Henley Festival - 8–12 July 2026

The UK's only black-tie music festival returns to the bank of the River Thames for five evenings of music, art, comedy, and fine dining. Billed as "The UK's Most Magical Summer Party," Henley Festival has a dress code to match with strictly black tie, taken very seriously.

This year's headline acts include Boy George & Culture Club, Ezra Collective, Sugababes, Jo Whiley's 90s Anthems, Lulu, Björn Again, Alex James' Britpop Classical, Ronnie Scott's Jazz Orchestra with Laura Mvula, and The Bootleg Beatles.

The music is only part of the picture. The visual arts programme brings contemporary art, sculpture, and installation across the site, with work from artists around the world. The RISE programme, running since 2022, gives emerging musicians, visual artists, and backstage professionals real industry experience, with a dedicated Emerging Talent Stage and RISE Gallery.

On Sunday, families can enjoy children's entertainers, musicians, comedians, street entertainers, crafting sessions, and art-making, while parents relax in the riverside grounds.

Gourmet dining is part of the offer, with options ranging from riverside fine dining to grazing and bars across the site. 

Tickets start from £65 | 8–12 July 2026 

Book tickets at https://boxoffice.henley-festival.co.uk/

Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire

Written by Claire Selby 

Photo by Gary Jones Photography