Longborough Festival Opera is one of the UK’s hidden cultural gems. Set in the heart of the Cotswolds, this intimate 500-seat opera house has earned an international reputation for staging world-class productions in a truly spectacular setting.
Longborough Festival Opera’s intimate 500-seat theatre nestled in the Cotswolds.
Each summer, audiences travel from across the UK and beyond to enjoy an outstanding programme of opera in the purpose-built theatre, nestled among the rolling hills near Stow-on-the-Wold and Moreton-in-Marsh.
A summer picnic in the beautiful grounds of Longborough Festival Opera.
One of the highlights of a visit is the extended interval, when guests can enjoy a picnic in the beautiful grounds while taking in panoramic countryside views. Alternatively, book a table in the on-site restaurant for a three-course meal, or visit one of the festival bars. The welcoming local village pub is also just a short walk away.
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Still to Come This Summer
Hansel and Gretel
Longborough Festival Opera
30 July, 1, 2, 4, 6 & 8 August 2026
Hansel and Gretel at Longborough Festival Opera, 30 July–8 August 2026.
Humperdinck’s beloved Hansel and Gretel brings the Brothers Grimm’s timeless fairy tale vividly to life in an enchanting production filled with adventure, imagination and magic.
Directed by acclaimed theatre director Lucy Bailey, whose recent credits include Witness for the Prosecution, Death on the Nile, Magic and The Other Boleyn Girl, the production brings together an exceptional cast of international artists.
The Longborough Festival Orchestra is conducted by Karen Kamensek, whose recent engagements include the Metropolitan Opera and Opéra National de Paris. The production also features the acclaimed Longborough Youth Chorus and is performed in English using Sir David Pountney’s intelligent and witty translation.
Performances take place on 30 July, followed by 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 August 2026.
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Book now
Tickets are available from £75. Visit lfo.org.uk/opera/hansel-and-gretel or call the Box Office on 01451 830292.
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Age Guidance
While Hansel and Gretel is full of magic, humour and adventure, it also embraces the darker elements of the original Grimm fairy tale, including the story of a witch who traps children. The production is recommended for adults and children aged 8 and over.
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Getting to Longborough
Whether travelling by rail or car, Longborough is an easy escape from Birmingham.
By train: Moreton-in-Marsh is the nearest railway station, with direct services from Birmingham New Street taking around 1 hour 10 minutes. A pre-bookable shuttle bus operates between the station and the theatre.
By car: Longborough is just over an hour’s drive from Birmingham city centre, with ample free parking available on site.
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