We’re back. Kendal Calling 2025 is just around the corner, and as always, we’re buzzing to return to the fields of Lowther Deer Park for what promises to be another unforgettable weekend of music, mates, and muddy boots.
This year marks 20 years of Kendal Calling, and it’s safe to say it’s become a second home for us. From the moment you step through the gates, there’s a vibe like no other – a perfect blend of discovery, nostalgia, and pure festival magic.
Friday Night Fever: Courteeners Take the Stage
Let’s start with the obvious: Courteeners headlining Friday night. As proud Mancunians, this one hits different. We’ve seen them over 40 times, and somehow, they just keep getting better. There’s something about hearing Not Nineteen Forever echo across the hills that makes you feel like you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.
Reverend and the Makers – From Living Room to Main Stage
Another act we’re counting down the days for is Reverend and the Makers. We’ve seen Jon perform everywhere – including the intimate setting of my mum and dad’s living room – and every time, he brings the same electric energy. His sets at Kendal are always a highlight, and we know this year will be no different.
Nostalgia Hits with The Wombats & Travis
There’s a heavy dose of nostalgia on the line-up this year, and we’re here for it. The Wombats and Travis are taking us straight back to our younger days – the soundtrack to house parties, road trips, and first gigs. Hearing those songs in the open air, surrounded by friends, is going to be something special.
Discovering the Next Big Thing
One of the best things about Kendal Calling is stumbling across your next favourite band on a smaller stage. Over the years, we’ve caught some incredible grassroots acts – many of whom we’ve worked with in Manchester, like Kiwi and The Haciendas. This year, we’re especially excited to see The Cavs perform Headshot – a track we’ve had on repeat and we look forward to linking up with boys to capture their feelings post-set. Another band we will be down the front for are Wigan’s very own The Lilacs, we have hosted them on our very own SoundMate stage at NorthFest in the past. However, the band have grown so much over the last 2 years and we cannot wait to hear their new set following the release of ‘The 395 (To Forever)‘.
So Many Bands, So Little Time…
The line-up is stacked. Beyond the big names, we’re hyped for Scouting For Girls, The K’s, Lottery Winners and The Clause. It’s going to be a challenge to fit everyone in, but that’s the beauty of Kendal – every corner of the site has something worth hearing.
See You In The Fields
We’ll be there documenting the weekend, catching up with bands backstage, and capturing the moments that make Kendal Calling so special. Unless, of course, we get lost in Lost Eden again – that place is a rabbit hole of lights, sounds, and surprises.
Kendal Calling isn’t just a festival – it’s a tradition, a reunion, and a celebration of everything we love about live music. We can’t wait to be back in the fields, surrounded by good people and great tunes.
If you are a band playing at Kendal Calling and would like to catch up with the SoundMate team over the weekend, then please drop us a message and we will arrange a meet! If you want to find the next bands that will be playing at Kendal in the coming years, then keep your eyes peeled on our events page.
See you down the front.