Liskeard is preparing to welcome Gorsedh Kernow in September 2027, bringing one of Cornwall’s most important cultural celebrations back to the town for the first time in more than 30 years.
Planning for the event is now underway, with representatives from Liskeard Town Council and the Bards of Gorsedh Kernow coming together last month for an initial planning meeting. The group also undertook a series of site visits across the town to begin identifying locations for the ceremonies, cultural events and activities that will form part of the 2027 celebrations.
Grand Bard Gwythvosen, Jenefer Lowe, said ‘We are delighted to be returning to Liskeard in 2027 for the annual Esedhvos Festival and Gorsedh ceremony. We look forward to working closely with the Council and organisations in the town to make 2027 a brilliant celebration of Cornish culture and of Liskeard.’
Gorsedh Kernow celebrates and promotes Cornwall’s Celtic identity through Kernewek, the Cornish language, as well as literature, history, music, dance, art and community traditions. Its annual ceremony brings together the Bards of Cornwall and welcomes new members who have made an outstanding contribution to Cornwall or helped Cornish culture flourish around the world.
Councillor David Braithwaite, Mayor of Liskeard, said:
“We are delighted to be welcoming Gorsedh Kernow back to Liskeard in 2027 and are excited that planning is now underway. Our first meetings with representatives of Gorsedh Kernow have been extremely positive, and it has been wonderful to begin exploring locations across the town for the ceremonies and associated events.
“Hosting Gorsedh Kernow is a tremendous honour for Liskeard. It will provide a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Cornwall’s rich culture and heritage, while showcasing the warmth, creativity and community spirit that our town has to offer. We look forward to giving the Bards and visitors a very warm Liskeard welcome.”
Liskeard last hosted Gorsedh Kernow in 1996. Its return in 2027 provides an exciting opportunity to celebrate Cornish culture while showcasing Liskeard’s heritage, creativity, local talent and community spirit.
Over the coming months, Liskeard Town Council will continue to work closely with Gorsedh Kernow, local organisations and community groups to develop a programme of cultural and community activities leading up to the main ceremony.
Further details about Gorsedh Kernow 2027 in Liskeard will be announced as plans progress.
Mayor of Liskeard – Cllr David Braithwaite and Grand Bard of Kernow – Jenefer Lowe at Gorsedh Kernow 2026 in Bodmin ln September
Callington Bard at the Gorsedh 2026 in Bodmin– Les Pierce
Bards and new initiates gathering before the Procession – Gorsedh 2026 in Bodmin.
Mayor of Liskeard – Cllr David Braithwaite and Bard and President of Liskeard Old Cornwall Society Brian Oldham.
Gorsedh Kernow St Piran’s banner
Procession of Bards at Bodmin
Mayor of Liskeard – Cllr David Braithwaite and Bard Trevor Smitheram, Gorsedh 2026 in Bodmin.
Gathering of Banners – Old Cornwall Societies from all over Cornwall – Gorsedh 2026 in Bodmin.
Mayor of Liskeard – Cllr David Braithwaite and MP Ben McGuire at this years Gorsedh in Bodmin.