Folk music lovers in North Oxfordshire are in for a treat this autumn as Ninebarrow, the acclaimed Dorset-based duo of Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere, bring their acclaimed harmonies and songs inspired by the British landscape to Stowe School, Buckinghamshire, on Friday 7 November 2025.
From Dorset Hills to National Fame
Named after Nine Barrow Down in Dorset’s Purbeck Hills, the pair have risen steadily to the top of the UK’s folk scene over the past decade. In 2017 they were BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Horizon nominees, marking a rapid ascent since both gave up their day jobs (Jon as a teacher and Jay as a GP) to follow music full-time.
Known for their “breath taking harmonies” and “immaculate craftsmanship” (Maverick Magazine), Ninebarrow have built a reputation for songs that celebrate the landscape, folklore, and human stories of the British Isles. Their sound has been described by Mark Radcliffe as “like two halves of one voice”, while Kate Rusby called them “absolutely amazing.”
Songs Rooted in Nature
Their fifth studio album, The Colour of Night, released in 2023, deepened the connection between their music and the natural world. The title track was inspired by a nocturnal vigil in the Ninebarrow Woodland, a three-acre conservation project they planted near Gillingham, Dorset — now home to over 1,000 native trees and a thriving ecosystem.
Earlier releases such as A Pocket Full of Acorns (2021) and Releasing the Leaves (2016) established their trademark blend of storytelling, harmony, and instrumental virtuosity. The duo’s work has earned them multiple Best Duo and Album of the Year awards from Folking.com, Bright Young Folk, and the Nova FM Folk Show.
Live at Stowe
Expect a night of haunting harmonies, shimmering instrumentation, and the warmth that has made Ninebarrow one of Britain’s most sought-after folk acts to see on stage. The pair will perform original songs and reimagined traditional tunes on the acoustic guitar, accompanied by stories of the places and moments that inspire their music.
Event details:
📅 Friday 7 November 2025
📍 Stowe School, Stowe, Buckingham MK18 5EH, Buckinghamshire
🕢 7:30 pm (start) – Doors 7 pm
🎟️ Tickets: www.ninebarrow.co.uk/gigs
Accolades
- Best Duo – Folking.com Awards 2019
- BBC Radio 2 Folk Award Nominees 2017
- Best Album Winners – Bright Young Folk & Folking.com 2021
- “Stunning” – Maverick Magazine
- “Genuine British folk music charm” – The Telegraph
How to Get to Stowe School from Oxfordshire
Stowe School is located just outside Buckingham, around 35 miles northeast of Oxford, roughly a 50-minute drive.
By car:
- From Oxford, take the A34 north and join the A41 east towards Bicester, then follow signs for Buckingham (A421). Stowe School is signposted from the town centre.
- From Banbury, take the A422 east directly to Buckingham.
Parking is available on-site at the school’s visitor car parks near the main entrance.
By public transport:
- Regular trains run from Oxford to Bicester North or Bicester Village, then take the Stagecoach X5 or Arriva 132/133 bus towards Buckingham.
- Taxis are available from Buckingham town centre to Stowe (about 2 miles).
Nearest postcode for satnav: MK18 5EH
Why You Should Go
Ninebarrow’s concerts are intimate, uplifting melody and full of craft, blending soaring vocals, gentle humour, and heartfelt storytelling. Whether you’re a long-time folk fan or new to the scene, their live show promises a memorable evening of beautifully British folk at its finest.
