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Lakefest 2026 Preview

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Just two weeks until Lakefest returns to Eastnor Castle Deer Park in Herefordshire for its 14th edition.

Billing itself as “the ultimate summer celebration for grown-ups who party, families who play hard, and everyone who loves brilliant live music, tasty food, cold drinks and proper festival atmosphere” – Lakefest has something for everyone.

From its humble beginnings as a small lakeside gathering, Lakefest has now grown into one of the UK’s most welcoming festivals, blending big-name headline acts with emerging talent across multiple stages.

This year’s headliners include The Charlatans, Example, Madness and Bananarama – with iconic acts such as Lightning Seeds, Scouting for Girls, Soul II Soul and EMF all performing on the Abbey Main Stage across the weekend.

Over at the Xerjoff Scenting the Scene At Funkytown stage, General Levy, Tinchy Stryder, Newton Faulkner, Reef and East 17 will all be making appearances along with Flash: A Tribute to Queen, The Jam UK and Utah Saints.

Lakefest is also bringing a taste of the Balearics to the Herefordshire countryside, hosting a Sunday Ibiza Beach Party in the A Restrospective of House tent. Big names such as Todd Terry, Judge Jules, Lisa Lashes and Seb Fontaine will all be playing high-energy crowd-pleasers, harking back to the golden era of Ibiza.

The Cheshire Cat Club will be hosting a wide variety of events throughout the weekend including DJ sets from Woody Cook and Bez from the Happy Mondays, performances from Senser and local act Dub Catalyst – as well as food demos from Beefy Boys and even movie screenings.

Beyond the music, Lakefest offers creative workshops, children’s activities, fairground rides, and a wide choice of food and drink, making it a true celebration for all ages. With its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful countryside setting, Lakefest is as much about community and fun as it is about great live music.

On top of the entertainment there’s also the annual theme, which this year is Flower Power – so expect to see plenty of flares, psychedelic prints, tie dye and bare feet as revellers channel their inner Woodstock!

Lakefest takes place from 5-9th August at Eastnor Castle Deer Park in Herefordshire.

Day tickets are still available through Lakefest.co.uk.

Credit Lakefest

BANANARAMA JOIN THE CHARLATANS, EXAMPLE AND MADNESS AT LAKEFEST – AUGUST 2026

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Attracting 25,000 revellers of all ages each year, Lakefest’s 12 stages host performances from world class music artists, award winning cuisine and a vibrant mix of family friendly activities, which includes a stage hosted by Steam Co, whose mission is to inspire creativity for children across the UK.

Whilst mums and dads are down at the mainstage, checking out an eclectic mix of their favourite bands, or working up a sweat on the Retrospective of House or Funky Town dancefloors, younger family members can also enjoy magic shows, storytelling, beat-boxing, BMX stunt show, wrestling, circus performances & the Kapow Gaming arena.

Lakefest is a UK music festival designed to be enjoyed by everyone. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and broad musical appeal, there’s a relaxed vibe and a strong sense of community. The 4-day festival attracts people who value shared experiences, friendliness, and a respectful environment. Conversations start easily, adventures begin, and friendships are made.

With a choice of camping and glamping options, comedy, wellness and plentiful hospitality, the festival delivers an unforgettable weekend packed with live entertainment, delicious food and fun for all ages.

Bananarama will complete the festival headliners, with further line-up to be announced for Sunday 9th August. Celebrating 40 years in the business, Bananarama’s DIY-style and attitude inspired a generation, obliterating all previous notions of what a girl band could be. During the 80’s these coolest of cool, pop princesses consistently topped the charts, with Hits such as Venus, Love In The First Degree, Robert De Niro’s Waiting, Cruel Summer and Our Lips Are Sealed with Terry Hall’s Fun Boy Three.

They hold the Guinness World Record for being the most successful female band worldwide, with the most charting singles. They performed twice on Band Aid, have released 12 albums, sold 30 million records and have retained their female pop duo cool credentials to date, with the release of their album Glorious, celebrating 4 decades of their music in 2024.