Latitude festival announces new music acts and landmark comedy lineup for 20th edition
Celebrating twenty years of fearless creativity, leading music and arts festival Latitude returns to the picturesque grounds of Henham Park, Suffolk, on 23-26 July 2026. With David Byrne, Lewis Capaldi, and Teddy Swims topping an eclectic bill where music meets the arts in a cultural explosion, festival fans can prepare for a joyous weekend of uninhibited discovery packed with the most exciting artists across music and the arts, plus foodie feasts, relaxing retreats, family fun and counter-cultural club nights. Weekend and day tickets are on sale now.
Today, Latitude expands its stellar 2026 lineup with soul sensation Jalen Ngonda, multi-platinum singer-songwriter David Gray, and legendary punk pioneers The Undertones are amongst the new music additions across the Obelisk Arena Stage, Second Stage, and Sunrise Arena. The festival also unveils its 20th anniversary comedy lineup, headlined by Jack Dee, Jen Brister, and Ross Noble.
There will also a very special UK music festival exclusive appearance from Sir Lenny Henry marking a return to stand-up after 17 years. These artists join previously announced headliners David Byrne (UK festival exclusive), Lewis Capaldi, and Teddy Swims, alongside The Flaming Lips, The Last Dinner Party, Self Esteem, Tom Grennan, Tom Odell, Wet Leg, Alex James Britpop Classical, Billy Ocean, Dry Cleaning, English Teacher, Vanessa Carlton and more.
Melvin Benn, Latitude Founder and Festival Director, said: “Twenty years of Latitude, and we’ve never been more excited about a lineup. This announcement celebrates everything that makes this festival special, the fearless discovery of new talent alongside the return of artists who’ve helped write our story. From Jalen Ngonda’s soul revelation to David Gray’s beloved anthems, The Undertones’ punk perfection to The Beta Band’s cult genius, this is a lineup that spans generations and genres. And our comedy programme continues to set the standard. Jack Dee, Jen Brister, and Ross Noble headline an extraordinary bill, and we have the honour of welcoming Sir Lenny Henry in a UK festival exclusive. Twenty years ago, we dared to do things differently, and today we’re prouder than ever of the creative space we’ve built together.”
OBELISK ARENA
Multi-platinum singer-songwriter David Gray returns with a catalogue that has soundtracked lives for over two decades. Currently in the midst of his extensive Past & Present Tour, Gray continues to captivate audiences worldwide. From “Babylon” to “This Year’s Love” and “Sail Away,” his emotive songwriting and powerful voice promise a Latitude moment filled with reflection and singalong anthems. With over 13 million albums sold globally and a reputation for intimate, emotionally charged performances, Gray remains one of the UK’s most beloved artists.
Fresh from acclaimed international performances and the release of his 2023 debut album Come Around and Love Me, soul sensation Jalen Ngonda brings his rich, timeless sound to Suffolk. Signed to legendary Daptone Records, the album received overwhelmingly positive reviews and peaked at Number 1 on the UK Independent Album Breakers Chart. Ngonda’s vintage-rooted soul has drawn comparisons to Curtis Mayfield and Marvin Gaye. His captivating live performances blend raw feeling with elegant sophistication, making him one of the most exciting voices in contemporary soul.
Celebrating 50 years since their formation in Derry, legendary punk pioneers The Undertones arrive at Henham Park with timeless classics including “Teenage Kicks,” “Here Comes the Summer”, and “My Perfect Cousin.”Their sharp hooks, irrepressible energy, and infectious melodies continue to resonate across generations, influencing countless bands while maintaining their status as one of punk’s most enduring and beloved acts. Five decades on, their live performances remain as vital and exhilarating as ever.
The Undertones said, “2026 is a huge year for us, celebrating 50 years as The Undertones, and we can’t wait to bring a mix of classics like ‘Teenage Kicks’ and new favourites to Latitude. We’ve heard what a special place it is, a festival full of energy, music lovers, and that magical live atmosphere. Get ready for guitars, chaos, and full-on Undertones energy.”
Representing the cutting edge of Mexico City’s underground scene, experimental collective Diles que no me maten blend post-punk tension, psychedelic textures and hypnotic Latin rhythms. Their boundary-pushing sound offers a bold, immersive experience that bridges cultures and genres, bringing one of Latin America’s most innovative acts to the Latitude stage.
Irish traditional music collective BIIRD deliver atmospheric performances built on ethereal vocals, shimmering instrumentation, and expansive soundscapes. Founded by seven-time All-Ireland champion Lisa Canny, BIIRD is on a mission to contemporise the image of trad music across the globe. After appearing on the Late Late Show in February 2025, BIIRD went on to sell out every show on their debut Irish and UK tour. This all-female supergroup brings the energy of an Irish trad session to the Latitude stage.
Opening the Obelisk Arena, style icon and DJ Gok Wan brings his joyful, high-energy DJ set, celebrating disco, house and euphoric dancefloor classics. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and crowd-pleasing selections, Wan delivers pure feel-good vibes.
Gok said, “ I can’t actually believe it’s been 20 years of Latitude magic! I’m beyond excited to be opening the main stage on July 24th, and will be bringing the party with my favourite feel‑good house and disco classics. It’s all about good vibes at Latitude, and I just love that moment when the first track drops and the party instantly kicks off!”
SECOND STAGE
The Second Stage continues Latitude’s tradition of pairing revered innovators with fast-rising contemporary voices, offering a vibrant mix of indie, post-punk, electronic, and timeless talent.One of the UK’s most emotionally resonant new songwriters, Alessi Rose arrives fresh from supporting both Dua Lipa’s Radical Optimism European tour and Tate McRae’s Miss Possessive Tour. Having recently completed her biggest headline run yet with The Voyeur Tour across major UK venues, Rose brings introspective pop with soaring hooks and piercing lyricism to the Latitude stage. Her critically acclaimed singles including Start All Over and First Original Thought have established her as a rising force in confessional songwriting.
Cult British innovators The Beta Band deliver their genre-defying sound—a hypnotic blend of folk, psychedelia, post-rock, and electronic experimentation that has influenced generations of artists. Their live shows remain atmospheric, unpredictable, and deeply immersive.
Nathan Evans, joined by The SAINT PHNX Band, continues to ride the wave of his chart-topping sea-shanty breakout. Following the release of their collaborative album Angels’ Share, their Latitude set promises to merge infectious sing-alongs with polished, contemporary musicianship.With his UK Number 1 album Don’t Tell the Dog (2025) and recently released single “California Rain”, James Marriott arrives following a meteoric rise. Written on tour about culture shocks and touring the United States as an Englishman, the track showcases Marriott’s blend of candid lyricism, indie rock, and energetic live performances that earned him the Rock Sound Breakthrough Artist award.
Saint Etienne bring over three decades of indie pop mastery to the stage. Fresh from their September 2025 album International, announced as their final studio project, the beloved trio continues to deliver a seamless mix of danceable electronics and reflective songwriting. Featuring collaborations with The Chemical Brothers’ Tom Rowlands, Vince Clarke, Paul Hartnoll of Orbital, and Confidence Man, their farewell record is a celebration of everything that’s made them icons.
Peter Hook & The Light deliver a thrilling post-punk masterclass, taking audiences on a musical journey through the Joy Division and New Order canon. With tight musicianship, driving energy, and deep reverence for the originals, they weave together fan-favourite tracks like ‘Transmission,’ ‘Blue Monday,’ ‘True Faith,’ and the anthemic ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’ alongside deeper cuts.Brighton quartet Lime Garden bring energetic indie rock infused with disco and post-punk flair. Named among NME’s 100, Dork’s Hype List, and The Sunday Times Culture’s Breaking Act, the four-piece combine playful lyrics, danceable grooves, and relentless stage energy across their self-described “wonk pop” sound.
Welsh indie-punk trio Panic Shack have been generating buzz with their 2025 self-titled debut album, which reached No. 1 on the UK Rock & Metal Albums Chart. Known for their high-octane performances and infectious energy, the band delivers unapologetic punk that’s both fierce and fun.
Panic Shack said, “Buzzin’ to be playing Latitude!! Our name next to some absolute legends in the game!”
North West indie pop quartet The Lilacs round out the Second Stage with their anthemic sound and electrifying energy. Following the success of their 2025 EP The 395 (To Forever), the Wigan-formed band brings melody-driven indie rock and infectious choruses that have earned them over five million Spotify streams and a rapidly growing fanbase.
SUNRISE ARENA
Latitude’s Sunrise Arena remains the festival’s beating heart for discovery, experimentation and after-dark energy, a space where emerging voices, boundary-pushers and cult favourites thrive.London collective Snapped Ankles return amid ongoing live and studio activity, continuing to refine their immersive blend of post-punk, krautrock and ritualistic dance rhythms, with performances that emphasise communal energy and physical intensity.
Rising London band Deadletter appear as their profile continues to grow, with recent releases and touring activity cementing their reputation for sharp, emotionally charged post-punk driven by propulsive rhythms and incisive lyricism, and Maria Somerville continues to develop her immersive dream-pop sound following recent releases and acclaimed live performances.
Good Health Good Wealth arrive with a growing catalogue that pairs socially conscious lyricism with high-energy delivery, while Irish ensemble Madra Salach continue to explore genre-blurring territory, drawing on folk tradition, experimentation and contemporary alternative music. Rising London‐based multidisciplinary artist Hugo Hamlet appears at Latitude amid a period of creative momentum, having toured the UK in 2025.
Known for his eclectic blend of alt-pop, performance art and genre-fluid songwriting, Hamlet combines introspective lyrics, vivid visual identity and dynamic live shows into a distinct stage presence. Post-punk outfit Bleech 9:3 bring tightly wound, high-intensity performances as they continue to build on recent releases, while Bristol-based collective Adult DVD arrive amid growing attention for their hybrid live-and-club performances, blending experimental electronics with dancefloor energy.
Raynor joins the lineup with bold, genre-fluid production shaped by recent work, while lo-fi indie artist Pollyfromthedirt completes the programme with raw, emotionally direct songwriting rooted in DIY practice, closing out a Sunrise Arena lineup that champions artists pushing boundaries and shaping the future.
TK MAXX PRESENTS THE COMEDY ARENA
Latitude celebrates its 20th anniversary with a comedy lineup honouring two decades of groundbreaking programming. Twenty years ago, Latitude became the first festival to place comedy on equal footing with music, and today, the Comedy Arena remains the summer’s most prestigious comedy destination.Comedy legends Jack Dee, Jen Brister, and Ross Noble headline an exceptional bill. In a UK festival exclusive, Sir Lenny Henry joins as a very special guest.
THE HEADLINERS
For over 25 years, Ross Noble has redefined stand-up with his legendary improvised chaos—performances that are never the same twice. His return is particularly special: in 2008, he led a 3,000-strong conga line across the festival site to a vegan food stall, creating one of Latitude’s most joyously absurd and unforgettable moments.
Jen Brister brings razor-sharp observational comedy and fearless honesty. One of the UK’s most distinctive comedy voices, Jen’s brilliantly frank material about parenting, politics, and modern life combines personal storytelling with fierce intelligence and impeccable timing.
Jen said, “I’m delighted to be headlining the Comedy Arena at this year’s Latitude Festival. I was the very first act on at the very first festival back in 2006 and I’m thrilled to be headlining its 20th anniversary.”
Master of deadpan comedy Jack Dee returns to Henham Park with his signature dry wit and impeccable timing. A true Latitude favourite who performed at the festival’s 10th anniversary, Jack’s return for the 20th edition is particularly poignant. A household name for three decades, his intelligent observational comedy and sardonic style make him one of British comedy’s true greats.
Jack said, “I am delighted to be performing at this year’s Latitude Festival. As always at my shows, the dress code is formal and I very much hope that the audience will observe this. If you’re simply planning on drinking cider and getting stoned for 3 days, then instead I suggest that you attend one of the many pop concerts that will be available for people like you. Thank you.”
VERY SPECIAL GUEST
In a UK festival exclusive, Lenny Henry brings his legendary presence to Latitude’s 20th anniversary. A true icon of British entertainment with over five decades at the pinnacle of comedy, acting, and broadcasting, Sir Lenny’s appearance marks a rare festival performance from one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers.
Lenny commented,“I’m delighted to be bringing Still At Large to Latitude for their 20th anniversary, and it’s the only music festival I’ll be performing at this year, so this really is a special one. Latitude has built this wonderful reputation for comedy over the years, and that means a lot to me. This show is my celebration of five decades in this business, from standing up in working men’s clubs as a teenager to playing an elf in Middle-earth! I’ll be sharing stories about the characters I’ve played, the people I’ve met, and the moments that have stuck with me from The Lenny Henry Show and Chef! to Othello and everything in between. There’ll be plenty of laughs, a lot of heart, and hopefully some surprises along the way. It feels like the perfect place to celebrate not just Latitude’s incredible twenty years, but my last five decades. Can’t wait!”
Across the weekend at the TK Maxx presents the Comedy Arena, audiences can look forward to an exceptional lineup of established stars and exciting new voices: Armed with his children’s keyboard and endearingly awkward stage presence, multiple Edinburgh Comedy Award winner David O’Doherty brings his unique brand of whimsical, musical comedy, charming audiences worldwide with perfectly crafted songs about everyday absurdities.
Josie Long returns with her distinctive blend of political passion, personal storytelling, and infectious enthusiasm. A trailblazer who won the BBC New Comedy Award at just 17, Josie has spent two decades establishing herself as one of the UK’s most important comedy voices. In addition to her Comedy Arena performance, Josie will also return to the Cosmic Shambles Forest of Science and Culture, which is back for 2026 in expanded form.
Josie Long said, “I’m really looking forward to coming back to Latitude for the first time in almost a decade. I have such good memories of the festival and am excited to be back in the Comedy Arena and in the Cosmic Shambles Forest mucking around with Robin and pals.”
A true Latitude legend, Marcus Brigstocke returns with his distinctive blend of political satire and sharp observation. Marcus holds the extraordinary distinction of having performed at the festival more than any other comedian, appearing every single year. A Radio 4 favourite and familiar face from Have I Got News for You, Mock the Week, and QI, his intelligent performances have made him a festival favourite.
Multi-award-winning comedian Rosie Jones brings her cheeky, joyful, brazen stand-up to Latitude’s anniversary celebrations. A household name in British comedy, Rosie has fronted her own Comedy Central series Out of Order, led the BAFTA-nominated travel series Trip Hazard, and created and starred in Channel 4’s 2025 comedy-drama Pushers. A familiar face on Taskmaster, Live at the Apollo, QI, 8 Out of 10 Cats, and The Last Leg, her fearless comedy has earned her the 2025 DIVA Queer Comedian of the Year Award among numerous accolades. Her latest show I Can’t Tell What She’s Saying has been drawing massive crowds across the UK.
One of the fastest-rising names in comedy, Kyla Cobbler first gained attention through viral Instagram reels before her first open mic in May 2021. Just four years later, the Cork-born comic has built a global following with over 825,000 Instagram followers. Her fearless appearance on The Tommy Tiernan Show in April 2025 catapulted her into the national spotlight. Known for her raw storytelling, razor-sharp crowd work, and unfiltered honesty, Kyla has sold out Cork Opera House, Dublin’s 3Olympia Theatre, and London’s Leicester Square Theatre.
Chloe Petts brings her brilliantly crafted observational comedy to Latitude’s 20th anniversary. A rising star with critically acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe shows and a growing television profile, her sharp material about modern life and identity marks her as a comedian to watch.
With his everyman charm and relatable humour about relationships and everyday life, Scott Bennett is familiar from Roast Battle and The Russell Howard Hour. His warm, accessible comedy makes him the perfect festival performer.
Musical comedy duo Flo & Joan return with their wickedly funny songs and impeccable harmonies. The Dempsey sisters have taken the comedy world by storm with their savage wit and brilliantly crafted songs that skewer everything from romance to social media.
Blank Peng brings her bold, fearless comedy to Latitude, captivating audiences with her sharp wit, magnetic stage presence, and storytelling that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. The first female winner of the Top Secret Comedy Gong and a finalist in major competitions including Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year, she has quickly established herself as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging comic talent.
Fatiha El‑Ghorri brings her sharp observational comedy and fearless perspective to Latitude, drawing on her Moroccan heritage, British Muslim identity, and lived experiences to challenge stereotypes with humour and insight. A breakout star of Taskmaster Series 19 and an award‑winning stand‑up, she has graced stages from the Royal Albert Hall to the London Palladium and appeared on Live at the Apollo, The Russell Howard Hour, The Jonathan Ross Show and more.
Known for his razor-sharp wit and viral videos, Josh Baulf brings infectious energy and relatable comedy. Hailed by Rob Beckett as “you must see live,” Josh has rave reviews, including five stars from One4Review and ThreeWeeks Edinburgh.
Maia Tassalini joins with her bold, energetic comedy style, blending sharp observational material and fearless personal storytelling; a BBC New Comedian of the Year 2024 finalist and Pleasance Reserve 2025 alum, she’s rapidly emerging as one of the UK’s most exciting new voices.
Having supported Ricky Gervais, John Bishop, and Suzi Ruffell, Matt Bragg brings seven years of comedy circuit experience to Henham Park, combining classic observational comedy with effortlessly stylish delivery. Ricky Gervais called him “classic observational comedy, delivered with effortless style.”The Preston-born Phil Ellis brings his chaotic, high-energy comedy. Phil won the Malcolm Hardee Award for Comic Originality (2023) and for Act That Should Make a Million Quid for Soppy Stern (2025), which also won joint Best Show at the ISH Edinburgh Comedy Awards. In 2025, Phil won the Chortle Award for Best Compere and appeared in Series 20 of Taskmaster. He created and starred in three series of the BBC Radio 4 sitcom Phil Ellis is Trying. Fresh from his sold-out national tour, Bath Mat, Phil’s energetic performances promise an unforgettable experience.
Fresh from conquering major comedy festivals in Edinburgh, Adelaide, Perth, and Melbourne, Thomas Green joins the bill, having supported Mo Gilligan, Jason Manford, and Russell Kane. Thomas has earned his reputation for being outrageously funny. Mo Gilligan calls him an “incredible comic. One of my favourites to watch live!“
The Comedy Store brings its legendary brand of improvised comedy to Henham Park. Since 1979, the club has been synonymous with excellence in stand-up, hosting over 3,500 attendees each week and launching countless careers.
The Chortle Student Comedy Award Finalists showcase brings the best emerging talent from UK universities, representing the future of British stand-up.
Fresh from her triumph at the prestigious So You Think You’re Funny? competition, Madeleine Brettingham makes her Latitude debut. The competition has launched careers including Hannah Gadsby, Peter Kay, Aisling Bea, and Sarah Millican, marking Madeleine as one of the UK’s most exciting new talents.
