Gate to Southwell 2026 begins on 02/07 and lasts for 4 days, wrapping up on 05/07. You can stay on site for a maximum of 2 nights.
In the UK, there are 11 other festivals on the same weekend.
We class Gate to Southwell as a Micro festival.
The festival is considered a family friendly and children are welcomed by the organisers. There’s a dedicated family camping area but there’s no specific children’s entertainment on site. There is no minimum age for entry.
Gate to Southwell is a weekend festival with facilities for on-site camping, where you can stay for a maximum of 2 nights.
The 2026 lineup contains 16 acts.
2nd – 5th July 2026

10 of 18 artists shown.
Gate to Southwell is 1 of 14 music festivals in England’s East Midlands. The festival’s full address is: Southwell Racecourse, Rolleston, NG25 0TS.
We asked a popular AI tool a few things about Gate to Southwell. Here’s what it told us 👇
The Gate to Southwell Festival stands out for its captivating blend of a vibrant main festival site and immersive events within the historic Southwell Minster and town. This “boutique” roots and acoustic music festival expertly combines a top-tier line-up with a truly intimate, relaxed atmosphere. Unlike many larger festivals, it offers a unique opportunity to experience world-class music in a beautiful rural setting, while also enjoying the charm of a thriving market town and its magnificent cathedral. It’s this seamless integration of festival buzz with local heritage that makes GTSF truly special.
For first-timers, embrace the full Gate to Southwell experience! Don’t just stick to the main site; explore the enchanting fringe events and special performances held within the historic Southwell Minster and town. Pack for all weathers – layers are always a good idea in the UK, even in summer. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the site and town. Remember to check the comprehensive festival schedule online and in the programme to catch your favourite acts and discover new ones. Finally, relax and soak up the friendly, intimate atmosphere – it’s what makes GTSF so special!
Many might not know that the Gate to Southwell Festival had extremely humble beginnings, starting as a small, one-day event back in 2007. It began at the Saracens Head Hotel in Southwell, featuring a handful of acts and a more local focus. From those modest origins, it has organically grown into the beloved multi-day, multi-stage “boutique” festival it is today, attracting acclaimed international artists and a dedicated following. This impressive evolution from a local gathering to a nationally recognised roots and acoustic music event showcases its enduring appeal and strong community roots.
The atmosphere at Gate to Southwell is renowned for being incredibly friendly, relaxed, and welcoming, making it perfect for all ages. It’s often described as having a warm, community feel, a true “boutique festival” experience where you can unwind. Despite featuring acclaimed artists, the vibe remains intimate and unpretentious, far removed from corporate giants. Expect a buzzing yet laid-back environment, filled with enthusiastic music lovers, families, and friends enjoying exceptional roots and acoustic music amidst the beautiful Nottinghamshire countryside. It’s an escape where good times and great music merge effortlessly.
As the information in this box (and this box only!) has been generated by AI, we can't guarantee its accuracy.
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This information is presented with our best intentions but it may be incorrect as things change.
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