← Knowledge base · DPW Volunteers Guidance · 2026 volunteer handbook
DPW: 2026 dates and arrivals
AnyoneBuild and strike dates, arrival-day expectations, check-in and travel preparation.
2026 handbook · edition reference. These are the supplied DPW arrangements for May 2026. Dates, contacts, vehicles and facilities should be confirmed before reusing them for another edition.
2026 dates
Gate-hours date range needs clarification. The source says “Tuesday 12 – Sunday 25 May: 8am – 8pm”. In 2026, 25 May is Monday, while the stated build finish is Sunday 17 May. The intended end date has not been guessed; confirm with the DPW Co-Links.
Before travelling
First build day
Key 2026 Timings
Build start: Monday 11th May
Build finish: Sunday 17th May
Strike start: Monday 25th May
Strike finish: Wednesday 27th May
Build Gate Hours
Monday 11 May: Please see Day 1 Arrivals info. Gate closes at 8pm
Tuesday 12 - Sunday 25 May: 8am - 8pm
Please let us know in advance if you need to arrive outside of these hours
Times may be subject to change, keep an eye on your emails. Drop us a line with any issues at dpw@burningnest.co.uk
Please note, there is no vehicle movement after dark. This means even if you arrange a late arrival, you will only be able to drive to the carpark, not to a camping space.
Arrivals · Day 1 Arrivals | Monday 11 May
This year we are hoping to have our first arrivals on site around 9/10am. Cross your fingers for us.
You can arrive from 10am, but please keep an eye on the Signal group in case the first arrivals have any delays - we have to open the gate!
- On arrival, please proceed down the tree-lined avenue and turn right at your first opportunity, into the open field.
- Parking will be against the stone wall.
- Please bring a packed lunch and any snacks you need for day 1 - we will not have a kitchen until dinner time!
- Toilets will not be available when we first get on site.
- For day 1, we are all hands on deck - we work to get the kitchen unloaded from the container and set up as first priority, otherwise we can’t eat 🙂
- We set up our own tents etc, once the crucial items are done.
All Other Arrivals
- On arrival, please proceed down the tree-lined avenue and turn right at your first opportunity, into the open field.
- Report directly to the Production Office - it’s the cabin directly ahead when you pull into the field
- Please have your ticket downloaded in advance.
- We’ll get you checked in, wristbanded, and point you in the right direction for parking, camping, and facilities.
- You’ll be able to set up your tent etc. before you get started with DPW.
- If you’re taking public transport we may be able to arrange a pick up, but please let us know the day before you arrive so we can make arrangements.
There is a Nest Rideshare or the 2026 DPW Signal group chat to make your own rideshare or pick-up arrangements.
Getting to site
Directions and the entrance gate location are sent to crew before the event. Only use the gate you're given: map apps can send you to the wrong one, and you won't be let in there.
Source
Adapted from DPW Handbook 2026.docx. The original welcomes returning crew and first-time volunteers; everyone is asked to read the handbook because build and strike change each year.
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