We’ve been speculating an awful lot over the past few weeks as to who could be performing at various festivals across the country, be it Download, Leeds and Reading or Glastonbury.
But on this occasion, let’s not look forwards but instead look back and revisit some of the more memorable secret sets that have taken place at UK festivals in the past. Were you one of those who were at Glastonbury to see The Churn Ups only to be (slightly) disappointed, or were you at the main stage at Download Festival when a certain multi-legged metal act make a surprise appearance?
We’ve rounded up our nine favourite secret sets we still talk about at the office today - were you at any of the ones we’ve featured and if so, what were you memories of the sets?
5. Queens of the Stone Age - Glastonbury 2011
Queens of the Stone Age's secret set at Glastonbury 2011 on the John Peel Stage had the audience in shock as they walked out and played an absolutely blistering set. The band had no formal slot at the festival, but decided to make their presence known anyway. | Getty Images
6. Foals - Glastonbury 2019
Foals’ surprise set at Glastonbury 2019 was one of the biggest moments of the festival. They performed on the Park Stage, with fans catching wind of the set after a series of cryptic clues circulated. The band threw down a masterclass in energy, combining tracks from their Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost album with older fan favourites. | Andy Sturmey
7. Biffy Clyro - Glastonbury 2016
In 2016, Biffy Clyro made their surprise secret set at Glastonbury on the John Peel Stage, just hours before their scheduled performance later that weekend. The band is known for their explosive live shows, and this surprise appearance did not disappoint. | AFP via Getty Images
8. Radiohead - Glastonbury 2001
Considered one of the true surprises during a UK music festival, Radiohead took the stage for an impromptu secret set under the name “The Tinker Men,” a rare and unexpected event for those attending the festival. | JPI Media