Country and Americana fans across the UK are getting ready for one of the biggest weekends on the British festival calendar. The Long Road Festival 2026 returns to the grounds of Stanford Hall in Leicestershire from 27–30 August, bringing four days of live music, American-inspired culture and entertainment to the countryside. 

Now in its seventh edition, the festival has established itself as one of the UK’s major celebrations of country, Americana and roots music, bringing together internationally recognised artists and emerging British talent.

A Star-Studded Line-Up

This year’s programme features an impressive selection of artists from the UK, US and Canada.

Maren Morris will headline Sunday night, while legendary singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris will make a rare festival appearance as part of her European Farewell Tour. Steve Earle will also perform a special solo acoustic set. 

The line-up also includes The Shires, Josh Ross, The 502s, Shakey Graves, The Felice Brothers, Anne Wilson, Kezia Gill and many more.

There will also be a special Saturday performance from Ronnie Wood & His Band featuring Imelda May, following Bailey Zimmerman’s withdrawal from his UK and European dates. 

More Than Just a Music Festival

One of the defining features of The Long Road is its focus on creating an entire country and Americana experience rather than simply presenting concerts.

The festival features six immersive stages, inspired by venues and traditions associated with country music, ranging from honky-tonks to intimate songwriter sessions. 

Visitors can also enjoy Southern-style BBQ, food and drink experiences, classic cars and bikes, craft activities, family entertainment, dog shows and late-night events.

This combination of music, food and lifestyle has helped the festival develop an identity that appeals to both dedicated country fans and people discovering the genre for the first time.

A Celebration of Country Culture in the UK

The Long Road’s growing popularity reflects the expanding audience for country and Americana music in Britain.

By bringing major American and Canadian performers together with British artists, the festival creates a meeting point between the traditional roots of the genre and the UK’s rapidly growing country music scene.

The event also puts a spotlight on emerging performers, with artists such as Liam Price, Rose Betts, First Time Flyers and Muireann Bradley included alongside established names. 

Stanford Hall Prepares for a Big Weekend

Set against the grounds of Stanford Hall, the festival offers a very different atmosphere from a traditional city concert.

With camping, outdoor activities, food, live entertainment and multiple stages operating throughout the weekend, the event is designed as a full weekend experience rather than simply a series of concerts.

The festival’s organisers have also recently released the 2026 festival map and detailed timings, as anticipation builds ahead of the opening day. 

The Long Road 2026 Is Almost Here

With Maren Morris, Emmylou Harris, Ronnie Wood, Steve Earle, The Shires and Josh Ross among the major names on the bill, The Long Road Festival is shaping up to be a major highlight of the UK’s August festival season.

Taking place from 27 to 30 August, the event promises a weekend filled with country music, Americana, roots, food, culture and outdoor entertainment.

For fans looking to experience the American country music tradition without leaving the UK, The Long Road Festival 2026 offers a unique opportunity to discover both legendary performers and the next generation of artists in one setting.