Gate to Southwell Festival Southwell, England 2026

Overview

The Gate to Southwell Festival celebrates its 19th edition in 2026 as a leading not-for-profit international roots and acoustic music event, set in the enchanting lakeside parkland of Kirklington near the historic market town of Southwell, Nottinghamshire. Founded in 2007 by a team of passionate volunteers, this four-day gathering draws around 3,000 attendees for a diverse showcase of over 60 acts across four main stages, blending folk, Americana, world, ska, punk, jazz, blues, and more. Shortlisted in the 2024 UK Festival Awards, it’s hailed as “quite possibly the best small folk and roots festival in the UK” for its ambitious programming and inclusive vibe.

From Thursday’s intimate openers to Sunday’s grand finales, the festival transforms the serene lakeside into a hub of melody and merriment, with street theatre, comedy, spoken word, kids’ activities, and late-night campfire sessions. Run without salaried staff, all surplus supports future events, fostering a community-driven spirit where music flows freely amid wildflowers and water reflections—inviting all to unwind, connect, and carry away songs, laughter, and lasting magic.

Event Highlights

• Main activities or performances: Over 60 acts on four main stages featuring folk-rock virtuosos, Americana storytellers, and global fusions; headline sets like Richard Thompson’s guitar mastery; late-night bar sessions and ceilidhs; spoken word and comedy interludes.
• Special traditions or features: Annual ceilidhs and folk dances emphasizing variety; youth and kids’ zones with interactive entertainment; not-for-profit ethos reinvesting in community; lakeside stage with new cover for weather-proof magic.
• Unique attractions for visitors: Street theatre and campfire singarounds by the lake; artisan markets with local crafts; family-friendly zones blending music with play; scenic walks in Nottinghamshire’s countryside; Wednesday add-on for early socials at the Boathouse bar.

Why Attend

Gate to Southwell 2026 offers a rejuvenating retreat into acoustic bliss, where lakeside stages echo with eclectic roots that bridge continents and generations, all enveloped in a volunteer-fueled warmth that turns first-timers into lifelong devotees. It’s a haven for folk aficionados seeking depth and discovery—envision swaying to Richard Thompson’s witty riffs or joining a raucous ceilidh under starlit skies—while families thrive with dedicated kids’ antics and inclusive dances. In an era of oversized events, this intimate gem rivals Cambridge Folk in ambition yet excels in accessibility and heart, promising serendipitous encounters that spark joy and camaraderie.

Beyond the tunes, it’s a celebration of community and creativity: workshops ignite skills, comedy tents erupt in laughter, and the not-for-profit model ensures every note supports shared dreams. Dog lovers and eco-warriors appreciate the green spaces and low-impact ethos, foodies the local ciders and bites. Whether chasing nostalgia in traditional reels or embracing punk-infused shanties, attending means immersing in Nottinghamshire’s pastoral poetry—emerging with a fuller soul, fresh playlists, and an unbreakable bond to this hidden folk paradise.

Date & Duration

Dates: July 2 – July 5, 2026

Duration: 4 days

Venue / Location

The festival unfolds across lakeside parkland with four main stages (including a covered lakeside one), a Boathouse bar for early arrivals, dance areas for ceilidhs, kids’ zones, and campfire spots—all nestled in serene Nottinghamshire countryside, just 3 miles from Southwell’s historic minster and market.

Main event address: Archway House, Kirklington, Newark NG22 8NX, UK

Ticket Information

• How tickets are sold: Online via the official website (gtsf.uk/tickets); tiered releases (Tier 2 now available, limited); 5% booking fee covers admin; gift vouchers in £10/£50 increments; single day tickets TBA around Easter.
• Whether admission is free or paid: Paid event; under-12s free; big discounts for 12-17s.
• Tell ticket pricing in usd only: Weekend Extra (Thu-Sun) from $226 USD; Weekend (Fri-Sun) from $200 USD; Wednesday Add-On $20 USD; camping per person $30 USD; standard pitch $14 USD; large pitch $34 USD.
• Any special seating or VIP options: Bring own chairs/blankets; accessible areas (see carers below); no formal VIP but early Wednesday access for add-on holders.
• ADD MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM TICKETS PRICING TELL: Minimum ticket price: $0 USD (under-12s); Maximum ticket price range: $300 USD (Weekend Extra adult with camping and large pitch).
• Carer tickets: Free/discounted for eligible (DLA/PIP/Attendance Allowance at middle/highest rate); apply via email with proof. No refunds unless canceled; vehicle movement restricted on campsite weekends.

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Contact Information

• Email: news@southwellfolkfestival.org.uk (general inquiries); tickets@southwellfolkfestival.org.uk (tickets); accessibility via general for carers.
• Phone: +44 1636 816678 (main line, English available).
• Website: https://gtsf.uk (See Official Site).
• Social Media: @gatetosouthwellfestival (Facebook, YouTube via site links).
• Key Staff: Mike Kirrage (director); volunteer-led team.
• Press/Volunteers: Press via news email; volunteering (stewarding, hosting) via get-involved page; artist applications open.
• Note: Response time ~24–48 hours. English support; mailing list for updates.

Getting There

• Nearest airports: East Midlands (EMA, 25 miles/40 minutes drive); Nottingham (NQT, 20 miles/30 minutes); Birmingham (BHX, 60 miles/1 hour).
• Public transport: Train to Newark North Gate (from London Kings Cross, 1.5 hours, $50-80 USD), then taxi ($20 USD) or festival bus (TBA, $10 USD); buses from Nottingham via Stagecoach ($8 USD).
• Parking: On-site with pitches ($14-34 USD, included in camping); campsite car park for unloading; no weekend movement.
• Driving directions: From A1, exit at Newark onto A617 to Southwell, then B6385 to Kirklington; satnav NG22 8NX; 8 miles from A1.
• Shuttle services: Festival bus from Southwell town TBA; taxis from Newark Station.
• Cycling/walking: 3-mile walk from Southwell; bike racks; flat lakeside paths aid mobility.

Accommodation Options

• Official camping: Per person $30 USD (Thu-Sun or Fri-Sun); standard pitch $14 USD (8x5m for small tent/campervan); large pitch $34 USD (8x8m for motorhome/caravan); free for under-12s; no space-holding.
• Glamping: Tee & Toast options $325-520 USD (upgrade, includes bedding; book separately via partners).
• Nearby hotels: Saracen’s Head, Southwell (inn, $120-200 USD/night); Langar Hall (5 miles, $150-250 USD).
• B&Bs and rentals: Nottinghamshire cottages via Airbnb ($90-160 USD/night); artist homestay hosting via site.
• Accessibility: Carer camping included; adapted pitches/toilets (pre-book).
• Booking tip: High demand—bundle with tickets; campsite closes Mon; extend with Southwell Minster visits.

Reviews

Lakeside lullaby of folk wonder—diverse acts danced across stages, kids romped free, felt like the UK’s coziest roots haven.

Richard Thompson’s riffs lit the night; ceilidhs swirled with joy—volunteer magic made every moment feel like family.

Intimate yet epic: Campfire tunes to global grooves, laughter echoing over water—left enchanted, eagerly plotting return.