35 Years of Jazz in Swanage

One of Dorset's most-loved summer events is back this July, and 2026 marks its 35th year. The Swanage Jazz Festival runs from Friday 10 to Sunday 12 July, bringing around 40 bands to this beautiful Jurassic Coast town across a packed three-day programme - and if you've never been, this is the year to go.

The festival spans multiple venues across Swanage. Main ticketed performances take place at The Mowlem Theatre and a marquee on Sandpit Field, while the free Fringe programme spreads live music into local pubs and the Jazz Village, meaning there's something to enjoy whether you have tickets or not. Saturday's parade along Shore Road is a highlight in its own right.

The 2026 lineup covers serious ground. Friday evening kicks off from 4pm with the Kim Cypher Band, Steely Jazz and Alan Barnes' Reed-a-Rama among the openers. Saturday brings a full day from midday, headlined by Laura Jurd and Rob Luft, the Pete Roth Trio with Bill Bruford and Greg Abate with the Craig Milverton Trio. Sunday runs from 11.30am and closes out with Pete Allen's Big Jazz Band, the Clark Tracey Sextet performing Under Milk Wood at 60, and the Steve Waterman Octet celebrating Miles Davis.

What keeps people coming back is hard to pin down to one thing. Past festivalgoers describe it as "almost back to back music all weekend" in a "stunning setting," with others praising the mix of world-class programming and genuine community feel. Families come, jazz newcomers come, and serious enthusiasts come - and the festival seems to work for all of them.

Weekend tickets, day tickets and individual show tickets are all available now. The Swanage area has plenty of B&Bs, hotels and campsites for those making a weekend of it - booking ahead is advisable.

Swanage Jazz Festival, 10-12 July 2026, Swanage, Dorset. swanagejazzfestival.co.uk