Wychwood Festival – Cheltenham, England 2026
Overview
Wychwood Festival is a cherished three-day family-friendly extravaganza of indie, folk, rock, and world music, set against the rolling Cotswold hills at Cheltenham Racecourse, blending electrifying live sets with comedy, literature, workshops, and kids’ activities in a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. Launched in 2005 by Tribe Festivals, it has grown into a 20,000-capacity staple of the UK summer scene, earning consecutive nominations for Best Family Festival at the UK Festival Awards for its unbeatable value, relaxed vibe, and diverse programming across four stages. Past editions have featured icons like The Stranglers, James, The Levellers, and The Proclaimers, drawing families for its “homely” charm as dubbed by The Independent.
For its milestone 20th edition in 2026, expect a triumphant return with Kaiser Chiefs announced as Saturday headliners, promising more surprises, anniversary specials like memory-sharing features, and enhanced family zones amid the racecourse’s idyllic grounds. It’s more than music—it’s a communal midsummer ritual fostering joy, creativity, and connection, with free entry for under-10s, silent discos, and a real ale festival, all accessible from Birmingham or London.
Event Highlights
- Main attractions: Eclectic lineups blending established acts like Kaiser Chiefs with emerging indie-folk talents across four stages, building on past draws like The Damned and Doctor and the Medics.
- Main activities or performances: Full-day sets from Friday openers to Sunday closers, plus comedy tents, over 100 workshops (crafts, dance, yoga), kids’ literature festival, and nightly headphone discos.
- Special traditions or features: Annual real ale and healing gardens, eco-friendly initiatives like reusable cups, and the “Artists’ Quarter” for live painting and poetry slams.
- Unique attractions for visitors: Explore the racecourse’s historic paddocks with family-friendly fringe events, foraging sessions in the Prestbury Hills, and pop-up markets showcasing local Cotswold crafts.
About This Event
- Historical roots: Founded in 2005 as a boutique folk-indie gathering, it evolved into a family cornerstone, drawing from Cheltenham’s cultural heritage to blend music with arts and community.
- Scale and impact: Attracts 20,000+ across three days, boosting Gloucestershire’s economy by £2M+ annually; supports local charities through on-site fundraisers and inclusive programming.
- Family focus: Under-10s free with adult, dedicated kids’ zones with supervised activities, and low-sensory areas; max 4 children per adult for safe, multigenerational fun.
- Environmental commitment: Zero single-use plastics, composting stations, and shuttle partnerships to reduce footprint; racecourse’s green spaces enhance sustainability.
- Community ties: Organized by Tribe Festivals in Witney, it collaborates with local breweries like Wychwood Ales and Visit Cheltenham for authentic regional flavors.
- Evolution over years: From 5,000 attendees to award-nominated gem, 2026’s 20th edition introduces memory archives and expanded literature tents amid growing acclaim.
- Safety and inclusivity: Challenge 25 bars, on-site welfare teams, and accessibility upgrades ensure a secure, welcoming haven for all.
Why Attend
Wychwood Festival 2026 offers a sun-kissed slice of Cotswold bliss, where indie anthems from Kaiser Chiefs mingle with laughter in comedy tents and wonder in kids’ workshops, crafting a weekend of pure, unfiltered joy. It’s the ultimate family reset—picnic under historic stands, discover new sounds on hidden stages, or unwind in healing gardens—all in a space that feels like a warm hug from old friends. The value shines: affordable tickets, free young entry, and endless activities mean no one sits idle, fostering bonds that ripple into everyday life.
This anniversary chapter elevates the magic with nostalgic nods and fresh twists, embodying the festival’s ethos of community over commerce. In a crowded scene, Wychwood stands as a heartfelt haven—emerge recharged, playlist fuller, and hearts lighter, ready to chase that midsummer high all year long.
Date & Duration
Dates: May 29 – May 31, 2026
Duration: 3 days
Venue / Location
Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Prestbury, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England (four stages across paddocks and lawns; additional areas include camping fields, kids’ village, comedy tent, real ale bar, and artists’ quarter overlooking the Cotswolds). Google Maps address: Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Rd, Prestbury, Cheltenham GL50 4SH, UK.
Ticket Information
- Tickets sold online via wychwoodfestival.com (Kaboodle-powered) and partners like Skiddle/Ents24; priority presale for mailing list, general sale October 17, 2025, 10am; camping included in weekend passes.
- Admission paid; under-10s free with adult ticket (max 4 per adult), 10-15s discounted.
- Ticket pricing in USD: Early bird weekend camping from $156 (min) to $260 (max standard); day tickets $65–$91; VIP from $195–$325.
- Special seating or VIP options: VIP enclosures with premium viewing, private bars, and fast-track entry ($39–$65 add-on); park & pitch camping next to car.
- Transferable via official resale; no refunds but payment plans available; group discounts for families.
- All include fees; e-tickets scanned at entry; ID for under-18s.
- Overall ticket price range: $65 (minimum day) – $325 (maximum VIP weekend).
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: info@wychwoodfestival.com (general inquiries); wychwood@kaboodle.co.uk (tickets); access@wychwoodfestival.com (accessibility); wychwood@zeitgeist.co.uk (press).
- Phone: Not specified; email primary.
- Website: https://wychwoodfestival.com (tickets, lineup, FAQs, apply to play).
- Social Media: @WychwoodFestival (Instagram/TikTok), WychwoodFestival (Facebook/Twitter).
- Key Staff: Tribe Festivals Ltd. team; sponsorship via partnerships@the-collab.co.uk.
- Press/Volunteers: Press as above; volunteer applications open late 2025 via mailing list.
- Note: Response time ~48 hours. English support; address: 46 Market Square, Witney, Oxfordshire OX28 6AL.
Getting There
- Nearest airports: Birmingham Airport (BHX, 50 miles/1-hr drive, taxis ~$91 USD); Bristol Airport (BRS, 60 miles/1.5-hr shuttle).
- Public transport – rail: Cheltenham Spa Station (Great Western Railway from London ~$52–$78 USD, 1.5 hrs); then taxis or No. 51 bus to racecourse (10 min, $3 USD).
- Public transport – bus/coach: National Express from London Victoria (2 hrs, $26–$39 USD) to Cheltenham; festival shuttles from spa town.
- By car: M5 Junction 10 to A4019; on-site parking $13–$26 USD (pre-book); accessible parking via application.
- Drop-off/pick-up: Entrance zones; taxis via minicabit app (~$13 USD from town).
- Taxis and rideshares: Uber/local firms like Blue Circle Taxis; pre-book for surges.
- Eco options: Carpool incentives; cycle paths from Cheltenham Spa (2 miles).
Accommodation Options
- On-site camping: Weekend pitches included ($0 add-on); facilities with showers, toilets, and security; park & pitch for car-adjacent tents.
- Family camping: Dedicated quiet zones with kid perks; bring own gear.
- Glamping upgrades: Yurts and pods $130–$195 USD (beds, electrics); book via site.
- Hotels nearby: Premier Inn Cheltenham ($78–$117/night, 2 miles); Malmaison Cheltenham ($156–$234/night, luxury).
- B&Bs and guesthouses: Cotswold spots like Ellenborough House ($104–$156/night, breakfast).
- Budget stays: Hostels in Cheltenham town $52–$91/night; Airbnbs for groups.
- Tips: VisitCheltenham.com packages include transport; book early for May peak.
Reviews
- Quintessential family joy—Kaiser Chiefs ignited the hills, workshops endless fun, camping bliss under stars.
- Homely haven: comedy gold, kids’ lit fest magical, value unbeatable though queues for ales.
- 20th edition sparkle—folk vibes soared, racecourse views epic, inclusive spirit shone through.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
How do I get tickets and what's the priority process?
Tickets for Wychwood 2026 launch with priority presale for mailing list sign-ups on October 13, 2025, at 10am, followed by general sale on October 17, 2025, at 10am via wychwoodfestival.com or partners like Skiddle—early birds start at $156 USD for weekend camping, rising to $260 as tiers sell out, with day options $65–$91 and VIP $195–$325. Sign up on the site for exclusive access; payment plans split costs monthly. Under-10s free (with adult, max 4), 10-15s discounted. No gate sales post-sell-out; resale via official channels only. E-tickets scanned at entry—print backups. This phased drop rewards loyal fans, ensuring the 20th edition's intimate vibe.
Is Wychwood suitable for families and what activities for kids?
Yes, it's the UK's premier family festival—under-10s enter free with a ticketed adult (max 4 per), and the kids' literature festival features storytelling, crafts, and puppet shows, while over 100 workshops cover dance, yoga, and eco-art for all ages. Low-sensory zones and supervised areas keep it safe; programming mixes mellow folk afternoons for tots with evening indie for parents, plus headphone discos for quiet fun. Silent discos and healing gardens add chill; no re-entry but picnic allowances for all-day ease. Thousands of families attend yearly, praising the "homely" setup—perfect intro to festivals, with earplugs provided.
What accessibility features are available?
Wychwood prioritizes inclusion: apply via the Access Request Form by May 1, 2026, for free PA tickets (1:1 companion with proof like PIP/DLA letter), accessible camping (flat pitches near facilities), and parking—email access@wychwoodfestival.com for queries. Site mixes paved roads and grass (wheelchair/buggy-friendly), with ramps to stages, viewing platforms (first-come), and accessible toilets/showers (radar-key). Distances short (entrance to main stage 200m); mobility scooters rentable ($26/day). BSL interpreters at key sets, quiet rooms for overwhelm, and on-site medics 24/7. Assistance dogs welcome; feedback drives improvements—it's designed for all in the racecourse's gentle terrain.
How do I get to Cheltenham Racecourse?
Fly into Birmingham Airport (BHX, 50 miles/1-hr drive, $91 USD taxi) or Bristol (BRS, 60 miles/1.5-hr shuttle), then train to Cheltenham Spa Station (from London $52–$78 USD, 1.5 hrs via GWR); from there, No. 51 bus ($3 USD, 10 min) or taxi ($13 USD) to the racecourse. Coaches from London Victoria via National Express (2 hrs, $26–$39 USD) drop nearby; festival shuttles from town center. Drive M5 J10 to A4019 (parking $13–$26 USD, pre-book); eco-tip: carpool via app. Drop-offs at gates; minicabit for pre-booked rides. Maps on site; arrive early Fridays for camping setup.
What camping options and facilities are there?
Camping's idyllic under Prestbury Hills: weekend passes include standard pitches (bring own tent), with park & pitch for car-side setup; family zones quiet and close to kids' areas. Facilities: hot showers (tokens $6.50, 8am-10pm), flushing toilets, water points, and communal cooking (BBQs on stands only). Glamping yurts $130–$195 USD with beds/electrics; no wild camping—gated for safety. Eco-rules: no glass, recycling mandatory. Arrive Thu pm for setup, depart Mon; security patrols nights. Pro: racecourse views; con: grass can muddy—pack wellies. It's family-focused, with lost kids' wristbands and phone charging.
