Everything useful
Frequently asked questions
The useful answers in one place, without requiring a trawl through old social posts.
When is the 2026 Lower Lode Inn Oktoberfest?
Friday 28 to Sunday 30 August 2026.
Where is it?
At Lower Lode Inn, Bishops Walk, Forthampton, Near Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL19 4RE.
Is admission free?
Yes. General admission is free.
Are day visitors welcome?
Yes. You can come for the day without booking festival admission.
Do I need a ticket?
No event ticket is currently required for general admission.
When does the entertainment start and finish?
Entertainment starts at 7pm on Friday. The final Sunday entertainment finishes at 11pm; the full running order will be published when confirmed.
When can overnight guests arrive and when must they leave?
Guests with a camping pitch or room booked directly with the pub may arrive from midday on Friday 28 August 2026. Overnight guests should leave by midday on Monday 31 August 2026.
Can I arrive before Friday or stay after Monday?
Yes, subject to availability. Mention any extra night or nights when booking directly with the pub and pay the additional accommodation charge.
How do I book camping?
Call the Lower Lode Inn directly on 07813 883605. A confirmed booking is required before arrival.
How much is camping without electric hook-up?
£18 per pitch per night.
How much is camping with electric hook-up?
£30 per pitch per night. Electric hook-up pitches are limited, so book early.
Can I book a room?
Yes. The inn has 5 en-suite rooms, subject to availability. Call 07813 883605 to check and book.
Are showers and toilets available for campers?
Yes. The listed campsite facilities include showers, toilets, drinking water, Elsan disposal and waste disposal bins.
Can I arrive and find a camping pitch without booking?
No. The venue requires a confirmed campsite booking before arrival.
Is a full cooked breakfast available?
Yes. Pre-book with the bar the night before.
Is Sunday carvery available?
Yes. Pre-book with the bar.
Is parking available?
Yes. Day visitors should use the gravel parking areas on the right as they enter. Only vehicles connected with a pre-booked pitch may enter or park in the camping areas. If the gravel parking is full, use the approach lane only where parking is legal and safe, park fully to the side and keep enough width clear for emergency vehicles and large motorhome or car-and-caravan combinations.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
Food and drink brought from elsewhere must not be consumed in the pub, marquee, outside seating or other event areas. Guests with a pre-booked camping pitch may consume their own food and drink at their pitch only. Free admission is funded by the pub, so please support the venue. If you have an essential medical or dietary requirement, contact the pub before travelling.
Are fires, firepits or barbecues allowed on camping pitches?
Open fires and firepits are not permitted. Raised, off-the-ground barbecues are allowed at booked pitches. Follow staff and fire-safety instructions, leave no trace and keep your pitch clean and tidy.
Is food, drink or accommodation included in free admission?
No. Festival admission is free; food, drink, camping and rooms are charged separately.
When will the full line-up and times be published?
The first confirmed acts are on the What’s On page now. Set times and any further names will be added as soon as the organisers approve them.
What food and beer will be available?
The Lower Lode normally offers local real ales and ciders. The detailed festival food and drinks list will be published when confirmed.
What should I do if the weather or river conditions look difficult?
Check this site and the official 2026 Facebook event before travelling. The riverside venue can be affected by high water.
Is the event accessible?
The main pub is described by the venue as wheelchair friendly. Detailed event-specific information for outdoor areas and temporary structures will be published when confirmed.
Is there an event email address?
No. Camping and rooms are booked by phone on 07813 883605. The official 2026 Facebook event carries organiser updates.
What are the 2026 dress themes?
Each evening has a fancy-dress and disco theme: country and western on Friday evening, Bavarian/Oktoberfest on Saturday evening, and a 90s throwback on Sunday evening. Fancy dress is welcome but optional.