Legendary folk-rock band Fairport Convention to play Exeter in 2026

Exeter music fans are set for a rare live performance as Fairport Convention, one of the UK’s longest-running folk-rock bands, plays the Corn Exchange on 26 March 2026. 

The show is part of the band’s UK Spring Tour, which runs from 17 March to 12 April, covering 24 venues across the country.

Formed in 1967, Fairport Convention helped define the “electric folk” sound, blending traditional British folk instruments with modern rock influences. 

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The band has maintained a strong following for nearly 60 years, selling out venues across the UK and attracting thousands to their annual Cropredy Convention in Oxfordshire.

The 2026 tour marks 30 years of Fairport’s current lineup, featuring Simon Nicol (guitar and vocals), Dave Pegg (bass), Ric Sanders (violin), Chris Leslie (fiddle, mandolin, vocals), and the return of drummer Dave Mattacks, a former member whose career has included work with Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Nick Drake. 

Supporting the tour is guitarist Jenn Butterworth, an award-winning musician celebrated for her versatility in the UK folk scene.

Fairport Convention’s influence is widely recognised: their album Liege & Lief was voted “Most Influential Folk Album of All Time” by Radio 2 listeners, and their track “Who Knows Where the Time Goes” has over 32 million streams on Spotify. 

The band also holds a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award.

For Exeter, the Corn Exchange performance is a significant addition to the city’s live music calendar. 

Local residents say such events contribute to Exeter’s cultural life and provide an economic boost for city-centre businesses.

“It’s good to see established bands performing in Exeter,” said Rachel Turner, a city resident. “It gives local audiences access to live music that they might otherwise need to travel for.”

Mark Patel, who lives near the Corn Exchange, added: “Events like this bring a buzz to the area. It’s not just about the music, it’s good for local cafés and pubs, and it feels like the community comes together.”

Emma Hughes, another local resident, highlighted the cross-generational appeal: “Fairport Convention has such a long history. It’s nice to see younger people getting a chance to experience live folk music too, it bridges generations.”

Local venue staff and businesses also emphasise the importance of national acts stopping in Exeter. 

A spokesperson for the Corn Exchange said: “We’re proud to host a range of acts, from emerging local talent to internationally renowned bands.” 

“Fairport Convention has a devoted fan base, and this concert is expected to bring visitors from across the region.”

Music events in Exeter, particularly at established venues like the Corn Exchange, contribute to the city’s cultural economy. 

Research from 2024 indicates that live music and performance venues in Exeter support hundreds of jobs and generate significant footfall for restaurants, pubs, and retail in the city centre, particularly during evening and weekend events.

Tickets for the Exeter Corn Exchange show on 26 March are currently available, with fans advised to book early given the band’s long-standing reputation for sold-out performances.