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17 June - 29 June 2026 Wasing Lane, Aldermaston, RG74LY
In June 2026, the Wasing Estate in rural Berkshire transforms into a magical outdoor concert venue known as The Mount. From June 17th through 29th, On The Mount invites music lovers and nature enthusiasts to experience a unique festival series held on a hilltop clearing surrounded by ancient woodland. Imagine reclining on the grass with tall trees overhead, listening to world-class musicians as the sun sets and the sky turns to twilight. This festival combines high-quality live performances with a warm, communal vibe — bringing together families, friends and solo travelers who share a passion for music and the great outdoors.
As you journey along the wooded path to the amphitheatre, gentle sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a calm, welcoming feel. Festival-goers relax on colorful blankets or foldable chairs around the natural stage at the center. The day is easy and relaxed — children might play quietly on the grass nearby while adults chat and sip drinks from a local stand. When evening nears, the clearing comes alive with the warm glow of fire circles and lanterns dangling between tree branches. Acoustic music floats through the dusk air. It's a setting that encourages you to slow down, breathe deeply, and become fully present with the music and the nature around you.
Musically, On The Mount offers a diverse lineup designed to complement the serene setting. Each evening may feature a blend of folk, acoustic, world and ambient tunes. Headlining acts bring well-loved songs and powerful performances, while local and emerging artists play intimate sets that make you feel connected with every lyric and note. Instruments and vocals are amplified just enough to carry through the trees, so the sound feels organic, as if nature itself were playing along. Between performances, you can explore the Food Glade and drink bars for tasty local street food and refreshing beverages — perfect spots to continue the conversation or grab a drink between sets.
Sustainability and wellbeing are at the heart of On The Mount. The festival follows green practices: waste is sorted and recycled, and food vendors serve locally-sourced fare on compostable plates. After dark, lighting is minimal by design — string lights and lanterns gently illuminate the grounds while leaving the night sky visible. Small bonfires are tended by ceremonial firekeepers, offering both warmth and a sense of community. During the daytime you might find guided forest walks, morning yoga sessions, or quiet spaces with art and benches inviting contemplation. The experience feels like a harmonious blend of concert and outdoor retreat, all rolled into one beautiful, leafy clearing.
Each night as the final chords fade, attendees often linger around campfires under a canopy of stars. Strangers share stories and singalong tunes in gentle harmony, while children snuggle under blankets as parents toast marshmallows by the flames. By journey's end, visitors leave feeling refreshed and inspired, with memories of music that resonated long after the last note. On The Mount is more than a festival — it's a celebration of music, nature and community that restores the spirit and connects us all under the summer night sky.
The Pixies
By road: Wasing Estate is located at Wasing Lane, Aldermaston, RG7 4LY (about half a mile from Aldermaston village). The easiest access is via the M4 motorway. If driving, take M4 Junction 12 whether you are heading east from Bath/Swindon or west from London. Follow brown Wasing signposts to reach the estate. If coming from the north (e.g. Oxford or Newbury), join the M4 at J13, then exit at J12. From the south (e.g. Winchester or Southampton), take the M3 to J6, then follow the A339 north and the A340 through Tadley toward Aldermaston. Please allow extra time on event days, as the local lanes can fill with traffic.
By rail: The nearest train stations are Aldermaston (2.5 miles away) and Midgham (about 2 miles away). Great Western Railway runs regular trains between Reading and Newbury that stop at these stations. If you are coming from London, take a train to Reading (about 25 minutes from Paddington), then change to a local train toward Newbury. After arriving at Aldermaston or Midgham, a short taxi or rideshare (around 10 minutes) will bring you to the venue. Reading is a major rail hub with many connections; it's about 15 minutes by train from Reading to Aldermaston.
By air: The nearest major airport is London Heathrow (LHR), roughly 30 to 35 miles east of the venue (about a 40-minute drive). Heathrow offers many international flights and convenient road/train connections. Other London airports (Gatwick, Stansted, Luton) are farther away (1-2 hours by road), and regional airports like Southampton (about 50 minutes by car) or Birmingham (around 90 minutes) are options depending on your travel plans. From any airport, visitors can rent a car, arrange a shuttle or train to Reading and continue by taxi.
Accommodation: The village of Aldermaston has a few country pubs and guesthouses, but most visitors stay in nearby towns. Newbury (about 10 minutes east by car) offers a wide range of hotels, inns and B&Bs, from budget chains to charming boutique stays. Basingstoke (30 minutes south) and Reading (30 minutes east) also have many lodging options. For a countryside experience, consider B&Bs or farm stays in the area. If you prefer camping or glamping, there are commercial campsites and glamping sites in West Berkshire (some require driving to reach). Whatever you choose, it's wise to book early, as accommodation tends to fill up during event weekends.
Wasing Lane, Aldermaston, RG74LY