Whitchurch Folk Festival Returns for 2025 with a Stellar Line-up
May 10th, 2025, Whitchurch, North Hampshire
Whitchurch Folk Festival is back for another incredible 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
Last year, the 2024 festival welcomed over 800 festival goers to Whitchurch, successfully reviving a much-loved event that had been dormant for over three decades. The inaugural event was held in celebration of Paul Sartin, Whitchurch’s favourite folk son, honouring his legacy and contributions to traditional music.
FolkActive will once again be running events that celebrate Hampshire traditions, including Hampshire stepping workshops and maypole dancing.
The annual parade will return, this time featuring fishy beasts to celebrate Whitchurch’s connections to the River Test.
Whitchurch Folk Festival is a celebration of community, tradition, and musical excellence. Festival goers can also enjoy a variety of food and gift stalls, as well as a bar serving local drinks. Whether you’re a seasoned folk fan or simply looking for an uplifting day out, there’s something for everyone.
What’s New for 2025?
Friday Night Warm-Up Gig – For the first time, the festival will kick off with a special warmup gig featuring Bonfire Radicals. Tickets for this event are sold separately and 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 – Staged at the Methodist Church, free to all festival goers
Whitchurch Folk Club Stage – Staged at the Gill Nethercott Centre, this space will recreate the intimate feel of a traditional folk club.
Fringe Festival & Traditions – Expect an extended lineup of folk-adjacent performances on the Kings Arms pub garden stage throughout the day.
2025 Line-up
Martin Simpson: One of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, known for his intricate fingerpicking and deep connection to traditional music.
Leveret: A ground-breaking instrumental trio whose innovative approach to English folk music has won them widespread acclaim.
Quimantu: A pioneering band blending South American and British folk influences to create a rich, cross-cultural musical experience.
Goblin Band: Flying the LGBTQ+ flag proudly, this spirited young Tradfolk collective have taken the London folk scene by storm.
The Magpies: A vibrant transatlantic folk band weaving contemporary themes with the finest elements of the tradition.
Tamsin Elliott & Tarek Elazhary: A mesmerizing 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 bringing a distinctive and emotive approach to traditional melodies.
Jon Wilks: Local folk singer, guitarist, and storyteller with a deep love for traditional songs and the fascinating 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 o 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.
This year, the festival has received funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, through the Watercress and Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme
For tickets and more information, visit: https://whitchurchfolk.com
