The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival

The Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival returns to Colne this August for a very special 35th anniversary celebration, bringing three days of outstanding live music to the heart of East Lancashire.

Taking place across the August Bank Holiday Weekend, the award-winning festival will feature more than 50 artists from the UK and around the world.  Performances will take place across three main venues, Pendle Hippodrome, The Muni Theatre and The Little Theatre, alongside a lively programme of entertainment throughout the town.

Leading the 2026 line-up is American blues-rock legend Walter Trout, who headlines on Sunday and will also lead a special tribute to John Mayall alongside Kyla Brox and Sonny Flint’s Beano Bluesbreakers.  Belfast guitarist Dom Martin & Band takes the headline slot on Friday, while Australian blues star Ray Beadle makes his festival debut on Saturday.

The Muni Theatre returns as a festival venue for the first time since 2022, with headline performances from Mike Sanchez & His Band, Lightnin’ Willie & The Poorboys and Danny Bryant.  Meanwhile, The Little Theatre Acoustic Stage offers a more intimate setting, featuring Kevin Brown, The Delta Aces, Sean Taylor Trio and 2026 UK Blues Award winner Mississippi MacDonald.

The programme also includes UK Blues Award-winning instrumentalist Will Wilde and a strong selection of homegrown talent, including Steely Don, Ross Munro and Tadhg Bean-Bradley.

There is plenty to enjoy beyond the main stages too.  Colne will come alive throughout the weekend with official fringe performances, buskers, street entertainment, fairground rides, face painting, giant games, street food and family-friendly activities.  Visitors can also explore the town’s independent shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants while soaking up the festival atmosphere.

Recently named UK Blues-Based Festival of the Year for the second consecutive year and inducted into the UK Blues Hall of Fame, the Great British Rhythm & Blues Festival promises a memorable 35th anniversary packed with international stars, award-winning artists, local talent and fantastic live music.

Tickets from: £30.00 to £120.00.
Full festival tickets available, as well as day tickets, afternoon tickets and evening tickets.