Charles Wesley Goodwin. Photo by Paul Clampin.August 2025-3 — Charles Wesley Goodwin. Photo by Paul Clampin.

By Paul Clampin, Rock At Night London

Live Review: The Long Road Festival – Stanford Hall, UK – August 22-24, 2025

Alana Springsteen. Photo by Paul Clampin.

The Long Road Festival, held over the August bank holiday weekend at the stunning Stanford Hall in the UK, continues to cement its place as a must-visit event in its sixth year. Despite clashing with Reading and Leeds, this Midlands gem drew an impressive crowd of nearly 30,000, approaching a sell-out. The festival’s success lies in its expertly curated lineup and top-notch facilities, appealing to a broad audience without being confined to a single demographic.

The picturesque Stanford Hall grounds offer a breathtaking backdrop, blending English charm with American essence. The festival’s heart, the Rhinestone Stage, shone brighter this year with an extra night of headliners. American artist Drake Milligan made a memorable festival debut on Friday, while Midland owned the stage on Saturday, resonating deeply with country fans. Homegrown talent James Bay surprised skeptics with a standout pop-infused set, winning over new admirers with his captivating performance.

These Wicked Rivers.Photo by Paul Clampin.

The Long Road’s eclectic mix, curated by Baylen Leonard and the festival team, is a defining strength. Sunday saw the stage shared by hard rock acts like These Wicked Rivers and the remarkably talented Jayler, a young 70s-inspired band with stagecraft well beyond their years. Emerging artists like Nashville’s Alyssa Flaherty, with her heartfelt and intelligent songwriting, and Janet Devlin, offering sharp social commentary, showcased the festival’s diverse spectrum. With over 70 acts across the weekend, the lineup left no stone unturned.

Beyond the music, The Long Road is a global celebration of Americana culture. From classic car displays and dog shows to emerging talent contests, funfair rides, and an abundance of food and drink, there’s something for everyone. This year introduced the Hitchin’ Post stage, keeping the country party alive after hours with late-night performances and even line-dancing lessons for the adventurous.

What sets The Long Road apart from other festivals is its warm, welcoming atmosphere. It feels like coming home—relaxed, fun, and safe. With its growing popularity and unique identity, the festival is already confirmed for a return in 2026, promising another unforgettable weekend.