South Downs Folk Festival

Three days of folk and roots music spread across Bognor Regis, with over 80 acts, shanty singers, dance and music workshops and an open mic running through the daytime — most of it free to just wander into.

The workshops and sessions are the sociable bit: sit in on a ukulele class or an open mic and you'll be talking to strangers within the hour. Save any budget for the evening headline concerts if you want the full weekend.