Chippenham Folk Festival
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Set in the charming Wiltshire market town of Chippenham, the Chippenham Folk Festival is a vibrant four-day celebration of music, dance and community life. The 2026 festival runs from 22nd through 25th May, and for one action-packed spring weekend the town is alive with the sounds of traditional and contemporary folk music. Visitors of all ages can wander through parks and squares where stages and pop-up venues feature songs and tunes from fiddles, guitars, accordions and more - even impromptu buskers and open-mic sessions fill the air with everything from soulful ballads to lively jigs. The atmosphere is warm and inviting - a perfect blend of old-world charm and contagious energy - encouraging the whole community to sing, dance and tap along in the mild May air.
Music is at the heart of every moment at Chippenham Folk Festival. Throughout each day, visitors dive into workshops and sessions to learn traditional songs, tunes and dances. Beginners might join a harmonising sing-along or community choir, while others try lively barn dancing or ceilidhs under friendly guidance. Instrument workshops are great fun - pick up an acoustic guitar or fiddle and learn a few chords or melodies from seasoned players. As night falls, dance events and singarounds fill village halls and pubs. Even newcomers are welcome to tap their feet, clap or sing along. In cozy pub corners and on street-side benches, spontaneous jam circles pop up, as neighbors and visitors alike make music together late into the night.
The festival's friendly atmosphere makes Chippenham Folk Festival perfect for families. Children have their own space to play and create - from puppet shows and storytelling corners to craft workshops where kids can make traditional toys or learn to dance. A special under-5s area with musical play and movement activities keeps the littlest visitors entertained. Parents can relax and enjoy performances knowing many events are family-friendly and held in safe, open venues. Between concerts, visitors can browse local craft stalls and food vendors set up around the town. Local bakers, brewers and artisans serve up tasty treats and picnic snacks, making it easy to stay fueled for a day of music and merrymaking.
One of the festival's best features is its community spirit. The Chippenham Folk Festival is organized by a dedicated team of local volunteers who foster a warm, welcoming vibe. Even if you arrive on your own, you will feel at home right away as friendly locals and visitors alike strike up conversations over music. The town itself adds to the charm - historic brick buildings frame the streets and the gentle River Avon flows nearby. Between performances you might wander to a park or riverside path, or simply relax in a pub garden. As evening falls, warm lights from concert halls and outdoor gatherings give the festival a magical feel. Whether it is your first folk festival or your fifteenth, Chippenham offers a genuine, down-to-earth experience where everyone is welcome.
Whether you are a seasoned folk music aficionado or just curious to experience something new, Chippenham Folk Festival welcomes you to join in the fun. Don't miss this opportunity to tap your feet, meet kindred spirits and make lifelong memories amid the music and laughter of Chippenham's spring festival.
Chippenham is easy to reach by train or coach. The town lies on the Great Western Railway line, with frequent trains to and from London Paddington (journey time around 1 hour 15 minutes) and to Bristol and Bath (each roughly half an hour away). Chippenham station is within a short walk of the historic town centre. Many national coach services (such as National Express) also stop in Chippenham, providing connections from London, Bristol and beyond. Once in town, most venues and attractions are easily reached on foot, or you can hop on a local bus or taxi to explore further out.
By road, Chippenham is conveniently located just off the M4 motorway at Junction 17. Follow signs toward the town centre after leaving the motorway. The A4 and A350 also link Chippenham to the South West and the Midlands. Drivers will find several public car parks in town, including a large lot by the train station, and on-street pay-and-display spaces throughout the centre. Arriving early on busy days is advised, as parking can fill up during local markets or events.
For travel by air, the nearest major airport is Bristol Airport (about 25 miles west of Chippenham), which offers flights across the UK and Europe. It is roughly a one-hour drive (or slightly longer by public transport) to Chippenham from Bristol Airport. London Heathrow Airport (around 85-90 miles east) is the main international hub; from there you can take a train (via London Paddington) or drive west on the M4. Cardiff Airport and Southampton Airport are larger regional airports about two hours' drive away and may offer additional flight options. Whatever airport you use, it is best to check transport connections and book onward travel (bus, train or rental car) in advance.
Chippenham and the surrounding area provide a range of places to stay. In town you will find cosy hotels, historic inns and friendly bed-and-breakfasts, as well as modern accommodations. Many visitors also stay in nearby Bath (about 15 minutes by train), which has a larger selection of hotels and guesthouses. Be sure to book early for weekends or special events, as rooms tend to fill up. For those who prefer camping, there are several parks and sites for tents and campervans in the Wiltshire countryside around Chippenham. No matter where you stay, it is wise to confirm parking arrangements or transport from your accommodation (especially if it is outside town) to ensure an easy arrival and departure.
| Name | Star | Distance | Prices From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BEST WESTERN PLUS Angel Hotel | 2.1 ml | £92.00 | Book | |
| Bowood Hotel Spa and Golf Resort | 3.0 ml | £130.00 | Book | |
| The Jolly Huntsman | 3.4 ml | £65.00 | Book | |
| Stanton Manor Hotel | 4.4 ml | £58.00 | Book | |
| Travelodge Chippenham Leigh Delamere M4 Eastbound | 4.8 ml | £41.00 | Book | |
| Travelodge Chippenham Leigh Delamere M4 Westbound | 4.8 ml | £42.00 | Book | |
| Dove Cottage | 5.2 ml | £72.00 | Book | |
| The White Horse Inn | 5.4 ml | £60.00 | Book | |
| The Methuen Arms | 5.7 ml | £80.00 | Book | |
| Mead Lodge Bed and Breakfast | 5.7 ml | £65.00 | Book | |
| The Guyers House Hotel | 6.4 ml | £99.00 | Book | |
| The Garden House | 6.5 ml | £55.00 | Book | |
| Whitley Coach House | 6.6 ml | £91.00 | Book | |
| The Pear Tree Inn | 6.6 ml | £120.00 | Book | |
| Neeld Arms | 6.7 ml | £75.00 | Book |
Chippenham, SN153ER
