The Roots of the Rochester Sweeps Festival
The Rochester Sweeps Festival is a celebration deeply rooted in history,
dating back 300 years, when chimney sweeping was both a grimy necessity and a tough trade, especially for the chimney boys who bore the brunt of the labour.
1 May, the Sweeps’ yearly holiday, provided a much-needed respite, marked by a joyous procession winding through the streets.
However, with the enactment of the Climbing Boys Act in 1875, which prohibited the employment of young boys in chimney cleaning, the tradition gradually faded, and by the early 1900s, the festive spirit of Sweeps in Rochester had all but disappeared.
Enter Gordon Newton, a local historian with a flair for research and melodeon-playing. In the vibrant 1980s, he revived the Sweeps Festival by leading a small Morris-dancing parade with his own Motley Morris crew, rekindling Rochester’s long-lost tradition.
Since then, the festival has blossomed into a must-attend event, drawing crowds of locals and visitors from afar.
With spirited dance troupes and eclectic musical acts, the festivities truly offer something for everyone, showcasing everything from traditional folk melodies to rocking guitar riffs.
With spirited dance troupes and eclectic musical acts, the festivities truly offer something for everyone, showcasing everything from traditional folk melodies to rocking guitar riffs.
The Rochester Sweeps Festival takes place every year during the Early May Bank Holiday.
Image: Gordon Newton at Sweeps
Rochester Sweeps Festival 2026
Saturday 2 to Monday 4 May
We look forward to welcoming you to this year's Rochester Sweeps Festival, taking place from Saturday 2 May to Monday 4 May.
