Chester Folk Festival

Chester Folk Festival 2026

Chester Folk Festival returns from Friday 22nd to Monday 25th May 2026 in the scenic Cheshire countryside near Chester, England. This four-day event celebrates traditional folk music, dance, and community spirit over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend.

Music and Dance

Enjoy a rich lineup of folk performers from across England and beyond, featuring foot-stomping jigs, reels, soulful ballads, and world-inspired rhythms. After dark, ceilidh dances led by cheerful callers invite everyone to join in, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a first-timer.

Workshops and Family Activities

Daytime workshops cover fiddle, guitar, and dance steps for beginners. A dedicated kids’ area offers crafts, puppet shows, and storytelling to keep children entertained throughout the festival.

Community and Atmosphere

Experience a warm, inclusive atmosphere with casual jam sessions, craft stalls, local treats, and campfire singalongs. The festival fosters a strong sense of community where visitors and locals connect in a relaxed, joyful environment.

Location and Setting

Set in the rolling hills of Cheshire near the village of Kelsall, the festival combines a rustic countryside backdrop with easy access to historic Chester. Visitors can explore Chester’s Roman walls, cathedral, and unique architecture alongside the festival experience.

By air, the nearest major airport to Chester is Manchester, about an hour’s drive from the city. Frequent trains and coaches link Manchester Airport (MAN) to Chester city centre, making it easy for international visitors. Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL) is another option about 30–40 minutes away by road with domestic and European flights. If you fly into Manchester, you can take a direct train from the airport to Chester station; from Liverpool you can drive or take the train.

By train and bus, Chester’s main railway station offers regular services from London (via Crewe), Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and North Wales. From Manchester Airport you can take a direct train to Chester; from other cities, trains connect via Crewe or Liverpool. Once at Chester station, local buses (for example Stagecoach No. 82) run to Kelsall village on weekdays and Saturdays; note that this service may be limited on holiday weekends. Taxis and ride-shares from Chester are another way to reach the festival site if needed.

By car, Chester is easily reached via the motorway network. From the north or south, take the M53/A55 corridor toward Chester, or use the M6 (switching to the M56 if needed). Once in Chester, head north on the A51 or A41 and follow signs for the A54 to Kelsall (towards Northwich/Tarporley). The festival site is on Chester Road in Kelsall (postcode CW6 0RS), about 8 miles north of Chester city centre. Ample on-site parking is usually provided at the festival. Traffic can be heavy on holiday weekends, so allow some extra travel time.

Accommodation in and around Chester suits all tastes. Chester city center offers charming boutique hotels and historic inns, as well as well-known chain hotels near the motorway. Nearby villages such as Kelsall and Tarporley have cosy B&Bs and pub rooms. Many festival-goers prefer camping: an official festival campsite is available, and there are local campsites and caravan parks too. Remember that the Spring Bank Holiday is a busy time, so booking your accommodation or campsite well in advance is recommended.