A New Day Festival
| 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Days | Hours | Mins | Secs |
Join us for A New Day Festival 2026 – a joyful three-day celebration of music, nature and community. Nestled among the fragrant rose gardens and orchards of the historic Mount Ephraim Gardens in Hernhill, Kent, this weekend festival promises an unforgettable experience. From Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd August 2026, music lovers will gather to enjoy live bands, local food & drink, and a warm, friendly vibe in the heart of the Kent countryside.
Set in ten acres of Edwardian gardens with a peaceful lake, topiary animals and grassy lawns, the festival site offers a beautiful backdrop for the music. Imagine live bands performing under summer skies as you relax by a lily pond or dance beneath the canopy of trees. A special highlight is the twin-stage schedule: one stage plays while the other is being prepared, so there is always music and no scheduling conflicts. This continuous festival flow keeps energy high and lets you wander easily from one act to the next without missing a beat.
A New Day’s lineup is all about great songs and good times. Each year we mix classic rock, progressive rock, blues, folk and even world music flavors. You might dance to anthemic 70s rock, sway with soulful folk and blues, then join in a drum circle or follow exotic Bollywood-style grooves - all in the same afternoon. Past festivals have featured legends like Focus, Hawkwind and Curved Air along with up-and-coming favorites, so every performance is a fresh delight. The atmosphere is inclusive and easygoing, just like a big family get-together where fans of all ages celebrate music together.
Beyond the music, there’s plenty to enjoy. Fill your belly at one of the many food stalls offering local and international treats - think gourmet burgers, spicy curries, wood-fired pizzas and freshly baked pastries. Raise a glass from the well-stocked bar serving Kent craft ales, ciders and refreshing drinks. Browse craft and vinyl stalls or pick up a handmade gift from local artisans. We also have a dedicated family-friendly zone where kids can play games, do arts and crafts, and burn off energy in a safe, fun environment. Parents often relax nearby knowing little ones are loved by the whole crowd in true festival spirit.
Campsites open on Thursday evening for those eager to start the fun. Pitch a tent in the open fields, park your campervan, or treat yourself to a cozy pre-erected bell tent under the stars. All camping options include access to showers, toilets and free parking, so it's easy to stay comfortable. Wake up to birdsong, grab a coffee on the lawn, and step straight into another day of great music and sunshine. After all, there’s nothing like waking up at a festival!
Whether you're a rock veteran or just looking for a fun summer getaway, A New Day delivers something special. The combination of high-quality live music, enchanting garden surroundings and friendly crowds creates a magical vibe that guests keep coming back for. Come with friends or make new ones, and you'll find a warm, campfire-style camaraderie where every newcomer feels welcome. If you love good music and good company, mark your calendar for August 2026. We can’t wait to welcome you to A New Day Festival and help you create your own unforgettable summer memories!
By road: Hernhill can be reached via the M2 motorway (exit at Junction 7 for Faversham/Canterbury). From there, follow local roads signposted to Hernhill and Staplestreet. Be aware that these are narrow country lanes, especially on festival weekend. Drive with care. There is plenty of free parking on-site for both cars and campervans, and the festival provides clear parking directions to make arrival straightforward.
By rail: Faversham (Chatham Main Line) and Canterbury West (via High Speed 1) are the nearest major train stations. Both have regular connections to London (Victoria or St. Pancras International). From either station, you can take a local bus or taxi to Hernhill. Stagecoach route X3 runs from Canterbury to Staplestreet (near the festival entrance). Taxis are also readily available at the stations. (Note: Hernhill’s own station has very limited service, so we recommend arriving via the larger nearby stations.)
By air: The closest international airports are London Gatwick and Heathrow, both about two hours by public transport. Gatwick Express or Southern trains from Gatwick to Clapham Junction, then Southeastern trains to Faversham or Canterbury, are one convenient route. Stansted and London City airports are also options via London train connections. Eurostar services to Ashford International provide another access point, followed by a train to Faversham or Canterbury.
Accommodation: A New Day Festival offers on-site camping with tents, campervans and even pre-erected glamping tents. Campsite facilities (showers, drinking water and toilets) are provided for campers. If you prefer not to camp, the nearby market town of Faversham (about 5 miles away) and historic city of Canterbury (about 10 miles away) have a range of hotels, B&Bs and inns. The coastal town of Whitstable is also just a short drive away and offers seaside lodging. August is a busy month in Kent, so booking accommodation early is advised if you need it.
Hernhill, Faversham, ME139TX
