FESTIVAL INFO & FAQS
HOW DOES IT ALL WORK THEN?
Smithdown Festival is a multi-venue festival with a wide and varied programme of events and activities organised either directly by us, or by the individual venues themselves. There are a range of indoor and outdoor venues both throughout the day time and into the night.
DO I NEED A TICKET?
In a word? No.
In more words? Sort of. Around 90% of the event programme is FREE and no booking is required. Some of the events such as Wellington Yard and So Curious childrens activities are ticketed, and will be advertised as such on the Line Up section of the website.
IS IT FAMILY FRIENDLY?
Yes it is! Most of the venues allow children until a certain time of day - although if you are unsure, we would always recommend checking with individual places before you go. There are specific family friendly events at Penny Lane Development Trust, So Curious, Quaker Memorial Garden and The Coffee House too - more details about these events can be found HERE.
IS IT DOG FRIENDLY?
You'll need to check with the individual venues! Some places might be a bit noisy for your furry friends too. Maybe we need to invent doggy earplugs?
WHAT IF IT RAINS?
Some of the events will be outdoors, so if it looks like it's going to rain then bring a coat, brolly, or some manner of rainproof hat.
IS THERE ANY CAMPING?
Sadly not! If you're coming from out of town and need somewhere to stay there are loads of hotels and B&Bs around the city with easy access to Smithdown!
HOW DO I GET THERE?
Smithdown Festival is quite easily accessible by bus or taxi, with trains nearby too.
BY BUS
The easiest way to get here is by getting on the 86, 80, 75, 699 or 60 bus. Check the Merseytravel Journey Planner if you're unsure!
BY TRAIN
The nearest train stations are either Edge Hill or Wavertree Technology Park.
BY CAR
It's a big ol' road, but if you put in Smithdown Road on your Satnav or aim for L15 3JR as a good base point, you'll be right in the thick of the action!​
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Here's a link to Google Maps-
CAN I BRING MY OWN FOOD?
This is down to each individual venue! Some places will serve food, some won't! As always, contact the venues in advance - or better yet, visit one of the many, many, many brilliant food outlets on the road and treat yourself to a tasty bite.
CAN I BRING MY OWN BOOZE?
Again this is down to each venue, but as most of the venues are pubs and bars we would imagine you will get a firm telling off for bringing your own drinks in with you. These are almost all independent venues who rely entirely on your custom, so please be respectful and don't sneak drinks in!
CAN I BRING MY PET KESTREL?
In all honesty, we didn't expect you to read this far down the list of FAQs. But please, wherever possible, leave your kestrels at home.