Whitby Folk Week

The festival of traditional music, song, dance and storytelling celebrates the culture of the British Isles. There are daily workshops, concerts and other events which allow everyone to participate, learn or just simply sit back and enjoy the dazzling variety of activities and spectacles which make up our folk heritage.

During the day there is a range of events which happen all around the town, from dancing in the streets to formal and informal sessions in pubs and other venues. There are processions and street entertainments available from late morning until late afternoon, after which the action moves indoors for the evening. In the evening you can take part in dances; there's lots of choice for both beginner and expert, or simply sit back and enjoy some of the UK's finest performers in concerts which range from the formal to the intimate. Late nights usually end at the pavilion, where dancers bop 'til they drop and the more sedate meet up with friends to chat about how they spent the day and plan together how they will spend tomorrow.

Guests will be free to make their own choices from the huge variety of events on offer. There really is something for everyone from mid morning until late in the evening. Your leader will be there to advise and assist. The final programme is not published until close to the start, but we will get that information to you as soon as possible, so you can start to make your selections.

Day 1: Arrival day

Your room will be available from 2.30pm onwards. However, you may arrive any time after 11am if you wish to attend the first events of the festival which begin at 12 noon with various dance displays in the town centre. You will be met at Larpool Hall by your holiday leader who will provide you with your season ticket. There are no coaches to take you to Whitby or bring you back on this first day.

Tea will be served between 4pm and 5pm. This is a chance to meet your holiday leader and fellow guests. There will be a short introduction to the Folk Week and possible events/musicians to watch out for. If you wish to pre-order dinner on your first evening please phone Larpool Hall in advance.

Other days

There will be two bus journeys each day to take you from Larpool Hall to Whitby and return. These will be:

9.30am            to Whitby

6.15pm            return to Larpool Hall

6.30pm            to Whitby

11.30pm          return to Larpool Hall

If you wish to leave or return to the house at other times, this will be at your own expense; however, the house is only a short walk from Whitby town centre.

Your leader will be able to offer some optional activities; a morning walk to Robin Hood's Bay to enjoy a folk music session, with a coach back; an evening folk quiz, or our own evening of folk song and music at the house.If you play an instrument or sing there may be the opportunity for an informal folk evening in the house.

As soon as the full Folk Week programme is available a copy will be sent to everyone who has booked a place. To find out more about the Whitby Folk Festival follow this link www.whitbyfolk.co.uk