Hampton Court Palace Festival Announces Star-Studded 2026 Lineup for 31st Edition
The historic Hampton Court Palace Festival has unveiled an impressive roster of headline acts for its 31st annual summer program, cementing its status as one of London's premier cultural events. This year's festival promises an unforgettable experience with legendary performers set against the backdrop of the iconic Tudor palace.
Iconic Headliners and Performance Dates
New wave pioneers The Stranglers will kick off the headline performances on Tuesday, June 16, bringing their distinctive sound to the historic Base Court. Just two days later, on Thursday, June 18, alternative rock icon Elvis Costello & The Imposters with special guest Charlie Sexton will take the stage for what promises to be a memorable evening of musical excellence.
The festival reaches its climax on Saturday, June 20 with '80s Classical' - a spectacular collaboration featuring some of the decade's most celebrated pop artists. Kim Wilde, Go West, Nik Kershaw, and Roland Gift will perform their greatest hits accompanied by the world-renowned Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra, creating a unique fusion of pop nostalgia and classical grandeur.
Additional Festival Highlights
The 2026 program features an impressive array of additional talent including pop sensation Sophie Ellis-Bextor, acclaimed singer-songwriter David Gray, synth-pop innovators OMD, funk legends Nile Rodgers & CHIC, and the electrifying Pete Tong's Ibiza Classics. Each performance offers festival-goers a distinct musical experience within the palace's historic walls.
Ticket Information and Pricing
Tickets for The Stranglers and 80s Classical performances went on general sale on Friday, February 27. For Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton, pre-sale begins Tuesday, March 3, with general availability starting Wednesday, March 4. All tickets can be purchased through the official festival website at hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com.
The festival maintains its intimate atmosphere with capacity limited to just 3,000 attendees per performance, ensuring an exclusive experience for music lovers. Ticket prices vary by performance, with minimum prices ranging from £55 for Sophie Ellis-Bextor to £85 for premium acts like Nile Rodgers & CHIC and Pete Tong's Ibiza Classics.
Complete Performance Schedule
- Wednesday, June 10: David Gray (minimum price: £75)
- Thursday, June 11: David Gray (minimum price: £75)
- Friday, June 12: OMD (minimum price: £65)
- Saturday, June 13: Pete Tong Ibiza Classics (minimum price: £85)
- Tuesday, June 16: The Stranglers (minimum price: £59)
- Wednesday, June 17: Nile Rodgers & Chic (minimum price: £85)
- Thursday, June 18: Elvis Costello & The Imposters (minimum price: £75)
- Friday, June 19: Sophie Ellis-Bextor (minimum price: £55)
- Saturday, June 20: 80s Classical ft Special Guests (minimum price: £65)
Festival Experience and Atmosphere
Throughout the festival's duration from June 10 to June 20, the Tudor palace will open its gates after hours, allowing audiences to explore the magnificent East Front Gardens before evening concerts commence in the historic Base Court. Festival organizers are offering the option to pre-order luxury picnic hampers, enabling attendees to enjoy gourmet dining experiences before performances begin.
Now in its fourth decade, the Hampton Court Palace Festival has firmly established itself as an essential part of London's summer cultural calendar. The combination of world-class musical performances within one of England's most significant historical settings creates a truly unparalleled entertainment experience that continues to attract music enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.
