Wychwood Festival 2026: A Family-Friendly Music Weekend Near the Cotswolds

Each summer, just beyond the edge of the Cotswolds, Wychwood Festival brings together live music, family entertainment, and a relaxed festival atmosphere. Held at Cheltenham Racecourse, this much-loved event is a popular addition to the Cotswolds calendar and makes an ideal day out or weekend experience for visitors to the region.

Wychwood Festival 2026 – Friday 29th to Sunday 31st May 2026

The 20th anniversary edition of Wychwood Festival takes place from Friday 29th to Sunday 31st May 2026, with an additional opening night on Thursday for the first time in the festival’s history. Set beneath the Prestbury Hills, the festival marks the start of the summer season and attracts visitors from across the UK.

This year’s line-up features a wide mix of well-known artists and festival favourites. Highlights include Craig David presenting his TS5 show, alongside headline performances from Kaiser Chiefs on Saturday and Levellers closing the festival on Sunday evening. Other notable acts include Everything Everything and Maxïmo Park, as well as a varied line-up featuring Feeder, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Boney M, Newton Faulkner and more.

For 2026, festivalgoers can also enjoy a special Thursday opening night headlined by Dutty Moonshine Big Band, adding an extra evening of music to the weekend programme.

A Family-Friendly Festival Near the Cotswolds

Wychwood has built a strong reputation as one of the UK’s most family-friendly festivals, recently being named Family Festival of the Year at the UK Festival Awards 2025. Alongside the music, the festival offers a wide programme of activities including workshops, comedy, arts, and children’s entertainment.

The Village Green area is a key part of the experience, with plenty to keep younger visitors engaged throughout the weekend. With free entry for children under 10, Wychwood is a practical option for families looking to combine live music with a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.

Food, Drink and Staying Nearby

Visitors to Wychwood Festival are well placed to explore both Cheltenham and the surrounding Cotswolds. Cheltenham offers a wide range of restaurants, cafés, and pubs, while nearby villages provide more traditional countryside settings for a quieter stay.

For those planning a weekend visit, accommodation options include hotels, guesthouses, and holiday cottages both in Cheltenham and across the North Cotswolds. Staying in nearby locations such as Broadway, Winchcombe, or Stow-on-the-Wold allows visitors to combine the festival with time exploring the region.

Planning Your Visit

Cheltenham Racecourse is located just outside Cheltenham and is easily accessible by road, with parking available on-site. The festival site is also a short distance from the town centre.

With weekend camping tickets already selling quickly, it’s worth booking in advance if you’re planning to stay on-site. Day tickets are also available, making it possible to visit as part of a longer Cotswolds stay.

Whether you’re attending for the music, the family activities, or as part of a wider trip to the region, Wychwood Festival offers a lively and well-established start to the summer just moments from the Cotswolds.