Ten years ago, the UK country music scene was searching for something—an authentic, grassroots space where homegrown talent could stand alongside international stars. What it had was passionate artists, dedicated fans, and a growing hunger for connection. What it needed was a festival that brought all of that together.
What it got was Buckle & Boots—a dream turned reality, thanks to country artist Gary Quinn and the Hancock family, Karl, Jan, and Laura.
The Birth of a Movement
The idea took shape over late-night conversations between Quinn and the Hancocks about the UK country scene’s potential. It wasn’t just about putting on a festival—it was about creating a home for the genre and its artists.
“The inspiration really came from a shared passion,” Quinn recalls. “Between myself and the Hancock family, we wanted to build something authentic, grassroots, and inclusive—a space where fans could discover new artists and artists could grow their audience.”
And with Whitebottom Farm as the backdrop, they brought Buckle & Boots to life.
Growing Pains and Triumphs
Every festival faces hurdles, but Buckle & Boots has always found a way forward. Whether it was navigating the unpredictable British weather or refining logistics after the first edition, the team kept adapting and improving.
“We’ve learned so much since that first year,” Quinn says. “From sound production to artist hospitality, we’ve fine-tuned every part of the experience. But the biggest challenge? The weather! We cross our fingers every year for the sun.”
Then COVID-19 hit, forcing the festival into an unexpected hiatus. But instead of waiting for better days, they took the festival online, streaming performances to keep the spirit alive.
“That was tough,” Quinn admits. “But every setback teaches you something. Buckle & Boots has become a real community—a staple of the UK country calendar.”
Behind the Curtain
The festival thrives on a tight-knit team with clearly defined roles. The Hancock family oversees logistics, liaising with councils, managing vendors, and refining site operations. Laura keeps social media buzzing throughout the year.
“The festival is their home, literally,” Quinn says. “They know exactly what needs to be done each year. And this year, they’ve gone BIG!”
Meanwhile, Quinn brings the artist perspective, curating lineups, managing production, and ensuring the festival experience feels right for musicians.
“We also have an amazing team of volunteers, crew, and friends who pitch in every year,” he adds. “It’s very much a labour of love.”
A Stage for UK Talent
Selecting the lineup isn’t just about filling time slots—it’s about creating moments. Emerging UK talent, returning favourites, and international names all factor into the festival’s identity.
“We listen to a lot of submissions, keep an eye on what’s happening internationally, and think about how each act contributes to the weekend’s energy,” Quinn explains. “It’s about more than just booking artists—it’s shaping an experience.”
This philosophy has helped Buckle & Boots become a launchpad for homegrown talent.
“Seeing someone like Kezia Gill go from an afternoon slot to playing the O2 Arena Satellite stage at C2C—that’s special,” Quinn says.
The Road Ahead
The Buckle & Boots team is already thinking beyond 2025—plans for the festival’s 10th anniversary in 2026 are well underway.
“We start planning pretty much as soon as the current one ends,” Quinn reveals. “We’re already working on next year’s edition—it’s going to be a celebration of everything we’ve built over the last decade.”
But even as the festival grows, it remains committed to its grassroots feel.
“The focus has always been about authenticity,” Quinn says. “The intimacy, the artist-fan connection—you don’t get that everywhere.”
With UK country music gaining more global attention, Quinn sees continued growth ahead—but he emphasizes the importance of supporting originality.
“The world will listen if UK artists lean into their unique voices,” he says. “Not trying to copy Nashville, but telling their own stories.”
As Buckle & Boots heads toward its milestone anniversary, one thing is clear: This festival isn’t just about music—it’s about community. And thanks to Gary Quinn, the Hancock family, and the artists who take its stage, UK country music has a home it can truly call its own.
Buckle & Boots 2025 Key Facts
- Date: May 22-25, 2025
- Location: Whitebottom Farm, Stockport, SK6 5JQ
- Headliners: Maggie Baugh (Friday), Eric Paslay (Saturday), The Country Orchestra (Sunday)
- Activities: Live music on multiple stages, artist meet-and-greet sessions, gourmet food vendors, afterparties, boutique shopping village
- Accessibility: Contact Festival organisor for details
Buckle & Boots
Immerse yourself at Buckle & Boots—a one-of-a-kind country retreat at Whitebottom Farm. Enjoy live music, up-close artist chats, gourmet food, artisan shopping, live demos, and starlit camping in true rural charm. Join us 22–25 May 2025!
