The Rhythm of Cheltenham: Jazz Festival 2026

The Rhythm of Cheltenham: Jazz Festival 2026

Save the date! 29 April – 4 May 2026

This vibrant programme brings together an exciting and diverse range of performances, from intimate pop-up shows in cosy pubs and lively bars to energetic acts staged in unexpected spaces throughout the town! Designed to surprise and delight audiences at every turn, it creates a unique festival atmosphere where music can be discovered around every corner.

Live performances from Van Morrison, James Morrison, Nigel Kennedy & more

Daily Festival Highlights

29th April 

29th April – 6 – 6:45 pm – Sam Swancott, Yamaha Free Stage, Montpellier Gardens

Sam Swancott is set to light up the Free Stage with a vibrant blend of sass, soul, and infectious energy, paired with silky vocals and guitar riffs that are guaranteed to keep the crowd dancing.

Headliner – James Morrison

Celebrating 20 years since James Morrison’s multi-platinum debut: Undiscovered – 

At 9 pm – Big Top, Montpellier Terrace, Cheltenham, GL50 1UL

30th April

8:15 – 9:30 pm – The Scribes, Yamaha Free Stage, Montpellier Gardens

A high-energy HipHop act bringing block-party vibes, genre-spanning sounds and outstanding improvisation to the free stage. Blending head-nodding beats, jaw-dropping beatboxing and spontaneous freestyling, The Scribes deliver a live show unlike anything else on the scene today.

Headliner – DJ Yoda

DJ Yoda takes audiences back to the 90s with a nostalgic mix of hip hop, pop, cult TV moments and iconic dancefloor anthems to open the DEYA Arena. 

At 7 pm –

The Deya Arena, Montpellier Terrace, Cheltenham, GL50 1UL

1st May

6:30 – 7:30 pm- Dm Franks, Yamaha Free Stage, Montpellier Gardens

Dom Franks blends bold, memorable melodies with cutting-edge jazz improvisation into a fresh, dynamic sound. Featuring rising guitar star Aidan Pope, the quintet fuses contemporary jazz with Brazilian and African-inspired rhythms, complemented by subtle touches of modern classical influence.

Headliner – Nigel Kennedy

Virtuoso violinist Nigel Kennedy returns for his first UK tour in over 10 years. Celebrating his 70th Birthday this year, he is as fresh and entertaining as ever!

At 7:30 pm –

Cheltenham Town Hall, Imperial Square, Sandford, Montpellier, Cheltenham GL50 1QA

2nd May

9 – 10:45 pm – BigSis DJs, Yamaha Free Stage, Montpellier Gardens

BigSis DJs are a Stroud-based collective loved across the South West for their high-energy, party-starting sets spanning multiple dance music genres and eras. Expect a dancefloor takeover with soulful house, deep grooves, jazz-infused electro and vibrant drum and bass.

Headliner – Nectar Woode 

Nectar Woode is a soul singer-songwriter celebrated for her honeyed vocals and a rich sound that blends neo-soul, jazz and folk influences. 

At 12:30 pm –

The DEYA Arena, Montpellier Terrace, Cheltenham GL50 1UL

3rd May

At 2:45 – 3:45 pm – i-Sing Choir, The Brewery Qaurter

Cheltenham’s i-Sing Choir is a vibrant community choir that brings people together through the joy of music. With a repertoire ranging from 70s classics to today’s pop favourites, their performances are packed with uplifting, feel-good songs.

Headliner – Courtney Pine

Courtney Pine celebrates four decades at the forefront of British jazz with a powerful retrospective performance. Blending the spiritual legacy of John Coltrane with the rhythms of reggae, soul, hip-hop and drum & bass, his music tells the story of an artist, a generation and a nation finding its voice through sound.

4th May

At 1:30 – 2:20 pm – The Cash Cows, Yamaha Free Stage

From Bob Dylan to Beyoncé, The Cash Cows reimagine iconic songs with style, energy and spontaneity. With more than 21 years of international performances behind them, they deliver a crowd-pleasing set full of rhythm, charm and feel-good entertainment.

Headliner – Kim Cypher

Kim Cypher returns for 2026, continuing to make waves across the UK Jazz scene. She is joined by Ashley Slater. Best known for his work with Fatboy Slim in Freak Power

At 6:30 pm

The DEYA Arena, Montpellier Terrace, Cheltenham GL50 1UL

Luxury Serviced Apartments for Cheltenham Jazz Festival | Stay Minutes from Montpellier Gardens in Cheltenham 

Enhance your festival experience and stay in one of our luxury apartments, just a stone’s throw from the heart of Cheltenham Jazz Festival.

After a day of live performances, world-class artists and vibrant festival energy, return to a calm, stylish space where you can unwind and recharge for the next day’s festivities.

Discover more

10 Tivoli Mews – Located in a private courtyard, this serviced apartment in the friendly neighbourhood of Tivoli is a stone’s throw from the local wine bar, restaurant, butchers and many other popular retailers.

Queen Circus – a bright and spacious serviced apartment located in the heart of Cheltenham, just a short walk from the shops, bars, restaurants, and transport links of the vibrant Montpellier District.

Beyond the music, Cheltenham offers a vibrant mix of restaurants, bars, independent shops and cultural attractions.

During your stay, explore:

• Montpellier Gardens festival hub
• Cheltenham town centre dining and nightlife
• Regency architecture and scenic walks
• Local cafés and boutique shopping

FAQs

• Where is the best place to stay for the Cheltenham Jazz Festival?

  The best location is within walking distance of Montpellier Gardens and Cheltenham town centre, where most festival events take place.

• Is Cheltenham Jazz Festival a good weekend break?

  Absolutely. It combines world-class live music, great food, and a vibrant town atmosphere, making it perfect for a luxury weekend getaway.

• How close are your apartments to the festival venues?

  Our luxury serviced apartments are located just minutes from the main festival areas, including Montpellier Gardens.

• Can I book short stays during the festival?

  Yes, we offer flexible short-stay options ideal for festival visitors.

Stay close to the music, enjoy the comfort of luxury living, and make your Cheltenham Jazz Festival experience unforgettable.

Book your luxury serviced apartment today and stay at the heart of the Jazz festival.