The time has come for the annual Trowbridge Festival!
The time has come once again for the annual Trowbridge Festival!
Come down to the Greenhill Fields in Southwick, Trowbridge where the incredible lineup is sure to bring musical extravaganza this summer, July 26th -28th.
This year, come celebrate the festival’s 50th anniversary with an exclusive performance from Jon Boden and Maddy Prior.
Also on Saturday are the spectacular RSVP Bhangra, who are sure to get you moving with not just their performance, but a dance workshop.
The line-up is huge and looking to set Wiltshire ablaze, though the festival is more than just music.
Kids entertainment is also on the scene with SASS events – doing hula hoop workshops, stilt walking, and a fire show!
All ages are also invited to Damien Patton’s circus skills workshops. This and much more to explore with plenty of interactive and crafting activities.
Holt Morris dancers are also bringing the bells, and Yoga sessions are on Friday and Saturday mornings. On Sunday morning, find your centre with some tai-chi.
Be entertained by SATCO performing early afternoon on Saturday and Sunday doing a couple of synchronised swims in the arena, as part of their farewell tour.
Finally, don’t forget our open mic daily. Bring your own instruments, voices and join in!
Day and full weekend tickets are available NOW!
See you there!
More exciting artists join this year’s line up!
Where has April gone with its trail of lineup reveals? There’s just a brief window left to snag your weekend tickets at Tier 1 prices before they ascend on May 1st. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to secure your spot at the best value possible! We’ve already spoiled you with an incredible line up of artists for our special 50th anniversary, but wait, there’s more! Feast your eyes on the following additions to this summers event. A collection of incredible Trowbridge Festival stalwarts and amazing newcomers.
RSVP Bhangra
Get ready to experience the electrifying revival of live Bhangra in the UK with RSVP leading the charge. As pioneers of the genre, RSVP introduces Bhangra to mainstream audiences, captivating them with their innovative fusion of Punjabi Indian music with dance beats, rap, reggae, folk, and mainstream pop.
RSVP Bhangra’s distinctive sound has taken the music scene by storm, earning them a dedicated following that keeps coming back for more. From the pulsating rhythms of Punjabi beats to the infectious energy of dance floors, their music resonates with audiences worldwide.
With a storied history of performances at iconic festivals like Glastonbury (12 years) and WOMAD (4 years), as well as countless others across the UK and internationally, RSVP has solidified their status as trailblazers in the Bhangra scene. Their tours across Europe have garnered acclaim, earning them numerous Best Bhangra Band awards along the way.
Join RSVP on a musical journey that transcends borders and celebrates the vibrant spirit of Bhangra like never before.
Mustard Allegro
Prepare to be swept away by the infectious energy of Mustard Allegro, a musical powerhouse born from the fusion of former members of The Model Folk. With a fresh take on traditional pieces and original material, Mustard Allegro offers a captivating blend of influences spanning from reggae to klezmer, Balkan to ska, and Afrobeat to surf.
Their music is a celebration of diversity, aimed at bringing joy and laughter to all who listen. Whether you’re tapping your feet to the rhythm or fully immersed in the dance floor frenzy, Mustard Allegro guarantees a dynamic experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
Join them on a musical odyssey that transcends boundaries and ignites the spirit of laughter and dance in equal measure.
Gilmore & Roberts
Prepare to be spellbound by the contemporary acoustic magic of Gilmore & Roberts, a duo renowned for their award-winning songwriting and extraordinary musicianship. With Katriona Gilmore on fiddle and mandolin, and Jamie Roberts on guitar, their seamless harmonies forge a deep connection with every listener.
Having earned three nominations at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, Gilmore & Roberts continue to push musical boundaries with their latest album, “Documenting Snapshots” (released 29.9.23). This collection of emotionally charged songs draws inspiration from captivating stories, both personal and historical, and showcases the duo’s ability to traverse genres—from rock to Americana—with ease.
Experience their captivating live performance, where every song has the power to make you dance, cry, and ponder. With their relaxed stage presence and engaging banter, Gilmore & Roberts create an unforgettable musical journey that lingers in your heart long after the final note fades.
Keith Christmas
Embark on a musical journey spanning over five decades with the legendary Keith, whose illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the music scene. From recording multiple albums to gracing the acoustic guitar on Bowie’s iconic “Space Oddity” album, Keith’s influence knows no bounds.
Having performed at the inaugural Glastonbury Festival in 1970 and shared stages with luminaries such as The Who, King Crimson, and Frank Zappa, Keith’s live performances are the stuff of legend. His resurgence in popularity with the release of “Crazy Dancing Days” in late December 2016 and the critically acclaimed “Life, Life” in 2019, recorded and mastered at Sambourne House, has solidified his status as a musical force to be reckoned with.
Now, as he delves into the creation of his next album, Keith continues to push the boundaries of his craft, captivating audiences with his unparalleled talent and timeless melodies.
Djammy Dodgers
Indulge in the enchanting sounds of Bristol-based band Djammy Dodgers, where luscious gypsy jazz meets a refreshing flutey twist!
Stonegallows
Established in 1969 and named after the renowned Taunton pub, The Stonegallows kicked off as a trio consisting of Alan Briars, Pat Drinkwater, and John Alderslade. The band’s origin story is as charming as their music—sparked by a passing glance at the Stonegallows pub during a return trip from a Devon folk club gig. “That’s a good name for a band,” they mused, and thus began their journey.
Over the years, The Stonegallows has seen a revolving door of members, including Alan Briars, Tony Batten, Ruthie Behan, John Neil, Joffre White, Richard (Will) Whitemarsh, Richard Williams, and Bertie Wright, with John Alderslade remaining a steadfast presence.
Their breakthrough moment arrived at the inaugural Lacock Festival in 1972, catapulting them to greater heights with standout performances in Rotherham and at the Sidmouth Festival later that same year. From humble beginnings to festival stages, The Stonegallows’ legacy is one of camaraderie and musical excellence.
The Ciderhouse Rebellion
We are thrilled to unveil an addition to our lineup, The Ciderhouse Rebellion. Prepare to be swept away by their profound, eloquent, and hauntingly dramatic performances. Masters of improvisation, virtuoso musicians Adam Summerhayes and Murray Grainger come together to craft mesmerizing tapestries of sound in real-time. Their expertise lies in conjuring music spontaneously, drawing inspiration from traditional tunes or their own compositions, often stemming from a single note, key, time signature, or emotion. This singular focus on improvisation imbues their music with a uniquely magical quality, as they seek to create sonic narratives without conscious thought, always exploring the realms of the unexpected. Join us as we embark on a journey of musical discovery with The Ciderhouse Rebellion.
Spill the Whisky
Get ready to kick up your heels with Spill The Whisky ceilidh band—an ensemble of talented instrumentalists led by caller Debra Webb and guitarist Tim Webb (also known as Phil Cleverly of The Cleverly Brothers). Joining them in the Trowbridge Festival lineup are David Moss from Light Garden and melodeon virtuoso Bertie Wright.
Whether you’re a seasoned ceilidh dancer or someone with “2 left feet,” Spill The Whisky invites you to join in the fun. With their infectious energy and lively tunes, they’ve brought joy to countless parties, weddings, and festivals. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic firsthand!
From beginners to festival regulars, everyone is guaranteed to have a blast on the dance floor with Spill The Whisky. So grab your dancing shoes and get ready for an unforgettable ceilidh experience!
We’re now on the countdown to this year’s festival, have you got your ticket yet?
Springing into Action: The line up continues….
Thanks to your insatiable hunger for live music and Trowbridge Festival Tier 1 weekend tickets have flown out the door, coming close to selling out the first release of tickets.
Meaning that we now have a short window before the tier 2 tickets are released. So, get your Weekend tickets in quick at the cheaper rate!
You have every reason to be excited, as we reveal the next selection of the best live music around joining us on this special anniversary!
The Band from County Hell
2022 saw two BFCH original songs, “Meet The Folks” and “Pussycat” being used as part of the soundtrack in a brand-new feature film “Morris Men”. The movie is directed by Gregg Masuak.
Kathryn Roberts Sean Lakeman
For over a quarter of a century this dynastic family Kathryn Roberts and Sean Lakeman’s partnership has proved personal, permanent and pivotal.
Langkamer
The Bristol 4 Langkamer land somewhere between Lynyrd Skynyrd and Pavement. Taking the vast existential worries of modern life and dress them up in rambling pop sensibilities, swerving between vibrant sing-alongs and off-kilter guitar melodies.
Fly Yeti Fly
Now living on their canal boat on the Kennet & Avon, their music is heavily influenced by the ebb and flow of life on the water.
Billy in the Lowground
Sound tracking the sort of hell raising festival folk tunes, to back room bawling and bar room brawling, or escaping to brighter futures, the familiarity of the world you know or just a damned good night out. If Nashville were in Somerset, Billy In The Lowground would be one of its leading lights.
Concrete Prairie
While their compositions tackle big themes, the songs are shot through with hope, evidenced by a spirited and rousing sound orchestrated with twanging guitars, straining fiddle and yearning prose.?
Devil’s Doorbell
Nipper has played Gypsy Jazz and Swing music for over 20 years, performing in many bands. His strong jazz rhythm playing, and distinctive vocals lend vintage authenticity to the band. Jellylegs began her musical journey playing drums and shouting in a punk band. She has the raucous energy and D.I.Y spirit of early punk this completes the Devil’s Doorbell sound. Having cut their teeth busking on the streets and the canal towpath they are now bringing their unique style to a wider audience.
Jolly Roger
The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican
A group that is both perpetually on the move, ever-evolving and joyously independent, they have played close to 1300 side-splitting shows to date and have brought smiles and belly-laughs to audiences across the UK.
This is, we are sure that you will agree, an incredible line up for such an intimate festival! You’ll be joining the best music the circuit has to offer, with like-minded individuals with which you will share exceptional taste in music!
Let the 2024 Line Up Begin!
Marking the 50th Anniversary of the very first Trowbridge Village Pump Festival requires a very special line up! We’re please to announce the first set of artists to join this years festival, taking place on Friday 26th to Sunday 28th of July 2024.
Jon Boden and Maddy Prior
Experience a historic union as Maddy Prior and Jon Boden unite to commemorate 50 remarkable years of the Village Pump Trowbridge Festival.
In 1974, Maddy and Tim Hart graced the Village Pump folk club’s stage, the very origin of this beloved festival. Picture them perched on beer barrels atop a farm cart, with Maddy daringly engaging in clog dancing (a moment not to be forgotten!).
Though Tim Hart has left us, Jon Boden, a long-time admirer of his singing, enthusiastically steps in to join Maddy. Together, they’ll delve into the cherished early recordings found in Folk Songs of Olde England Vol 1 & 2 and Summer Solstice.
This promises to be an exhilarating and unique experience for both artists, marking a significant milestone in their illustrious careers.
Gaz Brookfield
Since clinching Acoustic Magazine’s Singer/Songwriter of the Year title in 2010, Gaz has embarked on a remarkable journey spanning 14 years, captivating audiences across the UK and beyond. His relentless dedication has earned him a devoted fanbase.
Gaz proudly holds the distinction of being the first independent musician to sell out iconic Bristol venues like The Fleece (450 capacity), The Bierkeller (750 capacity), and more recently, SWX (1000 capacity).
With nine studio albums to his credit, Gaz’s latest offering, “Morning Walking Club,” soared to the #1 spot on the Official UK Folk Album Charts and an impressive #37 on the main Official Album Charts.
This achievement is a testament to Gaz’s fiercely independent spirit—he navigates the music scene armed only with his guitar, a trusty van, and an unwavering refusal to bow to industry norms.
Mr Tea & The Minions
Fronted by Elle’s commanding vocals and propelled by Lucy’s spirited folk fiddling, the band is unleashing three new tracks that stand as their strongest offerings yet. These tunes have been igniting crowds at their wildly colorful, theatrical live shows.
At the heart of every performance lies a shared experience—the band treats the audience as co-conspirators, all in for an unforgettable time. With over 100 appearances at top UK festivals including Glastonbury, Boomtown, WOMAD, and many more, Mr Tea and the Minions bring an unparalleled energy to the stage. As aptly put by The Independent, their sets are nothing short of bouncing—resistance is futile!
Nothing Rhymes with Orange
Since forming in a Wiltshire secondary school, the band has been hitting stages across the South West with unwavering consistency. Their talent hasn’t gone unnoticed, with support pouring in from local radio stations like BBC Introducing in the West. Notably, two of their tracks have been featured, including their latest release, “Friday Is Over,” marking an exciting new chapter for the band.
Ninotchka
Matt Owens
With a decade of globe-trotting under their belt and over a million albums sold in the UK alone, Matt Owens, the former Noah and the Whale founder, is back with a vengeance, embracing a new era of rock ‘n’ roll song-noir. Get ready to witness music history in the making.
SykesMartin
With double bass, fiddle, banjo, and guitars in tow, Miranda and Hannah blend their voices seamlessly, infusing their deep-rooted knowledge of folk music with a contemporary flair. From poignant ballads to exhilarating chorus songs, their set is a testament to the timeless power of storytelling through song.
Join these mesmerizing storytellers as they breathe new life into age-old melodies, delivering a performance that is both captivating and soul-stirring—a heartfelt homage to our shared musical heritage.
Chris Fox
Prepare to be enchanted by Chris Fox, an award-winning contemporary singer-songwriter whose music defies genre boundaries, blending Folk, Americana, Country, and Blues. With velvety vocals and intricate guitar melodies, Chris crafts intimate and inclusive live experiences, effortlessly weaving tales of everyday life with humor and thought-provoking insight.
Chris’s musical journey began with the release of his debut album, “From the Shadows,” in 2019, followed by the critically acclaimed “In Plain Sight” in September ’22. His music has garnered international acclaim, earning airplay on radio stations worldwide and praise from esteemed publications such as Folk Radio UK, RnR Magazine, Irish Music Magazine, and AmericanaUK.
Recognized for his talent, Chris has been nominated for Best Male Artist of the Year by FATEA in 2023 and has won singer-songwriter competitions at the Cromer and Lichfield festivals. Get ready to be transported by the soulful melodies and captivating storytelling of Chris Fox.
Swingletree
Picture yourself by the water’s edge, swept away by the haunting melodies of ancient mariners and the tender whispers of bygone romances. With each note, Jassy and Ted weave a tapestry of emotions, blending their voices in heartwarming harmonies that resonate deep within the soul.
From the gentle lapping of waves to the melancholic echoes of love’s longing, their songs paint vivid portraits of life’s timeless themes. Join this captivating duo as they invite you to explore the depths of human experience through the magic of folk music.
We hope you’ve enjoyed your first look this years line up. We’ll be announcing many more acts very soon. In the meantime why not grab your ticket and secure your spot. We also still have a few discounted Early Bird tickets available so act fast!
Announcing Trowbridge Festival 2024
We are delighted to announce that tickets for Trowbridge Festival are now on sale!
2024 marks the 50th year since the very first Trowbridge Village Pump Festival. Staying true to our roots we have an incredible line up for 2024 to announce very shortly. Including a UK Festival debut exclusive!
There will be some surprises from the past, as well as the freshest most exciting prospects the UK has to offer, along with some Festival bangers, old friend, new friends and the throbbing heart of Trowbridge’s live music scene!
Taking place over the last weekend in July Friday 26th – Sunday 28th inclusive, we return to the Greenhill Fields site, home of last years event. Full camping details will be released very soon, so continue to keep an eye on the website, follow all our socials for the latest updates and line up announcements, and we will see you in a few months time!