GroundsFest 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Is GroundsFest free to attend?

Yes – GroundsFest 2026 is completely FREE to attend.

When and where is GroundsFest 2026 taking place?

GroundsFest 2026 takes place on 16–17 September 2026 at Stoneleigh Park.

Are dogs allowed?

Yes, our furry friends are very welcome at GroundsFest – as long as they are well behaved and kept on a lead.

Are children allowed?

Yes, under 16s are welcome on show days.
Please note that no person under the age of 16 will be permitted in the event areas during build-up and breakdown periods.

There will be no crèche facility at the event.

Accessibility & Facilities

Is disabled parking available?

Yes, disabled parking is available on site and does not need to be pre-booked. Please present your Blue Badge at the main entrance and follow the onsite signage.

Can I hire a wheelchair or mobility scooter?

Unfortunately, the venue does not offer a motorised scooter or wheelchair hire service.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes, the venue has been designed to be accessibility friendly and includes:

  • Level access entrances suitable for wheelchair users
  • Well-lit corridors and gangways
  • Handrails on internal staircases
  • Platform lifts and stair lifts where appropriate
  • Disabled toilet facilities
Is there a cloakroom or lockers?

There is no official cloakroom service at GroundsFest. Bags can be left at the Organiser’s Office and you will be issued with a collection ticket.

Please note all belongings are left at your own risk. The organisers and venue accept no responsibility for loss or damage.

Is there an ATM on site?

No, there are no ATM facilities on site.

Where is lost property kept?

All lost property should be handed into the Organiser’s Office, located in the Hall 3 Foyer. Any unclaimed items after the event will be handed over to NAEC Stoneleigh.

Is first aid available?

Yes, there will be an onsite medic available throughout the event. If you require medical assistance, please visit the Organiser’s Office in the Hall 3 foyer or speak to a member of the GroundsFest team.

Event Policies

Will photography and filming take place?

Yes. Photography and filming will be taking place throughout the event for promotional purposes.

By attending GroundsFest, you consent to the publication and use of images or footage captured during the event. If you do not wish to appear in any images, please contact the organiser.

What is the smoking and vaping policy?

Smoking, e-cigarettes and vaping are prohibited inside all venue buildings in line with current legislation.

Visitors using outdoor smoking areas are asked to dispose of cigarettes responsibly using the correct bins.

Travel & Parking FAQs

Is parking free?

Yes – parking at GroundsFest is completely free.

Where should I park?

Visitors should head to Car Park 5 at Stoneleigh Park rather than the main Stoneleigh Park entrance.

For the exact location, use the What3Words reference:
cats.detect.couches

You can visit: What3Words

Do you run free shuttle buses?

Yes.

Complimentary Coach Transfers – Leamington Spa Station to GroundsFest

Wednesday 16 September

Leamington Spa Station → Stoneleigh Park
08:30 | 09:30 | 10:30 | 11:30

Stoneleigh Park → Leamington Spa Station
15:30 | 16:30 | 17:50 | 18:30

Thursday 17 September

Leamington Spa Station → Stoneleigh Park
08:30 | 09:30 | 10:30 | 11:30

Stoneleigh Park → Leamington Spa Station
14:15 | 15:15 | 16:15

GroundsFest Festival FAQs

What is the GroundsFest Festival?

The GroundsFest Festival is the event’s evening social experience – giving visitors and exhibitors the chance to relax, network and enjoy a great atmosphere after the show.

What time does the Festival start?

The GroundsFest Festival runs from 4:00pm until 10:00pm.

Will there be live music?

Yes – there will be live bands performing throughout the evening, along with a DJ to keep the atmosphere going.

Will food and drink be available?

Absolutely. There will be a great selection of food and drink available throughout the festival, including bars and a variety of food options.

Do I need a separate ticket for the Festival?

No – the festival is included as part of your free GroundsFest visitor registration.

Who can attend the Festival?

The festival is open to all registered GroundsFest visitors and exhibitors attending GroundsFest 2026.

Interested in visiting GroundsFest 2026?