The Motor Mule Festival 2026

The Motor Mule Festival 2026

3–5 July 2026 — Betteshanger Park, Nr Deal, Kent

There’s a particular kind of magic that settles over Betteshanger Park in early July — the long Kentish evenings, the sea air drifting in from the coast, and the unmistakable hum of guitars tuning up somewhere in the distance. In 2026, that feeling returns as The Motor Mule Festival rolls back into town, bringing three days of country grit, songwriting soul and good‑time energy to one of the South East’s most atmospheric outdoor spaces.

The 2026 line‑up so far

This year’s bill brings together UK rising stars, road‑worn bluesmen, harmony‑rich Americana outfits and festival‑ready country rockers – a line‑up built for fans who crave grit, storytelling and musicianship.

• Ian Siegal — A powerhouse of British blues and Americana, bringing raw vocals and masterful songwriting.
• The Smokin’ Mavericks — High‑octane country rock built for big fields and bigger crowds.
• Big River — Blues‑rock with heart, swagger and a live show that hits hard.
• The Ashley Sherlock Band — Soulful, modern blues with a sharp edge and serious groove.
• Samuel Ashton and The Instincts — Warm, rootsy soul with a voice that can stop a crowd in its tracks.
• Elry Blue — Atmospheric Americana and heartfelt songwriting.
• Gloria Anderson — A rising voice blending country warmth with contemporary flair.
• The Too Bad Jims — Gritty, foot‑stomping blues‑country chaos in the best possible way.
• Florence Sommerville — One of the UK’s brightest new country storytellers.
• Virginia Dirt — Southern‑fried harmonies and road‑tested swagger.
• Campfire Coyote — Acoustic charm and campfire‑ready melodies.
• Howlin Matt — Raw, rootsy blues with a wild streak.

Many more acts still to be announced. Line‑up subject to slight variation.

Beyond the stages

Motor Mule has always been more than a music festival — it’s a full‑blown celebration of country culture, community and good living. Across the weekend you’ll find:

• Brock’s real ale and cider festival
• Uncle Bill’s campsite
• Country disco with DJ Shamblin’ Sexton (Friday & Saturday nights)
• Smokehouse barbecue
• Classic car and motorcycle show
• Children’s workshops and entertainment
• Thoughtfully curated food and drink
• Festival fashion stalls
• More 2026 additions still to come

A festival built for country fans

Motor Mule has always been more than a lineup — it’s a gathering place for fans who love the craft of songwriting, the thrill of a live band, and the community that forms when thousands of people sing the same chorus under an open sky. Expect artisan food, local brews, late‑night campfire sessions and plenty of space to soak up the atmosphere.

With more artists still to be announced, 2026 is shaping up to be the festival’s biggest year yet — a celebration of country music’s roots, its future, and the fans who keep it alive.