26 September 2025
Newsdesk
Bearded Theory, one of the UK’s most beloved independent festivals, is back and has just unveiled its initial lineup for 2026. The multi-award-winning event returns to its idyllic home at Catton Park, Derbyshire, from May 20-24, 2026. Known for its unmatched atmosphere and strong sense of community, the festival is the perfect way to kick off the bank holiday weekend and the festival season.
This year’s headliners are set to deliver a diverse and thrilling experience. Alt-rock legends Pixies will celebrate their 40th anniversary, while genre-blending trailblazers Skunk Anansie will also take to the stage. They are joined by a powerful roster of artists including spoken-word punks Big Special, the explosive Fat Dog, and the anarchic folk-punk of Ferocious Dog. The lineup is further strengthened by Getdown Services, Lambrini Girls, and the ferocious feminist punk of Panic Shack.
The festival’s first announcement also includes iconic post-punk royalty Peter Hook and The Light, Sheffield’s own Reverend and The Makers, and the sharp garage-rock stylings of Sprints. Beyond the main stages, attendees can expect an eclectic mix of genres. The lineup features politically charged post-punk from Heartworms, pioneering electro-industrial group Pop Will Eat Itself, and breakbeat trailblazer Goldie.
The festival’s unique character is enhanced by returning favorites like cult comedy-folk act The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican and boundary-pushing rap rockers Senser. The legendary Neville Staple of The Specials brings ska and 2-Tone energy, while comedian Stewart Lee delivers his signature wit. For those seeking a dose of rave nostalgia, 90s dancefloor legends like Utah Saints, Leeroy Thornhill (ex-The Prodigy), and Phil Hartnoll (Orbital) are also on the bill.
Bearded Theory isn't just about the music. The EARTH sector offers a sanctuary for wellness and crafting, while the Festival School, the UK’s first of its kind, provides a full curriculum for kids, earning praise from The Guardian as "probably the most inclusive school in the country." With its compact yet vibrant site and eight unique stages, Bearded Theory promises a weekend of unfiltered joy for all ages.
