Cornwall’s rich folk music tradition is alive and well, with a variety of venues and events offering locals and visitors alike a chance to experience its haunting melodies and lively rhythms this season.
From historic pubs to cultural festivals, the county’s folk scene is buzzing with opportunities to hear traditional tunes, as highlighted by enthusiasts and event organisers today.
One prime spot is The Acorn in Penzance, a former church-turned-arts hub renowned for its intimate folk performances.
This month, the venue hosts a series of acoustic nights, including a set by local trio Dalla on April 10, known for their Cornish Celtic dance music.
“It’s a unique space that brings out the soul of folk,” said artistic director Lizzy Humber, encouraging bookings via the venue’s website.
In St. Ives, Kettle & Wink is gaining a reputation as a folk hotspot, with its well-established Monday night sessions drawing both seasoned musicians and newcomers.
“You’ll hear everything from sea shanties to Cornish ballads,” said regular attendee Mark Tregaskis. The pub’s cosy atmosphere and open mic vibe make it a favourite for spontaneous performances, starting at 8 p.m. weekly.
For a taste of tradition, the Countryman Inn near Camborne hosts the Countryman Cornish Session every Monday from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Featuring instruments like fiddles and tin whistles, the session celebrates Cornish heritage in a laid-back pub setting.
“It’s a chance to play or just listen to tunes passed down for generations,” noted organiser Paul Carter.
Further east, The Cornish Bank in Falmouth offers a modern twist on folk nights every Monday, blending traditional sounds with contemporary flair.
The not-for-profit venue, a cornerstone of the town’s music revival, also hosts the monthly Klub Nos Lowen, a lively Cornish dance and music event. “It’s about keeping the culture alive for the next generation,” said manager Sophie Reynolds.
Festival-goers can look forward to the Cornwall Folk Festival in Wadebridge, set for August 22-26 over the bank holiday weekend.
While months away, early buzz highlights acts like Seth Lakeman and the Kinnaris Quintet, with free street performances adding to the appeal. “It’s a celebration of folk from Cornwall and beyond,” said festival spokesperson Mike Walford.
Cornwall’s folk revival owes much to its Celtic roots, with venues like the Union Hotel in Penzance hosting Tuesday trad sessions from 8 p.m., and the Kings Arms in Luxulyan offering a Cornish session every second Sunday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
“These gatherings are the heartbeat of our music scene,” said folk historian Kate Neale of the Cornish National Music Archive.
With its rugged coastline and storied past, Cornwall provides the perfect backdrop for folk music, whether in a pub, theatre, or festival tent. As the spring season unfolds, these hidden gems invite all to tune in and tap along.
