Nene Valley Rock Festival announces 2025 lineup at Grimsthorpe Castle near Bourne
Excitement is mounting among enthusiasts of music as a significant four-day festival makes its return. Headliners have officially been announced, and the lineup has been finalized for the 2025 Nene Valley Rock Festival, a celebration dedicated to fans of rock, blues, and prog rock. This event, named after its former location, promises four days filled with live performances, delectable food, refreshing drinks, and captivating entertainment at Grimsthorpe Castle, situated near Bourne, from Thursday, September 4 to Sunday, September 7.
The picturesque Grimsthorpe Castle will once again provide the perfect backdrop for the festival. Award-winning band Dare, featuring Thin Lizzy’s renowned musician Darren Wharton, will kick off the festivities on the opening night. The following evening, Cats in Space will headline the stage, delivering an electrifying performance inspired by ’80s rock. A legendary performer, The Crazy World of Arthur Brown, will light up the stage with his iconic track “Fire” during his Saturday night headline performance. Finally, Uli Jon Roth, the former frontman of the German rock band The Scorpions, will close the festival on Sunday evening, accompanied by the support of Atomic Rooster, who had several hits in the 1970s.
Local talent will also shine at the festival, with Stamford’s Dancing Wu Li Masters set to captivate the audience on the second stage on Thursday. Other Lincolnshire acts on the lineup include Candacraig from Ruskington and Lincoln’s very own Izengard. A total of 56 bands will showcase their talents across three stages, with performances scheduled from 5 p.m. until approximately 11:30 p.m. on Thursday, and from 11 a.m. until around 11:30 p.m. on the remaining three days.
The festival will unveil one more act, to be determined through a ‘battle of the bands’ style competition. Four bands will compete in each of the four heats next month, with the champion from each heat proceeding to the final at the Jolly Brewer on July 27. The victorious band will have the opportunity to kick off the Saturday lineup at the festival.
Attendees with a penchant for beverages will not be disappointed, as the beer tent will offer an array of locally brewed real ales, including Elgood’s Black Dog, Elgood’s Cambridge Gold, Oakham Inferno, Oakham Citra, as well as various selections from different regions. Lager, cider, wine, and spirits will also be available to suit various tastes.
Both four-day and single-day tickets are currently up for grabs on the festival’s website, where camping spots, motorhome spaces, and electric hook-ups can also be reserved. The Nene Valley Rock Festival promises music enthusiasts a harmonious blend of rock, blues, and prog rock, set against the enchanting backdrop of Grimsthorpe Castle, making it an event not to be missed for those seeking a sensational music experience.