Traditional Music and Song at Tonbridge Folk Club (Nellies)
When We Meet
First and third Mondays of each month from 7-30 – 10-30 pm. Musicians, singers and audience welcome.
Where We Meet
Ye Olde Chequers Inn, 122 High St., Tonbridge, TN9 1AS
Evening Fee
Singers Welcome
Mon 6 Feb 2023 – Dave Ellis & Boo Howard
One of the finest guitarists on the folk scene, Dave’s playing blends beautifully with Boo’s superb vocals to give a truly lovely sound, but the lyrics in some cases have considerable bite. Dave Ellis & Boo Howard
Starting with this session, we will be starting the club at 7-30 and running till 10-30 pm. This is an experiment, but will become permanent if we find it works.
Mon 20 Feb 2023 – Dick Miles
Dick is a fine exponent of traditional song, sung acapella or accompanied by concertina or banjo. His songs originate from various parts of the British Isles, including Ireland where he now lives. Dick Miles
Mon 6 Mar 2023 – Alan Reid
Well known as an early member of The Battlefield Band, Alan has also worked with Rob van Sante. Although originally noted for mainly traditional music, he has since made a name for himself as a songwriter. In addition to keyboards, he also plays guitar and piano accordion. Alan Reid
Mon 20 Mar 2023 – Steve Turner
Traditional folk song expertly accompanied by English concertina, mandolin and banjo, Steve is one of the legends of the folk scene. Steve Turner
Mon 3 Apr 2023 – Martin Ledner
Writer and performer of songs, ballads and shanties in the traditional English style, Martin Ledner has been gigging every year since 1974. His songs while rooted in the past, deal with themes relevant to the 21st century. Imagine listening to folk songs that Victorian and Edwardian collectors had not toned down in sentiment or language, and you have Martin’s repertoire. Passion and vigour sum up his performances. Martin Ledner
Mon 17 Apr 2023 – Caroline Kendall
A fine singer-songwriter & guitarist from Brighton, Caroline sings a wide range of traditional & new songs, including some she has written herself; intelligent, engaging music. Caroline Kendall
Mon 15 May 2023 – Paul McGladdery
No topic is safe from this man’s excellent song writing skills, taking an irreverent view of all aspects of life. Despite lacking a lower right arm, he accompanies himself with guitar. Paul McGladdery
Forthcoming attractions: Mon 19 Jun 2023 – Milton Hide | Mon 3 Jul 2023 – The Twagger Band | Mon 4 Sep 2023 – Simon Kempston | Mon 18 Sep 2023 – Here & There | Mon 2 Oct 2023 – Bruce Watson | Mon 16 Oct 2023 – The Rabbitts | Mon 6 Nov 2023 – Wildwood Jack | Mon 20 Nov 2023 – Johnny Campbell
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Malcolm Ward’s Funeral
Most of you will no doubt be aware by now of the sad loss of Malcolm, one of our resident singers and a staunch supporter of the club for many years. Latterly his illness was catching up with him, but he fought a good fight to the end and saw out the full round of...

Malcolm Ward
It is with great sadness that we announce that longtime resident and friend of the club, Malcolm Ward died last night. He'd been unwell for a while but had made a point of attending and performing at as many events and festivals as he could. We'll miss his varied...
Songwriting retreat
We've received notification of a songwriting retreat taking place between 15th and 19th June. The legendary Jon Boden is hosting it and the venue will be located in idyllic surroundings in the west of Scotland. Details here.