Hilltop Ceilidh Band – Ceilidh & Barn Dance Band Based in Tonbridge, Kent, Covering the UK
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Bringing People Together Through Music Since 2016
Hilltop Ceilidh Band is a vibrant, professional ceilidh and barn dance band based in Tonbridge, Kent. Founded in 2016 by folk musician James Kerry, the band was created to fill a gap in the market for a ceilidh band that does more than just play – one that entertains, supports, and elevates every celebration it’s part of.
Born from a love of traditional music and a vision to modernise the ceilidh experience, Hilltop has grown into a go-to band for weddings, private parties, and corporate events across Kent, London, and the UK. Every performance blends authentic folk traditions with inclusive, stress-free entertainment that gets everyone dancing – from complete beginners to ceilidh veterans.
How It All Started
James Kerry, a seasoned performer on the UK folk scene, spotted a need for a truly full-service ceilidh band. One that not only featured outstanding musicians, but also handled event coordination, high-spec sound, and top-tier lighting – all with personality and flair.
Named after the road James grew up on, Hilltop Ceilidh Band was built from the ground up with the help of carefully selected musicians, each with a passion for folk music and live performance. Over time, the band expanded its offering to include disco add-ons, background music, and flexible packages, as well as rustic props, bespoke music arrangements, and even mobile bar hire – all delivered with the same friendly, can-do approach.
Today, the band is proudly managed by James and bookings coordinator Hannah, with a hand-picked team of charismatic callers, multi-instrumentalists, and sound professionals.
Our Values – Fun, Inclusivity & Total Reliability
We believe that a ceilidh should be joyful, welcoming, and above all, inclusive. That’s why we’ve pioneered gender-neutral calling, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included on the dancefloor. Our events are designed for all ages and abilities, whether it’s a rural village hall wedding or a slick London office party.
Behind the scenes, we’re equally committed to professionalism. Our clients trust us to show up on time, set up efficiently, and deliver exceptional sound and energy. With our own team of engineers, sleek PA systems, and fully self-contained setup, we take care of everything so you can enjoy the night.
We’re also proud to play our part in the local community, performing at Kent venues and festivals, and supporting fellow creatives through our sister company Powder Mill Productions.
Why Hilltop Ceilidh Band is Different
- We’re inclusive. Gender-neutral calling makes everyone feel welcome.
- We’re experienced. Our musicians and callers have performed at hundreds of events across the UK.
- We’re flexible. From intimate garden parties to large-scale corporate galas, we tailor our line-up and setlist to suit your event.
- We’re reliable. With a pool of trusted deputies, you’ll never be left in the lurch.
- We’re full service. From music and sound to lighting and decor, we can provide the whole package.
Whether you want an energetic ceilidh followed by a late-night disco or a rustic barn dance under fairy lights, we’ll make it happen.
Real Reviews, Real Results
“They are amazing! We hired them for our wedding and they did a fantastic job! They were easy to be in contact with and were really helpful if we had any questions. On the day itself they managed to get set up quickly (there had been delays in other parts of the day) and immediately created an environment where everyone wanted to get up and dance. The musicians were really skilled and the caller was great! It was part ceilidh, part twmpath which suited our Welsh-Scottish wedding perfectly. The caller that did our wedding (Ceri) spoke Welsh too! We didn’t know this in advance but that really fitted in with our bilingual day. Can highly reccomend them!” – Alanna Macfarlane
“I hired the band for my 30th birthday and they were fabulous! The guests were a mix of ceilidh pros and first timers and Hannah and the boys couldn’t have been better at getting everyone involved and playing a fantastic range of music and dances! Trying to find a reason to have another ceilidh soon so I can book them again! Would highly recommend!” – Chloe Donaldson
Watch Us in Action
Want to get a feel for the energy and atmosphere we create? Head to our Media page to see us live in action.
Meet the Musicians
Questions? We’ve Got You Covered
Visit our FAQs to find answers to common questions about space requirements, booking timelines, equipment, and performance formats.
Ready to Book or Chat?
We’d love to hear about your event. Whether you’re planning a wedding in Maidstone, a birthday in Tunbridge Wells, or a corporate bash in London, we’ll bring the music and the magic.
Contact us directly
Call us on 07308 505360
Email us at info@hilltopceilidh.band
Explore our Packages or Events Pages to start planning your ceilidh with confidence.