Cambridge Folk Festival
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30 July - 02 August 2026
Cambridge Junction, Cambridge Junction, Clifton way, Cambridge, CB17GX
Cambridge Folk Festival is back for summer 2026, and this year it takes place at the lively Cambridge Junction venue (Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX). From 30 July through 2 August, the festival transforms the city into a four-day celebration of folk music. Music lovers of all ages are invited to enjoy beloved traditions and exciting new sounds. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming: imagine crowds dancing and singing along, with longtime folk fans and curious newcomers all coming together under a summer sky.
With music spread across Cambridge Junction's stages and halls, the festival line-up spans an eclectic mix of folk and roots music. Expect everything from classic acoustic ballads and Celtic tunes to blues, country, bluegrass and even world-music influences. Big-name artists share the bill with exciting newcomers: established folk legends may perform alongside fresh local talent, so the programme is full of surprises as well as favourites. There will be headlining concerts in the main auditorium, but also smaller acoustic sessions and spontaneous pop-up shows around the venue. Whatever the setting, your toes will be tapping to cheerful rhythms and your spirit lifted by the lively tunes.
The festival isn't all about passive listening. There are many ways to take part. You can join traditional folk dance sessions (like ceilidhs), clap along at communal sing-alongs, or even take workshops on playing folk instruments. Children and families are especially welcome – there are often dedicated kids' activities, sing-along concerts and storytelling events just for them. It's an event where grandparents, parents and kids can enjoy the music and each other's company, fostering a true sense of community. With fun craft stalls and friendly folk jams around every corner, even beginners can jump in and share the fun.
Set in the historic and picturesque city of Cambridge, the festival experience goes beyond music. You can wander along the River Cam or through college courtyards between performances, soaking up the local charm. Cambridge is famous for its beautiful architecture, bike-friendly streets and leafy parks - perfect for relaxing on a sunny afternoon. Food and drink are also part of the fun: look for stalls selling local ales, street food and handmade crafts. As evening falls, many festival-goers head to a cosy pub or café to keep the party going, with friendly folk jams and late-night sessions that often continue well into the night.
All in all, the Cambridge Folk Festival is a celebration of music, community and summer spirit. With a rich heritage since 1965, this famous folk gathering keeps its roots deep in tradition while always welcoming fresh talent. Over four days at Cambridge Junction, you can make new friends, discover new tunes, and lose yourself in the folk spirit. Whether you're a die-hard enthusiast or new to the genre, the festival's friendly community and warm atmosphere will make you feel at home. Keep an eye on the official website for lineup announcements - popular performances can sell out fast. With everyone singing and dancing together, this festival truly feels like one big family reunion.
Since its humble beginnings in 1965, the Cambridge Folk Festival has grown into a highlight of the British summertime. Every year it draws thousands of people from across the UK and beyond to celebrate folk music in Cambridge. The festival has a relaxed spirit - there are no stiff formalities, just a shared joy in great songs and good company. Many festival-goers feel like old friends returning year after year, adding to the sense of being one big folk family. Whether you come for the full weekend or just drop in for an afternoon, the Cambridge Folk Festival promises an uplifting and memorable experience.
Cambridge Junction (Clifton Way, CB1 7GX) is conveniently located just a short walk from Cambridge Railway Station. Trains run frequently to Cambridge from London and other UK cities, making the journey easy. For example, the train from London King's Cross to Cambridge takes around 50 minutes. From the station it's a 10-minute walk along Station Road and Hills Road to the Junction's entrance. Local buses also serve the area: Stagecoach Cambridge routes along Hills Road and Cherry Hinton Road stop close to the venue, connecting it with the city centre and nearby neighbourhoods. In the evenings, Cambridge's night buses cover central routes, so it's easy to return by bus or taxi after a late show. Cycling is very popular in Cambridge, and the venue provides plenty of secure bike racks for visitors arriving by bicycle.
By car, Cambridge is easily reached via the M11 motorway: from London or the south, take the M11 northbound (exit 12 is Cambridge), while from the north or west use the A14/A428 into the city and follow local signs. The venue's postcode (for SatNav) is CB1 7GX. For parking, there is a secure multi-storey car park (Cambridge Leisure) next door on Clifton Way. Daytime visitors can collect a discount code for the car park at the Junction's box office. Alternatively, you may use one of Cambridge's Park and Ride sites on the outskirts (such as Milton, Madingley or Newmarket Road) and take a bus into the city centre.
For air travel, the nearest major airport is London Stansted (about 30-40 minutes by road or train). Other London airports are within reach too: London Luton (around 60-75 minutes by car), Heathrow (around 90 minutes) and London City (just over an hour by train). Cambridge also has a small local airport (Cambridge Airport, formerly Marshall) which handles private and charter flights, but most travellers use the larger airports. From any London airport it's simple to rent a car or take a train or coach into Cambridge. Once in the city, local taxis and rideshare services can bring you straight to the Junction.
Cambridge offers a range of accommodation to suit different preferences. Visitors can choose from hotels (budget to boutique) in or around the city centre - many of them within easy reach of Cambridge Junction by bus or a short taxi ride. There are also charming guest houses, bed and breakfasts and self-catering apartments in the city's historic neighbourhoods. For those on a tight budget, Cambridge even has a youth hostel and a few inns offering basic rooms. The summer high season fills up fast, so booking early is advised. Many locals also rent out spare rooms or whole cottages, and vacation rentals (like Airbnbs) can often be found in and around Cambridge. Camping enthusiasts will find campgrounds and caravan parks in the surrounding countryside, though note that Cambridge Junction does not have its own on-site camping facilities.
| Name | Star | Distance | Prices From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The White Hart Inn | 1.6 ml | £75.00 | Book | |
| Aylesbray Lodge | 1.8 ml | £55.00 | Book | |
| Abbeyfield Guesthouse | 2.5 ml | £50.00 | Book | |
| Bridge Guest House | 2.6 ml | £60.00 | Book | |
| The Luxurious Duplex (Peymans) | 2.6 ml | £175.00 | Book | |
| The Belvedere | 2.7 ml | £164.40 | Book | |
| The Luxurious Penthouse (Peymans) | 2.7 ml | £192.00 | Book | |
| Glenalmond Apartments | 2.8 ml | £150.00 | Book | |
| The Luxurious Suite (Peymans) | 2.8 ml | £154.00 | Book | |
| The Luxurious Semi-Circle (Peymans) | 2.8 ml | £192.00 | Book | |
| NOBLEO Accordia | 2.9 ml | £199.00 | Book | |
| Warren Close Apartments | 2.9 ml | £150.00 | Book | |
| Oakley Lodge | 3.2 ml | £32.00 | Book | |
| CB1 Apartments | 3.3 ml | £120.00 | Book | |
| BEST WESTERN PLUS Cambridge Quy Mill Hotel | 3.4 ml | £85.00 | Book |
Cambridge Junction, Cambridge Junction, Clifton way, Cambridge, CB17GX
