News

Medieval Music in the Dales, the United Kingdom's only festival dedicated entirely to medieval music, returns for its landmark tenth anniversary event from September 11 to 13, 2026.

Hosted in and around the historic Bolton Castle near Leyburn, this year’s milestone festival centers on the theme "Margins", exploring fascinating musical repertoires from geographical, cultural, and social peripheries of the medieval world.

Tenth Anniversary highlights include

• World-Class Concerts: Enjoy daytime performances in St Oswald’s Church and atmospheric evening chamber concerts in Bolton Castle. Featured artists - from across Europe - include Ensemble Lucidarium, the Idrîsî Ensemble, Duo Andalusiat and Sibil.la Ensemble
• Instrument Makers Exhibition: A rare gathering of specialist luthiers and craftspeople from across the UK and beyond, showcasing and selling authentic medieval instruments.
• budget-friendly Castle Pass, designed to give local families an affordable way to experience the magic, on either Saturday 12th or Sunday 13th September

The Castle Pass grants standard entry to Bolton Castle’s famous grounds and rooms while unlocking access to the festival's castle-based performances, artisan instrument makers exhibition, daytime tavern music and a Medieval Mayhem drop-in family workshop. It offers an immersive, educational, and entertaining day out for all generations without the cost of a full festival ticket.

Festival director Gill Page shared: "Reaching our tenth anniversary is a tremendous milestone. Bolton Castle provides the ultimate backdrop to bring these forgotten sounds back to life. We want everyone to celebrate with us, which is why our family-friendly Castle Pass is perfect for locals who want to soak up the incredible atmosphere, explore the castle, and hear beautiful music together."

Castle Passes are available for groups of up to two adults and up to four under-18s - there must be at least one under-18 in the group - and can be purchased in advance here or on the door.