Residents get ready to rock as annual music festival returns to Eastwood

Performers at the DH Lawrence Music Festival two years ago.

Every September, the DH Lawrence Music Festival sees the town’s streets come alive with the sound of music as a dozen venues play host to local singers and songwriters.

For the last nine years, the free festival has been a staple in residents’ calendars, offering a chance to hear original live music and enjoy a day out on the town.

This year’s eagerly-awaited event will be held on Saturday, September 9, offering music to suit everyone’s tastes – from country to punk, folk to rap, and everything in between.

Crowds at the DH Lawrence Music Festival in Eastwood.

Live sets will be played by more than 130 acts at 13 venues across the town all day from 2pm until 11pm, with completely free admission.

The event, which first started out as a humble open mic night for locals, has now grown to attract performers and visitors from right across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire.

The annual celebration pays homage to the town’s well-loved historic celebrity DH Lawrence, with talent and creativity at its heart.

All performers are encouraged to write and play their own original music rather than playing covers.

The annual festival is a staple in the Eastwood calendar, helping to put the town on the map.

Festival organiser Ben Mark Smith, a local musician himself who will be playing at the Dog and Parrot on the day, said: “We want more people to embrace original music and it’s really important for up and coming local artists that they are given a chance to perform and get their names out there.

“The festival is free because it really is all about the music and creating a real community for musicians.

“It’s always a great vibe and we look forward to everything this year has in store.”

Visitors are encouraged to embark on a pub crawl with a difference, enjoying a day out while soaking up sounds from a variety of performers along the way.

A timetable will be available online, allowing visitors to plan their route around all the venues and make the most of their experience.

Places taking part include the likes of the Sun Inn, Mellors Mews, Oliver's, The Three Tuns, The Lady Chatterley and many more.

The festival is being sponsored by Watson's Estate Agents and Broxtowe Borough Council.

Visit the DH Lawrence Music Festival page on Facebook for more information.