A Stone's Throw

A Stone’s Throw Festival

For one day each late spring, the coastal town of North Shields (just east of Newcastle) becomes a vibrant multi-venue music festival. A Stone’s Throw is an independent celebration that brings together musicians from around the world, yet it always feels welcoming and local at heart. Dozens of bands perform here from afternoon into late night, and the lineup spans genres – indie rock, folk, electronic and more – so there’s something exciting for every music fan. Meanwhile the town buzzes with energy: friends meet at street food stalls between sets, families enjoy live folk tunes down by the fish quay, and new friendships form as people dance together on the waterfront. In short, it’s a relaxed seaside party celebrating fresh music and good company.

Coastal Music Trail

The festival’s format truly plays to its coastal setting. Dozens of venues in North Shields (and sometimes neighboring Tynemouth) host back-to-back performances, effectively creating a “coastal music trail.” In its early editions A Stone’s Throw packed well over one hundred artists into shows along that stretch of the Tyne. Most venues lie just a short walk apart, so concertgoers often stroll from stage to stage. For example, you might hear a singer-songwriter strumming in a street-side café, then turn a corner to find an electric band lighting up a nearby warehouse stage. Even the town’s historic fish quay joins the party, with pop-up food and craft beer stalls lining the festive crowds. It all feels like one big community celebration.

Community Spirit

A Stone’s Throw has an inclusive, community-driven spirit. Audiences range from young families to lifelong music lovers, and everyone shares a love of live performance. You might see grandparents nodding along to an acoustic set as teens dance to indie rock in the next venue. Volunteers and friendly staff help first-timers find their way, and the overall vibe is laidback and adventurous – come as you are, whether you’re in a band tee or a warm jacket against the sea breeze. Nothing is too rigid: people often chat with musicians after a set, and informal jams or pop-up art stalls can surprise you between scheduled shows. In short, it feels more like a big neighborhood block party than a formal concert lineup.

Music and Art

Artistically, the lineup is always diverse. Shows range from mellow folk performances under seaside string lights to high-energy rock or electronic sets in local halls. The festival mixes home-grown North East favorites with fresh faces from the UK and beyond, giving fans a chance to discover new talent right alongside established acts. Every performance feels high-quality yet intimate: the sound and lighting are professional, but you never feel lost in a crowd. Many artists even stick around after playing to catch friends’ acts or chat with the audience. Because of this independent, creative spirit, you might also spot local art installations, poetry readings or video projections adding extra flavor at various venues. It’s an event built by music lovers, for music lovers.

Seaside Setting

And remember, you’re on the coast. Between acts, step outside to enjoy the fresh North Sea air or explore the historic fish market – maybe even watching boats glide by on the Tyne. As evening falls, the fun often continues: many venues host after-parties or late-night sets well into the night. All told, A Stone’s Throw is a full-day celebration of music and community by the water. It’s a festival where songs meet seascapes, and where all ages come together to enjoy the very best of the North East’s creative spirit.