Bristol has an incredible maritime history, and there is no better way to experience it than through the traditional sea shanties that once echoed across our harbourside. Along two nautical miles of the floating harbour, you’ll find a wonderful atmosphere filled with historic pubs and world-class places to eat.

For the last six years, we have come together in this setting to celebrate our seafaring heritage through song. Bristol is home to an exceptional amount of salty singing talent, and this September, we’ll be joined by some of the finest shanty crews, groups, and choirs from across the country.

This year’s festival features performances over two days across two iconic locations:

• Underfall Yard: Hosting two stages with a variety of maritime acts.
• The SS Great Britain: Performances will take place in the historic Great Eastern Hall

Please note that our evening session at Underfall Yard remains a ticketed event. Last year, these sold out well in advance with very few tickets available on the door, so we recommend securing your place early. Tickets go on sale later in the Spring  and as always, all proceeds go to support local charities.

So save the date and join us for a weekend of rousing shanties, maritime banter, and great local food and drink. All shipshape and Bristol fashion!!

Mevagissey Shanty Festival is run entirely by volunteers, brought together by a shared love of the sea, shanty singing and Mevagissey. Each year, we create a joyful weekend of shanties, with talented groups singing for the sheer pleasure of it — while also supporting our local economy during the quieter months and raising funds for projects that benefit our community.

Over one lively weekend, 20 venues across Mevagissey and neighbouring Pentewan ring out with song. We believe shanties are for everyone, so all performances are free to attend.

In Mevagissey, everything happens within 150 metres of the harbour and our Keltek Brewery–sponsored main stage marquee, creating the friendly, close-knit buzz that makes the festival feel so special. In Pentewan, venues are just an easy stroll apart on flat ground, and a free shanty shuttle bus runs between the two villages so you can enjoy it all.

It’s a celebration of song, sea and the unique spirit of Mevagissey.

Mevagissey Shanty Festival — proudly for One and All. Onan hag oll.

St Ives Shanty Shout is organised in collaboration with the Edward Hain Centre.

St Ives Shanty Shout was started in 2016 by members of Bamaluz Bootleggers. They invited some friends to come and sing with them and raise some money for a good cause. 

Bamaluz Bootleggers might not sing together anymore and venues have come and gone along the way, but the core idea proved to be very popular and is now an annual event.