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Boardmasters Festival

When is Boardmasters Festival?

Boardmasters is taking place at Fistral Beach in Newquay from 9 to 13 August 2023.

What to expect at Boardmasters Festival

Boardmasters Festival is the UK’s biggest surf and music festival. Set across two stunning sites in the lively and picturesque coastal town of Newquay, Cornwall, the festival brings together like-minded souls with a love of music, surfing, wellbeing and the outdoors.

Over 200 artists play across 12 stages up at Watergate Bay. From international headliners through to breaking acts, the bill is an eclectic mix of genres. There’s something here for everyone. Headliners this year include Lorde, Liam Gallagher and Florence + the Machine. 

As well as the competitions, 300 miles of spectacular Cornish coastline offers amazing beaches and spots to discover. Festival goers are encouraged to hit the beach and surf by day, party by night.

Be aware of GWR’s surfboard policy. Surfboards are not allowed on board our mainline IET trains. You can still take surfboards on our Night Riviera Sleeper and local services.

Buy Boardmasters tickets

Things to see and do in Newquay

Getting to Boardmasters couldn’t be easier. First, hop on a train to Newquay station. Once you’ve arrived in Newquay, there will be shuttle buses from just outside the station. If you’re heading to Watergate Bay, get on the bus outside the Great Western Hotel, for Fistral outside Burger King. Reservations are mandatory on trains to Newquay on Wednesday 9, Thursday 10, and Friday 11 August, and on trains from Newquay on Monday 14 August.


Please note:
  • surfboards cannot be taken on long distance trains and local hire is recommended
  • wheeled cases are allowed but four-wheel trolleys and sack trucks will not be

Those travelling should:
  • allow extra time because trains to and from Newquay will be busy
  • expect queues
  • get to the station at least 30 minutes before your reserved train is due to depart

So book your tickets to Newquay and experience one of the Southcoast’s most must-see festivals.