Happy crowd relaxing on the grass

Our ethos

Leave only footprints

Back Doune The Rabbit Hole is an independent festival shaped by people who care deeply about the land, the community and the future of live events in Scotland.

Sustainability

Meaningful actions, not box-ticking

Our first year in 2025 was a huge learning curve, and it showed us exactly where we can and must do better. We're taking those lessons forward with a solid, long-term sustainability plan.

That means reducing waste across the site, minimising single-use plastics, improving recycling and working with traders who share our commitment to environmentally responsible practices. We're also developing better transport options to reduce car dependency, with car-sharing, shuttles and greener travel choices.

The Garden stage
Radio heads walkabout performers in the field

Our mission

Looking after where we gather

We're working closely with Cardross Estate to keep our impact on the land as light as possible. From energy and water use to how we build and run the site, we're making changes that respect the place we're lucky enough to use each summer.

Back Doune is built on people, and that includes looking after where we gather. As we grow, we're doing it carefully, making decisions that protect the land and keep things honest.

Our key sustainability actions

What we're working on

Stronger waste and recycling systems across the site

Less single-use plastic through trader and bar agreements

Suppliers who prioritise ethical, low-impact practices

Greener travel with car-sharing and shuttle options

Lower-impact lighting and power planning

Careful land management with Cardross Estate

Responsible procurement for staging and production

Clearer communication with festivalgoers

Each year is a step forward, with more to come.

Inclusivity and accessibility

A festival where everyone feels welcome

We're building a festival so everyone, whatever their age or ability, feels welcome. Something that belongs to its community, gives new artists a stage and feels like home to everyone who walks through the gates.

Accessibility information for 2027 is coming soon.

The crowd at Back Doune The Rabbit Hole
Acrobats and the family tent

Family focus

For every age, we all play together

Families are at the heart of Back Doune The Rabbit Hole. In The Wacky Warren, our family field, toddlers, teens and everyone in between will find something that's just their speed, all included with your festival ticket.

Built on people

Tread lightly with us

Join us at Cardross Estate, Stirlingshire, on 16–18 July 2027, and help us look after the place we gather.