The stone walls of the Cross Keys Inn in Eastgate resonated with the vibrant sounds of fiddles, whistles, and acoustic guitars this past Monday. Musicians and listeners from across the valley gathered for the monthly Weardale Folk Music Session, a traditional acoustic jam session open to all.
The session focuses on preserving and sharing old traditional tunes from Durham, Northumberland, and the wider North Pennines area. Many of these songs tell stories of farming, leadmining, and rural love, carrying the unique heritage of the landscape down through the centuries.
“Folk music is oral history set to melody,” says pub landlord and session regular Tom. “It belongs in a warm room with an open fire and friendly company. You don’t need a stage; you just need a willing heart and a love for local stories.”
The folk session takes place on the second Monday of every month. Whether you play an instrument, sing, or simply want to listen with a pint of local ale, you are warmly welcome.