Folk by the Oak – Hatfield, England 2026
Overview
Folk by the Oak is an enchanting one-day family-friendly festival celebrating the finest in folk, roots, blues, Americana, and acoustic music, set in the historic leafy parkland of Hatfield Park, Hertfordshire, just 21 miles north of London. Since its debut in 2008, it has grown into a cherished annual event—marking its 18th edition in 2025 and 19th in 2026—drawing crowds for its curated lineup of award-winning artists and emerging talents across intimate stages like the tented Acorn Stage and the open-air Main Stage. Hosted in the picturesque Queen Elizabeth Oak Field, surrounded by ancient trees and rolling landscapes tied to Queen Elizabeth I’s childhood home at Hatfield House, the festival blends uplifting performances with a relaxed village fete atmosphere, complete with bunting, laughter, and a sense of timeless escape.
Beyond the music, Folk by the Oak thrives on community and creativity, featuring hand-picked street food vendors, craft stalls, real ales, and cocktails, alongside a dedicated family area with workshops, storytelling, circus skills, yoga, and puppetry for all ages. It’s a not-for-profit passion project by JSL Productions, proudly supporting the local Willow charity—raising over £140,250 to date for special days out for seriously ill young adults—while showcasing innovative projects like Spell Songs, inspired by Robert Macfarlane’s works. With Jim Moray as its esteemed patron, the festival fosters a welcoming vibe where picnics are encouraged, and the historic setting enhances the magic, making it an ideal summer Sunday for music lovers seeking connection and joy.
Event Highlights
- Main attractions, activities, or performances: A stellar lineup of folk icons and fresh talents on the Main Stage (e.g., past headliners like Bear’s Den, Kate Rusby, Fisherman’s Friends) and Acorn Stage, with non-stop sets from 1pm to 10:30pm; complemented by The Grove in the family area for kid-friendly sessions like the Willow Session with Eirra.
- Special traditions or features: Annual support for Willow charity through ticket contributions and donations; Jim Moray hosting proceedings with his pioneering folk ethos; wall-to-wall music since adding the Acorn Stage in 2012, blending exceptional artists in a compact day for maximum impact.
- Unique attractions for visitors: Immersive family fun including creative workshops, dancing, storytelling, circus skills, archery, and a dedicated Family Nest Fest area; makers’ markets with craftspeople; festival feasting from diverse street food stalls; and the chance to picnic under ancient oaks in a historic parkland amphitheater.
About This Event
- Founded in 2008 by JSL Productions as a dream to unite admired folk musicians, now in its 19th year for 2026, evolving from a simple gathering to a thriving showcase of high-caliber folk music.
- Held in the stunning Queen Elizabeth Oak Field at Hatfield Park, a rolling landscape of ancient trees and deer park, evoking Elizabethan history and providing a natural amphitheater for stages.
- One-day format for convenience, especially families, with no camping but ample day-long activities from noon to evening, ensuring a relaxed mix of village fete charm and full festival energy.
- Patron Jim Moray (jimmoray.co.uk) embodies the festival’s innovative spirit, hosting and curating with a focus on fresh takes on traditional folk.
- Supports Willow charity (willowfoundation.org.uk) long-term, funding vital experiences for seriously ill young adults through proceeds and crowd generosity.
- Features groundbreaking projects like Spell Songs (collaborative music from The Lost Words books, blending global influences with artists like Karine Polwart and Seckou Keita), Elizabethan Session, Sweet Liberties, and Shake the Chains—adding unique Main Stage performances.
Why Attend
Folk by the Oak stands out as a gem for folk enthusiasts craving an intimate yet vibrant day of world-class music without the multi-day commitment, where you can savor every set from rising stars on the Acorn Stage to headliners like past favorites Bear’s Den under the summer sun. The historic Hatfield Park setting—complete with ancient oaks and picnic spots—creates a magical, far-from-London escape, blending tunes with family adventures like puppetry and yoga that keep everyone engaged, all while supporting a worthy charity that adds heart to the festivities.
It’s more than a gig; it’s a joyful community ritual fostering creativity and connection, from craft stalls to real ale toasts, in a safe, inclusive space praised for its excellent organization and uplifting vibe. Whether you’re a die-hard roots fan or introducing kids to acoustic wonders, this festival leaves you refreshed, inspired, and eager for more—perfect for building summer memories amid Hertfordshire’s green embrace.
Date & Duration
- Dates: July 19, 2026
- Duration: 1 day
Venue / Location
- Main venue: Hatfield Park (Queen Elizabeth Oak Field), hosting Main Stage, Acorn Stage, The Grove family area, craft stalls, food vendors, and workshops—all in one open grassy arena.
- Notable areas: Historic parkland with ancient oaks, deer park views, and easy access paths; no additional venues, everything centralized for a compact, walkable experience.
- Google Maps address: Hatfield Park, Great North Road, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 5NQ, UK
Ticket Information
- Tickets sold online via the official website (folkbytheoak.com/tickets-shop) with e-ticket delivery; physical tickets available on-site; early bird options encouraged.
- Admission is paid; children 5-15 at reduced rate, under-5s free; family tickets available for bundles.
- Ticket pricing in USD: Adult tickets range from a minimum of $75 (early bird) to a maximum of $85 (standard); child (5-15) from $30 to $35.
- Special options: Free Personal Assistant (PA) tickets for disabled attendees (apply via website with proof); accessible viewing platforms and reserved spaces; no formal VIP but priority entry for accessibility needs.
- All tickets non-refundable except for event cancellation; digital display on phone/tablet accepted, no printing required; under-16s must be accompanied by an adult.
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Contact Information
- Email: info@folkbytheoak.com (general inquiries); specific departments for artist submissions, trade stalls, catering, media via contact form on website.
- Phone: +44 (0)1432 355416 (English available; select department or general enquiries).
- Website: https://www.folkbytheoak.com
- Social Media: @folkbytheoak (Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky).
- Key Staff: Jim Moray (Patron); JSL Productions team—contact via info@folkbytheoak.com for coordinators.
- Press/Volunteers: Media enquiries via contact form (press@ not specified, use general); volunteer opportunities TBD, email info@folkbytheoak.com.
- Note: Response time ~24–48 hours; English support primary; reCAPTCHA protected forms.
Getting There
- Airports: London Luton Airport (LTN, ~15 miles/24 km north, 20-30 minute drive/taxi); London Heathrow (LHR, ~25 miles/40 km southwest, 45-minute drive); London Gatwick (LGW, ~50 miles/80 km south, 1-1.5 hour drive/train via London).
- Public transport: Trains from London King’s Cross, Moorgate, St Pancras (Great Northern/Thameslink lines, 20-30 minutes to Hatfield Station, AL9 5AB—5-minute walk to pedestrian entrance opposite station); buses from St Albans (301/302), Welwyn Garden City, Stevenage (Uno routes to Hatfield center, then short walk).
- Parking: Ample free on-site parking at Hatfield Park (signposted from A1(M) J4 and A414); arrive early for festival day; disabled parking near entrance with shuttle if needed.
- Other access: Taxis/drop-offs via dedicated route on Old Hertford Road (AL9 5BD, near Red Lion Pub—signposted; short hilly grass path to entrance, shuttle available for mobility needs); cycling at own risk (no designated lane, secure bikes on-site); walking from Hatfield Station via brown signs.
- Road access: A1(M) J4 (2 miles east), then A414/A1000 following brown tourist signs; M25 J23 (7 miles south); expect summer traffic, satnav to AL9 5NQ.
Accommodation Options
- On-site camping: Not available (one-day event); focus on day visits with picnic setups encouraged.
- Hotels/guest houses: Premier Inn Hatfield (budget-friendly, free parking/WiFi, ~1 mile away, from $80 USD/night); West Lodge Park (luxury Art Deco, gardens/pool, 2 miles, from $150 USD); The White Horse Hertingfordbury (pub-style with restaurant, 4 miles, from $100 USD)—many offer festival deals, free cancellation.
- Holiday cottages: Self-catering options in Hertfordshire countryside via Booking.com (e.g., Zarza House with garden/parking, 1-3 miles, from $120 USD/night for families); Georgian homes near St Albans (6 miles) for groups.
- Glamping: Nearby sites like those in Welwyn Garden City (5 miles) or Exmoor-inspired pods via local providers (~$130-180 USD); no on-site but easy drive.
- Other: B&Bs like The Mills Guesthouse (patio/garden, free parking, $90 USD); Airbnb apartments in Hatfield (modern, shared lounge, $70-110 USD/night); youth hostels in St Albans (bus access, budget from $50 USD).
Reviews
- What a magical day under the oaks—flawless lineup, family workshops kept the kids buzzing, and that picnic vibe with Bear’s Den closing was pure bliss.
- Absolutely uplifting from start to finish; intimate stages, delicious street food, and the historic park made it feel like a secret folk haven—can’t wait to return.
- Family favorite hands down: creative fun for little ones, top-notch acts like Kate Rusby, and such a relaxed, inclusive crowd in that stunning setting.
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FAQ's
Is the festival suitable for children?
Folk by the Oak is wonderfully family-friendly, designed with kids in mind from the ground up, featuring a dedicated Family Nest Fest area packed with engaging activities like storytelling, circus skills, puppetry, face-painting, archery, and fairy folk encounters that spark imagination all afternoon. The lineup includes youth ensembles like the London Youth Folk Ensemble on the Acorn Stage, ensuring mellow, accessible music that won't overwhelm young ears, while the open parkland offers space for picnics and play under ancient oaks. Parents appreciate the relaxed one-day format—no overnight hassles—and the safe, inclusive vibe with clear signage, accessible paths, and no-alcohol zones in family spots. We've hosted generations over 18 years, with many families returning annually; under-5s enter free, and child tickets make it affordable. It's not just tolerable for tots—it's a joyful adventure that turns kids into lifelong folk fans, blending education, creativity, and live tunes in a historic setting that feels like a storybook come alive.
What facilities are available for disabled festival-goers?
Accessibility is a priority at Folk by the Oak, with dedicated Personal Assistant (PA) tickets free for qualifying attendees (apply via website with proof), plus reserved viewing platforms near both stages for unobstructed sightlines without crowds. The site features a tarmac access road alongside the grassy arena for wheelchair-friendly navigation, raised platforms, and a welfare tent with quiet spaces, seating, and support staff trained in inclusive assistance. Toilets include accessible RADAR-locked units with space for carers, and medical services are on-site with first aid, paramedics, and evacuation plans; assistance dogs are welcome (water stations provided), but note occasional pyrotechnics in performances—announced in advance. Queuing is minimized with priority entry lanes, and a shuttle from disabled parking/drop-off (hilly path otherwise) ensures ease; taxis can use the dedicated route. The small-scale, one-day setup keeps things navigable, and feedback highlights the thoughtful touches that let everyone savor the music and parkland magic without barriers—contact access@folkbytheoak.com for personalized setups.
Can I bring food and drink, and are there any refreshments provided on site?
Yes, picnics are heartily encouraged at Folk by the Oak—pack your blankets, coolers, and favorite treats (no glass or cans for safety) to spread out under the oaks for a proper fete-style feast amid the tunes. The festival's BYO policy keeps things flexible and affordable, letting families customize with homemade goodies while enjoying the historic ambiance. On-site, our hand-picked street food vendors offer a tantalizing array of global and local delights like gourmet pies, vegan bites, wood-fired pizzas, and sweet stalls (~$5-12 USD per item), plus a real ale and cocktail bar with ciders, wines, and non-alcoholic options for responsible sipping. Festival feasting hubs are scattered near stages for convenience, with three free water refill points to keep reusable bottles topped up—eco-friendly and essential for a sunny day. No BBQs or stoves allowed (safety in parkland), but the combo of personal picnics and vendor variety ensures something for every palate, enhancing the communal, laid-back vibe that makes this festival a summer standout.
What time does the festival start and when does the car park open?
Gates open at 12 noon sharp for Folk by the Oak, giving ample time to settle in, explore the craft stalls, and grab a spot for the first sets kicking off around 1pm on the Main and Acorn Stages—perfect for easing into the day with a picnic or family workshop. The car park opens simultaneously at noon (free and ample, signposted from A1(M)), so arrive by 11:30am to beat peak traffic and snag prime parking; disabled spots are nearest the entrance with shuttle access if needed. Performances run wall-to-wall until the grand finale around 10pm (gates close 10:30pm), with approximate set times posted on the website closer to the event for planning dances or shop breaks. The one-day rhythm keeps energy high without fatigue, wrapping early enough for easy evening travel home. Taxis and drop-offs start rolling in from 11am via the dedicated route, and trains from London arrive just in time—check National Rail for schedules. It's all about savoring every moment in the parkland glow, from opener harmonies to sunset encores.
Are dogs allowed on site?
Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted at Folk by the Oak except for registered assistance/guide dogs, to maintain a safe, family-oriented environment amid the lively crowds, workshops, and grassy spaces where little ones play freely. This policy protects the historic deer park ecosystem and prevents mishaps during dances or picnics, ensuring everyone—from toddlers chasing bubbles to elders on blankets—enjoys uninterrupted peace. Assistance dogs are warmly welcomed with dedicated water stations, shaded rest areas, and handler support via the welfare team; just notify us in advance for seamless entry. If you're traveling with a pet, nearby boarding options in Hatfield or St Albans are available (search local vets), or consider the festival's pet-free focus as a chance for a guilt-free girls'/guys' day out. Past attendees appreciate the thoughtful rule, noting how it amplifies the wholesome, inclusive vibe—leaving more room for human connections and folk-filled joy under the oaks.
