Chalfest

Chalfest 2026

Chalfest returns on 17-18 July 2026 at Chalford Hill, Stroud, Gloucestershire. Set amid the rolling Cotswold hills, this two-day summer festival celebrates music, art, and community in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Music

Live music fills multiple stages throughout the weekend, featuring a diverse lineup from local folk bands and acoustic acts to indie rock, reggae, blues, and electronic DJs. As night falls, the party continues under string lights and around bonfires, offering something for every musical taste.

Food & Drink

Explore numerous stalls offering handmade crafts alongside a variety of food and drink options. Indulge in gourmet burgers, tacos, crepes, and pastries, while bars serve local craft beer, cider, coffee, and homemade lemonade. A marquee seating area provides shade and a place to relax.

Family Activities

Chalfest’s Kids’ Zone keeps children entertained with face painting, crafts, games, drumming sessions, and puppet shows. The gentle festival layout ensures families can enjoy the weekend together in a safe, fun environment.

Community & Atmosphere

This grassroots festival fosters a strong sense of community amidst stunning natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy recycling facilities, water refill points, and tranquil moments watching sunsets or gathering around bonfires beneath starry skies.

Getting there by car is straightforward. From the M5 motorway, exit at Junction 13 (signposted for Stroud/Cirencester) or Junction 12 (Gloucester/Cirencester), then follow the A419/A46 into Stroud and use local lanes toward Chalford. Entering the postcode GL6 8LZ into your GPS will guide you directly to the festival field. Parking is usually provided on or near the site (often in nearby fields), but spaces can fill up quickly. Car-sharing or early arrival is recommended when possible.

By train and bus: The nearest mainline station is Stroud, with regular GWR services from London Paddington (via Swindon), Cheltenham Spa, Gloucester, and Bristol. From Stroud you can catch a local bus or taxi to Chalford (just a few minutes away). Stagecoach West buses (for example routes 51/52) run between Cheltenham, Gloucester and Stroud via Chalford, so check the timetables if you prefer the scenic route. The journey from London to Stroud takes about two hours by train.

For air travelers, Bristol Airport is closest (around 50 miles south) with onward trains or car hire to Stroud. Birmingham Airport and London Heathrow are also options (about 2-3 hours by road). From Heathrow you could take the Heathrow Express (or Elizabeth Line) to Paddington and then a train to Stroud. In any case, plan to get to Stroud by train or road and then head the final few miles to Chalford as above.

Accommodation: Stroud offers a range of cozy inns, hotels, and B&Bs just a short drive from Chalford. Nearby Cheltenham and Gloucester have many more lodging options. For a countryside experience, consider guesthouses or farm stays in the villages around Chalford. If camping appeals, check for local campsites or any on-site camping options the festival may offer. Summer weekends can be busy in the Cotswolds, so it’s wise to book your stay early.