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The Gloucester Folk Trail is back! From February 14th to 16th, the streets of Gloucester will come alive with music, workshops, performances, and the vibrant traditions of folk culture.
This family-friendly festival, organised by Gloucester Business Improvement (BID) and now in its eighth year, celebrates everything from toe-tapping tunes to hands-on crafts, connecting attendees with the rich heritage of folk arts.
With a variety of workshops, interactive sessions, and performances from local and renowned talent, the Folk Trail offers something for everyone - whether you're a folk enthusiast, an aspiring musician, or simply curious about the world of folk traditions.
Workshops and Sessions
Weave a Willow Heart with Helen Lomberg
Date & Time: Friday, February 14th at 10:30 AM and 11:30 AM
Venue: Gloucestershire Arts & Crafts Centre
Description: Learn the ancient craft of willow weaving with expert Helen Lomberg, and create a beautiful heart decoration to take home. Perfect for beginners or craft lovers!
Tickets: £5
Booking: Gloucester Folk Trail Workshops
Create Your Morris Masterpiece: Rosettes & Bells Workshop
Date & Time: Saturday, February 15th at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM
Venue: Museum of Gloucester
Description: Dive into the vibrant tradition of Morris dancing by crafting your own rosettes and bells—essential accessories for any dancer!
Tickets: £5
Booking: Museum of Gloucester
'Don’t Bore Us, Get to the Chorus' with Jim Rowley
Date & Time: Saturday, February 15th at 11:00 AM
Venue: The Folk of Gloucester
Description: Join acclaimed songwriter Jim Rowley for an engaging workshop on crafting compelling, memorable choruses. Perfect for budding songwriters!
Tickets: Free (booking required)
Booking: Gloucester Folk Trail Workshops
'How to Put an Oomph in Your Tunes' with Christine Reynolds
Date & Time: Sunday, February 16th at 12:00 PM
Venue: The Folk of Gloucester
Description: Christine Reynolds will teach musicians how to inject energy and dynamics into their playing. A must-attend session for anyone looking to enhance their sound.
Tickets: £3
Booking: Gloucester Folk Trail Workshops
Slow Session with Polly
Date & Time: Sunday, February 16th at 1:00 PM
Venue: The Folk of Gloucester
Description: New to folk sessions? Polly’s Slow Session is perfect for beginners, offering a relaxed pace to learn and enjoy traditional tunes.
Tickets: Free
Details: Gloucester Folk Trail Workshops
Featured Performances
• Ferocious Dog
Date & Time: Saturday, February 15th; Doors open at 7:30 PM
Venue: Gloucester Guildhall
Description: Folk-rock legends Ferocious Dog headline this year’s Folk Trail with their energetic and powerful performance. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening of music.
Tickets: £22
Booking: Gloucester Guildhall Events
• Gloucester Folk Trail Ceilidh with BANTER
Date & Time: Sunday, February 16th at 3:00 PM
Venue: Gloucester Guildhall
Description: Round off the weekend with a lively ceilidh led by the dynamic folk band BANTER. It’s a celebration of community, dance, and music for all to enjoy!
Tickets: £10-£13
Booking: Gloucester Guildhall Events
Additional Activities
• Morris on the Gate Streets
Date & Time: Saturday, February 15th from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Location: Across Gloucester’s historic Gate Streets
Description: Experience the vibrant tradition of Morris dancing as troupes perform lively routines throughout the city’s historic streets.
• Arts and Crafts with Sarah
Date & Time: Saturday, February 15th and Sunday, February 16th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Venue: The Ed Shed, The Folk of Gloucester
Description: Get hands-on with folk-inspired crafts, including rag rugging, weaving, and creating mini dioramas based on traditional folk tales. Fun for all ages!
Booking: Gloucester Folk Trail Workshops
Celebrate Folk, Culture, and Community
The Gloucester Folk Trail 2025 celebrates the heart and soul of folk culture, combining tradition with fresh, modern experiences. This festival is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Gloucester’s heritage, with events that showcase the creativity and community spirit of the city.
“The Folk Trail is a celebration of everything that makes Gloucester unique,” said Pat Roberts, Folk Trail Community Lead. “It’s a chance to bring people together through music, storytelling, and creativity while preserving the traditions that define our cultural identity.”
In addition, visitors can enjoy live music at venues across Gloucester, featuring talented local and regional artists. The city’s pubs and cultural spaces will come alive with traditional tunes, offering a chance to discover new music and connect with fellow festival-goers.
Outdoor and Community Highlights: Folk on the Streets
The heart of Gloucester will be filled with energy as Morris dancers take to the streets, bringing vibrant colours and rhythmic performances to the historic Gate Streets. Visitors can also take part in family-friendly activities, including arts and crafts sessions, storytelling, and folk-inspired creative workshops at The Folk of Gloucester and other local venues.
Food, Drink, and Local Hospitality
No festival experience is complete without delicious food and drink, and the Gloucester Folk Trail is no exception. Enjoy hearty meals, traditional ales, and locally sourced treats at participating pubs, restaurants, and cafes throughout the city.
A Celebration of Gloucester’s Heritage
The Gloucester Folk Trail is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the traditions that have shaped its identity. Whether you’re weaving willow, singing along to folk tunes, or enjoying the spectacle of Morris dancers, this event is an opportunity to celebrate the vibrant community spirit that defines Gloucester.
Plan Your Visit
Tickets for workshops and headline performances are available now. Many events are free to attend, making the festival accessible to all. Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of folk culture in the heart of Gloucester.
For the full schedule, ticket information, and updates, visit the official Gloucester Folk Trail website: Gloucester Folk Trail 2025.
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