EskFest

EskFest 2026 is an intimate Lake District music festival set in the breathtaking Eskdale Valley beneath the famous Hardknott Pass in Cumbria. Taking place from 9–11 July 2026, EskFest brings together live music, arts, entertainment, family activities and a welcoming festival community for a unique weekend surrounded by some of the UK's most spectacular scenery.

Why Visit EskFest 2026?

Looking for a smaller, more personal UK festival experience? EskFest offers something different from the UK's biggest music festivals. Set in the remote beauty of Eskdale in the Lake District, this boutique festival combines live performances, creative workshops, street entertainment, local food and a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.

Music

With multiple stages showcasing folk, blues, indie, world music and more, EskFest celebrates independent artists and community spirit while giving festivalgoers the chance to escape into one of England's most beautiful national landscapes.

EskFest 2026 Lineup

Discover the artists, bands and performers appearing at EskFest 2026. From emerging musicians to established acts, the festival celebrates a diverse mix of live music across its stages.

Food & Drink

Choose from wood-fired pizza, gourmet burgers, curries, and sweet treats from local street food vendors. The bars serve Cumbrian ales, ciders, and creative cocktails.

Wamily activities

Children can enjoy an activity zone with games, crafts, and storytelling while parents relax in chill-out lounges near the stage.

Atmosphere

With only a few hundred attendees, EskFest offers plenty of space to relax in wildflower meadows beneath rugged peaks. Friendly staff and local volunteers create a welcoming community spirit. Dogs on leads are welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Campo Sancho 2026?

Campo Sancho 2026 takes place from 23–26 July 2026 at Walkern Hall, Hertfordshire.

Where is Campo Sancho Festival held?

Campo Sancho takes place at Walkern Hall near Stevenage in Hertfordshire.

Who is playing at Campo Sancho 2026?

The 2026 lineup includes artists such as Laurent Garnier, Luke Una, Greg Wilson, Ruby Savage and more.

Is Campo Sancho family-friendly?

Yes, Campo Sancho includes activities and entertainment suitable for families as well as dedicated music experiences

By car, Eskdale is best accessed via main A-roads rather than the passes. From the M6 motorway, head west on the A66 to Penrith and then join the A595 coast road toward the west Cumbrian coast (or take the A590/A593 via Kendal and Coniston). A popular scenic route is the Birker Fell road off the A595 at Broughton-in-Furness, which loops above the valley and avoids the steep Wrynose/Hardknott switchbacks. Drivers unfamiliar with mountain roads should not attempt Hardknott Pass itself, as it is extremely steep and narrow. Once in Eskdale (at Boot village), follow signs to The Woolpack Inn at Hardknott Pass – the festival entrance. Parking is available on nearby fields. Remember that the rural lanes are narrow and winding, so allow extra driving time, watch for sheep on the road, and enjoy the spectacular views.

If you arrive by public transport, options exist but require planning. The nearest mainline station is Windermere (via Oxenholme); from there take Stagecoach bus 508 through Eskdale, which terminates at Dalegarth (Eskdale Green). Alternatively, travel on the scenic Cumbrian Coast line to Ravenglass station and transfer to the historic Ravenglass & Eskdale Steam Railway ("La'al Ratty"), which chugs 7 miles up the valley to Dalegarth – from the station it’s roughly a mile’s walk or a short taxi ride to the festival field. Buses in the Lakes can be infrequent, so check timetables carefully. The nearest airports with easy rail links are Manchester (about 2–3 hours away by car or coach) or Liverpool and Leeds/Bradford (slightly further); these connect to Oxenholme/Windermere on the train network. Plan your journey so you don’t arrive too late, as rural services usually stop early in the evening.

Accommodation in Eskdale is limited, so book well in advance. EskFest provides on-site camping for ticket-holders (bring your own tent or campervan; there are toilets and water onsite but no showers). If you prefer a bed, consider the Woolpack Inn itself (a few simple rooms), or guesthouses and B&Bs in nearby Boot or Ravenglass. Popular campsites include the National Trust’s Eskdale and Dalegarth sites or Fisherground farmhouse (for a rustic stay). Many visitors also stay in Ravenglass or Wasdale and drive in each day. Wherever you stay, reserve early—summer weekends fill up fast in the Lake District. Finally, note that Eskdale is very rural: mobile phone reception is patchy and EskFest is cash-only, so carry some cash and offline maps for your journey.