Purbeck Guitar Festival 2026 - Purbeck Guitar Festival

Rock It Saturday

Full Out Folk, Blues, Jazz, Indie and Rock • Saturday 23rd May 2026 • Upton Country Park

Rock-It Saturday brought an electrifying day of Folk, Blues, Jazz, and Rock to the stunning Walled Garden at Upton Country Park. Part of the Purbeck Guitar Festival, the event brought together world-class legends and exciting rising stars for an unforgettable May Bank Holiday experience.

Café in the Courtyard

Rock It Saturday BBQ

Festival-goers were able to fuel their experience at the Rock-It Saturday BBQ & Bar, located in the charming cobbled stable-yard adjacent to the Walled Garden.

The menu featured locally sourced, award-winning meats and fish, including Jurassic Coast award-winning burgers, steaks, lamb, and pork, alongside delicious vegan alternatives. Everything was served with a great selection of artisan breads, salads, and dressings, with prices starting from £8. The bar served a wide selection of local lagers, ales, wines, bubbles, and soft drinks.

Musician Lineup

The Rock-It Saturday lineup for the Purbeck Guitar Festival (May 23, 2026) features an eclectic mix of folk, blues, rock, and indie artists:

Donovan: The legendary “Sunshine Superman” headlines with his ‘Tale of the Gael’ concert, celebrating his 80th birthday year. Read more
The Story of Guitar Heroes: A renowned live concert homage covering 50 years of iconic guitar riffs from masters like Clapton, Hendrix, and Page. Read more

Donovan

Rock legend Donovan brings his iconic psychedelic folk to Purbeck. Experience the "Sunshine Superman" pioneer live.

'The Story of Guitar Heroes'

The Story of Guitar Heroes is the UK’s top live concert homage to 50 years of iconic guitar music.

Chris Corcoran Trio

Multiple UK Blues Award nominee Chris Corcoran is one of the finest Blues guitarists in the UK. His trio performs regularly across the UK.

Gary Cain

Canadian guitarist Gary Cain blends blues roots with wider rock influences, earning critical acclaim globally.

Galaxy Thief

Dorset indie-rock quartet Galaxy Thief are renowned for energetic live shows and a unique sound.

Laura Snowden

According to Classical Guitar Magazine, guitarist and composer Laura Snowden ‘links guitar’s past, present and future’.

Callum Buckley

Callum Buckley is a passionate fingerstyle guitarist, sharing his love by gigging and creating guitar tabs.

Fiery Flamenco & Latino Rhythms • Sunday 24th May • Upton Country Park

On Sunday, May 24th, 2026, the Walled Garden was filled with flamenco, classical guitar, and the rhythms of Latin music. Whether attendees were dedicated guitar enthusiasts or simply looking for a great day out in one of Dorset’s most beautiful settings, Spanish Sunday offered an immersive experience for all.

Café in the Courtyard

Spanish Tapas & Bar

Between sets, attendees soaked up the atmosphere with authentic Spanish tapas, freshly prepared and served throughout the day in the stable courtyard beside the Walled Garden.

The menu included classics such as Patatas Bravas, Pil Pil Prawns, Calamari, Albondigas, Chorizo, and Croquetas, with 3 plates from just £12. A fully stocked bar also served local lagers, ales, wines, bubbles, and soft drinks.

Musician Lineup

The Spanish Sunday lineup is a curated showcase of world-class flamenco, classical, and Latin guitarists:

Juan Martín: The headline act and legendary flamenco virtuoso, often cited as one of the top guitarists in the world. Read more
Flamenco from Spain: Featuring Rebeca Ortega, Ramón Ruiz, and Carlos Lobo, this group brings the raw, authentic energy of Spanish dance and song to the stage. Read more
Carlos Bonell: Performing a vivid tribute to Federico García Lorca, this “master of poetic gifts” blends music, imagery, and poetry. Read more

Juan Martín

The world-renowned flamenco virtuoso brings his legendary technique and emotive power to the stage.

'Flamenco from Spain'

An unforgettable performance featuring Rebeca Ortega, Ramón Ruiz, and Carlos Lobo, capturing the raw energy of authentic flamenco song and dance.

Carlos Bonell

Described by The New York Times as a "master of poetic gifts," Carlos presents a vivid tribute to poet Federico García Lorca, weaving together music, poetry, and visuals.

Flamenco Meets Maqam

fascinating fusion that bridges East and West, blending Spanish fire with Middle Eastern melodies.

Flamenca

A captivating trio fusing flamenco, jazz, and world influences with stunning dance.

Miki Cruz

Bringing the warmth and passion of his homeland with Latin ballads and timeless rhythms.

Dorset Wildlife Trust

We were proud to support the Dorset Wildlife Trust at 2026’s Purbeck Guitar Festival.

About Dorset Wildlife Trust

“For over 60 years, Dorset Wildlife Trust has protected the county’s wildlife and wild places – from re-introducing rare species such as beaver and ladybird spider to protecting iconic landscapes like Kingcombe and our precious heathlands. With the support of our 27,000 members, dedicated volunteers, and partners, we care for 42 nature reserves, manage four visitor centres and work with local landowners and conservation partners across Dorset to restore and protect nature for future generations.”