The British Country Music Festival – Blackpool, England 2026
Overview
The British Country Music Festival 2026 is the UK’s premier indoor celebration of contemporary country and Americana music, taking place over a vibrant three-day weekend in the iconic seaside town of Blackpool. Curated to showcase the best UK and international singer-songwriters, the event transforms the historic Winter Gardens complex into a haven for music discovery, blending heartfelt storytelling, twangy guitars, and foot-stomping rhythms across four intimate stages, including the candlelit Empress Ballroom.
This seventh edition builds on a decade of growth in British country music, offering not just electrifying performances but also artist meet-and-greets, exclusive playlists, and a deep dive into the genre’s rich history from its 1930s origins to modern innovations. With a focus on emerging talents alongside Grammy-nominated headliners, it’s a weather-proof escape that draws a loyal, appreciative crowd of music lovers eager to connect over shared stories and soulful sounds.
Event Highlights
- Main activities or performances: Live sets from a curated lineup of UK and international artists across four stages, featuring acoustic songwriter carousels, high-energy band showcases, and headline acts like Beth Nielsen Chapman or Sam Palladio; includes dance floors, Spotify-curated playlists, and special events like music on the Blackpool Tower.
- Special traditions or features: Annual emphasis on grassroots discovery with intimate venues fostering artist-audience connections; traditions include the Songwriters Carousel hosted by talents like Laura Oakes, and partnerships with Chris Country Radio for chart highlights and emerging artist spotlights.
- Unique attractions for visitors: Exclusive VIP receptions with surprise guests, tram rides with live music for early arrivals, and educational content on UK country music history; family-friendly junior tickets and a supportive atmosphere for all ages, with options for under-18s.
About This Event
- Indoor festival dedicated to contemporary country, Americana, folk, roots, and sub-genres.
- Organized by Fit The Bill in partnership with Winter Gardens Blackpool and promoters like The Blackpool Entertainment Company.
- Held annually in Blackpool, England, a coastal hub with historic entertainment venues.
- Features four stages, artist meet-and-greets, dance areas, and souvenir programs.
- Supports the UK country scene through associations like the Association of Independent Festivals and initiatives like Keychange for gender balance.
- Attracts 1,000+ attendees for a mix of established acts and rising stars in an intimate setting.
Why Attend
The British Country Music Festival 2026 is a must for anyone who believes country music’s storytelling magic transcends borders, offering an intimate gateway to the UK’s burgeoning scene right in the heart of Blackpool’s lively seaside vibe. Imagine swaying to unreleased tracks from Kezia Gill or catching a surprise set from Nashville icons—all indoors, rain or shine—while forging connections with fellow fans and artists in a community that truly appreciates the craft.
Beyond the music, it’s a celebration of resilience and innovation in British Americana, with exclusive experiences like VIP balcony views and historical deep-dives that enrich your love for the genre. Whether you’re a die-hard twang enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this festival delivers unforgettable moments, from foot-stomping dances to heartfelt sing-alongs, leaving you inspired and humming new favorites long after the encore.
Date & Duration
- Dates: September 4 – September 6, 2026.
- Duration: 3 days.
Venue / Location
- City: Blackpool, England.
- Main Venue: Winter Gardens Blackpool, with four stages including the Empress Ballroom.
- Notable Areas: Candlelit Empress Ballroom for main stage headliners, additional stages for acoustic sessions and dance floors, reception areas for VIP perks, and nearby tram routes for music-filled arrivals.
- Google Maps Address: Church Street, Blackpool, FY1 1HU.
Ticket Information
- How tickets are sold: Online via the official website or partners like Ticketmaster; early bird and loyalty tickets are available now, with prices increasing closer to the event; no on-site sales mentioned.
- Admission: Paid, with weekend passes required for full access; junior and under-18 options available.
- Ticket Price Range: $155–$194 USD (general admission weekend tickets; VIP upgrades extra).
- Special Seating/VIP Options: VIP packages include priority entry, exclusive balcony viewing, welcome drinks, special receptions with surprise guests, VIP bar access, and souvenir lanyards; limited availability, sells out annually.
Booking with Euro Travelo
Planning to enjoy this music festival without the stress? Euro Travelo can help you book tickets, organize travel, and handle your entire trip from start to finish. Whether it’s a vibrant music festival, live concert, or cultural celebration, our team ensures a smooth experience for music lovers across Europe.
Contact Euro Travelo today to secure your festival tickets and travel arrangements.
Contact Information
- Email: martin@britishcountrymusicfestival.com (general inquiries).
- Phone: +44 20 3291 2808.
- Website: britishcountrymusicfestival.com.
- Social Media: @TBCMF (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X) for lineup announcements and updates.
- Key Staff: Martin (primary contact); promoters include Fit The Bill team and Winter Gardens staff.
- Press/Volunteers: Press via email; volunteer opportunities TBD, contact for expressions of interest.
- Note: Response time ~24–48 hours; English support available.
Getting There
- Nearest Airports: Manchester Airport (MAN, ~60 miles, 1-hour drive or train via Preston); Liverpool John Lennon (LPL, ~50 miles, 1.5-hour drive).
- Public Transport: Train to Blackpool North Station (10-minute walk to venue); buses from major cities like Manchester (1.5 hours); National Rail frequent services.
- Parking: On-site limited; nearby multi-story car parks like Talbot Gateway; taxi rank on Church Street for drop-offs.
- Access: From M55 Junction 4, follow A583 to central Blackpool; postcode FY1 1HL for sat-nav; walking distance from promenade and beach.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury Hotels: The Imperial Hotel Blackpool (~0.5 miles, seafront Victorian elegance with spa); Number One St Anne’s (~5 miles, boutique luxury in nearby St Anne’s).
- Mid-Range Hotels: The Big Blue Hotel (~0.3 miles, family-friendly with pool and beach views); Norbreck Castle (~3 miles, large resort-style with entertainment).
- Budget Options: The Lynwood Hotel (~0.2 miles, affordable B&B near Winter Gardens); Travelodge Blackpool South Shore (~1 mile, basic rooms with easy access).
- Other Options: Airbnbs in central Blackpool for apartment stays (~£80–£150/night); holiday parks like Blackpool Holiday Park for glamping vibes.
- Booking Tip: Reserve 3–6 months ahead for September weekend; bundle with tickets via Euro Travelo for seaside packages.
Reviews
- What a gem of a festival—intimate stages packed with raw talent and that classic country twang!
- Loved the Empress Ballroom vibe; discovered so many new UK artists over three magical days.
- VIP perks made it extra special—worth it for the artist chats and balcony views!
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What is the British Country Music Festival, and what genres does it cover?
It's the UK's leading indoor country and Americana event, held in Blackpool's Winter Gardens with four stages showcasing singer-songwriters from the UK and beyond. Expect contemporary country, folk, roots, blues, and indie-folk, from heartfelt ballads to upbeat anthems. The 2026 lineup is building, with past headliners like Beth Nielsen Chapman and Sam Palladio. It's all about music discovery in an intimate, weather-proof setting. Junior tickets make it family-friendly. Check britishcountrymusicfestival.com for playlists and history articles.
How do I buy tickets, and what do weekend passes include?
Tickets are available online via britishcountrymusicfestival.com or Ticketmaster, starting with early bird at $155 USD; prices rise to $194 USD closer to September. Weekend passes grant access to all stages, dance floors, meet-and-greets, and a souvenir program with wristband for re-entry. VIP adds balcony seating and receptions (~$250+ USD). Under-18s need adult supervision. No refunds, but loyalty discounts for returnees. Buy early as they sell out; email martin@britishcountrymusicfestival.com for queries.
What accessibility features are available at the venues?
Winter Gardens offers step-free access, accessible toilets, and viewing platforms in the Empress Ballroom; priority seating for those with needs—request via ticket purchase. Assistance dogs welcome; contact venue ahead for BSL interpreters or quiet zones. The indoor setup ensures comfort for mobility aids. Blue Badge parking nearby. Full details in FAQs on britishcountrymusicfestival.com. Email for personalized arrangements to ensure an inclusive experience.
How can I get to Blackpool and the Winter Gardens easily?
Fly into Manchester Airport, then train to Blackpool North (1 hour, 10-minute walk to venue). From London, direct trains (~3 hours). Driving: M55 to A583, postcode FY1 1HU. Taxis from station rank on Church Street; buses from Preston or Manchester. Festival encourages public transport to avoid parking hassles. Check National Rail for schedules; venue drop-offs available. For groups, consider coach services from major cities.
Are there options for families or first-timers at the festival?
Yes, junior/under-18 tickets (~$100 USD) allow kids with adults; the event's intimate vibe suits all ages with non-alcoholic zones and early evening sets. First-timers get a pocket program guide and artist intros. Explore Blackpool's promenade pre-festival for beach fun. VIP eases navigation with priority desks. No camping, but nearby hotels abound. See britishcountrymusicfestival.com for tips; it's welcoming for newcomers to country music.
