Beardy Folk Festival

Welcome to Beardy Folk Festival! Set in the scenic 17th-century Hopton Court estate near Cleobury Mortimer, this midsummer celebration is all about folk, roots and world music. Over four days, the festival brings together an eclectic mix of bands and solo artists, including everything from traditional folk tunes to modern singer-songwriters, all in a friendly, community atmosphere. Imagine lush green fields under big summer skies, and people of all ages gathering to enjoy an unforgettable string of performances.

Live music is at the heart of Beardy Folk. Multiple stages and intimate venues host acts ranging from energetic Celtic reels to gentle acoustic ballads and vibrant world music sets. Favorite bands and artists share the bill with talented newcomers, making each day a journey through melody and song. When you're not lost in the music, a bustling trade village awaits with artisan stalls offering crafts, clothing and curios. You might join in a drum circle by the trees, catch a spontaneous dance or street performance, or simply discover another cozy spot to sit and soak up the atmosphere.

The magic goes beyond the concerts. You can take part in hands-on workshops — learn to play traditional instruments, try weaving or join a group dance. There are open-mic sessions for anyone brave enough to step forward with a guitar or a story, and quiet storytelling circles under the shade of ancient oak trees. When evening falls, the campsite paths glow with lanterns as fire pits and impromptu jam sessions spring up, where old friends catch up and new bonds are formed. Beardy Folk is as much about sharing the experience as it is about listening to music.

Families will feel right at home. A special children’s area features puppet shows, craft corners and gentle circus performances, giving kids a chance to play and explore. There are storytelling hours and nature-themed treasure hunts to keep young imaginations busy. Parents can relax on picnic blankets or benches nearby, enjoying the music while watching little ones have fun. As the sun sets, families gather under the stars by the campfires — kids snug in their sleeping bags listening to lullabies from the stage, parents clinking mugs of cider. In short, Beardy Folk truly welcomes both the very young and the young at heart.

Foodies will appreciate the variety. The bustling food village offers everything from hearty local classics (think authentic shepherd’s pie or fish and chips) to a rainbow of international flavors (spicy curries, fresh falafel, gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas, plus sweet treats for dessert). Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are well represented. Festival bars pour local real ales, crisp ciders and a small selection of wines and spirits, often into reusable festival cups to minimize waste. With picnic blankets and treats in hand, you can dine al fresco between sets or stretch out on the grass and watch the world go by under the wide summer sky.

Staying on-site turns the festival into a weekend retreat. Several campsites and pre-pitched glamping tents (some styled as yurts or tipis) dot the fields. Each pitch has easy access to clean showers, toilets and waste disposal; there’s even a solar-heated sauna for chilly mornings. Everyone in camp gets a vehicle pass so you can park by your tent, making it easy to unload your gear. Early risers love the dawn quiet — sipping coffee to the sound of birds and being first in line for breakfast and the first band of the day. Separate quiet camping areas are set aside for early sleepers, but many camper-fans find that falling asleep to distant music adds to the fun.

At its heart, Beardy Folk is a celebration of community. Strangers become friends as they dance and sing together beneath broad daylight and starry nights. Year after year the festival brings together returning fans and new visitors alike, yet the vibe remains warm and intimate. By the end of the weekend you’ll have new favorite bands to follow, happy memories of local ales around the fire, and that sense of belonging that only a midsummer folk festival can create. In short, it’s one folk party you won’t want to miss!