Country music fans are counting down the days until the return of The Long Road Festival, one of the UK’s biggest and most beloved immersive country music events. Returning for its seventh edition over the August Bank Holiday weekend from 27–30 August 2026, the festival will once again transform the grounds of Stanford Hall in Leicestershire into a celebration of country, Americana and roots culture.
Taking place at the picturesque Stanford Hall estate, The Long Road has earned a reputation for delivering an authentic slice of Nashville in the heart of England, blending world-class live music with American-inspired food, family-friendly entertainment and a welcoming community atmosphere.
For tickets and festival information, visit the official website: https://www.thelongroad.com
Major Headliners Announced for 2026
This year’s line-up features an impressive mix of country legends, chart-topping stars and emerging talent from both sides of the Atlantic.
Leading the bill is multi-platinum country sensation Bailey Zimmerman, alongside 14-time Grammy Award winner Emmylou Harris, who will appear as part of her European farewell tour.
Joining them is country-pop superstar Maren Morris, making a highly anticipated UK-exclusive appearance, while legendary singer-songwriter Steve Earle will deliver a special solo acoustic performance.
Fans can also look forward to performances from The Shires, Josh Ross, Shakey Graves, Anne Wilson and dozens more across multiple stages.
Fresh Talent Added to the Festival Line-Up
The festival has announced a host of new additions for 2026, highlighting its ongoing commitment to showcasing rising artists from around the world.
New names joining the programme include Irish blues sensation Muireann Bradley, acclaimed British folk duo Ferris & Sylvester, Californian country artist Sheyna Gee and singer-songwriter Jordan O’Keefe.
Additional performers include Bec O’Malley, Gina Larner, William Matheny, Smithfield, Brennen Leigh, Bobby Dove, Sweet Thieves and Locks.
Homegrown Talent Contest Returns
Following a successful debut in 2025, The Long Road’s Homegrown Talent Contest is returning for a second year.
Designed to spotlight the next generation of country and Americana performers, the competition will once again be hosted by Janet Devlin at The Hitching Post stage.
Last year’s winner, Liam Price, will return to perform on the festival’s main stage after enjoying a breakthrough year following his victory.
Applications open on 2 July and close on 19 July, with finalists performing live before an industry judging panel featuring festival Creative Director Baylen Leonard, Radio 2 producer Mark Hagen, WME agent Hannah Spark and Lime Tree Music publicist Sara Pearce.
The winner will receive a performance slot at The Long Road 2027, a one-year CMA membership, a showcase opportunity with Snakefarm Records and a PR consultation from WMA.
More Than Music: New Activities for 2026
One of the biggest draws of The Long Road is its immersive festival experience, and organisers are expanding the programme even further this year.
New attractions include:
- Beginner, advanced and family line dancing sessions
- Additional late-night afterparties featuring Yee Haw and Country Club
- Open mic opportunities
- A brand-new late-night hootenanny
These additions join a packed schedule of returning favourites, including:
- Authentic American food vendors
- Craft beer bars
- Food challenges and competitions
- The Lucky Dice Car & Bike Show
- Vintage fairground rides
- Country bingo
- Cowboy Olympics
- Country crafts
- Traditional barn dances
- The ever-popular “Country-oke” karaoke experience
The result is a festival that offers far more than live music, creating a fully immersive country lifestyle experience for visitors of all ages.
Red Dog Saloon Brings Texas BBQ to Stanford Hall
Food lovers will also have plenty to look forward to, with renowned BBQ restaurant Red Dog Saloon bringing its signature Austin-style smokehouse experience directly to the festival site.
Guests will be able to enjoy sharing platters stacked with smoked meats, classic Southern sides and all-American brunch dishes infused with BBQ flavours.
Restaurant reservations can be booked in advance through the festival website.
Tickets and Camping Information
A range of ticket options are currently available, including:
- Friday, Saturday and Sunday day tickets
- Weekend tickets
- High Falootin’ VIP packages
- Family and group tickets
- Standard and premium camping
- Live-in vehicle pitches
- Pitch & Park options
- Luxury glamping packages
Tickets can be purchased through the festival’s official ticket portal at https://www.thelongroad.com/tickets.
Why The Long Road Festival Continues to Stand Out
While the UK festival calendar is packed with events, The Long Road has carved out a unique identity by combining the best of contemporary country music with genuine Americana culture.
With exclusive UK performances, legendary artists, family-friendly attractions and immersive experiences around every corner, the 2026 edition looks set to be one of the festival’s biggest and most memorable yet.
Learn More:
- Official Website: https://www.thelongroad.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLongRoadFest
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelongroadfest
- X: https://x.com/TheLongRoadFest
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thelongroadfest
