Chalfest 2026

Volunteers, a Victorian Pleasure Ground, and Heather Small

The France Lynch Pleasure Ground has been common land since 1869, used for school sports days, wartime dances, and village gatherings for the best part of 150 years. Each July it becomes Chalford's biggest weekend, when the Chalfest volunteers turn a field in the valley into a proper two-day festival for 7,500 people.

The 2026 lineup is the strongest yet. Heather Small headlines, the voice behind M People's run of 90s hits from Moving on Up to Search for the Hero. Chesney Hawkes and Tinchy Stryder are on the bill, alongside BBC Radio 1's Charlie Hedges, the Discoliscious party project from Jemma Bolt and Woody Cook (son of Fatboy Slim, and worth knowing in his own right), and the Britpop Boys. Local acts hold their own across the stages, including the Chalford Brass Band and Chalford Community Choir and Orchestra. Dick and Dom bring the chaos for the kids.

No camping, but there is a return bus from Stroud (£11 including fees) and a car park on site (£11). Children under 12 are free. General release adult tickets are £79.20 including fees; community rate adults £27.50. Friday opens at 4pm, Saturday at 11am, both running until 9:30pm.

Friday 17 and Saturday 18 July 2026 · France Lynch Pleasure Ground, Burcombe Way, Chalford Hill, Stroud GL6 8LT · Friday 4:00pm–9:30pm, Saturday 11:00am–9:30pm