Fairport's Cropredy Convention

Fairport's Cropredy Convention 2026

Taking place from 13–15 August 2026 in Cropredy, Oxfordshire, Fairport’s Cropredy Convention is a folk-rock festival set by the Oxford Canal in the peaceful countryside, turning a farm into a lively three-day music event.

Music

Featuring Fairport Convention alongside a curated lineup of folk, roots rock, and traditional ballads, the festival offers one main stage with no overlapping sets. Big screens ensure everyone enjoys the performances, from classic hits to surprise guest appearances.

Food & Drink

Festival-goers can explore food stalls offering local pies and vegan options, while the main bar serves local ales and ciders. Nearby village pubs host evening gigs, adding to the festival atmosphere.

Atmosphere

The friendly, communal vibe is perfect for families and friends, with space to picnic and relax on the sloping field under the summer sky. Lantern-lit evenings and the Cropredy Fringe create a warm, welcoming country festival experience.

The easiest public transport route is by train to Banbury, which is about 10 km from Cropredy. Banbury has frequent connections from London Marylebone, Birmingham New Street and other major stations. Once in Banbury, you can catch a Stagecoach bus or taxi to Cropredy. During the festival, a special shuttle bus usually runs regularly between Banbury’s rail station (or bus station) and Cropredy village (often stopping at The Brasenose Arms pub). From Banbury, the taxi ride to Cropredy takes roughly 10–15 minutes.

By car, the main route is via the M40 motorway. Leave the M40 at Junction 11 for Banbury (or Junction 10 if approaching from the southeast) and follow local roads north toward Cropredy. Close to Banbury you’ll see signposts reading 'Cropredy Festival' or 'Music Festival'; follow those through the country lanes. The final lanes are narrow and may get busy on entry, so take it slow. Parking is arranged in festival fields just off the lanes – aim to arrive before peak times. We recommend car-sharing if possible to reduce traffic, and make sure to turn off your engine when queued (it’s a country festival, after all).

The nearest major airports are Birmingham (about 50 miles northwest) and London Heathrow (around 65 miles east). Birmingham Airport has a rail and coach link to Banbury via Birmingham city centre. From Heathrow, travellers can take the Elizabeth Line or Underground into London and then a train to Banbury. Once in Banbury, you can resume by shuttle or local taxi. (Note: Oxford Airport is closer – about 20 miles south – but it mainly serves private charter flights.)

Many festival-goers choose to camp on site in tents, caravans or campervans. The official camping area opens several days before the festival and camping is usually included in the price of a multi-day ticket. If camping isn’t for you, Banbury and the surrounding villages (Southam, Daventry or Stratford-upon-Avon) offer hotels, inns and B&Bs. Accommodations in the area fill up fast around the festival dates, so book early. Staying in Banbury is convenient – it’s just a short drive or taxi ride away – and provides easy access to shops and restaurants for non-campers.