Summer Music Festivals on the Great West Way

Don't miss out on the incredible music festivals kicking off on the Great West Way this summer. From dance fests like Glastonbury and Boomtown to groovy jazz at Cheltenham Jazz Festival and folk legends at End of the Road, you won't want to miss these festival gems...

Following the success of the last two years the Swindon Jazz & Soul Festival is back for its third consecutive performance in 2023 - and it is an absolute mustvisit for anyone who loves to get their groove on! It offers a tremendous variety of musical performances and, the lineup changes every year, so there's always something new to discover. Be sure to mark your calendar now – with last year’s acts featuring British Jazz award winners, and established soul acts. Headliners included international swing kings from Ray Gelato and the Giants, to The Soul Strutters and Jonny Henderson.

For nearly 50 years, Bristol Folk Festival has been enlivening this picturesque city with its vibrant beats and diverse sounds from around the world. From melodic folk tunes to rowdy bluegrass, there’s an exceptional line-up for 2023 that includes Lady Maisery, The Eliza Carthy Trio, Fay Hield, Angeline Morrison and Nick Hart. The opening night is on Friday at Bristol Cathedral, College Green, while St George’s, Bristol forms the heart of the festival over the rest of the weekend, with the nearby Bristol Folk House hosting dance sessions and upbeat sets. Keep your eyes peeled for dance, singrounds, sessions and live interviews.

Within easy reach of the Great West Way you can enjoy 6 days of live music from international stars at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival, one of the country’s best-loved jazz festivals! Featuring a bevvy of talented jazz musicians, the Cheltenham Jazz Festival 2023 is sure to be an exhilarating experience with boisterous bluesy improvisations to sultry swing sounds. Adding to the auditory stimulation, visuals and theatricals abound with stylishly dressed performers, stunning light displays and captivating dance numbers.

Bath Festival is one of the most renowned music festivals in the country, with a storied history and an unbeatable atmosphere. From rock to pop to classical, Bath Festival ensures an array of music and celebrates books too - whether you're an aficionado, bookworm or simply looking to experience some great tunes. You'll be able to witness amazing live performances in unique venues like hot air balloons, historic Georgian mansions, and open-air events under the stars.

Set in the beautiful Cotswolds, a short detour from the Great West Way route, this multi-day event is an unforgettable experience and a must-see for any music lover. From live acts ranging from folk to rock, there's something to suit everyone’s taste. The atmosphere is lively yet welcoming, with delicious food and drinks available to enjoy while soaking up the melodious sounds. Venture into the beautiful surrounding countryside and explore serene riverside paths - blissful tranquillity perfect for soaking up some much-needed downtime. Then end your day with a party under starlit skies; with such prodigal panache, it promises to be one heckuva razzle-dazzle weekend!

Dot to Dot has been known to bring the hottest new emerging artists to the spotlight, previously spotting the talents of The xx, Ed Sheeran and Florence + The Machine. The lineup for 2023 includes Yard Act, Alvvays, Beka, Cryalot, Finn Foxell, High Vis, Kofi Stone, Opus Kink, and Yunè Pinku - and if you’ve not heard of them yet, the chances are they will go on to be famous around the globe. See them first at this award-winning, metropolitan festival.

Championing local acts as well as attracting worldclass artists, Love Saves the Day is back in May. Acts are to be announced, but previous years have seen the likes of Chase and Status, Bicep and Kurupt FM take to its stages.

2023 marks 50 years of the amazing Chippenham Folk Festival – a community celebration of folk music, song, dance and arts. From local talent to renowned artists, this vibrant music event provides a feast for every musical palate, whether that’s traditional folk or cutting-edge contemporary sounds. And with its inclusive atmosphere and charmingly bucolic surroundings, visitors often feel as though they've stepped into another world – one filled with artistry, conviviality and delight. →

Held in beautiful forest locations, Forest Live is a major live music series of summer concerts across the country. At Westonbirt you have everything required for a great night out, a relaxed atmosphere, spectacular backdrops and great music from artists including Jack Savoretti and Tom Grennan.

Bath's Royal Victoria Park is the perfect setting for Pub in the Park, an unforgettable musical extravaganza where you can enjoy toe-tapping tunes against an idyllic backdrop of stunning scenery. With a plethora of top-notch acts gracing the stage and delectable food from some of the UK's leading chefs, the atmosphere will be electric with vendors hawking their wares and families picnicking on the grassy knolls. Its vibrant energy is palpable and captivating. Witness up-and-coming talent or throwback classics from renowned artists – it’s truly an idyllic way to spend an afternoon.

It is set to be as special as ever this year with Elton John headlining, for what will be the final UK show of his last-ever tour. The Glastonbury Festival is renowned for its kaleidoscope of vibrant music, art and cultural experiences. From the thundering basslines of the Pyramid Stage to the eclectic array of acts performing at ShangriLa, every year presents a bewitching atmosphere. But it's not just the music and performances that make this event so alluring – there's also a palpable camaraderie between attendees that can't be replicated anywhere else. People come from near and far to revel in this ephemeral escapade, forming lasting friendships with those they share their experiences with. To immerse yourself in the captivating spectacle of Glastonbury is truly an incomparable experience.

Another iconic set of dates for Bristol live music, set on the Harbourside is Bristol Sounds in June. Jacob Collier, James, and The Levellers have been announced so far, with more hotly anticipated acts to be confirmed soon.

Music lovers rejoice! WrdeUppers will be able to “Rock the Rec” again in their own unique style in 2023. Kicking off on Friday evening as a warmup before the one-day festival with music and entertainment. With bands playing across multiple stages throughout the day, festivalgoers will be able to hear a mix of sounds. For those who prefer more than just music, there'll also be plenty of activities and entertainment happening at WrdeUp; from face painting to impromptu performances. There's even a special kids' area where younger guests can have their own little slice of festival heaven.

Cheltenham Music Festival brings eight days of performances and events by leading international artists, new talent and innovators. Celebrating the very best contemporary composition alongside a feast of popular classics. Celebrated since its inception in 1945 for championing new music, Cheltenham Music Festival is all about high-calibre performances, magnificent venues and a huge variety of music – from symphonic grandeur to the intimacy of chamber music, and from sublime choral experiences to brand new musical adventures. With excursions into world music, film, dance, the visual arts and the spoken word, it’s a musically-centred cultural banquet that has few equals in the UK.

A distinctive and unmissable spectacle, the Bristol Harbour Festival is a renowned event in the cultural calendar of Britain's beautiful port city. Taking place annually since 1971, this music festival brings together thrilling performances from around the world against the stunning backdrop of the historic harbour. From live bands to DJs and buskers on every corner, expect reggae, jazz, hip-hop, folk, rock and electronic. It's easy to see why the Bristol Harbour Festival has become such a beloved tradition for locals and tourists alike, aside from musical acts, the festival also features theatrical shows, street art installations, interactive activities and educational talks from renowned speakers. What makes the experience even more special is the inclusive atmosphere created by its organisers. All visitors are encouraged to get involved, with many donning traditional costumes to celebrate their culture alongside others.

WOMAD is a cacophony of music, art, and culture that makes for an unforgettable experience. Every year the festival invites locals and visitors from around the world to indulge in its unique blend of artists and genres - from reggae and folk, to drum and bass and hip hop. Alongside live performances, there are workshops and familyfriendly activities too. You'll hear stories being told, rhythms resounding, melodies meandering, and beats bouncing off each other. Get ready to explore new cultures, be inspired by creative expression, and have your taste buds tantalised by delicious food.

Rewind Festival Henley-onThames is the perfect place to revel in nostalgia and recapture those glorious sounds of the 80s and beyond. From petulant pop classics to new-wave anthems, this annual event provides a melodious oasis for those seeking musical euphoria. There are plenty of awesomely iconic acts - including Boy George & Culture Club, Bananarama and Duran Duran. It's the perfect opportunity to don your brightest neon, party like it's 1985, and relive those special memories of a bygone era. The eclectic lineup features over forty artists performing across four stages, plus, every day starts off with an invigorating yoga session so you can get limber before grooving along to the sweet sounds of synthpop. Step into the time machine and prepare yourself for the ultimate nostalgia trip.

Larmer Tree Gardens is the perfect place for an epic End of the World Festival! Nothing quite compares to a day spent enjoying amazing music and performances in this stunningly beautiful location. With its lush trees, rolling hills, and idyllic views, Larmer Tree Gardens offers visitors a unique experience that's sure to be remembered. The festival features top musical acts from around the world, and you'll definitely find something to please everyone's taste. From up-and-coming indie bands to household names, the lineup has something for everyone. Plus, with plenty of food stands and craft beer gardens, it's easy to have a great time all day long. This festival also includes plenty of activities like workshops, interactive experiences, art installations and more. So you can discover new things while having lots of fun! There's even a special area devoted to kids, so they won't miss out on the festivities either.

After its hugely successful inaugural event in 2022 on Clifton Downs (with acts such as Little Simz, Self Esteem, Chemical Brothers and Charlie XCX) FORWARDS festival is returning in 2023 to bring together music, social action initiatives, discussion and debate to inspire positive change.

Calne Music and Arts Festival (CMAF) is a community celebration of music and the arts, which takes place during a ten-day period at the beginning of October each year. The Festival aims not only to provide entertainment for the people of Calne and surrounding villages but also to promote local musical and artistic talent. The Festival was inaugurated in 1974 and has grown substantially over the years, showcasing some exceptional talent, whilst reaching a wide crosssection of the community.