Spoiler: Itโs a bit of a mixed bag, butt…
Letโs talk access platforms at Maid of Stone Festival โ because if youโre heading to a field full of noise, mud, and headbanging, you deserve to see the stage without having to crowd-surf your way to it. So, are they lush? Or a logistical letdown?
โฟ Whatโs occurring with the platforms?
Maid of Stone does provide dedicated accessible viewing platforms at the main stages โ a big tick in the right box. But are they actually any good in practice?
Hereโs the honest lowdown:
โ THE GOOD
- You can see the stage (most of the time):
The platforms are elevated and offer a proper sightline over the crowd. No heads in the way, no inflatable bananas blocking your view. - Access Wristbands & PA Passes:
You can apply for companion passes and access wristbands ahead of the festival, and theyโre usually pretty tidy about approvals if you provide proof (e.g. PIP, Blue Badge). - Security and Stewards:
Reports from previous years say the stewards are actually helpful โ no power trips, no eye-rolling when you ask for help. Diolch for that!
โ THE BAD
- Limited Space โ get in early!
The platforms do fill up fast. Once they hit capacity, youโre out of luck โ even with a wristband. Itโs first-come, first-served. Not ideal if youโve got fatigue or mobility issues. - Sunburn Central / Rain Trap:
Very little cover. So bring a hat or poncho unless you fancy roasting or swimming mid-set. A bit of shade or shelter wouldnโt go amiss, like… - Not always centrally placed:
Sometimes youโre tucked off to the side like the naughty kid at school. The sound is still decent, but the experience isn’t quite as “main stage centre.”
๐ THE โCOULD DO BETTERโ
- Platform Size & Number:
For a festival thatโs growing in popularity, they could definitely expand the accessible areas. You shouldnโt have to fight for space with your wheels or walking stick. - Toilet Proximity:
Accessible loos are provided… but they’re not always close to the platform. And if itโs muddy, that trek can feel like a Glastonbury marathon.
๐ Pro Tips for Access Platform Warriors:
- Apply early for access wristbands and PA passes
- Bring your own seat if you can โ not all platforms provide them
- Introduce yourself to stewards early in the day โ it helps
- Bring sun cream / waterproofs / snacks โ because access doesnโt mean speedy
- Screenshot your access confirmation โ 4G signal may vanish into the ether
๐ฃ๏ธ Fan Voices:
โThe view was great but we couldnโt all fit on the platform by the time the headliner started.โ
โ Rachel, powerchair user
โStaff were friendly, but they need another platform or better priority access โ we missed half a set waiting for space.โ
โ Jamie, ambulatory disabled
โBetter than some fests, worse than others. Steelhouse did it better tbh.โ
โ Anonymous, veteran of many muddy gigs
๐ง Verdict:
Could be worse, could be way better.
Maid of Stone is trying, but access feels like an afterthought at times. If they want to become a truly inclusive rock festival, itโs time to turn the volume up on disability access โ more platforms, more cover, and more communication.
Accessibility isnโt a perk. Itโs a right.
