Country on the Eye

A brand-new festival celebrating country, folk, and roots music. We’re bringing the rich heritage of the US scene and the very best of British talent to the historic Play Close Park in Melton Mowbray.

The festival kicks off on Friday, June 12^th, 2026 with our exclusive Songwriters Series, followed by a full day of music and celebration on Saturday 13^th June.

Curated by Ben Atkinson (host of the internationally syndicated Ben’s Country Music Show), the 2026 debut features a stellar lineup of US and UK talent, including the UK’s favourite homegrown talent, BCMA Male Vocalist of the Year and No.1 artist Gary Quinn, making his festival headline debut. Gary is joined by rising US duo Karli and James, who also make their UK festival debut, alongside folk troubadour Will Varley, UK Bluegrass outfit The Often Herd, Austin-Texas legend Bob Cheevers, Nashville songwriter Victoria Banks, and so many more.

Find out more about the festival, including the acoustic tent, festival fun, workshops, and Americana-inspired food and drink.

We can’t wait to see you by the river.