Having started as a modest garden party, Hardwick Festival has steadily grown into one of the North East’s premier multi-day music festivals – and this year marks its eleventh edition. Returning to its stunning location at Hardwick Hall, it’s set to be bigger than ever, running across three days from Friday 15th to Sunday 17th August, with a stellar line-up, exciting stages, and plenty of family-friendly features.
Friday night sees the return of Scissor Sisters, headlining fresh off their UK and Ireland arena tour after reuniting as a trio – plus drummer – in 2024. Led by the ultra-charismatic Jake Shears, their performance promises a flamboyant fusion of glam rock, pop and disco.
Saturday welcomes synth-pop royalty Pet Shop Boys, performing as part of their Dreamworld: The Greatest Hits tour, which included a five-night sell-out residency at London’s Royal Opera House. With 15 studio albums and four decades in the industry, expect a set packed with iconic tracks like ‘West End Girls’ and ‘It’s a Sin’, delivered with their signature electronic flair.
Sunday brings the ever-charming Olly Murs to close the festival with his upbeat pop party. Since rising to fame on The X Factor, Murs has become a household name, releasing seven albums, selling out arenas, and regularly appearing on TV. Known for his polished sound and crowd-pleasing energy, expect a mix of his own hits alongside lively covers.
Across the weekend, the main stage also features performances from Eurovision sensation Sam Ryder, the jangly indie-rock of The Lathums, and the feel-good pop of Scouting for Girls.
Tucked away in a secluded woodland spot, The Treehouse Arena offers an intimate setting for acts like acid-funk pioneers Brand New Heavies, gospel-country groovers Alabama 3, and post-Britpop favourites Toploader, among many others.
The festival hosts seven distinct stages/areas, ensuring there’s something for every musical taste. For fans of house music, the Courtyard Arena (located behind the hotel) brings sets from legends like Kenny Dope, Horse Meat Disco, DJ Pippi, and Brandon Block.
More DJs focusing on soul, funk, and disco can be found in the escapist Into The Woods area, while The Summit Stage celebrates North East acoustic talent. There’s also a dedicated children’s area, a wellness space, and much more to explore.
For further information and tickets, head to hardwickfestival.co.uk.
