On The Mount at Wasing - one of the UK’s most distinctive concert series, set within a spectacular woodland amphitheatre in Berkshire - returns for 2026, unfolding on the breathtaking Wasing Estate near Reading. At the heart of the countryside lies The Mount - a natural enclave unlike any other.
From the enchanting woodland trail that welcomes guests, to the wildflowers that bloom across the amphitheatre, every detail of this mindful space creates a truly transportive setting. It is here, immersed in nature, that audiences experience landmark performances from world-class artists. Set against the backdrop of one of the UK’s most unique and stunning outdoor venues, The Mount delivers a diverse programme rooted in music, nature, and connection.
Ben Howard will headline the series on Friday 3 July, joined by special guests This Is The Kit.
Since releasing his triple-platinum debut album ‘Every Kingdom’ in 2011, Ben Howard hascarved out a singular creative path. First celebrated for the intimate, acoustic songwriting that produced hits like the UK Top 10 single Only Love, he quickly earned critical attention, including a Mercury Prize nomination, and two BRIT Awards for British Male Solo Artist and British Breakthrough Act.
Howard has consistently pushed his music into new territory. His second album, ‘I ForgetWhere We Were’ (2014), took him to No.1 in the UK Album Chart with a darker, more expansive sound, while ‘Noonday Dream’ (2018) broadened his sound even further. In 2019,he received an Ivor Novello Award for the song Nica Libres at Dusk, cementing his reputation as one of the UK’s most distinctive songwriters.
‘Collections from the Whiteout’ (2021) developed his palette again, followed by ‘Is It?’ (2023), created with producer Nathan Jenkins (Bullion). Hailed by The Guardian as “his most fluid, experimental record yet,” the album marked a period of reinvention, blending electronic detail with the raw, reflective songwriting that has always anchored his music.
On stage, Howard remains a commanding presence. Performing with an expansive live band, his shows have been described by The Times as “spellbinding, transcendental even”. Wasing will be one of his first UK headline shows since his 10th anniversary tour for ‘I Forget Where We Were’ in 2014.
Joining Ben Howard will be This Is The Kit, the acclaimed band led by songwriter Kate Stables, known for their contemporary folk and indie music that has seen them become a critics’ favourite across 6 studio albums.
