We are beyond delighted to reveal our programme for Summer 2025, which features a bonafide folk superstar and two of the most exciting emerging artists that the UK folk scene has to offer. To welcome an artist of CARA DILLON's stature to Downend goes to show how well-thought of we have become in the ten years that we've existed, while bringing you HOLLY CLARKE and LIZZY HARDINGHAM, both of whom have gone down well in South Gloucestershire supporting other artists, re-affirms our commitment to showcasing brilliant young talent.

The programme kicks off on Friday 16 May, when HOLLY CLARKE will headline with her full band. A singer who draws from the old ballads and stories, Holly conjures a performance that immediately captivates any listener. As a performer, Holly transports the listener into the heart of ballads, immersing them in the narratives that have shaped humanities experience through time. From songs of the supernatural and folklore, to the tales of love and loss, Holly sings with an infectious energy and passion for traditional song. Holly will be joined on-stage by her full band, which comprises Amy Thatcher (accordion & synths), Anna Hughes (fiddle & viola) and John Pope (double-bass). Opening the evening will be Cornwall-based duo LÖRE & LAMENT, who weave ballads from England and the Celtic isles. They play traditional songs, shanties, and originals inspired by folklore. Tickets are £14 in advance or £16 on the door. This concert will be live-streamed in partnership with LIVE TO YOUR LIVING ROOM.

CARA DILLON is surely the biggest name we've ever featured, and she will headline on Friday 20 June. Cara is an extraordinary, multiple award-winning Irish folk singer, and she'll be joined on-stage by acclaimed musician and producer Sam Lakeman. Throughout an enviable career which has seen them explore opportunities to tread many different paths – from releasing folk crossover albums on indie label Rough Trade; recording on Disney soundtracks to collaborations with orchestras and even leading dance DJs – Cara has continuously chosen to firmly plant herself within the landscape of her Irish cultural heritage and that’s something to celebrate. Supporting Cara will be HERON ISLAND, a duo that sparked into existence on a narrow boat trip on the River Avon in the summer of 2023 to write, record and gig songs which drew on their shared experiences of childhood in the south Devon countryside and their love for honest music built around the guitar. This one's a little more expensive at £20 in advance or £22 on the door, but it will be worth every penny and then some, and we expect it to sell out very quickly.

Rounding off the programme on Friday 18 July will be LIZZY HARDINGHAMwho sings songs that drive straight to the heart, giving audiences a chance for genuine connection and empathy. Lizzy is paving her way as a powerhouse performer with beautifully delivered songs, her wonderful voice grabbing the listener from the very first note and holding on until the last. Think Christine Collister, Joni Mitchell, Sandy Denny and KT Tunstall all wrapped into one. She will be joined on-stage by Katriona Gilmore (a very familiar face at Downend Folk & Roots!) & Jonny Wickham. Opening the evening will be DAN SEALEY, who started his career with folk rock band Ocean Colour Scene and toured the world, played headline slots at major festivals for over a decade and co-founded the band Merrymouth with Simon Fowler. Dan now takes his own show on the road, featuring music from all the bands he’s played in, along with the often hilarious stories he’s amassed along the way, plus material from his forthcoming album. Tickets for this concert are £14 in advance or £16 on the door. 

All three concerts will take place at CHRIST CHURCH DOWNEND as usual, and seating is unreserved. Tickets are available online HERE, and they will also be available from MELANIE’S KITCHEN in Downend ahead of each individual gig. Please note that Melanie's Kitchen can only take cash payments. There is also the option to buy a season ticket for all three concerts for £44, which saves a few pounds as well as booking fees. All tickets are non-refundable. There will be a full bar at all concerts, as well as a prize draw, all proceeds of which go towards booking our support artists. Doors open at 7.30pm for a 7.45pm start. 

We're really excited about this season, and we hope you will be too. Keep supporting live music, it’s never been more important! For further information, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or find us on FACEBOOKINSTAGRAMBLUESKY, YOUTUBE or TIKTOK.

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