Interested in getting into the wild world of sea shanty singing? You're not alone – the folk revival of recent years has led to a resurgence in interest in sea shanties, Morris dancing and many other folk traditions.
The perfect place to whet your whistle and get excited about shanties is one of the UK's many shanty festivals. Some are large and well established outdoor festivals, while others are in their early days, led by grassroots groups and shanty enthusiasts – but all are a riot of stomping, clapping and deep, booming voices.
Best UK sea shanty festivals
Barry Island Sea Shanty Festival
2024 saw the first-ever sea shanty festival take place in Gavin & Stacey country. Across six venues, more than 40 singers and groups celebrated 200 years of the RNLI’s life-saving work. It’s continued from there – expect bigger things in years to come. In 2025, it will take place in Newport instead.
When is it? May/June
Falmouth International Sea Shanty Festival
Of all the sea shanty festivals in the UK, Falmouth's is the biggest. In fact, it's the largest free nautical music festival in Europe – so if you happen to be around the Falmouth area in summer, it's definitely worth a visit. Taking place across main stages, street corners, parish churches and pubs around the town, there are lots of places to wander around and hear from a wide range of shanty groups from around the UK.
- UK's best beach restaurants and cafes
- Best walks in Cornwall, a county with a rugged, breathtaking tapestry of dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and hidden coves
When is it? June
Morecambe Maritime Festival
Enjoy buccaneering melodies in this Lancashire seaside town. The festival celebrates Morecambe’s proud maritime culture with captivating performances and a variety of outdoor activities on the town’s Promenade.
When is it? August
Harwich International Shanty Festival
One of the UK’s most popular shanty festivals, the Harwich International Shanty Festival has been going since 2006. Expect lusty shanties, street theatre, maritime crafts, pirates and historical re-enactment, barge trips, walks, talks and workshops.
When is it? October
The Brixham Pirate Festival
On the early May bank holiday weekend, Brixham becomes a haven of pirates. Expect plenty of fancy dress, pirate-themed fun, living history exhibits, street entertainment, and, crucially, shanties. Shanty purists might be disappointed though, as shanties aren't the only music on the programme each year – there's also pirate rock music.
When is it? May
Mevagissey Shanty Festival
The quiet fishing village of Mevagissey began hosting an annual shanty festival in 2019. The harbour, museum, social club and pubs welcome more than 60 singing groups and more than 450 performers for a long weekend of shanty entertainment.
When is it? October
