Teignmouth in Devon

Teignmouth Folk Festival

Teignmouth Folk Festival

The Teignmouth Folk Festival is a small, friendly, volunteer-run event held annually in Teignmouth, Devon, as close as possible to midsummer. Now in its 27th year (having celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2025), it has grown into a popular gathering for folk enthusiasts while remaining accessible and community-focused.

Dates for 2026

Friday 19 June – Sunday 21 June 2026

The festival spreads across the town centre, seafront, and various indoor venues, blending paid headline events with plenty of free entertainment.

What to Expect

It’s a relaxed, mid-summer celebration of traditional and contemporary folk music, dance, and participation. Key elements include:

  • Morris and folk dancing displays (often outdoors on the seafront or in the town “Triangle” area)
  • Concerts by established artists
  • Workshops (e.g., singing)
  • Informal music sessions
  • A lively ceilidh (traditional social dance with live band and caller)

Much of the outdoor activity and some indoor events are free of charge, making it family-friendly and open to everyone. The atmosphere is welcoming, with a strong emphasis on community — the festival is not-for-profit and relies on volunteers, donations, local sponsorship, and grants.

Teignmouth’s scenic location (on the River Teign estuary with a promenade, beach, and nearby cliffs) adds to the charm — you can enjoy performances with sea views.

Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman

Confirmed Line-up for 2026

Here are the main ticketed events announced so far:

  • Friday 19 June, 8:00pm — Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman at St James ChurchA highly regarded folk duo known for powerful vocals, intricate arrangements, and deep roots in the tradition.
  • Saturday 20 June, 7:30pm — Ceilidh with Worts ‘N All Ceilidh Band (Lis Durham, Ian Hooper, Martyn Hillstead, and Darrell Fulford) at Teignmouth Rugby Football ClubA fun, participatory evening of dancing — no experience needed!
  • Sunday 21 June, 10:30am – 1:00pm — Sandra Smith Singing Workshop (2.5 hours) at Teign Heritage Centre & MuseumA harmony-focused session led by the director of The Lost Sound Folk Choir, exploring traditional and coastal songs. This acts as a fundraiser for the festival.
  • Sunday 21 June, 5:00pm — Sam Sweeney Trio (Sam Sweeney on fiddle, Ben Nicholls on double bass, Louis Campbell on guitar) at St James ChurchEnergetic and acclaimed folk instrumentalists, with Sam known for his work with Bellowhead and solo projects.

Additional free or low-key activities (dance displays, sessions, etc.) will take place around the town and seafront throughout the weekend. The full programme is still being finalised, so more artists and events may be added.

Tickets

Tickets for the ticketed events (concerts, ceilidh, and workshop) are available now via Ticket Tailor on the official festival website.You can purchase them individually for each event.Weekend or multi-event options may be available — check the site for current pricing and any concessions.

→ Official tickets page: teignmouthfolkfestival.co.uk/tickets (links directly to Ticket Tailor)

Practical Information

  • Venues: Mainly in the town centre and seafront (flat and walkable). Key spots include St James Church, Teignmouth Rugby Club, and Teign Heritage Centre. An information point is usually staffed in The Triangle.
  • Getting there: Teignmouth is well-connected by train (station near the centre). By road via A380 or from nearby Dawlish/Shaldon/Newton Abbot. Parking is available nearby (e.g., Teign Street).
  • Accommodation: Local options in Teignmouth; camping at Lady’s Mile Holiday Park (Dawlish Warren) or Longmeadow Farm (Shaldon).
  • Accessibility & tips: The town centre is mostly flat. The festival encourages eco-friendly practices — use public transport, bring reusable bottles (Refill App for water), and recycle. Public toilets are available, including accessible facilities.
  • For families: Seafront play areas, mini-golf, and the pier are nearby, making it suitable for all ages.

The festival is run entirely by volunteers, so if you’d like to help (stewarding, etc.), email info@teignmouthfolkfestival.co.uk.

For the latest updates, full programme, or to buy tickets, visit the official website: teignmouthfolkfestival.co.ukYou can also follow them on Facebook (Teignmouth Folk Festival) or Instagram.

It’s a lovely, low-key way to enjoy folk music and dance in a beautiful seaside setting — perfect if you want something more intimate than the bigger festivals like Sidmouth. If you’re planning to go, booking the headline concerts early is recommended as they can sell out! Let me know if you’d like recommendations for accommodation, travel, or similar events nearby.