The international music festival WOMAD is set to return to Wiltshire from July 23 to 26, 2026, at a new location: the Neston Park Estate near Corsham.
Co-founded by Peter Gabriel, the event moves after 17 years at Charlton Park in Malmesbury and a one-year hiatus.
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Approximately 40,000 attendees are expected.
New Venue, Fresh Start
Festival Director Chris Smith explained that the relocation was driven by a desire to refresh the festival's approach.
"With a festival, it's very easy to get into a routine," he said.
"We thought, if we're going to refresh, let's go to a blank canvas and start again."
Smith highlighted Neston Park's unique atmosphere and the enthusiastic support from the estate's owners. "It has a kind of magic to it.
The family who live here are so excited about us being here," he added.
Peter Gabriel noted that the team used the break to integrate fan feedback into the festival's regeneration.
"We've been poring over your extensive feedback and finding so many great suggestions," he said.
Global Music Discovery
The artistic programming focuses on global music discovery rather than mainstream headliners, featuring more than 100 acts across multiple stages.
"It's about discovery," Smith said. "There are artists you've never heard of on every stage.
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That makes us unique."
He added that the curated diversity aims to counter algorithmic listening habits. "People get their playlist and just repeat it.
