zone when you arrive and follow the simple rule set for your zone. Zones will be divided as Quiet, Family, Party and Accessible. This set of rules is set for your comfort, convenience and to ensure the event runs smoothly with no accidents.
All Zones
- Cooking with gas stoves and barbecues kept well above the ground so they do not burn the grass is allowed, they should be placed 2 meters from any canvas to avoid accidents. NO Disposable barbecues.
- Avoid changing gas bottles on site, if you really have to change one please do it away from other people, the camping area and any naked flame.
- No Gazebos or wind-breaks allowed in any zones as they are a fire and safety hazard and the camping space is limited.
- Well behaved dogs are allowed, they must be on a lead at all times and all mess MUST be cleared.
- All rubbish must be cleared from the camping field before leaving, please try to recycle your rubbish
- If you are a smoker please try to catch your cigarette butts
Quiet Zone:
- Noise curfew at 22.00
- No personal Fires
- No Children
Family Zone:
- Noise Curfew at 22.00
- No Personal Fires
- Children should be under supervision at all times
Party Zone:
- No drumming after 22.00( we are close to a village so please abide by this rule)
- Personal Fires allowed (if in container above at least two feet above ground, and 2 meters from any canvas)
- No Children
Accessible Zone:
This zone is for those with impaired mobility, have a medical reason to need their vehicle near them
- No drumming
- Noise Curfew at 22.00
- No Personal Fires, this is especially important in this area as there potentially people with impaired movement in tents and there are vehicles nearby
- Children should be under supervision at all times
Campervan Zone:
This zone is for those with camper vans, trailer tents or similar
- No drumming
- Noise Curfew at 22.00
- No Personal Fires, this is especially important in this area as there are vehicles nearby
- Children should be under supervision at all times
Venue Location
The event is held at Dummer Down Farm, Dummer Down Ln, Dummer, Basingstoke RG25 2AR.
Yes, you do, every car on site will need a car pass, so don’t forget to purchase one with your tickets. One pass will be needed per vehicle, if you are bringing a campervan just need to purchase the Campervan pass instead. You will need to have this pass printed and displayed on your windshield. Any vehicle without a pass may be clamped and incur a penalty notice.
3.30pm for Witchfest VIP Card Holders (you need to bring your card with you) and Supporter Tickets Holders, 4PM for everyone else.
I am afraid we do not, you should bring your own tent and camping gear.
Yes, you can but we have limited space to accommodate them so make sure to book early to grab a spot, you will need to purchase your weekend ticket plus the campervan pass add-on. We have no power hookups for them, so please keep that in mind.
Yes, however, these can only be consumed within the camping areas. You must NOT take your own alcohol into the main festival area with the traders, talks, stage, music, café and bar as that is a licensed area so only alcohol purchased from the reasonably priced festival bar is permitted there.
Please note that Day tickets do NOT permit entry to the camping areas. Day ticket holders need to leave after the main events of the day end. So day ticket holders must leave on Saturday after the statue burning and on Sunday after the Firewalk.
Nope, same as all Witchfest events, this is a no photography event, what happens at Witchfest stays at Witchfest.
No, all cars must stay in the car park. We advise bringing a sack trolly or similar to move your belongings to the camping field, as there is a short walk. We will have a couple of trolleys that you can borrow, and a few volunteers to help as well. If you need to have your car near your tent (disability/health issues or something similar) we have a separate camping area for you.
We have a separate accessible camping area which is very flat, and we will be able to make more accommodations for you there on a case-by-case basis, Quiet Zone camping guidelines will apply here. The site can be a bit hilly, but it is mostly grass with few obstacles, so everyone should be able to enjoy it, any issues just let one of the volunteers know and we will try to help if we can.
Yes, we do. If you need a carer with you there are discounts available to you. Please email us at [email protected] with a phone number so we can have a chat about it.
Yes, we have a full cafe catering for breakfast, lunch and dinner, serving hot food for meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans. If you have special dietary needs you will have a chance to talk with the catering team before the event so you can ask them what you need to see if they can do something for you, just keep an eye on our social media for that chance.
Yes, the camping area will have a full toilet block and showers, and porta-loos will be dotted around the event area.
Yes, you can. Just make sure that the stove you are using is safe, and if you are using an old-fashioned stove with a big gas bottle and need to change it, please do it off-site. Please make sure that whatever you are using to cook does not burn the grass underneath. Please note that no instant or charcoal bbqs are allowed at our event.
Personal fires are ONLY permitted in the party camping zone. They must be small container fires raised above the grass to ensure it does not burn the grass underneath it. Care must be taken as damage to the grass is taken seriously by the venue. There is a large communal fire with hay bales around it in the festival area.
No, you do not. The Event follows the same ideal than all Witchfest events, once you are inside the venue you have access to all the
talks/workshops and entertainment for no extra charge.
Yes, there is a camping zones section on this page above the FAQ that you can have a look at beforehand.
There are no refunds, however, you can attempt to sell your ticket through our official ticket exchange at Tixel
Ticket sales have ended. Please remember that there will be NO tickets for sale at the gate!
Tickets
- 1. Cameras, visual or audio recording equipment are not permitted
- 2. Witchfest and Children of Artemis accept no responsibility for personal property
- 3. Tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded unless the event is cancelled
- 4. No duplicate tickets will be issued to replace lost or stolen tickets
- 5. Visitors may bring their own alcoholic drinks, however these can only be consumed within the camping areas. Personal alcohol is NOT permitted in the licensed main festival area with the traders, talks, stage, music, café and bar. There is a bar available with cheap prices as near to spoons as possible.
- 6. Witchfest and Children of Artemis take no responsibility for a ticket holder’s failure to gain entry to a talk, workshop, or entertainment due to space limitations. Admission is free to ticket holders on a first come first served basis, it is the tickets holder’s responsibility to arrive early to ensure they gain entry
- 7. Witchfest and Children of Artemis reserve the right to refuse admission and/or to require any ticket holder to leave the premises, as a result of health and safety, environmental, breach of ticket conditions or security concerns at their reasonable discretion
- 8. Distribution of flyers, posters, postcards, magazines, newspapers or any other advertising materials is not permitted
- 9. This ticket does not entitle the holder to trade at this event, any attempt to sell any item, or to persuade an official trader to do so on their behalf is strictly prohibited
- 10. No refunds will be offered to customers who are refused entry or ejected from the venue for refusing to cooperate with security or venue staff, abusive, threatening, drunken or other antisocial behaviour (including smoking in no smoking areas), carrying offensive weapons or illegal substances, or making unauthorised audio, video or photographic recordings
- 11. Witchfest and Children of Artemis reserve the right to cancel the event, and will not accept responsibility for any losses, costs or expenses, which may result from the cancellation, save as to refund the ticket price paid
- 12. Witchfest and Children of Artemis reserve the right to alter the date/venue/programme without notice
Date
4:00pm – 16th Aug 2024
Venue and Travel
Dummer Down Farm, Dummer, Basingstoke RG25 2AR
Waterloo Station to Basingstoke 45 minutes
Southampton Central to Basingstoke 46 minutes
Oxford Station to Basingstoke station 52 minutes
(24 hour Taxi rank outside station, 12 minutes to Dummer Down Farm )
Live Music.
Damh the Bard
A modern-day Bard whose spirituality and love of folk tradition is expressed through his music, storytelling and poetry. Drawing on the Bardic tradition, his performances are both entertaining and educational, speaking directly to the heart, and never without a good splash of humour
Green Diesel
Hailing from Faversham in Kent, the folk-rock band Green Diesel first emerged in 2009 and take their inspiration from the depths of English folklore and legend and the classic folk-rock sound of their predecessors Fairport Convention and The Albion Band.
Folk-rock in grand style with energy to light up the crowd. Green Diesel features songs inspired by the darker side of folklore. Sinister spirits and bloodstained tales weave their way through many of their songs backed by the signature Green Diesel sound. English folk, red in tooth and claw.
Shindig! – ‘a band with roots deep in the native soil, playing their own electric interpretations of ancient English music and crafting originals that fit seamlessly alongside the traditional tracks’
Wojtek Godzisz
Wojtek Godzisz fronts an amazing pagan inspired folk-rock band too few of us have heard of, once heard never forgotten. His album ‘Paganlieder’ even includes the track Wassail, which he wrote for the Pentacle Drummers first Wassail. This is something special I am sure you will like it, a new band set to take the pagan music scene by storm
Paul Mitchell
Paul Mitchell offers the pagan community a chance to laugh at itself. With mostly satirical songs aimed at the very hearts of those who use paganism for self promotion, Damh “The Bard” has said Paul’s songs can bring boils out on the faces of those targeted. Paul has been playing around camp fires and at festivals for over a decade, including a successful sell out set of gigs in Arizona, USA.
Shell the Alternative Folkie
An alternative type of person who loves folk…. or a folkie type of person who loves alternative? Shell is a singer songwriter with a passion for sweet melodic pagan folk music and contrasting strong gothic looks – and yes she is a Gemini! Writing songs from the heart about nature, trees and birds.
Hare’s Lullaby
Hare’s Lullaby Claire and Paul are known for their gentle acoustic sets, based firmly in the evolving English folk music tradition with a few modern acoustics songs thrown in every now and then for good measure. There will be some opportunities to sing along, you might even want to throw in some harmonies. Some of the songs weave spells, some tell of dark deeds, and others speak of love. Grab a seat and relax with them both.
Pentacle Drummers
The Pentacle Drummers have grown into the premiere drumming troupe in England, and have performed all over the country at events small and huge. Often imitated, but never equaled.
The Pentacle Drummers’ main livery is green and red and our tatter coats and face paint and kilts help lend a theatrical touch to events. At medieval festivals we enter into the spirit of the events by adopting full medieval attire. At the Sussex bonfires however we adopt a much darker look. You will recognise us by our more sombre costumes and make-u
Speakers
Prof. Ronald Hutton (CBE) is both the senior Professor of History at Bristol University and the Gresham Professor of Divinity at London. Author of eighteen books, and eighty-six essays in academic journals and collections.
Thirty years ago I produced a talk called the Origins of modern Paganism. This new talk is designed to revisit the subject and discuss what we have learned in the intervening decades
Rachel is a Witch, High Priestess of the Kitchen Witch Coven, Elder at the Kitchen Witch Online School of Witchcraft, Podcast Host for the Pagan Portal Podcast and best-selling author with thirty books on Witchcraft. She has walked the Pagan pathway for over thirty years combining old religion witchcraft, Wicca, hedge witchery, kitchen witchery and folk magic.
Pull up a chair beside the kitchen hearth and we will enter the world of kitchen magic. How does a kitchen witch work, what does a kitchen witch use for magical purpose (the short answer is everything and anything!). Cheap, fun and easy ways to work magic with items found in your kitchen and of course, the power of the ingredients in your kitchen cupboards and even your fridge. We may even delve into the now legendary magic of Marmite and Pot Noodles…
Pete Jennings – a legend in his own lunchtime: so Heathen he can’t pass a quietly sleeping innocent village without visiting it to rescue the gold, silver, women and mead.
Based on research on the Old Norse Poetic and Prose Eddas from Iceland, Anglo-Saxon texts, and other sources, the analysis looks at the significant meanings of the names of deities and the tensions between Aesir, Vanir, Giants, Elves, and others. The role of prophecies and incidental stories is considered, as well as when they were supposed to happen. Pete will also give psychological insight into the mythology and examines external influences and attitudes to it.
Pete dishes the dirt on himself including the highs and lows of a veteran name on the Pagan scene. Why did he follow the path he has? How does he do magic? Are the tales of the Beserker Death Squads true? If you know the answers please let him know as he is getting a bit old and forgetful. The skulls of hecklers will be used as drinking cups.
Oona McFarlane (MA Hons), Reiki Master Teacher, Neter Seichim Master Teacher, SUNDOOR Advanced Firewalk Instructor and Trainer of Instructors, NLP Master Practitioner, Ericksonian Hypnotherapy Master Practitioner
This is no ordinary Firewalk either, Oona, our instructor, views the firewalk as a magical interaction with the element of Fire, one of the most dramatic examples of spellcraft (or personal change, or sacred ceremony, depending on the theme/belief set people are comfortable with) it is possible to experience, where in the space of 3 hours participants not only find, hone and commit to their energetic outcome, but also break through emotional and mental barriers, and discover their ability to focus their energy and achieve something they had considered terrifying, or impossible, through engaging with the Fire’s transformational power.
Christina Oakley Harrington has been practising witchcraft for over thirty years. A former academic historian, she opened London’s famed Treadwell’s Bookshop in 2003 where she’s been ever since.
This workshop guides folk to do three pieces of magic often performed by English cunning men in pre-modern England.
Herb magic before modern times involved knowing plant powers but often more: picking rituals, addressing spirits, considering special days, and adhering to certain taboos. Protection magic dominated, but the historical record gives us a few surprises, as authentic accounts of folk magic often do.
Mhara Starling is a native Welsh speaker, born in North Wales. She is a Swynwraig, a Welsh folk Witch, and author of Welsh Witchcraft.
Welsh mythology and folklore is filled to the brim with tales of Otherworldly beings. These beings are sometimes benevolent, and oftentimes extremely mischievous or even malevolent. However, one thing is certain: They have a strong association with magic within a Welsh context. During this talk we will explore the intersection between Welsh fairies and magic. Delving into the connection between many of the popular Welsh deities among Pagans today, such as Rhiannon, Gwyn ap Nudd, and Cerridwen, and their association with the Otherworld and fairies. Beyond this, we will also take a quick look at folk magic and the ways in which magical specialists forged relationships with fairies. This talk will not only offer an insight into folklore and magical belief, but also provide a framework as to how one might incorporate certain practices into a modern magical practice.
Bente has practiced Witchcraft for eight years, during which their exploration of Runic divination and magic sparked a deep appreciation for Nordic traditions, leading them to embrace Norse Paganism alongside their magical pursuits. Their fascination with pre-Christian Scandinavia informs their Norse Pagan practice, complemented by their intuitive approach as a Witch. This synthesis results in a practice that harmonizes reconstructive methods with contemporary insights.
Harmonizing Tradition and Intuition
Join The Norse Witch for an insightful discussion on navigating the complexities of Norse Paganism through an intuitive lens. In this engaging talk, we’ll explore the practical application of intuitive principles in contemporary Norse Pagan practices, moving beyond rigid adherence to historical reconstructions. Gain valuable insights into cultivating a personal connection with Norse deities, honoring ancestral traditions, and fostering a deeper reverence for the natural world. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned practitioner, this presentation offers a grounded perspective on incorporating intuition into your Norse Pagan journey, rooted in respect for cultural heritage and authenticity.
BARBARA MEIKLEJOHN-FREE is a Celebrity Witch and known as The Highland Seer. She is a High Priestess and author of 10 oracle decks & 6 books to date. She is a hereditary, eclectic and solitary witch who was initiated into the Craft when she was just 16 years old.
Barbara is a bestselling, award-wining author, teacher, advocate and protector of the great Earth-centred traditions. She has taught mediumship, trans-mediumship and shamanism at Arthur Findlay College, Edinburgh College and the College of Psychic Studies, London.
Barbara draws on her extensive work with indigenous cultures from around the world, and weaves this together with a deep understanding and wisdom of the ancient landscape of her own Pagan heritage. She hosts rites, rituals and ceremonies across the world and is considered the UK’s best-loved custodian of ancient ways.
Are you a witch who is drawn to shamanism? Since the beginning of time, the shamanic witch has melded together the use of plant and animal wisdom, healing, otherworldly travel and ritual of the craft of the ancient ones. Combining the ancient arts of witchcraft and Shamanism imbues the practitioner with self-initiation. Join Barbara on a powerful drumming journey to hedge ride between the two worlds of the collective unconsciousness, guided by your animal and spirit guides to discover and assimilate within you universal knowledge, as you discover the art of hedge witchcraft and magick.
FLAVIA KATE PETERS is a Celebrity Witch, High Priestess and best selling author of 10 oracle decks & 7 books to date. Recognised as the UK’s leading elemental witchcraft expert she is a teacher of natural & ancient magick. Flavia Kate trains others through her magickal professional certification courses at the College of Psychic Studies, London, and is a regular Presenter on the Mind Body Spirit & Pagan circuits. Flavia is both a Scent and Moon Priestess, working medium and clairvoyant, whose television appearances include Celebrity Haunted Hotel, Lightworker’s Guide to the Galaxy, along with various guest slots for BBC Radio. She regularly graces the pages of Spirit and Destiny, FAE, Witchcraft & Wicca magazines. Her authentic approach and authentic expertise makes her a most sought-after wisdom keeper. Her mission is to keep the magick of the Old Ways alive!
Are you noticing more crows or ravens all around you lately? The shapeshifter goddess of war & fate, The Morrighan, has yelled her battle cry to the sounds of your internal warring. She will reshape your life by making a weapon of you, and lead you into battle. It is a great but challenging gift of rebirth and transformation that she offers. As she delves deep within you, searching for ferocity and a heroic heart she offers her protection. For she always protects her own. But first the enemy within is needed to be destroyed and a self-belief restored. Come discover who The Morrighan is, how to magickally work with her in a witchy way and how to reclaim your sovereignty. If you are ready for victory and to step into your personal power, she will lead you out from the turmoil of battle. Time to rise up! Time to wear your crown!
Workshop includes spellwork, Bane Magick & meditation
Laura Daligan is an artist, witch, tarot reader, teacher, fire dancer and one of the original ‘YouTube Witches’. Witchcraft consultant for the British Museum and studying a Masters in Viking Studies.
Stephanie is a Wiccan High Priestess and a wand making expert, she has been running wand workshops for many years at Witchfest
The Wand Workshop is a practical session that allows you to create your own wand with the benefit of expert tuition. All materials are provided and you can take your wand home with you as a memento of the day.
Stephanie is a Wiccan High Priestess and a wand making expert, she has been running wand workshops for many years at Witchfest
This talk delves into the ancient and mystical art of harnessing magical energies through carefully crafted spells and rituals. Examining its potential applications in modern spiritual practices and personal development. This workshop is limited to 30 people as you will be provided with materials
Writer, speaker, events organiser, charity volunteer and community group leader, Hæðni Norn has been an active pagan within the community for nearly 20 years. Hæðni dedicated her practice to the Vanir and has been a working priestess for them since. Speaking at events and running workshops across the country, Hæðni realised that there really wasn’t a structured organisation for Vanic followers, something she seeks to change. Above all else, Hæðni believes that being Heathen is about community and family. She does not believe in gatekeeping or place significant importance on genetics or things like skin colour.
An adapted form of meditation Hæðni designed for children, those with ADHD and anyone where traditional meditation proves unsuccessful. All ages welcome.
Diane is best known as an author, writer, speaker, event organiser and co-owner of Veneficia Publications, Ginger Fyre Press, and Highschool Horror, as well as the longstanding Arlahes of Clan Dolmen
Are they mythical beings or something more
Raegan Shanti is an eclectic Pagan witch, specialising in the use of dance and movement for magical purposes and the intersection of Hinduism and Western Paganism
Join Raegan in exploring the world of the Divine Earth Mother. Meet her in her various guises and how to honour her based on what you seek.
Rik Kiddle is a Norse historian, and a national UK speaker given a number of different talks across the UK on Norse Mythology, Viking History, Runes & Rune divination. He also is very known for his active workshop he created on Modern Sigil Magic Through Rune Binding.
A talk, and combined practical hands-on workshop, where you will be able learn about and understand Rune Binding. As well as being able to create your own personal Magical Sigil through Binding Runes.
An author and researcher committed to studying folklore and the esoteric since the late 90’s. In addition to her published works, she has also consulted on exhibitions and her research has been integrated into artists projects. Vikki lives in the rural New Forest with her young son, hens, horses and one spirit cat.
Author and researcher Vikki Bramshaw discusses ways to rediscover the hidden ancient land spirits in your local area and methods to integrate them into your practices.
Moss Matthey is a German-Welsh folk witch originally from the Harz Mountains of Germany. He is also an author with Llewellyn, a workshop host, and a regular speaker at Pagan events.
There is a unique spirit in the lore of Central and Eastern Germany that takes the form of a Dragon. This ‘Drak’ or ‘Drache’ works alongside witches, bringing them food and money in exchange for offerings, and is an important part of German witchcraft beliefs. Join Moss Matthey to explore the lore of this remarkable German household spirit.
Jen Atkinson, also known by her Saxon name, Rynswith (@rynswith_ja), is a historic reenactor specialising in the Early Medieval and Migration Period. Her display looks at the ancient cures of the time period and the magico-medical elements of Anglo-Saxon healing charms.
Historic reenactor, Jen Atkinson, will discuss the healing charms of the early Medieval period and the enigmatic figure of the ‘Cunning Woman’ through the recreation of grave goods and the study of the surviving medical texts of the period. As part of her talk, she will perform a translation of the famous Nine Herbs Charm, showcasing the dual magico-medical healing beliefs of our ancestors.
Angela Barker Fenix Flames. Angela has been taught from a young age the ways of magic, herbs, divination, Candles, Crystals and working with the moon. With over 30 years of experience in witchcraft, she is a very knowledgeable Witch. Her business is Fenix Flames she makes Herbal incense, Sprays, anointment oils and Candles. Her publishing company Fenix Flames Publishing publishes books on the Occult with her authors Patricia Crowther, Philip Heselton, Moira Hodgkinson, Marian Pearce and Jonathon Argento.
Ever wondered what our ancestors did before the findings of white sage? Well come find out about simmering pots these were used when the heath was the centre of the home when our ancestors worked with the elements of the land. Learn about how to create them and what they are good for including health benefits.
Angela of Fenix Flames will take you through ways to make your own incense. The basics of how to put them together and how to use different herbs, powders, resins, flowers and fruits to create. We will be burning incense during the talk.