StoomFest

StoomFest 2026

StoomFest returns from 25–27 September 2026 at The Garage, 20-22 Highbury Cor, London. This independent heavy music festival celebrates stoner rock, doom metal, and heavy psychedelia in a raw, inclusive setting in north London.

Music

Featuring a handpicked lineup of legendary and emerging bands from Europe, North America and beyond, StoomFest showcases slow-burning doom, fuzzy stoner rock and psychedelic metal. The festival delivers pure analog sound with powerful guitar riffs, thunderous drums and electrifying performances that honour heavy music’s roots.

Atmosphere

Set in The Garage, a renowned rock venue at Highbury Corner, StoomFest offers a warm, down-to-earth vibe where fans connect, share vinyl finds and enjoy local craft beers. The festival fosters a lively community spirit with after-parties and spontaneous jam sessions, creating an unforgettable weekend for all attendees.

Getting here by air: London is well served by international airports. From Heathrow, the Heathrow Express or Piccadilly Line Tube will get you into central London in under 30 minutes. Gatwick Airport has the Gatwick Express (to Victoria station), and Stansted Airport has the Stansted Express (to Liverpool Street). London Luton has trains to St. Pancras, and London City Airport links into the city via the DLR. Once in central London, transfer to the Tube or train to head north toward Highbury.

By train: London’s main railway stations (King’s Cross/St Pancras, Euston, Paddington, Victoria, Liverpool Street, etc.) connect all of the UK. From any of these, catch the London Underground (Tube) or Overground to reach Highbury. The nearest station to 20–22 Highbury Corner is Highbury & Islington (Victoria Line, London Overground), just a few minutes’ walk away. Arsenal station (Piccadilly Line) is also within walking distance. A TfL journey planner or Tube map will help you choose the best route.

Local transport in London: It’s best to get an Oyster card or use a contactless payment card for easy fares on all buses and trains. Besides Highbury & Islington, you can catch several buses near Highbury Corner (including routes 4, 19, 236, 476, among others). Taxis and ride-shares (black cabs or Uber, etc.) are available citywide. In practice, public transit will usually be faster and cheaper than driving in Central London.

Driving and parking: 20–22 Highbury Corner lies just inside the North London zone and is affected by London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). There is very limited parking on-site, so if you drive, allow extra time for traffic and parking. Nearby pay-and-display parking exists around Highbury & Islington station, but spaces fill quickly. Many drivers prefer to park at a rail station car park (for example, at Highbury & Islington) and ride in via public transport. Note that London charges a congestion fee in adjacent central areas.

Accommodation tips: London offers many places to stay, from hostels to luxury hotels. Popular nearby neighborhoods include Islington (Highbury, Angel) and Camden Town, all of which have good hotel and Airbnb options plus quick Tube access. Kings Cross/St. Pancras is also convenient for rail travelers. If you want a strong local feel, look in Islington or Hackney. Wherever you stay, book early: rooms can book out for busy weekends. Staying near a major Tube or Overground station will make getting to the festival venue easy.