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LIVE MUSIC EVENTS IN 
NORTH DEVON

With a line-up spanning folk, blues, gypsy jazz and more, these gigs deliver something for all those with a passion for music. Wherever you’re from and whatever language you speak, music unites us. It’s food for the soul - and we’re saving you a seat.

Weaving together music, nature and community

MUSIC, NATURE AND COMMUNITY

LIVE MUSIC EVENTS

Born from Aaron’s lifelong love of grassroots music - especially blues, but anything that moves the soul - our brand new live music events will showcase some of the best musicians from around the country. Set against the waterside backdrop of our retreat, just outside Barnstaple, this is live music in North Devon - HARTA style: come and see what we mean!  One of the beauties of HARTA retreat is its rural, off-the-beaten-track location. We're easy to reach by car, but it seems Devon’s public transport hasn’t quite caught up yet (ha!). We offer a range of accommodation options—from our converted holiday barn and glamping tipis to campervan spots and camping—and you’re very welcome to stay. We do get busy, so please get in touch if you'd like to stay. And for parties over 4 we offer free soft drinks to the designated driver.

Amplifier and guitar

Saturday night gigs will definitely take it up a notch with some big sounds, big names and some seriously good times! Bringing you some of the best blues, jazz, funk and soul artists from around the country these events run approximately once per month and are ticketed. Prices will vary depending on the band/artist but we make every effort to keep it affordable. Don't forget your dancing shoes!

Saturday sessions

Man Playing Guitar

Science tells us that alongside time in nature, listening to music is one of the most relaxing things we can do - and The Sunday Sessions at HARTA retreat are centered around both. Whether it’s the laid-back strum of an acoustic guitar or the rich tones of a great vocalist, these live music sessions will move you; unhurried and intentional, creating a shared love of good music, good company and nature. All the Sunday Sessions will be free entry however audiences will be encouraged to donate to the artists. These donations are completely voluntary but bear in mind that without your generosity the adventure may be short lived!

Sunday sessions

2025 GIG CALENDAR DEVON

Rakes Adrift Folk Band Playing in North Devon

11/05/25

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25/05/25

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HARRY WALLACE

15/06/25

29/06/25

Local music performer in North Devon

13/07/25

Max De Bernardi & Veronica SbergiaWEB_ed

02/08/25

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PETER BRUNTNELL

10/08/25

NEIL SADLER_edited.jpg

31/08/25

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Sam Dowden Playing Guitar at a live music event

18/05/25

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01/06/25

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22/06/25

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06/07/25

Jim Jones and Dave Little Playing Live Music in North Devon

20/07/25

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03/08/25

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17/08/25

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07/09/25

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Live music events near me. The Terraplanes playing live music on stage

24/05/25

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08/06/25

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28/06/25

Gaby Young WEB.jpg

12/07/25

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27/07/25

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GRIZZLY & THE GRASSHOPPERS

09/08/25

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24/08/25

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14/09/25

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STAY WITH US

28/09/25

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

RAKES ADRIFT

11th May & 17th Aug 2025

Featuring fiddle, melodeon, banjo, guitar, whistle and bodhran, ‘Rakes Adrift’ combine traditional and contemporary music and song to create an exciting and varied sound.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

SAM DOWDEN

18th May, 2025

Sam is innately a very creative person who loves to write and make his own music and film.

 

He is a popular local North Devon performer, singer and song writer. He is also an accomplished loop pedal artist and plays an eclectic mix of acoustic covers. 

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

ANDY GRANT

25th May, 2025

Incendiary guitar playing, bluesy vocals and funky grooves characterise the music of Andy Grant. Think classic blues with contemporary edge, add a stomp box and a live loop and you’re getting close to this rootsy blend of blues, soul and rock.

​'Great songs, soulful vocals and awesome guitar skills' Blues Matters

'Really Excellent Music!' Phil Jupitus, BBC TV's Never Mind the Buzzcocks

THE TERRAPLANES BLUES BAND

24th May, 2025

The Terraplanes Blues Band , recently awarded the highly prestigious "EMERGING BLUES ACT OF THE YEAR" at the UK Blues Awards 2023, have been busy playing around the country at some of the best blues clubs and festivals, cementing their reputation as one of the UK's most exciting blues acts.

 

Hailing from Bristol UK, with a sound echoing the 1960's British R'n'B bands, The Terraplanes have been a breath of fresh air.  Nick Scrase's authentic guitar/vocal tones Eduardo Allen's hi energy harmonica skills and stage performance make for an electric live show. The band are ably supported by Andy Hutt (drums) and Craig Shaw (bass).

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSIONS

JIM CRAWFORD

1st June, 13th July, 3rd August, 14th September 2025

Jim Crawford is an impressive multi-instrumentalist and expert blues player.  He has toured much of Europe and the States captivating audiences with his intimate folk/blues style.

He first came to the attention of a wider blues audience when invited to record a session for the BBC’s Paul Jones Show. He has played alongside other musicians including Sean Genockey, Kevin Brown, Ian Briggs, Steve Payne, Ben Andrews, Wizz Jones,& Mike Dowling.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

THE KAHUNAS

8th June, 2025

Please note: Unlike our usual Acoustic Sunday sessions, this one kicks off a little later—music starts at 6:30/7pm.

Indie folk rock duo, The Kahunas bring hypnotic Waa Waa driven violin riffs on top of a driving dance beat. Melodic harmonies and vocals, original lyrical content & digeridoo loops.

 

The pair have been writing, recording and performing together for 3 years and their Second Album is out on the 27th June, with their latest single being played on BBC Devon & Cornwall.

 

"Indie Folk duo, The Kahunas blew me away"- Efestival Magazine (written for Beautiful Days Festival).

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

HARRY WALLACE

15th June, 2025

The champion of the Battle of the Acoustics 2022, showcasing his exceptional piano and guitar skills. Bringing you a range of covers and blues originals, Harry is a multi-instrumentalist, and incredible vocalist and a brilliant song writer... one of Devon's finest!

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

SOPHIE SMILES

22nd June, 2025

Multi-instrumentalist Sophie Smiles returns to her piano roots and lead vocals, serving up the sounds and spirit of bourbon bars and paying homage to piano professors and blues/folk legends and songwriters of the Missassippi. Sophie plays Rhythm & Blues and southern grooves, mixed with original songs and those from the late Dorris Henderson - friend and vivacious singer of the sixties, daughter of a clergymen and granddaughter of a blackfoot indian - with whom she lived and recorded her last two albums.

DINO BAPTISTE

28th June, 2025

With over 30+ years experience, including live and studio performances accross the globe, Dino Baptiste is all about the Blues, Boogie-Woogie and FUNK! With influences including Ray Charles, Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis, Dino displays a unique on stage personality and rarely matched keyboard skills which captivate his audiences throughout the UK and beyond. Over the years Dino has performed with Mick Jagger, Lulu, Leo Sayer, Donald Fagan, Kiki Dee and Roger Taylor.

 

Normally a 5 piece band, at HARTA retreat Dino presents his trio for an equally lively and high energy showcase of fun, amazing dynamics and

DINO BAPTISTE

28th June, 2025

With over 30+ years experience, including live and studio performances accross the globe, Dino Baptiste is all about the Blues, Boogie-Woogie and FUNK! With influences including Ray Charles, Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis, Dino displays a unique on stage personality and rarely matched keyboard skills which captivate his audiences throughout the UK and beyond. Over the years Dino has performed with Mick Jagger, Lulu, Leo Sayer, Donald Fagan, Kiki Dee and Roger Taylor.

 

Normally a 5 piece band, at HARTA retreat Dino presents his trio for an equally lively and high energy showcase of fun, amazing dynamics and multi instrumental surprises not to be missed!!

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

ST.FIAN

29th June, 2025

A south west based folk duo creating original folk music with a traditional and gritty twist.

 

St.Fian's music is unique and thought provoking. Combining stories of folklore and focusing on the true grit of life.  They shed light on the true dark stories throughout history, delve into the deepest human emotions and bring to life the mysterious secrets our wonderful world has hidden in its depths.

 

Songs to make you laugh, dance, think twice and cry.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

BIG JOE BONE

6th July, 2025

"Big Joe Bone" (A.K.A. Danny Wilson) plays what he calls "Blues-Grass" music.....a mix of Delta Blues, Bluegrass, Oldtime, Gospel and Hillbilly music utilizing his raspy vocals, hard driving harmonica rhythms, sublime bottleneck slide guitar playing (on steel bodied resonator guitars) and lightning finger-picking skills on 5 string banjos.....all held together by a very heavy stomping boot!

GABBY YOUNG & OTHER ANIMALS

12th July, 2025

Gabby Young is a dynamic and soulful musician known for her captivating blend of pop, jazz, and indie influences. With a voice that's as powerful as it is unique, Gabby has established herself as a standout artist in the global music scene. Her performances are marked by an electrifying energy, and her songs often explore themes of love, self-discovery, and personal growth.

 

Taking things in a different direction from the blues, Gabby Young and the Other Animals will absolutely captivate you with their music, their musical talent and their stage show... this is a serious treat folks!

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

SMALL TOWN JONES DUO

20th July, 2025

Described as Acoustic, folk – Americana Small Town Jones have released 4 albums all to much acclaim. Playing Radio 2’s Dermot O Learys Saturday session twice and receiving numerous 4 & 5 star reviews in the top music press. As well as touring the UK & Ireland with his band Small Town Jones have also played numerous support slots with the likes of The Kinks legend Ray Davies, Ethan Johns, Damien Jurado and Sara Watkins to name a few.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

BICYCLE REPAIR MEN

27the July, 2025

From Metallica to Mumford and Steve Earle to the Stereophics, no one is safe from our quirky folk style of covers. Throw some original and traditional songs into the mix and you’ve got a Bicycle Repair Man set. James and Matthew combine close vocal harmonies with mandolin melodies, rhythmic guitar work and intricate tenor riffs in an attempt to deliver a two man wall of sound. 

MAX & VERONICA

2nd August, 2025

Roots, blues, ragtime, gospel with an Italian flavour and often quite humorous!

An irresistible blend of blues, ragtime, vaudeville and hillbilly music, played using strictly acoustic instruments such as ukulele, washboard, kazoo, double bass and guitars. 

GRIZZLY & THE GRASSHOPPERS

9th August, 2025 
24th Aug (Grizzly Solo)

Grizzly and The Grasshoppers, fronted by the big man Grizzly Rhys Morgan, bring original music, gritty vocals, blazing lapslide and soaring electric guitar work to the stage – supported by a solid backbone of energetic and dazzling keyboard, thumping drums, driving bass lines and seriously swampy harmonica.

A crowd favourite for Saturday night live music in North Devon, they never fail to bring the energy. Regulars at HARTA retreat - and one of our personal favourites!

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

PETER BRUNTNELL

10th August, 2025

Rolling Stone once declared Peter Bruntnell to be, “one of England's best kept musical secrets”. 

The award winning singer, songwriter, musician and producer has been lauded by the likes of Kathleen Edwards, The Delines, Rumer, various members of R.E.M.

Bruntnell's music is often referred to as Americana, although it has also been described as country rock and alternative country.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

NEIL SADLER

31st August, 2025

Neil Sadler is a critically Acclaimed Blues Singer-Songwriter, Guitarist and Recording Artist.

Get ready for a mixture of originals from Neil's Award Nominated album: 'Past to Present', which is the UK Independent Blues Broadcasters Associations' No.1 Album of 2024 and covers of blues classics. Foot stomping and dance worthy but also enjoyed by aficionados of the blues and live performance.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

A.D. SCRUFFS

7th September, 2025

A.D. Scruffs is a Roots Revival Quartet from Bristol, bringing foot stomping energy, infectious original tunes, and a storming stage presence that captivate every crowd. From the frailing of the banjo, to the chiming mandolin, with every song soaked in rich vocal harmonies, you’ll find yourself entwined in their soundscape as you watch the band in their natural element; lost in the music. With their debut album having dropped this March, and a breakout year of supporting acclaimed acts across the UK and beyond, A.D. Scruffs are carving out a loyal and growing fanbase, and they’re just getting started.

ACOUSTIC SUNDAY SESSION

DREW NEIRIN DUO

28th September, 2025

Drew Neirin is a Blues Guitarist, Soul Singer Songwriter & multi instrumentalist. Combining soulful and strong vocals, with guitar playing reminiscent of some of the great 20th century blues artists. Supported by wife Marie-Louise on bass and backing vocals, the pair have played music all over the UK, in parts of Europe, and in the United States.

‘Phenomenal’  Seb Bailey (BBC Radio)

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VENUE HIRE

Waterside tipi event space

Whether you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary or hosting a retreat or mini festival with your tribe, our Nordic tipis make an unforgettable event space.

 

Spacious and stylish, our tipis are constructed from custom-made material to suit all weather conditions. Under the honey-coloured canvas, there's space for a fully licensed and staffed bar, a band, a dance floor and a stunning dinner setting.  With fire pits, hay bales and your imagination, you can turn this into your dream event space.

STAY AT HARTA

Luxury glamping on the edge of Exmoor

Stay in one of our 4 boutique Devon glamping Tipis and soon you'll discover a more peaceful you. Each one has been beautifully handcrafted and luxuriously decorated to give you a welcome respite from the noise of modern life. Choose from the Distinguished Collection (our two-room tipis with ensuites) or from the Superior Collection (single-room tipis with outdoor showers).

AS SEEN IN

Holiday Homes in The Sun TV Show

Series 1, Episode 8

The Telegraph Newspaper

10 Best Winter Glampsites

WeekEnd Candy Review

Luxury Tipis for Hazy Mornings and Lost Afternoons

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