Welcome

Country on the Eye

Get ready for the inaugural year of 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 12th, 2026 with our exclusive Songwriters Series, followed by a full day of music and celebration on Saturday 13th June.

Country on the Eye is more than just a music festival; it is a long-awaited homecoming. Launching in the summer of 2026, we are bringing the authentic sounds of Nashville, country, roots, bluegrass and folk to the East Midlands. Hosted by the Melton Mowbray Town Estate (MMTE) and curated by artistic director Ben Atkinson, the voice behind the internationally syndicated Ben’s Country Music Show, this festival marks a dual celebration: our inaugural year and the 18th anniversary of Ben’s iconic programme. Together, we’ve designed this experience to give back to the fans, creating the kind of atmosphere where world-class music meets a warm, family-friendly community.

Our 2026 debut lineup is a hand-picked collection of iconic acts. We are thrilled to welcome UK No. 1 country artist and BCMA Male Vocalist of the Year, Gary Quinn, as our main headliner. Joining him is a mix of international talent, including the UK festival debut of US duo Karli and James, and a very special "Legend Slot" honouring the late John Montague, featuring a rare one-off return to the UK by Austin-based songwriter Bob Cheevers. From the bluegrass energy of rising UK band The Often Herd to the storytelling of one of Nashville’s premiere songwriters, Victoria Banks, the stage is set for a weekend of unforgettable performances.