'Gigtripping' is one of the fastest-growing travel trends, with music fans planning entire breaks around seeing their favourite artists perform live. The trend sees travellers turning a gig or festival into a full getaway, extending concert nights into long weekends and staycations complete with great food, sightseeing and luxury accommodation.

For those looking to turn a memorable gig into a memorable getaway, The Audience has rounded up some of the best UK destinations where world-class live music can be paired with an unforgettable short break.

Leeds Castle, Kent

Music lovers can make a weekend of it at Leeds Castle's final summer concert on Saturday 11th July 2026. Bringing to a close more than 40 years of musical tradition, the iconic event has welcomed generations of visitors since 1978, who have gathered on the Castle's picturesque lawns to enjoy performances from the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. The farewell concert promises all the much-loved elements audiences have come to expect, including a full live orchestra, stirring classical favourites and a spectacular fireworks finale reflected across the Castle's historic moat.

Rather than rushing home after the final encore, guests can extend the experience with an overnight stay within the Leeds Castle estate. Accommodation options range from cosy lodges and charming bed and breakfast rooms to the enchanting new Knights' Retreat lodges, set amongst 500 acres of beautiful parkland and designed to spark the imagination of both children and adults. Couples can enjoy a romantic break in a Lakeside Lodge or the Tudor-style Maiden's Tower, while families and larger groups can choose spacious lodges or the medieval Battel Hall, which accommodates up to 14 guests.

For more information, please visit: www.leeds-castle.com/stay/

De Vere Tortworth Court

Music lovers heading to Forest Live at Westonbirt from 24th to 28th June 2026 can turn a concert night into a countryside escape with a stay at De Vere Tortworth Court. Located just a short drive from Westonbirt Arboretum, where artists including Deacon Blue, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, Rick Astley and Richard Ashcroft will take to the stage amongst the trees, the hotel offers the perfect base for ticketholders. Forest Live combines world-class live music with the beauty of the nation's forests, with every ticket helping Forestry England plant and protect millions of trees and vital wildlife habitats for future generations.

De Vere Tortworth Court provides a luxurious retreat set within a stunning 30-acre estate surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. Guests can spend the day exploring the Victorian arboretum and manicured gardens before enjoying seasonal dishes at the 1853 Restaurant & Library Bar or indulging in afternoon tea on the terrace. For ultimate relaxation, The Leaf Spa offers botanical-inspired treatments designed to restore wellbeing, while beautifully renovated bedrooms, many converted from the estate's original horse stables, provide the perfect place to unwind.

For more information, please visit: www.devere.co.uk/tortworth-court

The Belfry Hotel & Resort, Warwickshire

The Belfry Hotel & Resort offers the perfect base just a short drive from some of the Midlands' biggest live music venues, including the Utilita Arena Birmingham, bp pulse LIVE at the NEC and the O2 Academy Birmingham. With major artists such as The Pussycat Dolls, Manic Street Preachers and Suede, Courteeners, The Script, Royel Otis and Lily Allen all scheduled to perform in the region, visitors can combine a remarkable night of live music with a luxury escape.

Set within 550 acres of stunning grounds, The Belfry pairs its iconic golfing heritage with award-winning hospitality, stylish dining and indulgent spa experiences. Guests can spend the day unwinding at the newly opened The Club, featuring thermal experiences, an outdoor bubble pool and state-of-the-art wellness facilities, before enjoying cocktails in Brabazon Bar, dining at Sam's Bar & Kitchen overlooking the PGA National course and retreating to luxurious accommodation for a truly relaxing stay.

For more information, please visit: www.thebelfry.com

De Vere Cranage Estate

De Vere Cranage Estate offers the perfect countryside retreat within easy reach of Forest Live at Delamere Forest between 17th and 21st June 2026. Set amongst the woodland surroundings of Delamere Forest, the event will welcome a diverse line-up of artists including McFly, The Kooks, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell and Fatboy Slim, giving visitors the chance to enjoy live music in one of the UK's most picturesque outdoor venues.

After an evening beneath the forest canopy, guests can retreat to the elegant surroundings of De Vere Cranage Estate. Set in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, the Grade II listed mansion house seamlessly blends contemporary comfort with its rich heritage following a significant refurbishment. Surrounded by landscaped lawns and historic architecture, the hotel provides a peaceful setting to relax and recharge. Dining is a highlight of any stay, with the Tempus Bar & Restaurant showcasing British classics made using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring guests can round off their gigtripping getaway with exceptional food, stylish accommodation and a taste of the very best of rural Cheshire.

For more information, please visit: www.devere.co.uk/cranage-estate