Why Lakefest Should Be Top of Your Festival List in 2026 (Especially if You’re Taking Kids)

If you’ve been thinking about trying your first family festival but the thought of muddy fields, sleepless nights and overtired children has been putting you off, then Lakefest 2026 might just change your mind.

This year, we’re doing something we’ve never done before. We’re taking our four-year-old on his very first proper, full-fat festival. Camping, live music, fairground rides, late nights (well… as late as a four-year-old allows), street food and hopefully making memories that last much longer than the inevitable glitter.

After looking into what’s on offer, I can already see why so many families return to Lakefest at Eastnor Castle every single year.

What is Lakefest?

Set in the beautiful grounds of Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire, Lakefest has grown into one of the UK’s best-loved family music festivals. It combines huge headline acts with a genuinely family-friendly atmosphere, incredible food, children’s entertainment and camping that feels welcoming rather than overwhelming. (Lakefest 2026)

Whether you’re travelling from Wales, Birmingham, Bristol, the Midlands or further afield, it’s an easy festival to reach without spending half your weekend stuck on the motorway.

The music line-up is ridiculously good

One of the biggest reasons people book Lakefest is the music.

This year’s headline acts include:

• Madness

• Example

• The Charlatans

• Bananarama

• Lightning Seeds

• Soul II Soul

• Scouting For Girls

• Newton Faulkner

• East 17

• Chesney Hawkes

• Jaguar Skills

• Reef

That’s before you even get onto the DJs, tribute acts and smaller stages running across the weekend. (Lakefest 2026)

It’s built for families

This is the bit that sold it for us.

Lakefest isn’t just a music festival where kids happen to be allowed. It actually feels like families were part of the plan from day one.

You’ll find:

• Circus workshops

• BMX stunt shows

• Magic shows

• Storytelling

• Arts and crafts

• Retro gaming

• Science and STEAM activities

• Fairground rides

• Interactive performances

• A dedicated family area

• Even a bookable crèche if parents fancy catching a band or two. (buytickets.lakefest.co.uk)

That means your four-year-old isn’t expected to spend twelve hours listening to bands. There are loads of things designed just for them.

Our first family festival

I’ll be honest… we’ve never done this before.

We’ve camped.

We’ve been to music festivals.

But we’ve never combined the two with a four-year-old.

Will there be early mornings? Definitely.

Will there be snacks every 20 minutes? Almost certainly.

Will someone end up covered in mud?

Probably me.

But there’s something really lovely about creating those childhood memories together. Sleeping under canvas, dancing to live music, roasting marshmallows, watching performers you’ve never heard of before and discovering your new favourite street food.

That’s what festivals should be about.

The food is a huge reason to go

If you’ve followed me for any length of time, you’ll know I’m planning my meals before I’ve even packed the tent.

Lakefest has become known for its brilliant street food offering, with everything from independent traders and local producers to sweet treats, coffee, bars and festival favourites. It’s definitely not a “burger or chips and that’s your lot” kind of festival. (Lakefest 2026)

I’ll be sharing all my favourite food finds while we’re there.

Camping without the stress

One thing that stood out is how much information Lakefest provides for first-time campers and families.

Weekend tickets include camping, parking and showers, making it much easier to budget before you arrive. There are also upgrade options if you’d rather add a little extra comfort. (Lakefest 2026)

Lakefest discount code

If you’re thinking of booking, you can currently use the code:

LALF25

to get 25% off your Lakefest tickets.

It’s a great saving if you’ve been sitting on the fence about coming along.

Is Lakefest worth it?

From everything I’ve seen so far, I’d say yes.

Big-name artists.

Fantastic food.

A beautiful setting.

Loads for children.

A relaxed atmosphere.

And a festival that genuinely seems to understand that parents want to enjoy themselves too.

We’ll be sharing our honest experience throughout the weekend, including what it’s really like taking a four-year-old to their first ever music festival, our favourite food, the best family activities and whether we’d come back.

If you’ve been looking for one festival to try in 2026, Lakefest might just be it.

Quick FAQs

Where is Lakefest?

Eastnor Castle Deer Park, Herefordshire.

When is Lakefest 2026?

5–9 August 2026. (Lakefest 2026)

Is Lakefest good for children?

Yes. It’s widely regarded as one of the UK’s best family-friendly festivals, with dedicated children’s entertainment, workshops, shows and activities throughout the weekend. (Lakefest 2026)

Does Lakefest have camping?

Yes. Weekend tickets include camping, parking and showers. (Lakefest 2026)

Can you get a discount on Lakefest tickets?

Yes. Use code LALF25 for 25% off your tickets.