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The Swaledale Festival returns from Saturday 23 May to Saturday 6 June 2026, with Richmond once again hosting an inspiring programme of music, art and storytelling in some of its most atmospheric venues.

The Festival begins with Into Over Beyond, an evocative exhibition by award-winning local artist Martin Lever, inspired by the landscapes of Swaledale. The exhibition runs at The Station from 22 May to 3 June.

Music takes centre stage on 26 May when acclaimed trumpeter Jonny Bruce brings The Golden Age of Swing to St Mary’s Church, celebrating the swagger and irresistible rhythms of the swing era.

27 May is a festival highlight at The Georgian Theatre Royal. Bestselling author Sally Coulthard reads from The Wildlife Year, followed by the family-friendly All-Age Musical Seasons Safari, in which multi-instrumentalist Eleanor Grant joins percussionist Delia Stevens, violinist Fenella Humphreys and accordionist Valerie Barr for a lively musical journey through the seasons – featuring excerpts from Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons alongside other musical gems. The day concludes with a thrilling new interpretation of Vivaldi’s masterpiece at Influence Church, performed by the same four outstanding artists.

Star pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason returns on 29 May for an eagerly anticipated recital at Influence Church, followed later that evening by Late Night Bach, an intimate solo performance from violinist Philippa Mo at The Georgian Theatre Royal.

On Sunday 31 May, Richmond Chamber Orchestra joins leading violinists at St Mary’s Church for a mesmerising programme pairing Bach with Max Richter.

The Festival continues on 2 June with the dynamic duo Ladies of Midnight Blue at St Mary’s Church, blending bold brass, infectious rhythms and powerful vocal chants.

On 5 June, baritone Roderick Williams and pianist Susie Allan present Love Flows as the Brook Flows at St Mary’s Church, a moving musical journey through the twists and turns of love and life.

Festivities build to a rich finale on 6 June, with a celebration of composer Sally Beamish’s 70th birthday at Easby Church, followed by Richmond On Song at St Mary’s Church, bringing singers of all ages together in a joyful musical celebration.

More information can be obtained on the Festival's website.