LISKEARD is set to take centre stage in Cornwall’s cultural calendar, with one of the county’s biggest celebrations returning to the town after more than 30 years.

Gorsedh Kernow will bring its annual gathering of Bards to Liskeard in September 2027, marking the first time the town has hosted the prestigious event since 1996.

The countdown has already begun. Liskeard Town Council and representatives of the Bards of Gorsedh Kernow met last month to begin preparations, then visited locations around the town to identify possible venues for the ceremonies and wider programme of events.

Grand Bard Jenefer Lowe, known by her bardic name Gwythvosen, 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, meaning Cornish Gorsedh, exists to maintain and give expression to Cornwall’s national identity as a Celtic country.

It works to strengthen links between Cornwall and other Celtic nations, encourage goodwill among those working for the county, and promote the study and use of the Cornish language.

The organisation also champions Cornish history, literature, art, music and sport, supports the annual Cornish Eisteddfod – known in Cornwall as the Esedhvos – and stages the annual Bardic ceremony.

The ceremony recognises people who have made an outstanding contribution to Cornwall or helped its culture flourish around the world. New Bards are formally welcomed into the Gorsedh, joining those who work to protect and promote the county’s heritage.

This year’s celebrations took place in Bodmin, with Liskeard now preparing to welcome the event and its visitors in 2027.

Councillor David Braithwaite, mayor of Liskeard, said the town was excited to be hosting the gathering. He 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.”

The occasion will extend beyond the central ceremony, with opportunities for residents, schools, businesses and visitors to celebrate Liskeard’s Cornish connections in their own way.

The town council will continue working with Gorsedh Kernow, local organisations and community groups to develop a programme of cultural events and activities in the months leading up to the main ceremony.

The celebrations will put Liskeard in the spotlight, attract visitors and give local performers, artists and community groups an opportunity to showcase their talents.

Further details, including venues and the full programme, will be announced as plans progress.