FAQs
Festival Postponement Questions & What Happens to Your Tickets
Why has Show of Hands Festival 2026 been postponed?
After careful consideration, we’ve made the difficult decision not to go ahead with Show of Hands in 2026. There has been incredible sentiment around the festival but ticket sales did not pick up to where they needed to be in time, and we would have run the risk of not being able to get to the festival if we carried on further.
We’re incredibly proud of what we were building, and rather than compromise the experience, we’ve chosen to pause and return stronger in 2027.
What happens to my ticket now?
Your ticket has automatically been rolled over to the 2027 festival, so you don’t need to do anything.
However, if you need a refund, you can request it via Citizen Ticket or Skiddle, depending on who you purchased it with. If you’re able to hold on to your ticket, this is an enormous help, as a large volume of ticket roll overs means we can keep our head above water until next year.
If you choose to hold onto your ticket, you will be helping to keep the festival alive – and in acknowledgement of that:
- You’ll be recognised as a Year One Founder, with your name on our Founders Wall both online and at the festival
- You’ll have a lifetime price freeze at this year’s rate for any future tickets
- Any kids’ and teens’ tickets you have will still be valid, regardless of age
Am I entitled to a refund?
You are absolutely entitled to a refund if you would prefer one. The final date to claim a refund is Thursday 23rd April 2026 at 6PM. After this date, tickets will be non-refundable.
That said, if you believe in what Show of Hands is trying to build, choosing to keep your ticket keeps the festival alive until next year. It allows us to carry momentum forward and continue shaping something truly special.
Please be advised that booking fees are charged by our ticket supplier, not us, and are non-refundable.
How do I request a refund?
To request a refund, please follow the instructions provided sent to you by email. Instructions differ slightly from Citizen Ticket or Skiddle. If you are struggling, contact our team at info@show-of-hands.net and we’ll guide you through the process.
When will I receive my refund?
Refunds will be processed within 14 days of the date you request them.
Can I keep my ticket for 2027 instead?
Yes, and we would really appreciate that!
All 2026 tickets are automatically carried forward to Show of Hands 2027, so you dont need to do anything. By choosing to keep your ticket, you are helping us bring the festival back stronger next year, and in acknowledgement of that:
- You’ll be recognised as a Year One Founder, with your name on our Founders Wall both online and at the festival
- You’ll have a lifetime price freeze at this year’s rate for any future tickets
- Any kids and teens’ tickets you have will still be valid, regardless of age
Will my 2026 ticket be valid for the 2027 festival?
Yes. Your ticket will remain fully valid for the 2027 edition and has been rolled over automatically, giving you access to the festival next year.
Do I need to do anything if I want to roll my ticket over?
No action is needed. If you choose to keep your ticket, it will automatically roll over to 2027.
Will there be any benefits for keeping my ticket?
Yes, there absolutely is. Aside from avoiding a price rise on your ticket cost for next year, we want to reward your dedication to the festival, so:
- You’ll be recognised as a Year One Founder, with your name on our Founders Wall both online and at the festival
- You’ll have a lifetime price freeze at this year’s rate for any future tickets
- Any kids’ and teens’ tickets you have will still be valid, regardless of age
Will booking fees be refunded?
Booking fees are charged by the ticketing providers Citizen Ticket and Skiddle- not us- and are not refundable. If you have any questions regarding booking fees, please get in touch with them directly.
Who can I contact if I have questions or need help?
You can contact us at info@show-of-hands.net, and our team will be happy to help with any queries.
Tickets & Entry
Do I need to print my ticket or can I show it on my phone?
You can show your QR code on your phone.
Are there instalment/payment plans available?
Yes, we offer 6 or 3 month instalment plans. You pay the deposit and booking fee upfront.
How do instalment tickets work?
When you choose an instalment ticket, you pay a deposit and booking fee upfront. The remaining balance is then split into scheduled payments, which are automatically taken from your card each month until the ticket is fully paid.
What happens if I miss a payment?
If a payment fails, Citizen Ticket will try again automatically. If your card has expired or changed, you’ll need to update your details in your Citizen Ticket account. You can also make a manual payment through your account to catch up. If instalments aren’t brought up to date, your ticket may be cancelled and payments already made may be lost.
Can I change my payment card?
Yes. Simply log in to your Citizen Ticket account and update your payment method to make sure future instalments go through smoothly.
How many instalments can I spread the cost across?
The number of instalments depends on when you buy your ticket, but it can be spread over several months, up to a maximum of 9, if purchased in the first 30 days of tickets on sale. The earlier you buy, the more instalments you can make.
Do you offer a discount to local residents?
Yes, there are discounted tickets on offer to residents of BA10 postcodes only. Purchase your Resident ticket through the Ticket page, then make sure you bring your ID and a utility bill with you to show at the Box Office when you arrive at the festival.
Do you offer student discounts
Yes, we offer discounted Student Weekend tickets. Purchase your Student ticket in the usual way through the Ticket page, but make sure you bring your ID, and either one of your student ID card or a Statement of Student Status Letter (valid at the time of entry!) with you as proof to the Box Office when you arrive at the festival.
Do I need ID to enter?
We operate a challenge 25 policy, and you may be asked to show ID to collect an Adult ticket at the Box Office.
Are tickets refundable or transferable?
We’re a small, independent festival and sadly can’t offer refunds if you’re no longer able to attend for personal reasons.
Getting Here
Where is the festival held?
Gilcombe Farm, Bruton, Somerset, BA10 0QE
What are the nearest train stations and bus routes?
Train
The nearest train station to Gilcombe Farm in Bruton is Bruton Station. It is located at Station Approach Road, Bruton, Somerset, BA10 0EH. Bruton Station is on the Bristol to Weymouth line. You can also use Castle Carey Station, which is about 4.2 miles away.
Bus
To get from Bristol to Bruton by bus, you’ll need to take a combination of bus routes and potentially a train. There isn’t a direct bus route from Bristol to Bruton. One option is to take the X39 bus from Bristol (Wine Street) to Temple Meads station, then the train to Bruton. Another option is to take the 376 bus from Wine Street to the Bus Station, then the 667 bus to Bruton.You can also take the 8 bus from Wine Street to Temple Meads station, followed by the train.
Is there parking available?
Yes! There’s loads of parking onsite. You’ll, need a parking pass for each vehicle which you can buy here
Can I get a taxi or shuttle from the station?
There isn’t a dedicated taxi rank at Bruton station, so it’s best to book your journey ahead of time. There are several great local taxis you can use- try: Bruton & Mendip Taxis, Target Taxis, or Noble Taxis.
On Site
What are the festival opening times?
The campsites open at 10:00 on Friday 16th July 2027, and close at 15:00 on Monday 19th July 2027.
Will there be camping or glamping, or is it day-only?
All weekend tickets include camping. Day tickets are available if you’d just like to join us for one day, but these do not include camping.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
You can bring your own food and drink into the campsites, but remember there are loads of amazing local and international traders with delicious things to try- so don’t fill up before you get there!
Are there vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free options?
Yes, our food traders will cater for gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian customers.
Will there be free drinking water
Yes, there are free water taps around the festival and in the campsites.
Facilities
Are there accessible toilets?
Yes, there are. If you have other access requirements or questions you can get in touch with us at info@show-of-hands.net
Can I bring my carer for free?
We offer an additional ticket for free for anyone who would otherwise not be able to attend the festival alone due to their disability. Purchase a ticket for yourself, then get in touch with us at info@show-of-hands.net. You will need provide evidence for your need of a companion.
Are children welcome?
Yes! There are tons of things for kids of all ages to see and do across the weekend. Outside of the dedicated kids area (which is stuffed with entertainment) you can find workshops, activities to do together, and get up close to hot air balloons.
Kids tickets are for 3-12 year olds, Teen tickets are for 13-17 year olds. Babes in arms go free.
Can I bring my dog?
Sorry, but your fuzzy friends will have to sit this one out. The only dogs allowed onsite are assistance dogs.
Are there cash machines on site or is it cashless?
Yes, there are cash machines onsite and we will be accepting cash.
Safety & Rules
What items are not allowed on site?
No illegal substances, fireworks, weapons, glass (including glass bottles), disposable BBQs, generators or drones, Nitrous oxide/NOS Canisters, Explosives, Smoke canisters, or Ammunitions
If you’re found to be in possession of any of these, you won’t be allowed in and you may be arrested. As a general rule of thumb, if you wouldn’t bring it to your Mum’s house, please don’t bring it to the festival.
Is re-entry allowed if I leave?
Yes! We want you to make the most of your visit to Bruton so you can come and go as much as you like from the festival. Just make sure you keep your wristband on and your parking pass in your window (if you’re driving).
Is there first aid on site?
Yes. If you have a medical problem let one of our team know and they’ll get you the help you need
Campsite
Is camping included in my ticket
Camping is included in all weekend tickets. If you’ve purchased a Day ticket you must arrive and leave that day.
Is glamping available, and how do I book it?
If you’re looking to make your stay luxurious and a little bit different, we offer bell tents and vintage tent packages. They’re ideal for friends and families who want a few more home comforts and don’t want to worry about dragging all their kit with them.
You can read about and see the different options here, and when you’re ready, you can book them through the Ticket page here
Can I camp next to my friends?
Our campsites are first-come-first-served, but there are heaps of space.
What facilities are on site? (toilets, showers, water points, charging, etc.)
We provide toilets, showers, water points, bins, merriment, fun, bars stocked with local drinks, traders brimming with sumptuous food, and music. You’ll need to provide the rest.
Can I bring my campervan or caravan?
We have a dedicated campsite ground for live-in vehicles, which you’ll need a Live-in Vehicle ticket to use. Pitches are 9m x 5m. Unfortunately, if your vehicle is larger than 9m in length you won’t be able to bring it along with you.
Are there restrictions on tent size or gazebos?
We are all about expression, being comfortable, and having lots of space to socialise together, but please remember that everyone wants the same too. Be respectful with the size of tents and gazebos that you bring- no goliathans allowed!
What are the rules on cooking, fires, or BBQs?
You can bring self-contained stoves, but not disposable BBQs- they’re terrible for the environment and damage the land.
You cant have fires in the campsites, but there’s a big fire in the entertainment area that should keep you warm.
Can I bring alcohol into the campsite?
Yes you can, but not into the entertainment area. And remember that glass isn’t allowed onsite. We’re a small, independent festival and we’ve spent a lot of time finding you the best non-commercial drinks, so think about that before you pack 10 crates of warm, off-brand lager.
What’s the parking situation, and is it near the campsite?
You’ll need a parking pass (which you can buy here if you’re planning on bringing a car. The campsites are only the next field over from the car park.
Other Info
Will there be merchandise?
Yes! We’re working on it now. You’ll be able to pre-purchase it here on the festival website, or at the festival itself.
Are photographers/videographers on site?
Yes. We’ll have photographers and videographers on site to capture the atmosphere and memories of the festival. By attending, you agree that your image may appear in our future promotional material. Don’t worry, we’ll always use images responsibly and with the spirit of the festival in mind.
How do I apply to trade?
We’re on the hunt for amazing food traders, garment sellers, massage therapists, nik nak wallahs, and palmists. If that’s you, get in touch with us at info@show-of-hands.net with some info about your stall
How can I volunteer?
You can register your interest by completing our form on the get involved page. Click here
How can I apply to perform/play
You can register your interest by completing our form on the get involved page, please include as much detail as you can. Click here
Who do I contact if I still have questions?
If there are stones left unturned and you have more questions, drop us an email to info@show-of-hands.net