Downes and Beer: Those of us who were frequenting the folk clubs in the 1970s will remember this stunning duo...and those who weren't will also be familiar with them. Phil Beer has become one of the best-known musicians in recent years, as half of Show of Hands and also for his work with the Phil Beer Band, Arizona Smoke Revue, Albion Band, etc. An absolutely genius when it comes to playing the guitar, fiddle, cello-mandolin, ukulele...in fact just about any instrument that has strings. Paul is also a fantastic guitarist - one of best in fact. Add to that mix two great voices and you have a perfect recipe for a great night's entertainment. This is a very rare chance to see Phil and Paul together, and guaranteed to be a very special night.

Kiss the Mistress is a trio whose dynamic and exciting sound is rooted in Gaelic tradition. The unique combination of 'cello/voice (Ginny Davis) and chromatic button accordion (John Ramirez) underpinned by the driving rhythmical counterpoint of bodhran (Roy Jones) creates a sound that is both unique and engaging. Always searching for ancient resonances, they give voice to the tunes and songs that draw them. With skillfully crafted arrangements they celebrate the breadth of pan European music and perform their own self penned material.

With its beautiful cathedral towering majestically above the surrounding countryside, the City of Ely lies in the heart of the Cambridgeshire Fens, famed for spectacular sunsets and the vast open sky. What better location for a weekend of the best in folk music and dance?
Each Ely Folk Festival is better than the last, with an impressive guest list and programme of workshops, concerts, displays, ceilidhs and children's entertainment. The musicians appearing at the Ely Folk Festival reflect the rich diversity of the modern music scene, with a mixture of established favourites and newer talent.
We will be spending more than ever on performers and are especially proud to remain a small, friendly festival. You can meet the artists 'unplugged'. You can take part in workshops, dances, sessions or perform in the Club Tent. And you can get really close to the main stage.
The Folk Festival is based on a single site which includes marquees, camping facilities, food stalls, trade stands, real-ale bar, real toilets, showers, children's entertainment... Ely city centre is accessible by shuttle bus (or 20 minutes' walk). We are in town for Morris displays and pub sessions during the daytime.

In Brief:

Club Tent Bring your instruments sign up to play and perform in the Club tent, your chance to be discovered!

Real Ale Bar Enough guest beers and ciders to tempt the most discerning palate with sessions and singarounds

Childrens' entertainment Saturday and Sunday we have storytelling, juggling, Jan and her amazing blackboard van

We are wheel chair friendly with reserved camping area, marquee area, ramp access to the dance floor, an accessible loo near the main marquee, we have been known to help in putting tents up - please advise when booking