The popular Godney Gathering, a staple event in Somerset near Glastonbury, is set to change its location after more than ten years at its traditional home in the village of Godney. The festival organisers have submitted a licensing application for next year’s event to be held at a farm near Wells, seeking permission to sell alcohol and host live music.
In a recent statement, organisers shared that the festival industry as a whole presents significant challenges, explaining: “It’s no secret that the festival industry isn’t easy. Like so many independent events, we do this for the love of live music and the incredible community that makes the Gathering so special.”
They acknowledged the increasing difficulty in keeping the festival financially sustainable, leading to the difficult decision to move the festival for the 2027 edition. Reflecting on its history, the organisers said: “The village of Godney is where we began 15 years ago, with a single stage, single day event. We’ll forever be thankful to the village, and even more so to Garslade Farm who welcomed the festival to their fields 12 years ago, allowing us to create the incredible two-day festival that we’ve enjoyed this weekend.”
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The move aims to ensure the future viability of the Godney Gathering, particularly at a time when many independent festivals have unfortunately ceased operating.
While the new venue has yet to be officially announced, the licensing application submitted is for Woodford Farm in Woodford, Wells. The application seeks licences for alcohol sales and regulated entertainment, with organisers confirming an agreement is in place with the new site’s owners.
The festival’s website already lists the dates for the 2027 event as Friday 16 and Saturday 17 July but notes: “The new site has not been licensed yet – to protect everyone, we need to make sure everything is sorted legally before we officially announce it.”
The licensing application highlights that temporary increases in footfall, traffic, noise, and late-evening activity may be expected during festival operating hours.
Members of the public wishing to comment on the application are invited to write to Somerset Council at Licensing, The Council Offices, Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5BT. The deadline for submissions is 11.59pm on Friday, 28 August. The full application can be viewed online.