Folkestone, a vibrant town on England’s south coast, has a deep-rooted musical heritage. For centuries, music has been at the heart of its community.

The Victorians built magnificent venues to celebrate it, King Edward VII introduced Europe’s first sprung dance floor at The Grand Hotel, and soldiers departing for war enjoyed their last tea and cake to its melodies. Local talent has long composed and performed here, contributing to Folkestone’s rich musical legacy.

Over the years, the town has attracted pioneering musicians, from Yehudi Menuhin to Jimi Hendrix.

Inspired by the global Music City movement, Folkestone has embraced the same approach as renowned music hubs like London, Nashville, Austin, and New Orleans.

By formally recognizing music as a valuable asset, Folkestone acknowledges its role in driving economic growth, enhancing health and well-being, and supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals—making history as the first town in the world to do so.

Folkestone was officially declared “The World’s First Music Town” on BBC Music Day, 26th September 2019—an annual celebration of music’s power to transform lives.

It’s no secret that one of Folkestone’s own made it into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Noel Redding left home in 1966 to join Jimi Hendrix and Mitch Mitchell, forming one of the most iconic and influential bands in modern music history—the legendary Jimi Hendrix Experience.