Tunes on the Shore

New Cornwall festival arriving this May

Rumour has it that Carlyon Bay will once again play host to an incredible line-up of live music with Tunes on the Shore set to take place over the May bank holiday. From the same team behind the much-loved beach festival, Tunes in the Dunes in Perranporth, this brand-new event promises a spectacular mix of big-name acts on Cornwall’s south coast.

Taking place from the 23rd to the 25th of May, the festival will be staged directly on the sand, in the very spot where Cornwall’s legendary Coliseum once stood. A venue that played host to music icons like Wham!, Tina Turner, The Cure, and Iron Maiden, the Coliseum was once one of the South West’s most iconic live music venues before its closure in the early 2000s. Now Tunes on the Shore aims to bring that spirit back to life, delivering a weekend of epic performances on one of Cornwall’s most picturesque beaches.

© Right: Kernow Ned via Flickr

What’s the line-up?

While the full line-up is still under wraps, the organisers have revealed a taste of what’s to come. The iconic sounds of Scouting for Girls and Chris Moyles are set to take to the stage on the Friday night. Meanwhile, Ibiza Orchestra Symphonica and Lovely Laura & Ben Santiago will be performing on the Saturday, bringing a signature blend of island anthems and live saxophone to the shores of Carlyon Bay. With McFly, Dizzee Rascal, and Jess Glynne set to play at other Tunes Festivals, it's no wonder the line-up is so highly speculated. Be the first to know with announcements shared regularly on their Instagram. 

What’s going on food-wise?

No festival in Cornwall is complete without a great line-up of street food vendors. Carlyon Bay is already known for its beach bars and summertime pop-ups, so you can expect to indulge in freshly cooked moules mariniere from The Mussel Shoal and stone-baked pizzas from Jasper’s Kitchen. 

© Right: Robert Pittman via Flickr

Is it family-friendly?

Yes and children under the age of five go free. Like its sister festivals, Tunes on the Shore will welcome families, and with its beachfront setting, it's an ideal spot to enjoy live music with the ocean as your backdrop. There’s plenty of room for children to roam and dance, so you can set down a picnic blanket as they run between the gentle waves.

Amenities-wise, festival-goers can expect plenty of toilets, as well as a nearby car park for easy access. 

How do you book tickets?

Tickets for Tunes on the Shore have just gone on sale via this link. 

Where to stay nearby?

Left to right: Ria Reach, Serenity and Seaglass House.

For those looking to enjoy the festival in luxury, we have a collection of beautiful coastal properties on Cornwall’s south coast. From Ria Reach in Fowey to Seaglass House in St Mawes, both offer breath-taking river views, contemporary interiors, and are just a short drive from the festival.

With the event taking place over the May half term, we’d recommend turning your festival experience into a week-long escape, exploring Cornwall’s historic harbours, subtropical gardens, and scenic coastal paths.

If you're holidaying near Carlyon Bay throughout May, find solace at our sea-view sanctuary, Serenity. Sleeping five guests, this contemporary coastal hideaway is just moments from Carlyon's golden sands, with the prestigious golf club and spa also within easy reach.

Take a look at our guides to Rock Oyster Festival, Boardmasters, and Eden Sessions to plan around your favourite headliners. 
 

Good to know: Please note that Tunes on the Shore takes place directly on the beach, meaning the terrain consists of soft sand and may be unsuitable for wheelchairs and guests with limited mobility. While there are no steps or barriers at the festival entrance, access across the sand may be challenging. For further accessibility information, we recommend contacting the event organisers in advance. 
 

Image credits: Carlyon Bay images are courtesy of Robert Pittman and Kernow Ned via Flickr. All other images are our own or via Unsplash.