Brit Fest made a triumphant return for a weekend of music, magic, and memorable moments
Brit Fest made a triumphant return to Ashley Hall Showground in Altrincham this past weekend, welcoming over 30,000 excited festivalgoers to its 100-acre site. With music, food, fun, and a dash of British weather, it was a four-day celebration that won’t soon be forgotten.
Thursday’s pre-opening night set the tone in style, with iconic performances from Squeeze, Badly Drawn Boy, and China Crisis. That momentum rolled straight into Friday, where the stage lit up with Razorlight, Chesney Hawkes, Roachford, The Boo Radleys, and Toploader.
Throughout the weekend, the crowd was kept buzzing by the brilliant hosting duo Jenny Powell and Mike Toolan, two of the North West’s favourite personalities, who kept spirits high and feet moving.
Saturday brought the sunshine and the legendary sounds of UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, whose reggae classics had the whole field swaying. Add in nostalgic sets from Blancmange, Cutting Crew, Hue and Cry, Midge Ure, and Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey, and it was pure 80s-90s heaven. Festivalgoers even made history by taking part in the world’s largest Hokey Cokey, led by none other than Black Lace, who then launched a field-wide conga line!
Sunday didn’t disappoint either, even with changeable weather. Doctor and the Medics, Tony Christie, and a last-minute but brilliant set from Musical Youth (who stepped in for Let Loose, sidelined by laryngitis) kept the energy up. The skies soon cleared for Johnny Hates Jazz, Go West, and the weekend’s grand finale: the legendary 10cc.
Each day carried its own fancy dress theme, adding colour and flair. From festival glam to throwback legends, it was a joy spotting the likes of Freddie Mercury, Adam Ant, Elton John, and David Bowie in the crowd. The creativity and commitment were truly next-level.
Beyond the main stage, the Busk Stops were a platform for rising stars and unique performances dotted across the grounds. But Brit Fest was more than just music; it was an experience. From fire walking and ice plunges to saunas, mini golf, and wellbeing zones, there was something for everyone.
Food lovers were spoiled with top-tier local offerings from The Con Club, Most Bakery, Sigiriya, Tipsy Tea, and many others. Whether you fancied a picnic bench or brought your own blanket and chairs, you were guaranteed a feast.
Glamping and camping areas were conveniently placed close to the car parks and entrance, making logistics a breeze. For day visitors, free shuttle buses to and from Altrincham Metrolink helped keep the good vibes flowing. Local towns like Hale and Knutsford also benefitted from the surge of visitors, with festivalgoers supporting local businesses and soaking up the charm of the region.
Festival Director Edward Prophet summed it up perfectly: “This year was just very special — one we’ll remember forever. There was so much love on site. Music has this unique power to bring people together, to create joy, healing and connection — and we saw that in every performance, every singalong, and every smile across the weekend.”
With planning already underway for Brit Fest 2026, it’s clear this isn’t just a music festival – it’s a celebration of British culture, community, and connection in the heart of the North West.
Donna is the Founder and Editor of Frankly, My Dear UK. By day, she works as a digital marketing specialist, by night she reviews film, theatre and music for a wide range of publications including WhatsonStage and The Reviews Hub. Loves Formula 1, prosecco and life.
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