Swordpunk festival returns to Bluebell Wood in Winsford

Swordpunk is returning to Bluebell Wood near Winsford this month and features a range of fun outdoor activities.

From daring workshops in sword-fighting and whip-cracking, visitors can also turn their hands knife and axe-throwing, as well as enjoy a fire-breathing performance.

The festival, which runs from Friday, July 25, to Sunday, July 27, is organised by Bluebell Wood CIC, which helps the community to continue enjoying the ancient woodland near Winsford Flashes.

Bluebell Wood CIC co-founder and festival organiser Martin Tomlinson said: "We want to get people outside, away from screens and tablets. 

“Last summer's event was awesome, and we all had a great time, and everyone who came down to do the workshops and activities felt really positive about it all.

There are a range of activities on offer at Swordpunk (Image: Ben Smith)

“It is a nice sort of escape for a lot of people to come and wave swords, axes, whips and all sorts of crazy stuff. 

“This year, we want people to come from the local community and to see the place and be inspired.”

Participants who just want to experience the outdoor adventure can enjoy fun activities such as attending educational workshops, jewellery making, dancing, meeting new people and relaxing around a campfire in the evening.

Axe-throwing is one of the activities to try (Image: Ben Smith)

Martin added: “Last year, we had people making their own bows and arrows from their surroundings, and the joy and reward people got from that was amazing. 

“We want to remind people that you don’t have to be stuck indoors all the time, and you can experience life outdoors.”

Bluebell Wood CIC was launched by Martin and his wife Gemma in 2021, and the ancient woodland offers school visits, scout camps and toddler groups, as well as workshops and courses for the community.

Martin said: “We are very much open to doing more events like this in the future. 

Festivalgoers enjoying a workshop at Swordpunk (Image: Ben Smith)

“We are an open door to individuals to have ideas they’d like to do with the space we have. 

“Because we have all the space we want to use it and share it as much as we can.”

Tickets for the 18-plus only event are £125 for the weekend or £80 for Saturday, and £20 for Sunday. 

For more information or to buy tickets, head to the Swordpunk website.