Who Can Attend the IYOGA Fest? Is it suitable for beginners?

The IYOGA Fest is aimed at regular yoga students (not new beginners) but you don’t necessarily need to have prior experience of Iyengar Yoga. However, it’s a good idea to go to a few classes before you attend to familiarise yourself with the basics so that you can get the best out of your experience. Teachers are skilled at dealing with multiple levels of experience in one class and the practice lends itself to inclusivity, whatever your ability.

However, if you are one of the lucky ones to get a very limited Two or One Day Ticket (see further down), you will need to have at least 1 year’s experience of Iyengar Yoga.

I Have a Health Condition - Can I Still Attend?

If you are practicing regularly with your health condition and have already been given modifications by your regular teacher, you are very welcome to attend. Our experienced teachers will be able to guide you further. If you are a beginner or the condition is new to you, please consult with a medical practitioner first and inform us on booking so that we can advise you further.

Who Are This Year’s Teachers?

Please visit our Teacher’s page for details about this year’s Iyengar Yoga teachers.

Do I Need to Bring Yoga Equipment - Where Can I store it?

We recommend you have the following as a minimum:

• 4 foam pads - 2 bricks - 2 belts - 1 blanket - 1 mat

  If possible, please also bring a bolster and a yoga chair.

Once you have set your equipment up in the main hall, you can leave it there during the event. There are smaller, equipped practice spaces if you want to practice in between, so no need to take your stuff in and out and the hall will be locked between sessions.

Can I Hire/Buy Equipment?

Yes! We have a limited number of yoga kits available and these can be hired in advance from our partners at Cheltenham Iyengar Yoga by emailing John @ john.yogaworks@gmail.com

There will also be a marketplace at the festival where you can buy new/used equipment including mats and chairs.

Is There WiFi at Fairthorne Manor?

Yes - it’s quite good and available in all buildings. The codes will be issued to you on arrival.

Is There Parking Available?

Yes - there is plenty of space to park - you can drive right to the Yoga Hall to drop off your stuff and the park in the main visitors car park. If you are camping, you can park your car nearer to your tent to set up and camper vans are also allowed on site in the camping areas.

I Just Want to Come for the Day – Is That Possible?

Yes, but due to the high festival costs involved, we only issue a very limited number of Two and One Day Passes from 1st August and give priority to those booking the whole event.

Day Passes include are only available for attendees with at least 1 year experience of Iyengar Yoga or for special guests.

Tickets include access to the site from 9.00am to 9pm (day 2 to day 4) with lunch & dinner and all workshops and activities. You can then choose to “Add On” the finale class on Saturday 5th September (2026) for an additional fee. No accommodation is included but if you want to pitch your tent, you can also add that to your booking.

Are Pets Allowed on Site?

Sorry, pets are not allowed on the camping site, unless it is a service animal.

What about drinks and access to a fridge?

For people staying in Ben’s House, you have access to a lounge on each wing with fridge and tea&coffee making facilities. For those camping, your area is in the Chill Out Room (Camping Hut) where a fridge and urn will be provided. In the dining room, there is usually an urn and tea and coffee available until they close at 10pm each evening (for residents only). Please bring a reusable cup or use the paper cups provided.

What about alcohol?

We do not serve or sell alcohol but if you want to bring your own to have with dinner, that’s fine.

Any Tips on What Else to Bring?

The site is well lit, but if you are camping, a head torch or flashlight is always helpful for navigating at night. If you’re staying in one of the accommodation blocks, bring a couple of towels and an extra pillow for more comfort.

A thermos cup is always a great idea for keeping drinks warm between sessions, and if you’re camping, a hot water bottle can make chilly nights much cozier.

We recommend bringing wet weather gear, including a waterproof jacket, umbrella, and suitable footwear, just in case—it rains about every third year, so let’s hope 2026 is a dry one!

Here are a few more useful items you might want to pack:

• Yoga Kit: See above - don’t forget to bring your own mat.

• Comfortable Clothing: Layers are best, as the temperature can vary throughout the day.

• Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor sessions or breaks.

• Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the festival.

• Notebook & Pen: You may want to jot down insights from classes or philosophy talks.

• Earplugs & Eye Mask: If you're a light sleeper, these can be useful, especially if you decide to camp - the night owls can be especially loud!

• Snacks: While meals will be provided, having a few energy-boosting snacks on hand can be helpful between sessions. If you are keen on nut-based snacks, please note the the YMCA is a nut-free zone, so feel free to bring your own.

• First Aid Kit: Including plasters, pain relief, any personal medications, and muscle balm.

If you think of anything else specific to your comfort or routine, it’s always better to bring it along!.