Festival News - Summer Festival Guide

WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL REVEALS BUMPER LINEUP FOR 20TH EDITION

February 6, 2026 by Anna Hyams

Wychwood Festival has today revealed the main body of artists set to perform at the landmark 20th anniversary edition, as the much-loved family-friendly festival returns to Cheltenham Racecourse from 29th to 31st May 2026.

With chart-topping indie icons Kaiser Chiefs headlining Saturday night, they will be joined by an eclectic and celebratory lineup led by Sunday night headliners Levellers, and a packed weekend of live music marking Wychwood’s biggest evolution to date. Among today’s announcement are a host of acclaimed artists including Feeder, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Boney M, The Pigeon Detectives, Newton Faulkner and Chesney Hawkes, alongside an expertly curated mix of festival favourites, rising talent and joyful curveballs that have become synonymous with the Wychwood experience.

Plus, for the first time in the festival’s history, Wychwood will open its gates on Thursday for those looking to expand their weekend to four days of live music and camping, and will increase the overall capacity of the festival in line with growing demand in recent years. Thursday night at the racecourse will be headlined by Dutty Moonshine Big Band and signals the start of an extended anniversary celebration. With the Friday night headliner and more names still to be revealed, this year is already shaping up to be one for the books.

Sunday night headliners Levellers bring four decades of genre-defying folk punk anthems to the Prestbury Hills, promising a powerful and unifying close to the weekend. Across the bill, Feeder return with their era-defining catalogue of alternative classics, while Sophie Ellis-Bextor delivers her signature disco-pop euphoria. Disco legends Boney M are set to bring pure party energy, with crowd favourites The Pigeon Detectives, Newton Faulkner and Chesney Hawkes adding unique singalong moments across the weekend.

Elsewhere a wide array of some of the most respected groups come together, with the likes of The South, The Subways, Dub Pistols, The Wedding Present and Tankus, coupled alongside a hand-picked roster of the most exciting newcomers, including Adult DVD, Elles Bailey, Pale Blue Eyes, Bloodworm, Hunny Buzz, Pia Rose and more. Always championing local talent, this year Wychwood welcomes a Cheltenham-based modern alternative rock band, Nuns of the Tundra. Firmly on the rise right now, the band’s debut album rocketed into the top 10 of the Official UK Album Chart, and they were interviewed on stage by Justin Hawkins of The Darkness during his recent show at Cheltenham Town Hall.

Adding to the celebratory edition of the UK’s fast-growing family-friendly weekender will be a selection of festival favourite moments. The UK’s #1 Shrek musical tribute The Ogretones, Shaun Williamson’s Barrioke, and Taskmaster creator Alex Horne’s The Horne Section are all confirmed for Wychwood 2026, alongside James B Partridge Primary School Bangers, Hip Hop Karaoke, 3 Daft Monkeys, Mr B Gentleman Rhymer, The X & Y, Witney Soul Club and of course local Wychwood stalwarts Thrill Collins, keeping festival spirits suitably high from start to finish.

Renowned for its popular Comedy tent, Wychwood unveils close to 20 of the best stand up talents today, guaranteeing laugh out loud moments a plenty. The unofficial German Comedy Ambassador to the UK Henning Wehn leads the charge, as seen regularly on Have I Got News For You, Would I Lie To You?, 8 Out of 10 Cats, and QI, alongside seasoned performers Patrick Monahan, Javier Jarquin, Jonny Awsum, Duncan Oakley and many more.

Fresh from being crowned Family Festival of the Year at the UK Festival Awards 2025, Wychwood continues to set the standard for inclusive festival experiences. Thousands flock from around the UK in growing numbers each year, and it’s no wonder with the hundreds of family-friendly activities, arts, comedy, children’s literature and workshops laid out across the weekend at The Village Green and beyond – plus it’s free for under 10’s!

Taking place beneath the beautiful Prestbury Hills at Cheltenham Racecourse, Wychwood marks the very first weekend of the summer festival season and has become a treasured tradition for families and music lovers alike.

Festival Director Graeme Merifield said: “Reaching our 20th anniversary is a huge moment for Wychwood, and this lineup reflects everything we love about the festival. Opening on Thursday for the first time and expanding to four days feels like the perfect way to extend the good times and offer more to our incredible community. This year we wanted to bring some big names to the bill to show the ambition of where we’re heading, whilst also marking this momentous anniversary year with some friends who have played an important part of our journey from the start, and will ignite those cherished memories in the crowd for so many. From Kaiser Chiefs’ anticipated debut to one of our most-loved and requested headliners of all time, Levellers, 2026 is shaping up to be our most exciting year yet – and there’s even more still to come!”

With the Friday night headliner and more artists, comedy, arts and family programming being revealed soon, Wychwood Festival 2026 promises a truly special anniversary celebration.

The 20th edition of Wychwood Festival takes place 29th to 31st May 2026 at Cheltenham Racecourse, Gloucestershire. Thursday entry tickets are available for £30. Pre-sale opens Monday 9th February at 6pm, with general tickets on sale Tuesday 10th February at 10am via www.wychwoodfestival.com

Levellers said: “Great to be back at Wychwood! We’ve played here many times before – many memorable, high energy shows. Good old school festival vibes … It’s Levs first festival of 2026 – so of course we can’t wait!”

Kaiser Chiefs’ Ricky Wilson said: “Really looking forward to playing Wychwood next summer. Any festival that puts us top of the bill must have excellent taste so it bodes well. The summer is when we thrive, we are good at festivals and if you haven’t seen us before it’s a strong recommend. If you have seen us before then we hope to see you”

The Pigeon Detectives said: “We’re buzzing to be playing Wychwood Festival this year! Bring on Summer 2026!”

The Wedding Present’s David Gedge said: “The Wedding Present will be making their first-ever appearance at the Wychwood Festival this year, and that’s always very exciting. We are, first and foremost, a live band, so we love visiting new festival locations and having the opportunity to perform in them”

Barry from Eastenders said: “Hi everyone, we’re back at Wychwood Friday the 29th May at the Cheltenham Racecourse. We love it there, it must be our third or fourth time, it’s always an absolutely brilliant evening so come along and join us. You can join me on stage for a little ‘Mustang Sally’ or ‘Something Inside So Strong’. Whatever happens, come and join us at Cheltenham Racecourse, Wychwood Festival, Friday 29th May. I’ll see you there”

3 Daft Monkeys said: “We are super excited to tell you that we will be playing at the 20th Wychwood festival in 2026. We will be playing on the Friday night in May and we’re very excited because we haven’t played there for 15 years, I can’t believe it. They were one of the first festivals to book us as a young band when we first started out and we’re celebrating 25 years this year so lots of stories to tell you. We’re really excited to see you all”

James B Partridge said: “I’m extremely thrilled to announce that I’ll be playing on the main stage at Wychwood Festival on its 20th Anniversary on May 30th 2026. We will be bringing all of the Primary School Bangers and all the nostalgic vibes to Wychwood so hopefully see you there”

Elles Bailey said: “I’m delighted to be heading to Wychwood Festival. It’s a festival I’ve always dreamed of playing and I’m looking forward to bringing songs from my brand-new album and favourites from previous records – it’s gonna be so fun”

The line-up so far
Kaiser Chiefs, Levellers, Sophie Ellis Bextor, Feeder, The Pigeon Detectives, Boney M, The Horne Section, The Subways, The Twang, Newton Faulkner, The South, The Wedding Present, Chesney Hawkes, James B Partridge Primary School Bangers, Elles Bailey, Dub Pistols, Dutty Moonshine Big Band, Adult DVD, Pale Blue Eyes, Nuns Of The Tundra, Bloodworm, Hunny Buzz, 3 Daft Monkeys, Tankus, The Standard, Barrioke, Fleetmac Wood, Vote Pedro, The Ogretones, Vibe Roulette, Hip Hop Karaoke, The In-Here Brothers, Taylor Swift Lauren’s Version, Thrill Collins, Mr B The Gentleman Rhymer, Elvis Lesley, The X & Y, Witney Soul Club, K-Pop Demon Hunters V Swifty Disco, Reet Stranger Things Disco

Comedy: Henning Wehn, Jonny Awsum, Card Ninja, Angie Mack, Mabel Read, Edi Johnston, Louise Leigh, Patrick Monahan, Howard Read, Andrew White, Bella Humphries, Darryl Carrington, Joe Wells, Javier Jarquin, Amelia Hamilton, Dani Johns, Sunjai Arif, Kate Martin, Duncan Oakley

Plus more to be announced!

Kelburn Garden Party returns in 2026!

February 5, 2026 by Anna Hyams

Kelburn Garden Party returns in 2026 as Scotland’s fastest-growing multi-arts festival

Kelburn Garden Party, photo credit: Recompose

Kelburn Garden Party returns this July to the enchanted grounds of Kelburn Castle, celebrating its
16th year of music, art, nature and adventure, as well as a landmark moment for Scotland’s
independent festival culture.

Now officially Scotland’s second-largest camping festival, Kelburn continues to grow while still
retaining the magic, intimacy, and creativity that have defined it since day one.
Taking place across four unmissable days 2-6 July, Kelburn Garden Party is set beneath ancient
woodlands at the foot of a spectacular Scottish glen, surrounded by waterfall plunge pools, secret
pathways, and the striking painted walls of the 13th-century Kelburn Castle.

The festival will host music across 14 bespoke stages, ranging from Scotland’s premier outdoor
electronic arena, the Landing Stage, to the far-flung Beech Plateau, a breathtaking venue nestled on a
wooded promontory some 30 minutes’ walk up the glen. Celebrating its new charitable status, the
Neverending Glen offers an immersive open-air gallery experience, featuring a record-number of
installations of multidisciplinary art hidden throughout the estate’s ancient landscape. Two brand-new
micro-venues will debut in 2026, rewarding curious wanderers willing to follow the paths deeper into
the landscape.

In the first phase artist announcement, Kelburn’s commitment to progressive club culture and
grassroots collaboration continues through a series of special stage takeovers. Edinburgh club
institution Sneaky Pete’s curate Thursday on the Pyramid Stage, while the essential Glasgow party
Subculture take over the Landing Stage on Friday, headlined by the pioneering French-born DJ and
producer Jen Cardini and featuring a rare b4b between the beloved Subculture residents.

The same stage welcomes Headset back to curate a night of cutting edge bass music, jungle and D’nB.
Award-winning rap sensation BEMZ brings his own M4 banner to Kelburn to curate the Saloon on
Friday and performing live with his full band on the much-loved Viewpoint Stage, while The Skinny
returns to curate the Pyramid Stage, spotlighting Scotland’s most exciting emerging artists. In a new
addition for 2026, Gilded Balloon joins the programme, introducing a dedicated comedy offering to
Kelburn’s expanding cultural landscape.

Further highlights include Sao Paolo’s BADSISTA’s signature blend of futuristic baile funk and electro. A
true pioneer of drum & bass and jungle, Bristol legend Krust brings his classic, much-imitated sound
to Kelburn, drawing on decades of influence from his work with Full Cycle, Reprazent.

Leon Vynehall pushes the boundaries of modern dance music, joins the lineup following the success
of his latest album for Ninja Tune, In Daytona Yellow, alongside a reputation for standout DJ mixes
across Radio 1, DJ-Kicks, Fabric Presents, and Resident Advisor. Glasgow sound-system heavyweights
Mungo’s HiFi return with their bass-driven blend of reggae, dub and global collaborations, reaffirming
their status as mainstays of Scotland’s club and festival culture.

Under his Quantic alias, Will Holland brings nearly two decades of soul-rich global sounds, blending
live instrumentation and electronics. High-speed club innovator SHERELLE storms the lineup with her
boundary-pushing, 160bpm-plus sound for her first ever Scottish festival show.

Globe-trotting producer Wallace will deliver his left-field electronic sound to Kelburn, following standout releases on
Studio Barnhus, Disco Halal and Rhythm Section, and numerous appearances at Berlin’s infamous
Panorama Bar.

Mercury Prize–nominated producer, composer and multi-instrumentalist Emma-Jean Thackray
delivers her fearless blend of jazz, soul, pop and electronic music, following the release of her
acclaimed and deeply personal album Weirdo. BBC Introducing NI Artists of the Year Huartan fuse
Irish traditional song with electronic and industrial textures, reimagining Irish-language music through
powerful live performances.

Edinburgh-based project Indoor Foxes, led by songwriter Martha Barr, delivers heartfelt,
melody-driven pop and rock, pairing gut-honest lyrics with powerful, captivating vocals that have

quickly marked her out as a standout new voice. Following the viral success of “Mum does the
washing” spoken-word artist Joshua Idehen performs his urgent, life-affirming poetry blending
rhythmic narration with expansive electronic production.

Acid house purists Paranoid London bring their raw, distorted live show to the Landing Stage,
channeling the genre’s underground roots into rough, jack-heavy tracks built on overdriven machines
and no-frills intensity. Long-time collaborators Gerardo Delgado and Quinn Whalley have spent over a
decade turning dancefloors inside out, becoming festival favourites at Glastonbury, Dekmantel,
Movement and beyond.

The psychedelic electronic-pop project of Isle of Eigg songwriter Johnny Lynch, Pictish Trail delights
audiences with his signature mix of wonky synths, lo-fi folk and widescreen songwriting, ahead of his
forthcoming album Life Slime while London post-punk agitators Snapped Ankles bring their feral,
masked live show to Kelburn, fusing experimental electronics, dance rhythms and art-rock into an
exhilarating, pagan-tinged assault on the senses.

Glasgow punks SOAPBOX arrive armed with
razor-sharp politics and raw energy, quickly becoming one of Scotland’s most talked-about new bands
after sold-out shows, festival slots and a run of confrontational releases.

Self-styled “Mother of Afro-Rave” Toya Delazy delivers a fearless, high-energy collision of rap, rave and
Afro-futurist club sounds, honed through electrifying performances across the UK festival circuit. Skye
duo Valtos blur the lines between trad and electronic music, creating a euphoric, genre-defying sound
inspired by folk roots, club culture and the spirit of the Highlands.

For the full first phase line-up announced please see below, with last remaining tickets on sale now
here.

Supported by EventScotland’s National Events Programme, Kelburn Garden Party continues to push
boundaries in Scotland’s independent festival scene, balancing world-class talent with grassroots
values and a strong connection to its natural surroundings.

David Boyle, Director and Co-Festival Founder, said: “When we started The Kelburn Garden Party we
were, without doubt, lacking experience and blind to the challenges ahead of us, you might say naïve,
but we always had big dreams and a dogged enthusiasm to create something truly magical, full of joy
and creativity. What Kelburn has become, through the vision and belief of so many incredible creatives
and crew, and through the beautiful culture that has blossomed in the Kelburn community, is far
beyond my wildest imaginings. Kelburn to me, and I hope to many others, has become a shimmering
light in the murky waters of modern existence, a weekend of boundless joy and creative self expression,
where anything can happen, dreams are forged and where we can find hope in human nature.”

Chris Knight, Kelburn’s Head Programmer says: “A huge part of Kelburn’s success and appeal has been
down to our devotion to and support for Scotland’s underground clubbing, record label, radio and and
independent venue community, where diverse new talent and future stars are born and nurtured. The
likes of Sneaky Pete’s, Sub Club, Headset, EHFM and Bemz’s M4 Festival do the hard work all year
round to maintain the health of the Scottish scene, and it is our pleasure to represent their work in
2026 via stage takeovers.”

Rebecca Edser, Head of EventScotland, said: “I’m delighted that EventScotland is supporting Kelburn
Garden Party through the National Funding Programme for another year. It’s great to see the festival
return with another exciting and diverse line-up. The stunning surroundings of Kelburn Castle and the
natural beauty of the glen provide the perfect stage for the event, helping to encourage visitors to
Ayrshire, drive the Scottish economy and showcase our world-class tourism and events offering.”

HEADLINE LIVE ACTS ANNOUNCED

BEMZ
Bonfire Radicals
El Buho
Emma-Jean Thackray
Hodge
Huartan
Indoor Foxes
Jinje
Joshua Idehen
La Tromba
megaTRAD
Oby Onyioha & Sai Galaxy
Paranoid London
Pictish Trail
Snapped Ankles
Soapbox
Solo Banton
Soothsayers
Tanzana
The Menstrual Cramps

Toya Delazy
Valtos

HEADLINE DJs ANNOUNCED

Ash Lauryn
BADSISTA
Cooly G
Dom Servini
Earthly Measures
Jen Cardini
Krust
Leon Vynehall
Mango Park
Mattana
Mungo’s Hi-Fi
Quantic
Sean Johnson
Sherelle
Tigerbalm
Wallace

BLOODSTOCK’s Festive Treat – Watch 5 New GOJIRA Live Clips from 2025

January 14, 2026December 13, 2025 by Anna Hyams

Fresh off BLOODSTOCK’s inaugural Winter Gathering, this holiday season BLOODSTOCK gifts metalheads something seriously heavy: five exclusive, newly released, pro-shot videos from GOJIRA’s earth-shaking 2025 headline performance, individually re-engineered with the band’s sound engineer to create the best and heaviest listening experience possible. Dropping across the holiday period, these live cuts capture the French titans at full power – a perfect festive binge for fans hungry for riffs.

Your essential festive viewing includes “Stranded,” the groove-driven anthem from their 2016 released Magma opus, which airs first, blazing with the ferocity that made it a modern classic. “Mea Culpa (Ah! Ça ira!),” which made waves after the band’s blistering performance during the Paris 2024 Olympic opening ceremony, drops next. “Only Pain” follows, also taken from Magma, and showcases GOJIRA’s signature blend of precision and emotional weight.

Next, the band’s crushing take on “Under The Sun,” performed earlier this year at the special Back To The Beginning celebration, delivers a bold, sludgy tribute to the iconic Black Sabbath. Finally, “The Gift Of Guilt,” the soaring, cathartic fan favourite from their 2012 critically acclaimed album L’Enfant Sauvage, wraps up the year with the kind of emotional punch only GOJIRA can deliver.

Watch a trailer for the incredible video series here: https://youtu.be/IfRUYCFsaKQ or by clicking below.

BAILEY ZIMMERMAN ANNOUNCED AS THE FIRST HEADLINER FOR THE LONG ROAD FESTIVAL 2026

January 14, 2026December 4, 2025 by Anna Hyams

MULTI-PLATINUM STAR BAILEY ZIMMERMAN ANNOUNCED AS THE FIRST HEADLINER FOR THE LONG ROAD FESTIVAL 2026

AUGUST 27-30 2026; EARLY BIRD TICKETS ON SALE, SATURDAY DAY TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE

THE LONG ROAD RETURNS FOLLOWING ITS BIGGEST YEAR YET IN 2025 – WATCH THE RECAP HERE

(Download hi-res here)

LONDON, U.K. – (Dec 3, 2025) – The UK’s largest outdoor Country, Americana and Roots festival, The Long Road, returns for a seventh year to the scenic grounds of Stanford Hall, Leicestershire over the August 2026 Bank Holiday weekend (Aug. 27 – 30). Kicking off the lineup, multi-platinum, record-breaking star Bailey Zimmerman is confirmed as the Saturday night headliner, marking his first UK performance in more than two years, following his sold-out UK and European headline run in 2024.

Celebrated as a true tastemaker event, The Long Road spotlights artists at every stage in their career, from powerhouse veterans to rising stars. With stages inspired by the places that shape country music – from front porches and dive bars, to miles across the Interstate, to the big-break main stage. The festival’s evolution sees 2026 welcoming Bailey Zimmerman, who sets the tone for the strongest line up yet with many more names to be announced.

Festival co-founder Baylen Leonard shared of the announcement: “Bailey Zimmerman is one of the most exciting live artists to emerge recently and we couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome him to The Long Road. With his trademark showmanship and immense singalong hits, his mainstage set is going to be one to remember. Bailey’s energy and TLR’s status as a must attend event for UK music fans is the perfect match!”

Beyond the music, festival-goers return to The Long Road year after year to soak up the Country lifestyle – U.S. inspired street food and American BBQ, craft beers, the Lucky Dice Classic Car & Bike show, line dancing, campfires, vintage funfair rides, the dog show and pooch parade, activities and games for families & kids, Country-oke, and more.

Friday & Sunday headliners and much more across four days and over six stages to be announced.

After a record-breaking super early bird release, the festival has launched Family Tickets for two adults and up to three children, saving over £80. Group, Saturday and remaining Early Bird tickets are available now at: https://www.thelongroad.com/tickets

“The array of artists on display at The Long Road demonstrates country music’s greatest strength: its variety.” – DIY

“The Long Road seems to be a shining beacon of hazy late summer, drenched in soulful wholesome vibes that are sure to put you at ease. It’s hard to put this festival in the context of festivals as a whole, because it feels as the tagline goes, like being ‘welcomed home’.” – Summer Festival Guide

“If you’re even half-curious about country, this is the weekend that will make you fall in love with it.” – Music News

“What sets The Long Road apart from other festivals is its warm, welcoming atmosphere. It feels like coming home—relaxed, fun, and safe” – Rock At Night

“The Long Road transports you to the States with its BBQ food, Kentucky bourbon masterclasses, a Honky-tonk bar, and an exciting line-up of country music stars.” – The Standard

“Phenomenal… The Long Road continues to cement its legacy as one of England’s premiere country music festivals” – Holler

“The Long Road delivers it all. It’s an authentic, immersive and welcoming family friendly experience” – Grazia

Official Site | Facebook | Instagram | X | TikTok

(Credit: Alexander Ward & Jade Vowles & Kezia Tan)

Mumford & Sons to headline BST Hyde Park 2026

January 14, 2026November 28, 2025 by Anna Hyams

American Express presents BST Hyde Park is delighted to welcome Mumford & Sons back to the Great Oak Stage on Saturday 4 July 2026 – ten years since their last legendary appearance.

For a band born in West London’s grassroots music scene, this is more than a show. It’s a homecoming. They will be joined by special guest The War On Drugs, with more artists to be revealed. Tickets on sale Thursday 4 December at 10am.

Mumford & Sons have travelled the world since 2008, headlining festivals, topping charts, and collaborating with icons like Dylan, Springsteen and Neil Young. But London has always been the band’s anchor, and Hyde Park remains one of their most cherished stages.

Their upcoming album Prizefighter, arriving 13 February, was created with Aaron Dessner at Long Pond Studio and features Hozier, Gracie Abrams, Chris Stapleton and Gigi Perez. It follows RUSHMERE, their 2025 UK No. 1 album that powered a sold-out global arena tour.

Mumford & Sons say: “Hyde Park is woven into our story, it’s where so many memories were made. Coming back a decade later, with all this new music, feels incredibly special. London is and always will be the band’s home. We can’t wait.”

The 2026 set will celebrate every corner of the band’s catalogue from early favourites and modern classics to brand-new songs performed for the first time. Expect one of the biggest sing-alongs Hyde Park will see all summer.

AEG Presents CEO Jim King says: “Their last Hyde Park show was a milestone for BST. Having them return at this moment in their career is something we’re incredibly proud of.”

The War on Drugs have steadily emerged as one of this century’s great rock and roll synthesists, removing the gaps between the underground and the mainstream, between the obtuse and the anthemic, making records that wrestle a fractured past into a unified and engrossing present. Led by Adam Granduciel, The New Yorker called them “the best American ‘rock’ band of this decade” in support of their album, A Deeper Understanding, for which they won the 2018 Grammy for Best Rock Album and were nominated for a BRIT Award for International Group of the Year. 2020 saw the release of LIVE DRUGS, followed by 2024’s LIVE DRUGS AGAIN, featuring live interpretations of songs throughout their career, including off their 2014 breakthrough, Lost In The Dream. Co-produced by Granduciel and Shawn Everett, their fifth studio album, I Don’t Live Here Anymore, “chips away some of their hazier edges in favor of sharper melodies, broadening the borders of the meticulous yet joyously simple sound [Granduciel] has perfected” (Pitchfork, Best New Music). It landed on numerous 2021 best albums of the year lists and garnered a second GRAMMY Award nomination (Best Rock Song) and BRIT Award nomination. The band headlined Madison Square Garden in support of its release.

Previously announced 2026 BST Hyde Park headliners are country star Garth Brooks (Saturday 27 June), Pitbull on Friday 10 July, and Scottish singer-songwriter Lewis Capaldi (Saturday 11 July and Sunday 12 July), with many more stars to be announced. More information can be found on www.bst-hydepark.com.

Tickets:

Amex presale begins – Thursday 27 November – 10am GMT

Artist presale begins – Monday 1 December – 10am GMT

AXS presale begins – Wednesday 3 December – 10am GMT

General on sale – Thursday 4 December – 10am GMT

www.bst-hydepark.com | @bsthydepark

BLOODSTOCK REVEAL BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY, & MORE BANDS FOR 2026

October 13, 2025October 8, 2025 by Anna Hyams

With Halloween around the corner, BLOODSTOCK has some early treats to share, by way of some fiendishly good bands to announce! No tricks here. Hot on the heels of the recent reveal of special guests BODY COUNT, today BLOODSTOCK can tell you another 10 bands who’ll be treading the boards at Catton Park next summer, and if you’re quick, you might just manage to snap up the last of the standard weekend tickets before the box office goblin swoops in with the giant sold out stamp.

Striding onto the Ronnie James Dio main stage on Sunday, will be the mighty BLACK LABEL SOCIETY. Led by the inimitable, master storyteller Zakk Wylde, do they need any more introduction? Warm up your necks in advance headbangers, you’ll need it. Not ones to be intimidated by that hefty gut punch, Friday sees prime deathcore dealers FIT FOR AN AUTOPSY join the bill.

The Sophie Lancaster stage is no slouch either. Thursday welcomes back Birmingham’s previous Metal 2 The Masses winners, boisterous lads MANTIS DEFEATS JAGUAR. Friday confirms sanguine-soaked black metal squad BLOOD COUNTESS and party sludge noiseniks GURT, both poised to enter the realms of BLOODSTOCK lore.

Keeping the metal heavy on Saturday, bear witness to the bleak sounds of blackened death & grind alchemists OUTERGODS. If you thought Sunday was a good day for a rest after all that, you thought wrong, because abrasive doom/punk/blues fans NOISEPICKER, stoner doomsters ALUNAH, death/thrash beasts FLAYED DISCIPLE, and Norwich doom trio ACID THRONE are fully committed to ensuring you round up your best metal weekender ever in blistering style!

BLOODSTOCK ANNOUNCE BODY COUNT FOR 2026

October 13, 2025October 2, 2025 by Anna Hyams

It’s happening. After years of fans requesting it, BODY COUNT are finally set to tear up BLOODSTOCK in August 2026. The Grammy-winning crew led by Ice-T will make their long-overdue debut as special guests on the Ronnie James Dio main stage on the festival’s final day, Sunday 9th August, playing directly before headliner JUDAS PRIEST.

No strangers to controversy or crushing riffs, BODY COUNT have been a rallying cry for raw, unapologetic heavy music since the early ‘90s. Born from Ice-T and guitarist Ernie C’s vision to fuse street grit with blistering metal, the band has built a reputation for leveling every stage they set foot on. With a Grammy win for Best Metal Performance (for ‘Bum-Rush’ off their Carnivore album) under their belt, they’re louder, harder, and more relevant than ever.

Festival director Vicky Hungerford comments, “After 10 years of trying we FINALLY get Body Count to Bloodstock!!! This is going to be one of the most memorable shows the festival has ever seen and how timely it’s going to be a part of our 25th anniversary celebration!”

Tickets are flying fast – snap yours up now at the ticket store and be part of history at BLOODSTOCK’s silver anniversary! Wednesday early access is also available in some campsites for those who want to max out their BLOODSTOCK experience. Day tickets will go on sale at a later date.

BLOODSTOCK’s 25th anniversary is going to be truly unforgettable. With many more bands & additional on site entertainment still to be announced, this is the must-attend celebration of 2026!

BODY COUNT join an already heavy-hitting lineup including RJD headliners LAMB OF GOD, SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL, JUDAS PRIEST, and SAXON. Over on the Sophie Lancaster stage, the headliners are CRYPTOPSY (None So Vile 30-year anniversary set), WEDNESDAY 13, LEPROUS, and CARPENTER BRUT.

You’ll also be able to see SEPULTURA, MUNICIPAL WASTE, DEATH ANGEL, NORTHLANE, BLEED FROM WITHIN, VENDED, ORBIT CULTURE, THE SCRATCH, IMPERIAL AGE, LIFE OF AGONY, OF MICE & MEN, BIOHAZARD, 200 STAB WOUNDS, THE HELL, BLACK SPIDERS, SHINING, NEVERMORE, EVIL SCARECROW, HEAVYSAURUS, SKYND, PARTY CANNON, BATTLESNAKE, INHUMAN NATURE, KITTIE, CASTLE RAT, GRAPHIC NATURE, BOOTYARD BANDITS, EXCREMENTORY GRINDFUCKERS, HIDDEN INTENT, SELLSWORD, NECKBREAKKER, SEETHING AKIRA, HAMMER, STAMPIN GROUND, URNE, CELESTIAL SANCTUARY, VIKING SKULL, BOUND IN FEAR, IMPERIUM, FROGLORD, MUSHROOMHEAD, DREAM STATE, and TRIVAX. Many more bands are still to be announced!

For the most up to date festival information, visit the official website at bloodstock.uk.com.

BLOODSTOCK 2026 will take place at Catton Park, Derbyshire on 6th – 9th August, 2026.

BLOODSTOCK ANNOUNCES 27 MORE BANDS FOR 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

October 13, 2025September 16, 2025 by Anna Hyams

As plans for BLOODSTOCK’s 25th anniversary get underway, the festival has unveiled another 27 bands for 2026’s monumental event. With heavyweights, cult favourites, and rising stars joining the awesome bands already announced, this year’s line-up is shaping up to be one for the ages. And there are still plenty more names yet to come, with approximately 125 bands in total set to appear. Did you know? BLOODSTOCK is going to open the Ronnie James Dio main stage on Thursday now as well! Early bird, campervan, and VIP tickets are already sold out and weekend tickets are over 90% gone, so act quickly to get tickets if you don’t want to miss out!
And so to the bands…

THURSDAY – RONNIE JAMES DIO STAGE

Headlining the opening night on the Ronnie James Dio main stage are none other than British heavy metal legends SAXON. With over four decades of anthems and an iron-clad reputation for blistering live shows, SAXON’s triumphant return to BLOODSTOCK will kick off the weekend in classic style. Expect a masterclass in pure heavy metal power.

Also joining Thursday’s main stage are BLOODSTOCK favourites EVIL SCARECROW, who bring their eccentric, theatrical brand of tongue-in-cheek metal mayhem, and HEAVYSAURUS, the dinosaur-costumed heroes delivering family-friendly metal fun. Previously announced for the Sophie Lancaster stage, HEAVYSAURUS now stomp onto the RJD stage for maximum roar.

FRIDAY – RONNIE JAMES DIO STAGE

Prepare for the unnerving, true crime inspired, industrial sounds of SKYND, the outrageous brutal slamming, death metal riot of PARTY CANNON, and the serpentine heavy rock theatrics of BATTLESNAKE.

SATURDAY – RONNIE JAMES DIO STAGE

Warm up your necks, thrash-fuelled crossover aggression comes courtesy of London’s INHUMAN NATURE, flying the flag for the new generation of feral thrash.

SUNDAY – RONNIE JAMES DIO STAGE

Closing the weekend in ferocious style, BLOODSTOCK is thrilled to host the BLOODSTOCK debut of Canadian alt-metal pioneers KITTIE. Joining them are occult doom bringers CASTLE RAT – all hail the Rat Queen, boundary-smashing modern hardcore crew GRAPHIC NATURE, and Wild West metal rabble rousers BOOTYARD BANDITS (from Worcester no less).

FRIDAY – SOPHIE LANCASTER STAGE

Unleash the chaos with German grindcore absurdists EXCREMENTORY GRINDFUCKERS, Australian thrash squad HIDDEN INTENT, UK medieval power metallers SELLSWORD, Danish death metal beasts NECKBREAKKER, electro nu-core party-starters SEETHING AKIRA, and rising Scottish extreme metal outfit HAMMER.

SATURDAY – SOPHIE LANCASTER STAGE

Expect no compromises from UK hardcore institution STAMPIN GROUND, genre-bending heavy hitters URNE, death metal purists CELESTIAL SANCTUARY, swaggering stoner rock bruisers VIKING SKULL, down-tempo brutality from BOUND IN FEAR, technical groove maestros IMPERIUM, and amphibian doom oddballs FROGLORD.

SUNDAY – SOPHIE LANCASTER STAGE

Round off the weekend with the masked industrial spectacle of MUSHROOMHEAD, soaring alt-rockers DREAM STATE, and blackened extremists TRIVAX.

CHARITY FUNDS RAISED AT BLOODSTOCK 2025

BLOODSTOCK is also proud to share the incredible fundraising achievements from the 2025 event, supporting charity partners Metal For Good and The Sophie Lancaster Foundation. Guest & media donations raised a fantastic £11,698, with the always popular T-shirt Amnesty adding another £2,120, making a grand total of £13,818 – split equally to provide £6,909 for each charity. In addition, Shepherd Events, who run the BLOODSTOCK bars, made an extra contribution to The Sophie Lancaster Foundation by donating bar tips and running ‘spin to win’ competitions, plus Christopher Roberts and Taylan Rodgers, who worked tirelessly on the bars all weekend, generously donated their entire earnings. That pooled £1725 and Alan Shepherd then rounded it up to give The Sophie Lancaster Foundation an additional £2000.

Katy Baker, Co-Founder of Metal For Good, said:“We have been blown away by the generous support of the Bloodstock team and their wonderful festival goers. We raised a huge amount of money from our stand and through donations from the festival and the merch amnesty, all of which will support incredible community projects using music to change lives. The weekend itself was amazing, so many great bands, smiley faces and brilliant partners – including The Sophie Lancaster Foundation, who we are honoured to share the charity donations with. Thank you to everyone for putting on such an incredible event!”

BLOODSTOCK ANNOUNCES 25 BANDS FOR 25TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2026

October 13, 2025August 9, 2025 by Anna Hyams

BLOODSTOCK is delighted to return to Catton Park in August 2026 to celebrate its 25th anniversary – will you be there to celebrate this momentous occasion with everyone?

With 2025’s event fully underway with headliners TRIVIUM, MACHINE HEAD, and GOJIRA melting faces this weekend (alongside 120+ more bands), BLOODSTOCK cordially invites you to get excited for 2026 too, by revealing the first 25 bands set to make 2026 the festival’s best year yet.

You can snap up tickets immediately at the on site box office at an early bird price, saving yourself the booking fee. More info on all ticket types and on sale dates is further below.

BLOODSTOCK is overjoyed to welcome back titans of groove metal, the unmistakable LAMB OF GOD as Friday’s headliner on the Ronnie James Dio stage. Frontman D. Randall Blythe states, “We are thrilled to return to headline Bloodstock in 2026! The UK is one of our favourite countries in the world to play and Bloodstock is one of our favourite festivals. And to Bloodstock security… I will make sure I have my pass on me at all times. See you next August!”

BLOODSTOCK is always keen to give fresh faces the opportunity to show what they’re made of and step it up to headliner status. Without further ado, Saturday’s RJD headliner will be none other than the crushing SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL. That gives you a year to get up to speed with their just released, new album ‘Grizzly.’ Beware of bears on site from tomorrow…

BLOODSTOCK WELCOMES HEAVY METAL TRUANTS

After thirteen annual cycle rides from London to Download Festival, the Heavy Metal Truants are thrilled to announce that next year will see them charting a new path to glory — destination: BLOODSTOCK OPEN AIR.
Co-founded in 2013 by then Metal Hammer Editor In Chief Alexander Milas and Iron Maidenmanager Rod Smallwood, the Heavy Metal Truants have so far raised over £1.5 million for four children’s charities: Teenage Cancer Trust, Nordoff & Robbins Music Therapy, Childline, and Save the Children. Since its beginning, this unique initiative has been spearheaded by a three day, 30-person, 175-mile cycle from London to the gates of a major metal festival, and next year that destination is BLOODSTOCK.

“Heavy Metal Truants is more than a cause – it’s a family, and our success and longevity is testament to the power of this metal community which we are so proud to be a part of,” said Milas. “The help and generosity we’ve had from our friends at Download Festival has been nothing less than legendary, but after 13 years, the timing felt right to carry the torch to new, hallowed ground. The response from Bloodstock when we floated the idea was nothing short of phenomenal.”

Adam Gregory, Director of Bloodstock, adds, “Bloodstock is honoured to have been chosen to have the baton passed to us from Download. As we join together with the Heavy Metal Truants on the next part of their incredible journey, I’m confident our fans will continue supporting such a monumental effort from HMT and everyone involved for some truly amazing causes.” The 2026 ride will invite cyclists of all backgrounds and abilities to take up the gruelling challenge of cycling 175 miles with a single goal: raising vital funds for kids in need. As in previous years, the Heavy Metal Truants will also include a series of virtual challenges so walkers, runners, and cyclists from all over the world can also support and take part.

JOIN THE RIDE! You’ll be in good company! See some of the previous pedal-to-the-metal family below!
Sign-ups for HMTXIV are open NOW.

For updates and registration: www.heavymetaltruants.com Follow on social: @hmtruants

Retrospective & Reminisce Festivals – September 2025

June 27, 2025 by Anna Hyams

Get ready for an unforgettable retro extravaganza making it’s debut featuring iconic artists, music, and tribute acts spanning decades of hits—from the ’70s to the noughties—across three incredible stages! Featuring performances by Belinda Carlisle, Go West, Roachford, Katrina (Katrina & The Waves), Tiffany, and a DJ set from Martin Kemp!

Reminisce Classical! A live orchestral journey through the biggest anthems that defined a generation of clubbers will also be making their debut. This breath-taking experience will bring the dancefloor classics you love to life like never before for a night of pure nostalgia and unbeatable vibes..

Retrospective Festival is bought to you by In Demand – The creators of the hugely successful 90’s Pop and Dance Festival Reminisce. Without a single act announced, yet on this year’s bill Reminisce, has already sold out it’s 25,000 tickets – such is the love for this fantastic annual 12- hour party in Sherdley Park. Not only has the festival grown year on year to a now full capacity arena with 8 banging stages, but it sells out as soon as Early Bird Tickets Go On Sale! This year Reminisce will be held on Saturday 6^th September and for sure will present all the usual sunshine, smiles and a stellar line up of the best acts the 90’s club scene enjoyed. Expect all the festival favourites and always a surprise or two at the top of the bill.

If you haven’t bagged your ticket to Reminisce yet, tickets to their brand-new festival Retrospective are now on sale. The same great production and a line up bursting at the steams with stars from our great musical heritage.

For tickets and full info, visit RetrospectiveFestival.com & https://reminiscefestival.com/