ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
The Gloucester Tall Ships Festival is a bi-annual celebration, which takes place at the historic Gloucester Docks and celebrates the city’s rich nautical history, which dates back to 1827.
The event is a vibrant spectacle that draws tens of thousands of attendees across the weekend for entertainment including live music, immersive entertainment, sail cargo showcases, vintage fairground rides, family-friendly activities, and a local food and drink market.
​
The festival not only embraces the majestic tall ships that once dominated Gloucester Docks, but also the diverse cultures and connections fostered by the bustling port.
​
Gloucester Tall Ships is produced by Gloucester City Council and Gloucester BID, in partnership with Canal & River Trust, Gloucester Quays and Gloucester Docks Estate Company Ltd.
FESTIVAL FAQ
​
I've got questions about tickets.
Check out all the info on tickets here.
​
How do I find out who's playing the Festival?
Check out our line up here and our flagships here!
​
Where do I buy tickets?
​
Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately we can only allow assistance and resident dogs onto the Festival site.
​
How can I apply as a trader?
If you would like to trade at the Festival email us details of your stall. In the subject line write 'Trade at Gloucester Tall Ships'.
​
What time does the site open and close?
Gates open at 11am and close at 8pm on Saturday & Sunday. Gates open at 10am and close at 6pm on Monday.
​
How can I collect my wristband?
On entry to the Festival you will show your e-ticket barcode at the gate and be given a wristband. Each code/e-ticket can only be scanned once so keep your ticket codes safe and do not distribute them if you don't need to. Gate staff will be able to scan your tickets from a phone so there is no requirement to print tickets out. Make sure you have your battery charged.
​
What ID should I bring?
The bars we will be employing a “Challenge 25” scheme. Attendees without relevant ID will be refused alcohol at the bars.
​
Are there any age restrictions?
There is no minimum age. Though all attendees under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an appropriate adult.
​
Is the site accessible for wheelchairs?
The Docks area is accessible for wheelchairs. Access onto the ships will be restricted for wheelchair users as the ships gang planks are not always suitable. We are working to make it possible to get wheelchairs onto the ships and will update the website with more information soon.
​
Are there accessible toilets and baby changing facilities?
Yes - locations will be published on the site map, which we'll publish online soon.
​
Can I bring my own alcohol/ glass bottles?
You cannot bring your own alcohol into the festival site. Glass bottles will also be confiscated at the gate so please don't attempt to bring them in.
​
How do I get to the Festival?
See our getting here page for more info.