Skepta’s Big Smoke Festival 2025 – London’s Unmissable Music Weekend
Get ready for one of the most electrifying weekends in London this summer—Skepta’s Big Smoke Festival 2025 returns with even more power, style, and sound! Taking place on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th August 2025 at the iconic Crystal Palace Bowl, this two-day celebration of grime, house, and underground music is set to be one of London’s most talked-about events of the year.
Whether you’re a longtime Skepta fan or just love a summer music festival, this is your chance to experience cutting-edge performances in a historic open-air venue. If you're travelling in, staying at a central location like a Hyde Park London hotel ensures you're well-connected—and the Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel offers one of the best options for comfort, style and proximity to transport.
What to Expect at Big Smoke Festival 2025
Following the massive success of the 2024 edition, Big Smoke Festival is back bigger and better, curated by Skepta himself. This year’s lineup spans two immersive days:
Day 1: Saturday – Grime Royalty
- Skepta (headline performance)
- Central Cee
- JME & Frisco (B2B Set)
- Chip, BXKS, Chy Cartier, Skyla Tylaa, and more
Day 1 celebrates the raw power of UK grime, with legendary artists and rising stars taking the stage.
Day 2: Sunday – Más Tiempo Takeover
- Skepta returns with his Más Tiempo collective
- House & techno legends: Maceo Plex, Ilario Alicante
- Special B2B sets from Syreeta & Kitty Amor, Jammer, and others
Expect a full day of hypnotic house, underground beats, and high-energy sets curated to keep you dancing.
Where to Stay – Hotels Near Paddington Station
If you're travelling from outside London or simply want to make your festival weekend more relaxing, staying close to transport is key. For guests looking for hotels near Paddington Station, the Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel offers the perfect balance of location, luxury, and affordability.
About Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel
Located just a 2-minute walk from Paddington Station and only 5 minutes from Hyde Park, this boutique 4-star hotel is set in a beautiful garden square and blends classic London charm with modern elegance.
Why stay here?
- Prime central location near Hyde Park and transport links
- Stylish rooms with smart tech and luxury bedding
- Fast, free Wi-Fi, in-room Nespresso machines, and walk-in rain showers
- On-site Italian restaurant, fitness centre, and 24-hour reception
- Ideal for festival-goers needing rest and refreshment after a high-energy day
Whether you're catching the Heathrow Express, exploring central London, or heading out to the Big Smoke Festival, this Hyde Park London hotel makes it easy.
Getting to the Festival from Mercure London Hyde Park
- By train: From Paddington Station, take the Bakerloo Line to Oxford Circus, then the Overground or bus towards Crystal Palace
- Travel time: Approx. 40–50 minutes
- Bonus: Return in the evening to a peaceful, well-serviced hotel near beautiful Hyde Park
