It’s not all about big nights out at Sidmouth. We also offer wall-to-wall daytime entertainment. A trip to Sidmouth in the first week of August promises a great day out: a chance to soak up the festive atmosphere throughout town, enjoy great food and drink at the buzzing Hub and to experience the cream of contemporary folk music in a comfortable concert venue setting at The Ham, which plays host to three first class concerts each day – lunchtime, afternoon and evening. 

Here’s a taste of what the afternoon Ham Concerts at  3.15pm* look like during the week… 

Sat 3rd August Hannah James’ JigDoll Ensemble

The acclaimed one-woman show further enhanced by three international master instrumentalists who perfectly articulate Hannah James’ visionary ideas for song, tune and dance: utilising cutting-edge technology, a multi-layered soundscape and spellbinding dance.

Sun 4th August Merry Hell + Nick Hart

An intimate acoustic set from North West folk band with a swathe of heartfelt original songs. Their performances are uplifting and totally infectious: a joyous explosion of melody, commitment, energy. Plus an engaging performance from Nick Hart, a folk singer deeply rooted in the English tradition.

Mon 5th August Sam Sweeney: The Unfinished Violin + Emily Portman & Rob Harbron

Master fiddler Sam Sweeney plays poignant and uplifting instrumental music inspired by the Great War with a superb five-piece featuring Rob Harbron, Patsy Reid, Jack Rutter and Ben Nicholls. Plus Emily Portman & Rob Harbron, an inspired collaboration of two of the finest and most distinctive performers on the British folk scene.

Tues 6th August *3.30pm – The Young ’Uns: The Ballad of Johnny Longstaff

With their trademark harmony, honesty and humour, the Teesside trio perform The Ballad of Johnny Longstaff, the story of one man’s adventure from the streets in the north of England to fighting against fascism in the Spanish Civil War. A timely, touching and often hilarious musical adventure following the footsteps of one working-class hero.

Wed 7th August Martin Simpson + Rachael McShane & The Cartographers

Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, Simpson is a master storyteller. Drawing together diverse elements of British and American music in his unique interpretations of traditional songs, his solo shows are spellbinding. Expect material from his fantastic new album, Rooted. Topic Records’ latest signing Rachael McShane is a singer, cellist, fiddle and viola player, best known as an original member of folk big band Bellowhead.

Thurs 8th August Nancy Kerr & James Fagan + Jimmy Aldridge & Sid Goldsmith

A cut above, Nancy Kerr & James Fagan combine outstanding musicianship, a lifelong grounding in traditional singing and instrumental playing, acclaimed original compositions and a visceral chemistry which makes them a stand out act on any stage. Plus Jimmy & Sid, simply one of the finest duos to have emerged onto the British folk and acoustic scene in recent years.

Fri 9th August The Shee + Amythyst Kiah

An exceptional all-female band of Anglo-Scottish folk multi-instrumentalists. Expect slow airs, Gaelic ballads, original songs, high-energy tunes and hypnotic riffs. Plus Southern Gothic, alt-country blues singer/songwriter based out of Johnson City, Tennessee.

Be sure to grab your tickets for the fast-selling shows at The Ham now!

An All-In-One Ticket gives you access to all events and workshops for the whole festival; week or weekend, including evening concerts in The Ham. 

Week, Weekend and Day season tickets give access to lunchtime and afternoon shows in The Ham, as well as the first and last Friday evening shows, as do individual event tickets. Buy the ticket which best suits your needs and budget.

The full programme for the 2019 festival becomes available in early July.