Whitchurch Folk Festival is back for another spectacular year, bringing world-class folk artists, Morris dancing, interactive workshops, and a strong community spirit to North Hampshire.
Following a hugely successful revival in 2024, the festival promises to be even bigger and better this year, with an expanded lineup and exciting new additions.
A Festival with Heart
The 2024 festival welcomed over 800 attendees to Whitchurch, successfully reviving a much-loved event that had been dormant for over three decades. The inaugural festival was held in celebration of Paul Sartin, Whitchurch’s beloved folk musician, honouring his legacy and contributions to traditional music.
FolkActive will once again host events celebrating Hampshire traditions, including Hampshire stepping workshops and maypole dancing. The annual parade will return, this time featuring fishy beasts to celebrate Whitchurch’s historic connection to the River Test.
Whitchurch Folk Festival is a celebration of community, tradition, and musical excellence. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and gift stalls, as well as a bar serving local drinks. Whether you are a seasoned folk enthusiast or simply looking for an uplifting day out, there is something for everyone.
For tickets and further information, visit: https://whitchurchfolk.com
What’s New for 2025?
- Friday Night Warm-Up Gig – For the first time, the festival will kick off with a special warm-up gig featuring Bonfire Radicals. Tickets for this event are sold separately and are available via the festival website.
- Expanded Children’s Folk Festival – A full day of interactive music, dance, and craft activities designed for younger audiences.
- The Blackbird Stage – Hosted at the Methodist Church, this stage is free to all festival-goers.
- Whitchurch Folk Club Stage – Located at the Gill Nethercott Centre, this space recreates the intimate feel of a traditional folk club.
- Fringe Festival & Traditions – An extended lineup of folk-adjacent performances will take place throughout the day at the Kings Arms pub garden stage.
2025 Line-up
- Martin Simpson – One of the world’s finest acoustic and slide guitarists, known for his intricate fingerpicking and deep connection to traditional music.
- Leveret – A groundbreaking instrumental trio whose innovative approach to English folk music has earned them widespread acclaim.
- Quimantu – A pioneering band blending South American and British folk influences to create a rich, cross-cultural musical experience.
- Goblin Band – Proudly flying the LGBTQ+ flag, this spirited young tradfolk collective has taken the London folk scene by storm.
- The Magpies – A vibrant transatlantic folk band weaving contemporary themes with the finest elements of folk tradition.
- Tamsin Elliott & Tarek Elazhary – A mesmerising duo blending British folk and Egyptian traditions with stunning musicianship.
- Patakas – Brothers Joe and Will Sartin bring expressive musicianship and rich family tradition to their dynamic folk sound.
- Holly Clarke – A compelling singer and guitarist breathing new life into traditional songs with a fresh, contemporary edge.
- Out of Hand – A lively ceilidh collective known for their energetic performances and genre-defying arrangements.
- Seb Stone – An exceptionally talented young whistle and flute player with a distinctive and emotive approach to traditional melodies.
- Jon Wilks – A local folk singer, guitarist, and storyteller with a deep love for traditional songs and the histories behind them.
- Bonfire Radicals – A riotous folk-fusion band delivering an electrifying mix of traditional and original tunes with a high-energy twist.
Morris Sides for 2025
- Bampton Morris – One of the most celebrated Morris traditions, keeping centuries-old dances alive with precision and flair.
- Boss Morris – A contemporary all-female Morris side known for their powerful performances and striking visual style.
- Mayfly Morris – Whitchurch’s very own local side, bringing a vibrant and energetic approach to traditional Morris dancing.
- Winchester Morris Men – A well-established side renowned for their commitment to preserving and performing traditional Cotswold Morris.
- Hook Eagle Morris – A lively border Morris side with a distinctive, theatrical style and an infectious enthusiasm for performance.
Supporting the Community
This year, the festival has received funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, through the Watercress and Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme. This support helps ensure the festival continues to celebrate local traditions while providing a platform for world-class folk music and community engagement.
Join Whitchurch Folk Festival 2025 for an unforgettable celebration of music, heritage, and community spirit.
