Sidmouth Folk Festival

Sidmouth Folk Festival: What to Expect from One of Britain’s Best-Loved Traditions

Each summer, Sidmouth comes alive with music, dance and a wonderful sense of community as it hosts the Sidmouth Folk Festival. Known nationally as one of the UK’s most respected folk festivals, it has been part of the town’s cultural life for decades and attracts visitors of all ages from across the country.

For guests staying in Sidmouth, the festival offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional music and dance in a relaxed seaside setting — often just a short walk from your accommodation. Whether you are a long-time folk enthusiast or simply curious to see what it’s all about, the Sidmouth Folk Festival is welcoming, inclusive and easy to enjoy at your own pace.

When Does the Sidmouth Folk Festival Usually Take Place?

The Sidmouth Folk Festival is traditionally held in early August, usually spanning around eight days, including a full weekend at either end. This timing makes it one of the highlights of the summer season in Sidmouth.

Because it takes place during the warmer months, much of the festival spills outdoors, with performances, dance displays and informal music sessions happening along the seafront, in gardens, marquees and local venues. The town feels lively but not overwhelming, with plenty of opportunities to dip in and out of events as you choose.

What Is the Sidmouth Folk Festival?

At its heart, the Sidmouth Folk Festival is a celebration of traditional and contemporary folk culture. While music is central, the festival is much broader than concerts alone.

Across the week, you can expect:

Live folk music performances by well-known and emerging artists
Traditional dance, including Morris dancing, ceilidh and social dance
Informal music sessions in pubs, cafés and outdoor spaces
Workshops and talks for those who want to learn more
Family-friendly activities and daytime events

The atmosphere is friendly and informal, and you do not need any prior knowledge of folk music to enjoy it. Many visitors come simply to watch, listen and soak up the atmosphere.

Music and Performances

The festival programme usually includes a mix of ticketed concerts and free events. Larger performances often take place in established venues or marquees, while smaller, more spontaneous performances can be found throughout the town.

Music styles range from traditional English folk to contemporary interpretations, as well as influences from Celtic and international traditions. One of the pleasures of the festival is discovering artists you may not have heard before, often in intimate settings.

For guests who prefer a quieter experience, daytime performances and early evening events are particularly enjoyable and easy to fit around meals and relaxation.

Dance and Street Entertainment

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Sidmouth Folk Festival is its dance programme. Throughout the week, you’ll see colourful dance displays in public spaces, from the seafront to town squares and gardens.

Morris dancers, in particular, are a familiar and much-loved sight, often performing in small groups accompanied by live musicians. Watching these performances is completely free and requires no planning — you may simply come across them during a stroll along the promenade.

For many visitors, these spontaneous moments become some of the most memorable parts of the festival.

The Atmosphere Around Town

During the festival, Sidmouth retains its traditional seaside charm while gaining an added buzz. The town feels sociable and welcoming, with visitors and performers mixing easily.

Cafés, pubs and shops often become informal performance spaces, and simply sitting with a drink while listening to live music can be a pleasure in itself. Despite the increase in visitors, the festival is well established and well managed, and Sidmouth continues to feel comfortable and easy to navigate.

Staying in Sidmouth During the Folk Festival

Because the Sidmouth Folk Festival is so popular, accommodation in the town is often in high demand during early August. Staying centrally allows you to make the most of the festival without relying on transport or planning complicated journeys.

The Bedford Hotel, Sidmouth, is ideally placed for festival visitors, with easy access to the seafront, town centre and many festival venues. Guests often appreciate being able to enjoy performances during the day and return to the comfort of the hotel whenever they wish.

After a day immersed in music and dance, a good night’s rest and a relaxed breakfast make all the difference.

Is the Sidmouth Folk Festival Right for You?

You do not need to be a folk music expert to enjoy the festival. It is particularly well suited to guests who:

Enjoy live music and traditional culture
Like friendly, community-focused events
Prefer flexible days rather than tightly scheduled programmes
Appreciate combining culture with a seaside holiday

Many visitors attend year after year, while others discover the festival by chance and are pleasantly surprised by its warmth and accessibility.

A Summer Tradition Worth Experiencing

The Sidmouth Folk Festival is more than just an event — it is a long-standing summer tradition that reflects the town’s welcoming spirit and love of culture. Whether you plan your visit around it or simply happen to be in Sidmouth while it’s taking place, it offers a wonderful glimpse into one of Devon’s most cherished celebrations.