Hire one of our authentic Irish bands in Leicester, to bring a true spirit of Ireland to your wedding, private celebration or corporate function. Our musicians can perform classic Irish jive, ballads, and even modern hit covers. Prices from £395.Read more
Irish bands in Leicester
Looking to inject some toe-tapping craic into your Leicester event? Our hand-picked selection of the best Irish bands for hire in Leicester is sure to get everyone on their feet! We’ve got 6 fantastic Irish bands ready to bring their lively traditional tunes, jigs, and reels to your celebration. Perfect for a themed party at The Donkey pub or a wedding reception at Athena, you'll find the ideal act to create an unforgettable atmosphere. Dive in and discover your perfect band today!
Every Irish band in this list has been thoroughly vetted by our team, ensuring top-tier musicianship, a fantastic stage presence, and a proven track record of client satisfaction.
The average hire price for an Irish band in Leicester is £976 per event, with costs varying based on the band's line-up, performance duration, and any specific requests.
Our Leicester-based Irish bands have collectively performed at 53 events, gathering 23 verified reviews with an impressive average rating of 4.96* out of 5*.
High-Energy Celtic Duo "Behan's Footsteps"
5.0(11 reviews)
• 27 bookings
Behan's Footsteps Duo are two brothers based in West Yorkshire who play exhilarating and soulful Irish folk music, with the occasional Scottish ceilidh tune added in. We have played Irish music since we were old enough to hold our instruments! Behan's Footsteps have been playing Celtic music for as long as they could walk. We know how to make people dance, and we know how to make them cry.
About supplier
We are able to provide differing atmospheres for different occasions. We enjoy playing raucous, high-energy shows but are equally happy playing a beautiful ballad as a bride strolls down the aisle. Our sets are always catered to the event that we're playing.
from £700 / event
Why event planners love Poptop
Reviews for Irish bands in Leicester
Read verified reviews from real clients, who booked with Poptop in Leicester
S
Steve McKeaveney29 Jan 2025
Booked for Other Event
Helen was very responsive and very easy to deal with, accommodating our requests.
The band were on site early and very professional throughout the event.
The music was great and had everybody's feet tapping and hands clapping.
S
Sean Coughlan18 Aug 2024
Booked for Wedding
The lads from Behans Footsteps were great from start to finish. We wanted some traditional Irish music to play as guests arrived at our wedding and Barney was very accommodating with their choice of tunes. We would highly recommend them for their professionalism and quality of playing.
B
Brendan Malone26 Jun 2023
Booked for Birthday party
The 3 chaps that make up this band were fantastic on the night, I've had nothing but compliments from the many people in attendance.
The music they played was perfect, my 80 year old Irish father who's party it was hasn't stopped smiling since Satyrday night.
They actually learnt a song which is one of his favourites for the night.
And it went down very well.
I would recommend the lads to my friends and family events in the future for sure.
Many thanks.
C
Catherine Goulding10 Jul 2022
Booked for Other Event
The duo were very easy to deal with answering emails very promptly. At the event they were great playing all the Irish traditional songs along with some more recent ones. They played any requests we asked for on the night and were very easy going and amenable.Ths event was my father's memorial in a small intimate venue and they were the perfect choice as they played while people were talking yet added a warm ambience to the proceedings People gave me feedback that they were a great find.
Thanks to them both for adding something special to our evening.
N
Natasha Dennison8 Jun 2022
Booked for Wedding
We hired Spill The Whisky for our wedding and could not recommend them more. Debby was a fantastic caller and got all of our guests up and dancing even when the aircon broke! None of us had any particular ceilidh experience but that didn't matter at all. We had so many compliments from our guests who had an amazing time and we all had so much fun!
H
Hayley28 Aug 2019
Booked for Celebration
These guys were fabulous. Really helped to make our day special. Lots of compliments from our guests. They played songs at our wedding ceremony at leatherhead registry office and then came back to our house to entertain us and our guests in our garden! The guys were very obliging and wonderful musicians. Highly recommend - thanks Newick Folk!!!! 👍👍
We delivered next level parties for exceptional companies
We also did more than 40,000 birthday parties. Probably, including your neighbour’s recent big bash.
Hiring Irish Bands in Leicester: Your Local Buyer’s Guide
If you’re searching for Irish bands in Leicester, chances are you’re planning something worth celebrating. A wedding with a proper knees-up. A birthday party that deserves more than a playlist. A pub night that needs fiddles, not feedback.
Whatever the occasion, the right Irish band transforms a room. It’s the difference between polite clapping and a packed dance floor. Between background music and a full-blown party session.
We’ve worked with countless events across the Midlands, and we know what makes an Irish band hire in Leicester truly sing. This guide will help you choose wisely, spend smartly, and book with confidence.
Why Book an Irish Band in Leicester?
Leicester’s got character. It’s a city where traditional meets modern, and that makes it perfect for Irish music. Whether you’re hosting in a community hall in the suburbs, a countryside venue just outside the city, or a lively pub in town, Irish folk and ceilidh music fit right in.
There’s something about live fiddle, bodhrán and guitar that brings people together. It doesn’t matter if your guests are seasoned ceilidh pros or have two left feet. Irish music invites everyone in.
When people search for Irish bands Leicester, they’re usually after one of three things:
Traditional Irish folk for atmosphere and authenticity
A ceilidh band to get guests dancing
A high-energy Irish party session for a proper singalong
The good news is you’ll find all three locally. The key is choosing the style that suits your event.
The Best Events for Irish Bands in Leicester
Irish bands are wonderfully versatile. But they really shine in certain settings.
Weddings
If you’re planning a wedding in Leicester or nearby, an Irish band can work beautifully for:
Drinks receptions with relaxed traditional tunes
Evening entertainment that gets every generation dancing
A full ceilidh set where guests actually join in
We often see couples combine a folk set early on with a lively party session later. It keeps the energy building naturally throughout the day. And let’s be honest, there’s nothing quite like seeing your aunt attempt a reel after a glass of prosecco.
Birthday Parties
Milestone birthdays call for something special. An Irish band brings warmth and atmosphere, especially in community halls and country houses around Leicester.
'Blag's' Feisty Mix of Groovesome Irish Folk Rock & World Music
5.0(44 reviews)
• 115 bookings
We play a huge range of Celtic music from traditional jigs and reels, to contemporary Irish folk and rock, such as songs by Van Morrison, Ed Sheeran, Eagle-Eyed Cherry, Orthodox Celts, Paul Weller, The Pogues, The Waterboys, Thin Lizzy, and many others. We also play an eclectic mix of music from around the world, including gypsy and Latin jazz. We have performed on both TV and radio, including being featured in 'Loose Ends' on Radio 4.
About supplier
Our group has over 25 years of experience performing in the the UK and at festivals internationally. Our aim is to get everyone dancing and hope everyone at your event has an amazing time. Our whole group loves performing together and our energy really shows on stage!
from £880 / event
'Taigh Band' Create Fun-Filled Night & Unforgettable Celtic Experience
5.0(1 review)
• 1 booking
Taigh Band is a professional Ceilidh band based in the stunning South East of England. With our roots deeply grounded in Scottish music, Taigh Band is a perfect choice for an authentic and lively musical experience capturing the spirit of this vibrant music tradition. Choosing Taigh Band for your event means an unforgettable Celtic experience. Our energy and musicality will keep your guests dancing throughout the night, making it an event to remember.
About supplier
Taigh's members have a collective 50+ years of experience on the ceilidh scene. Whether it's a wedding, corporate event, or celebration, our experienced band are fully equipped to cater to your requests. Get in touch today and let's get the party started!
from £1500 / event
Irish Music Band 'Wee Bag Band'
No reviews yet • 1 booking
As a 5 piece band The Wee Bag Band's raison d'être is to bring mad, bad, trad, popular and contemporary diddly, diddly Irish / Celtic with a hint of Country and Blue Grass music and song to the masses at pubs, clubs, doos 'n festivals in Merseyside, UK, infinity & beyond.
About supplier
With the introduction of Jules the Fiddle in 2007, Steve replacing Mark on the bass in 2011 and Jim the Flute & Terry the Whistle joining us from time to time, the band was formed!
from £980 / event
Dancing Feet Perfoming Folk Style Background Music
5.0(6 reviews)
• 30 bookings
The band offers a varied performance of Scottish and Irish folk music and song, with a few extras thrown in! We use a loop pedal to create a full band sound with only two of us, with a lineup of fiddle, pipes, flute, sax, cajon and guitar.
We can also do an acoustic set, on fiddle, flute pipes and guitar, playing a mix of songs and tunes.
About supplier
Kate and Roddy have been playing together for 15 years and have built up a rapport that makes for an engaging, dynamic and spontaneous performance. Both are professional musicians with 30 years experience, meaning that they are flexible and ready for anything!
from £510 / event
Irish Band 'Kellys Heroes' Playing Traditional Hits
4.95(20 reviews)
• 34 bookings
Kellys Heroes will bring a little piece of Ireland to your next special event! The fast, furious songs and tunes plus gentle ballads flowing from the accordion and fiddle, powerful rhythm guitar and bodhran give a fullness of sound that belies the number of people on stage. This very experienced Midlands based band are one of the most sought after on the circuit!
About supplier
Kellys Heroes have played to audiences including 40,000 people at Glasgow's Mayfest, 25,000 at the Heineken Big Top, 50 guests in a Chateau in France and 6 people in a kitchen for a family celebration. We challenge you to come up with a type of event we haven't covered at some point over the years!
from £750 / event
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For 40ths, 50ths and beyond, live Irish music creates that “remember when?” vibe. Familiar songs, big choruses, proper crowd engagement. It’s personal without being cheesy.
Pubs and Club Nights
Leicester’s pub scene loves live music. Irish bands are perfect for themed nights, St Patrick’s celebrations, or simply drawing in a bigger crowd on a Friday. A tight, energetic party session can turn a regular night into one people talk about for weeks.
Popular Irish Music Styles in Leicester
When browsing Irish bands in Leicester, you’ll notice different approaches. It’s worth knowing the difference before you book.
Traditional Irish Folk
Expect fiddles, acoustic guitar, maybe whistle or accordion. This style is perfect for:
Wedding receptions
Background music with atmosphere
Smaller community hall gatherings
It’s authentic, warm and charming.
Ceilidh Bands
If dancing is your priority, go ceilidh. These bands usually include a caller who teaches the dances, making it easy for everyone to join in.
Ideal for:
Weddings
Big birthday parties
Large community spaces
You don’t need experience. The caller guides the room, and before you know it, the whole place is spinning.
Party Session Bands
This is where things get lively. Think upbeat folk favourites, singalong classics and high energy sets.
Great for:
Pub nights
Evening wedding receptions
Celebrations where the aim is simple: have a brilliant time
When searching Irish party bands Leicester, this is usually what people have in mind.
Venues in Leicester: What to Consider
Leicester offers a broad mix of venues, and Irish bands adapt well. Still, a few practical considerations help avoid last-minute stress.
Community Halls
Perfect for ceilidhs and birthday parties. They offer:
Plenty of space for dancing
Flexible layouts
Good value hire costs
Make sure there’s access to power and a clear area for the band setup. Most Irish bands bring their own PA system, but confirming details early keeps things smooth.
Country Houses and Rural Venues
These venues suit traditional Irish folk beautifully. Acoustic sets can work especially well in intimate rooms with character features.
Check:
Noise restrictions
Load-in access
Finish times
Country settings plus Irish music is a winning combination.
Pubs
Pub bookings tend to be straightforward. The band often fits neatly into a corner stage area.
Just confirm:
Set lengths
Break times
Sound limits
A well-run pub session can become a regular fixture if it goes down well.
How Much Do Irish Bands in Leicester Cost?
For most events in Leicester, you’re looking at £600 to £1,100. The final price depends on:
Number of musicians
Performance length
Travel within or outside the city
Day of the week
A three-piece traditional band for a few hours in a community hall will usually sit at the lower end. A larger ceilidh band with a caller for a full evening wedding reception will sit towards the top. It’s worth remembering that live music isn’t just background noise. It sets the tone for the entire event.
What to Ask Before You Book
When hiring Irish bands in Leicester, we always suggest asking a few simple but important questions:
What style do you specialise in?
Do you provide a caller for ceilidh dancing?
How long are your sets and breaks?
What space and power do you need?
Can you tailor the setlist to our event?
A good band will answer confidently and clearly. Communication is everything. It’s not just about music; it’s about reliability.
Creating a Truly Personal Experience
One of the joys of Irish music is its flexibility. The best bands adapt. Want a particular song for your first dance? Prefer a heavier focus on traditional reels? Need to tone things down early in the evening?
The right band will shape the performance around your vision. That’s what turns a good event into a brilliant one. When we help clients book Irish bands in Leicester, we always encourage them to think about the atmosphere they want at different points in the evening.
Why Book Through Poptop?
We know you could search endlessly online. But planning an event shouldn’t feel like a second job. Here’s why using Poptop makes hiring Irish bands in Leicester simpler and more secure.
Friendly, Professional Suppliers
You get more than musicians. You get experienced professionals who know how to read a room, engage a crowd and create a genuinely warm atmosphere. They’re vetted not just for talent, but for attitude. That matters.
Plan in Minutes, Not Days
Time is precious. With instant, all-inclusive pricing, you can make decisions quickly instead of waiting around for quotes. Quick responses. Clear details. No back and forth confusion.
Tailored to You
Whether it’s adapting a setlist or matching the tone to your venue, flexibility is part of the service. Your event isn’t generic. Your music shouldn’t be either.
Stress-Free Planning
Clear communication at every stage means you always know what’s happening. No guessing. No chasing. Just steady progress towards your event date. Planning should feel exciting, not nerve-racking.
Everything in One Place
Need more than just an Irish band? You can arrange other services alongside your entertainment without jumping between websites. It’s practical, efficient and far less overwhelming.
Book With Confidence
All suppliers are carefully vetted. If anything unexpected happens, we’ll help find a suitable alternative. With added protection and a money-back guarantee, you’re not taking a gamble.
Tips for a Brilliant Irish Music Night
Before we wrap up, here are a few quick tips to make your Irish band hire in Leicester unforgettable:
Clear space for dancing early. People need permission to join in.
Keep lighting warm and welcoming, especially in halls.
Brief the band on timings well in advance.
Encourage guests to get involved. Ceilidhs thrive on participation.
The more energy you put in, the more you get back.
Ready to Find the Perfect Irish Band in Leicester?
Whether you’re organising a wedding, birthday party, or pub session, Irish bands bring something special to Leicester events. It’s music with heart. Music that moves people. Music that creates moments.
If you’re currently searching for Irish bands Leicester, we’d love to help you find the right fit quickly and confidently.
Tell us your date, guest numbers and postcode. In minutes, you’ll see available Irish bands ready to bring your celebration to life.
