The Bristol Sea Shanty Shout

September 19th and 20th 2026

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.

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For the last seven years, we have come together in this setting to celebrate our seafaring heritage through song. Planning for this year's event is well advanced and the full lineup will be finalised soon.

 

Bristol is home to an exceptional amount of salty singing talent and we’ll be joined by some of the finest shanty crews, groups, and choirs from across the country.

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

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• Underfall Yard:  Working boatyard and dock maintenance facility

• The SS Great Britain: Performances will take place in the Great Eastern Hall

• MV Balmoral: Vintage former ferry & excursion ship launched in 1949

• The Nova Scotia: Historic dockside pub

 

Please note that our evening session at Underfall Yard remains a ticketed event. In previous years tickets sold out well in advance with very few available on the door, so we recommend securing your place early. Tickets will go on sale once the lineup is finalised 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!!

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