The New Forest Folk Festival is a beloved annual music festival held on a family farm in the beautiful New Forest countryside of southern England.
Taking place annually from July 3rd-6th, it brings together top folk artists and bands along with a passionate, loyal audience for several days of festivities.
The History of The New Forest Folk Festival
The New Forest Folk Festival began in 2012 after festival co-founder Nick Curtis had a conversation with acclaimed English singer-songwriter Richard Digance.
Richard shared his passion for folk music and suggested hosting a folk festival right on Nick’s family farm in the New Forest. Despite having no experience organising festivals, Nick and his brother Keith loved the idea.
That first year was a leap of faith, but the event ended up being a huge success with great feedback from attendees. Nick credits Richard’s inspiration and the support of family, friends, and the local community for getting the festival off the ground.
Over the years, the New Forest Folk Festival has steadily grown in size while retaining its informal, friendly atmosphere. The stage, sound system, on-site café and more have expanded. Yet the core vision of celebrating folk music in a beautiful forest setting has endured.
It’s this combination of world-class talent and a welcoming vibe on an idyllic farm that has made the New Forest Folk Festival so special for both musicians and fans.
World-Class Musical Lineup
The musical talent showcased at the New Forest Folk Festival is second-to-none. The just announced 2025 lineup includes beloved British folk rock band Lindisfarne, Scottish sensations Skipinnish, and legendary singer-songwriter Ralph McTell.
Other artists slated to perform include Celtic rockers Deborah Bonham Band, shanty stars The Longest Johns, harmony trio The Young’uns, and acclaimed acts like folk veteran Reg Meuross and rising talents Honey & The Bear.
With this incredible 2025 roster, festival goers can look forward to the best of British folk, Scottish trad, maritime music and more from both veteran performers and fresh new talent. The lineup has something for all folk fans, promising to be another banner year for the New Forest Folk Festival.
Intimate, Friendly Atmosphere
Despite attracting famous names, the New Forest Folk Festival maintains an intimate, cosy atmosphere. The compact family-run site with its charming rustic barn stage creates a welcoming, friendly vibe. Festival goers praise the event as feeling like an extended folk family gathering.
The festival prides itself on its accessibility and closeness between artists and audiences. Even the biggest acts mingle with fans across the grounds. You’ll likely even spot festival founders Nick and Keith Curtis pitching in wherever needed!
Idyllic New Forest Setting
Nestled on the edge of the New Forest, the festival venue itself is a huge draw. The lush fields and gentle streams of this protected countryside area provide a picture-perfect scene for a folk festival.
Camping on-site allows you to fully immerse in the natural beauty and tranquillity. Take leisurely strolls through ancient woodlands and heathlands between acts or simply relax stream-side and enjoy the harmonies drifting across the farm.
Powells Farm has been in the Curtis family for six generations. Their love of nature means the site abounds with wildlife like birds and deer for visitors to spot!
Where to Buy Tickets for the New Forest Folk Festival
Tickets for the New Forest Folk Festival can be purchased directly through the festival’s website.
Ticket Prices & Types
5 Day Tickets
- Until Dec 31st: £115
- From Jan 1st: £125
- From June 1st: £135
Children’s Tickets (ages 5-15)
- 5 Day Ticket: £50 (u5s Free)
Camping Tickets
- Motorhomes, Caravans & Tents: £10 per pitch per night
- Full 5 day camping (Wed – Sun): £40
Day Tickets Day tickets are also available and go on sale starting January 1st. These are subject to availability.
Tickets can be purchased online through the festival’s ticketing page:
https://www.newforestfolkfestival.co.uk/tickets.html
How to Get to The New Forest Folk Festival
The New Forest Folk Festival takes place on Powells Farm located at:
Address: Salisbury Road, Plaitford, Romsey SO51 6EE
Contact Number: 07435 123057
By Car: Plaitford is conveniently accessed from the M27. Simply take Junction 1 onto the A31 heading towards Ringwood. After approximately 2 miles, exit onto the B3079 (signposted Bramshaw/Fritham) and follow the signs towards Plaitford. Continue straight onto Salisbury Road, where signs for the festival will direct you to Powells Farm on the left.
For those coming from further afield, the closest major city is Southampton, which is a half-hour drive to the festival site.
By Public Transport: The closest railway stations are Romsey or Salisbury. From these stations, you can catch a bus or arrange a taxi to Plaitford. The nearest bus routes include the X7, which connects the area, but a direct drop-off may not be available, so plan for a short taxi ride or a longer walk. Total journey time from Southampton Central station can vary, so allow at least an hour.
We hope this helps you easily find your way to the New Forest Folk Festival!
Book Your Stay at The New Forest with Short Stay Homes
To fully experience the magic of the New Forest Folk Festival and region, staying at a charming local holiday cottage is a must. Short Stay Homes offers a range of self-catering properties a short drive from the festival site for you to call home during your folk getaway.
Choose from romantic cottages for two or larger rentals sleeping 10+ guests. Many feature private hot tubs, games rooms, enclosed gardens and other luxurious touches.
Most importantly, our pet-friendly cottages allow you to bring the whole family – including the furry members – to enjoy this one-of-a-kind folk festival.
Browse our full collection of holiday cottages in The New Forest and book your unforgettable country and folk summer trip today!
