Set against the elegant backdrop of one of Derbyshire’s most historic estates, Crow Park hosts a brand new festival this weekend, and it feels a world away from the sprawling festival fields that dominate the summer calendar. This weekend, it becomes the stage for Live At Melbourne Hall, opening its gates for its inaugural edition, bringing three days of music that celebrate different generations, genres and audiences.
Live At Melbourne Hall will appeal to many demographics. Bring your kids, bring the grandparents: it’s been curated with daily themes, allowing each day to develop its own distinct atmosphere while making the most of the beautiful surroundings and offering something for everyone.
Friday belongs to nostalgia in all the right ways. BBC Radio 2 legend Jo Whiley headlines with her ever-popular 90s Anthems set, promising the soundtrack to a decade that continues to define festival culture. Expect Britpop, indie classics and dancefloor staples delivered with the unique insight of someone who was integral to that scene first time around. Former Top of the Pops presenter Gary Davies keeps the retro mood alive with his 80s Disco, joined by Toby Spin for an opening night that looks set to trade heavily on feel-good familiarity.
Saturday shifts gears into guitar-driven territory. Lightning Seeds top a bill that reflects the enduring appeal of British indie, their catalogue packed with songs that have become woven into the fabric of festival season, especially following a summer of England going “oh so near” again! They’re joined by Newcastle favourites Maxïmo Park, whose energetic live performances continue to make them one of the country’s most reliable festival acts. Add Riding The Low – fronted by actor and musician Paddy Considine – together with the Propaganda DJs, and the day promises to be a celebration of indie music in all its various shades.
By Sunday, the atmosphere changes once again as Live At Melbourne Hall rides the current wave of British country. The Shires headline alongside Ward Thomas, two acts that have helped establish the genre on UK festival stages, while Catherine McGrath and emerging artist Minna complete a line-up that balances established names with fresh talent.
For a first edition, Live At Melbourne Hall arrives with a clear sense of purpose, giving each day its own musical identity while making the most of one of the East Midlands’ most distinctive settings. If the opening weekend delivers on that promise, Melbourne Hall may well have found a new midsummer tradition.
Live At Melbourne Hall takes place at Crow Park from Friday 24 to Sunday 26 July 2026.
For more information and to buy tickets, head to: https://www.rg.live/festivals/live-at-melbourne-hall
