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29 May - 31 May 2026
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire., GL501QA
Get ready for three days of pure fun at Wychwood Festival 2026 (29-31 May)! Set on the beautiful Cheltenham Racecourse in Gloucestershire, Wychwood is a lively open-air celebration packed with live music, comedy and creativity for the whole family. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a friendly atmosphere filled with laughter, colour and adventure. Wychwood is often called one of the UK's most beloved family festivals, a place where parents and kids alike can enjoy top-quality entertainment in a safe, welcoming setting.
Music lovers will discover a diverse lineup of bands and artists spanning folk, rock, pop and world music. With multiple stages and performances running each day and night, there’s always a great beat to groove to or a heartfelt melody to sing along with. Comedy fans will enjoy lively stand-up acts and improv shows to tickle their funny bones, while movie buffs can relax under the stars with captivating outdoor cinema screenings. Talented guest speakers and performers also offer thought-provoking talks and workshops covering everything from art and crafts to drumming and singing classes, so there’s always something creative to dive into.
Little visitors are especially well-cared-for here. Wychwood's special children's zones offer age-appropriate entertainment such as puppet theatres, treasure hunts and creative play areas, so toddlers and kids can safely explore and have fun. A highlight is the Children's Literature corner: young book lovers gather for storytelling sessions, meet authors and illustrators, and join in fun writing and art workshops. Interactive games, music quizzes and even a Healing Garden (a relaxing oasis with gentle activities) keep little ones engaged throughout the day. Even a simple stroll around the site can feel magical, with children chasing balloons or marvelling at jugglers, stilt-walkers and magicians who pop up around every corner of the festival.
The atmosphere at Wychwood is both vibrant and laid-back. Vendors line the festival lanes with tasty treats and crafts: enjoy delicious street food from local eateries (including plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options), refreshing drinks and homemade goodies. You might pick up artisan treasures from craft stalls, or simply savour a picnic on the festival's green lawns. The site is flat and well-maintained, making it easy to stroll around with a stroller or wheelchair. Immaculate amenities like clean toilets, convenient showers and charging stations mean you can relax in comfort all weekend. In the evenings, mellow acoustic sets and communal gatherings create the perfect backdrop for winding down around a campfire or cosying up with new friends under twinkling lights.
More than just a festival, Wychwood has a heartwarming community spirit. Organized by volunteers, it channels proceeds to good causes, adding to the feel-good atmosphere. Over the years, Wychwood has been recognized as a top family festival and continues to earn rave reviews for its warm welcome and friendly vibe. Wychwood delivers joy and unforgettable memories for everyone. Join us at Cheltenham Racecourse for a carefree weekend celebrating music, laughter and togetherness.
Cheltenham is conveniently located just off the M5 motorway (junctions 10 and 11), making it easy to reach by car from anywhere in southern England. The town is well signposted from the A40 (running east-west) and the A38. For example, London is about 100 miles away and Birmingham/Bristol roughly 60 miles away via motorway routes. National coach services (such as National Express) run regular routes to Cheltenham’s central bus station from major cities. Once in town, a taxi or local bus can take you straight to the racecourse entrance. If you drive, ample parking is available at Cheltenham Racecourse itself.
The nearest train station is Cheltenham Spa, with direct trains from London Paddington (around 2 hours) and from cities like Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff and Manchester. From Cheltenham Spa station it’s a quick taxi ride or short local bus trip into town or directly to the racecourse. The town’s bus network (Stagecoach services) offers frequent routes – just check the schedules for lines stopping near the racecourse. On busy weekends, special festival shuttle buses may run from the station or town centre to the racecourse to make travel easier.
For visitors flying in, Birmingham Airport is the closest major airport (about one hour’s drive or train ride from Cheltenham Spa). Bristol Airport is around 1.5–2 hours away by road. London Heathrow and Gatwick airports are about 2–3 hours away, but trains and coaches provide connections to Cheltenham as well. For example, a train via Birmingham New Street can link Birmingham Airport to Cheltenham Spa, and National Express coaches run from Heathrow and Gatwick to Cheltenham. Once in Cheltenham, ample taxis and local buses can bring you quickly to the racecourse.
Cheltenham and the nearby Cotswolds offer a wide range of accommodations. In town you’ll find family-friendly hotels, comfortable guesthouses and cozy B&Bs within easy reach of the racecourse and the town centre. Quaint country inns and self-catering cottages in nearby villages provide peaceful rural stays. Caravan parks and campsites are also available for those who prefer a camping experience. Festival weekends are popular in Cheltenham, so it’s wise to book your lodging well in advance. Many local hotels and inns offer special weekend packages or early-bird deals for event dates. Checking Cheltenham tourism sites and festival guides for recommendations will help you find the best place to stay. With lodging sorted early, you’ll be free to focus on enjoying the festival fun!
| Name | Star | Distance | Prices From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The George Hotel and Montys | 0.1 ml | £85.00 | Book | |
| Hanover House | 0.1 ml | £110.00 | Book | |
| 81 The Prom Hotel | 0.1 ml | £100.00 | Book | |
| St Georges | 0.2 ml | £85.00 | Book | |
| Strozzi Palace Luxury Boutique Suites | 0.2 ml | £99.00 | Book | |
| ServicedLets Bayshill Apartments | 0.2 ml | £63.00 | Book | |
| Town Centre Apartments | 0.2 ml | £2000.00 | Book | |
| Famous Apartments | 0.2 ml | £200.00 | Book | |
| Queens Circus Executive Apartment | 0.2 ml | £149.00 | Book | |
| Central Hotel | 0.3 ml | £20.00 | Book | |
| The Big Sleep Hotel Cheltenham By Compass Hospitality | 0.3 ml | £59.00 | Book | |
| The Wyastone | 0.3 ml | £95.00 | Book | |
| Saracens Courtyard Apartments | 0.3 ml | £104.00 | Book | |
| The Coliseum Apartments | 0.3 ml | £111.00 | Book | |
| Arch Mews | 0.3 ml | £150.00 | Book |
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire., GL501QA
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