The British Country Music Festival is putting UK artists firmly in the spotlight once again, as its 2026 line-up reinforces a clear shift in the genre’s momentum on this side of the Atlantic.

Now in its seventh year, the Blackpool-based event has built a reputation for backing British talent. This year is no exception, with two of the three headline slots going to UK acts and a programme that continues to prioritise homegrown singer-songwriters across its five stages.

Taking place at the Winter Gardens from 4 to 6 September, the festival brings together over 100 artists, with the majority coming from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It is a deliberate approach that sets the event apart, with a clear focus on giving UK artists equal headline slots alongside international acts.

Festival organisers have long made it a point to ensure UK artists lead the bill, and in 2026 that commitment feels more significant than ever as country music continues to grow rapidly in Britain.

Saturday night’s headline slot at the Empress Ballroom goes to Scotland’s Cammy Barnes, one of the fastest-rising names in UK country. With more than 100 million streams and views globally and a UK Top 40 hit under his belt with “Whiskey Roll”, Barnes arrives in Blackpool at a pivotal moment in his career. His recent sold-out shows at Glasgow’s Barrowland Ballroom and a fast-selling tour of Ireland underline his growing appeal.

Blending Nashville-style songwriting with Scottish influences, including the use of bagpipes in his arrangements, Barnes represents a distinctly British take on a genre that is increasingly finding its own identity in the UK.

Opening the festival on Friday night is Bristol’s Elles Bailey, whose return to Blackpool marks a full-circle moment. Having previously appeared as a support act at the festival in 2021, she now steps up as a headliner following a string of major accolades, including Live Act of the Year at the UK Americana Awards and Vocalist of the Year at the UK Blues Awards. Her latest single “Growing Roots” has already made a strong impact in 2026, becoming the most played track on BBC Radio 2 for the first three weeks of the year.

In keeping with festival tradition, the international headliner takes the Sunday slot, with Nashville-based duo SmithField closing out the weekend. The Texas-born pair, known for their harmony-driven sound, have amassed more than 150 million streams and are regular performers at the Grand Ole Opry, having also toured with artists including Morgan Wallen and Kane Brown.

The festival’s international reach continues beyond the US, with Canada playing a major role in this year’s line-up. Artists including Lennie Gallant, Jessica Sevier and Ryan Langdon will take to the main stage, reflecting Canada’s growing influence in the global country music market.

Organisers say the support Canadian artists receive at home, including funding for international travel, has helped make these appearances possible and highlights how Canada is actively investing in exporting its music.

Despite the global mix, the core focus remains firmly on the UK. In a recent social media post, the festival summed up its international blend, noting that “Scotland, USA, England, Canada” will all be represented across the weekend.

Alongside the performances, the 2026 edition will introduce new interactive elements, including dance classes led by professional instructor Emma Gill and a poetry workshop hosted by Festival as Form, adding to the event’s community-driven feel.

Festival promoter Martin Blore said the rise of UK country artists reflects a growing confidence in their own identity.

UK singer-songwriters have now found their own voice and sound. They write about pubs and the countryside, not saloons and cowboys. We have some amazing country and Americana artists here. We need to keep providing an equal platform for them alongside talent from across the globe.”

As country music continues to expand beyond its traditional American base, the British Country Music Festival is positioning itself at the centre of that evolution, giving UK artists not just a platform, but top billing.

For tickets visit: www.britishcountrymusicfestival.com

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.