Whaley Fest returns to Whaley Bridge for 2026
Whaley Bridge’s community micro-festival, Whaley Fest, is set to return on Saturday 25 July 2026, following the success of its debut year.
Taking place from 11am to 9pm at Rock Bank Farm on New Horwich Road, Whaley Fest 2026 promises a full day of live music, local food and drink, family-friendly activities and stalls from local makers. Run by local residents and hosted on a working animal-rescue smallholding, the non-profit festival celebrates the people, businesses and landscape that make Whaley Bridge unique.
Formerly known as Whaley Summer Festival, the event is back for its second year with a refreshed look and an expanded programme. Visitors can expect live bands and DJs throughout the day, beer tents serving wine, spirits and Buxton Brewery lagers and ales and a wide range of local food vendors.
The first wave of artists has been announced, with live performances from local bands such as Northern Trash, Outer Limits and Tom Phillips & The Whiskey Chasers. More artists will be revealed in the coming months.
Grace Leighton-Carr, the festival organiser says, “It’s a real privilege to bring Whaley Fest back for a second year. Our micro-festival celebrates everything that matters to us: the community we grew up in, the charities and rescue animals we support, and the countryside we’re all lucky to call home. It means so much to give something back and help create something special for our town.”
The festival also offers plenty for families and animal lovers, including sheep feeding sessions and opportunities to meet the rescue animals. A selection of local makers and independent businesses will be trading on site, alongside a dedicated zen tent with a programme of wellbeing workshops to be announced, including sound healing, yoga and shamanic drumming. There will also be a Reiki tent hosted by High Peak Healing.
Creative and interactive activities form a key part of the day, with highlights including a graffiti wall led by local artist Imogen Ford and a workshop tent featuring activities such as 80s-inspired aerobics, and nature inspired workshops including talks on foraging and herbal medicine & bug house building for kids
Every ticket sold helps support local charities, small businesses and the long-term future of the festival, ensuring it continues to give back to the community for years to come. Whaley Fest is a child friendly event, and well behaved dogs are welcome on leads due to the presence of farm animals including ducks and chickens.
So pop Whaley Fest into your calendar for Saturday 25th July, 11.00am to 9.00pm. Address - Rock Bank Farm, New Horwich Road, Whaley Bridge, SK23 7LG
Access information:
The event entrance is at the top of New Horwich Road and will be clearly signposted. Stewards in high-visibility clothing will be positioned at the bottom of the road to direct attendees. Vehicle access is not permitted, and attendees are asked to park in the town and walk to the site. On-site parking is available for traders and Blue Badge holders.
Whether attending for the music, the animals, the shopping or simply to enjoy time with friends and neighbours, Whaley Fest aims to bring the community together for a positive and uplifting day in the heart of Whaley Bridge.
You can follow Rock Bank Farm on facebook for updates on the event or request to be a trader.