The Sidmouth Folk Festival returns 2nd-9th August, with a stellar lineup including Richard Thompson (solo acoustic) Julie Fowlis and Flook. Whilst the main stage concerts at The Ham grab much of the attention, it’s The Bulverton which is Sidmouth’s party central! The festival’s all-standing second venue is home to the legendary Late Night Extra ceilidhs and some of the most thrilling concert performances on the UK festival calendar.
Banter offer up barking social commentary with pop beats, irony and ridiculously danceable tunes on Friday 2nd August, while on Saturday 3rd August the north-west’s finest folk-rock band Merry Hell bring their joyous explosion of melody, commitment and energy.
Scotland’s mighty Peatbog Faeries are guaranteed to get the Bulverton audience jumping and shouting on Sunday 4th August, and there’s an irresistible night of European dance music on Monday 5th August, courtesy of Anglo-French supergroup Topette!!
Rapidly establishing a reputation as festival favourites, Sam Kelly & The Lost Boys deliver their barnstorming show on Tuesday 6th August, while Wednesday 7th August sees the triumphant return of Devon’s favourite musical son Seth Lakeman. Yorkshire folk-rockers Blackbeard’s Tea Party celebrate their 10th anniversary with huge night of musical fun on Thursday 8th August.
The Bulverton venue also incorporates Betsy’s Lounge, which provides a post-Late Night Extra space for relaxation, playing and singing. There are early evening sessions and Open Mic events aimed at young singer songwriters, and a secure instrument store for those who wish to play at early evening sessions and at Betsy’s Lounge after Bulverton events have finished.
Further information and tickets can be found via The Sidmouth Folk Festival website: www.sidmouthfolkfestival.co.uk
Photo Credit: Matt Austin