Crowds pour in as Glastonbury Festival gates open

Thousands of people have poured into Worthy Farm after the gates officially opened for the 2025 Glastonbury Festival.

Co-founder Sir Michael Eavis and his daughter Emily Eavis, who now runs the festival, led the countdown shortly before 08:00 BST in front of many who slept outside the gate on Tuesday night.

More than 200,000 people are set to descend on the site in the coming days ahead of the main festival programme launching on Friday.

Speaking shortly before the gates opened, Ms Eavis told the BBC: "Its been such a build-up this year, its been an amazing amount of excitement."

Ms Eavis said: "Were all so looking forward to opening the gates and to be able to do it with my dad has been amazing.

"Its the best moment to let them all in and its just such a joyful city, the most joyful city in the UK for the next five days."

Hundreds of people arrived on Tuesday night, sleeping under the stars in queues in a bid to be the first on site.

Among them were James Trusson, 31, from Ash, Somerset, Grace Ball, 29, from Bournemouth and Dan Mortimore, from Compton Dundon, Somerset, who made it to the front of the line for the second year in a row.

Having put themselves in prime position for a top camping spot, Ms Ball said their plans for the rest of the day were to go "back to the car for snacks, and then sleep".

"Ill crack a beer I think," added Mr Trusson.

Hundreds of people have got in touch with the BBC with photos and stories of travelling to the festival - whether thats a train into Castle Cary, a long coach journey or by bike.

A coach full of Glastonbury-goers was sat on the hard shoulder of the M6 with a blown tyre, and Bobby told us he had broken down next to the A303 on his way to the festival.

Many heading to the festival for the first time shared their excitement, while others said returning for the 13th time was "pretty awesome".

We also spoke to Laurence, who said he quit his job to attend Glastonbury Festival because his leave request was denied.

Apart from the expected traffic on the A361 between Glastonbury and Worthy Farm, the main travel routes to the festival have remained relatively clear throughout the day.

While the main acts might not start performing until Friday, there is plenty for revellers to enjoy away from the music.

There are performances at the circus and theatre fields, seaside entertainment on offer at "Glastonbury-on-Sea" and plenty of food and drink stalls.

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