WHAT'S ON

at The Flowing Spring



Photo of CODA - a Tribute to Led Zeppelin courtesy of Bradley Lucas, I Want 2 Shoot You

On this page you can get details of all our forthcoming events and book tickets. If you'd like to be the first to know about new events and other announcements, join our mailing list. All you have to do is send us an email asking to be added. We won't share your details with anyone else.


GET ALL YOUR TICKETS IN ONE PLACE

All events that require a ticket purchase are now listed in our Flowing Spring Ticket Store, so you can either buy them online or by popping into the pub with cash. 


WATCH PAST GIGS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL

Whilst you're here, take a look at our Flowing Spring Gigs YouTube Channel which has a growing number of live videos we've filmed and produced


OUR FLOWING SPRING GIGS YOU TUBE CHANNEL

The Dead Can Wait at The Flowing Spring, 18 October 2025

The Dead Can Wait

+ The Verdagears

Live in the Acoustic Lounge

Saturday 18 October

We welcome the return of The Dead Can Wait to The Flowing Spring.

Their music can be described as 80s classic rock, but this 5-piece band deliver their powerhouse sound with modern twists.

Expect huge guitar solos, classic riffs and powerful ballads - and they're all original songs.

Check out their debut album In Lumine, released last October.


We also welcome The Verdagears, their first time here, a local 4-piece grunge rock band with influences including Nirvana and Alice in Chains.


  • Takes place in the Acoustic Lounge, starting 8:30pm
  • Admission is free but you must register with us to guarantee entry as space is limited. Complete the registration form below
  • Food will be available with a special menu published nearer the time



Register for The Dead Can Wait


Sing-along-a-Nick Halloween Special, 1 Novemer 2025 at The Flowing Spring

Sing-along-a-Scary Nick

Not so much spooky, more silly

Saturday 1 November

The Sing-along-a-Nick trio have taken a long break from their antics over the summer but they’re back with a vengeance with a Halloween Special on Saturday 1 November.


Particularly known for their Christmas and Valentine’s shows, the band has decided to add Halloween to their calendar, to exhume all those classic hits about monsters, ghosts and devilish stuff. 


Called Sing-along-a-Scary Nick, the show will have props, costumes, sound effects and, of course, lots of music, to get your heart pounding whilst having a giggle.


The gig will take place in the Acoustic Lounge. Admission is free but you must register with us to guarantee entry as space is limited. Complete the registration form below


The Sing-along-a-Nick trio features:

  • Landlord Nick on piano and leading the singing (howling)
  • Mr Minch on double bass
  • Bradley on drums


Don’t forget the annual Sing-along-a-Nicktivity Christmas shows take place on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 December, always a sell-out, packed with sackfuls of Christmas carols and cheesy hits. So whilst you’re registering for Scary Nick, grab your Nicktivity ones too - a treat for all the family! Click here for details.


Let the fun resume!


  • Takes place in the heated Acoustic Lounge
  • Starts 8:30pm, finishing no later than 11pm
  • Admission is free but you must register with us to guarantee entry as space is limited. Complete the registration form below
  • Dress up for Halloween if you like but it's not mandatory!
  • A special menu will be available for the night which can be viewed here once published.

Register for Sing-along-a-Scary Nick


Slightly Plugged Night at The Flowing Spring

Slightly Plugged Night

Friday 31 October

On the last Friday of each month we host a variety of acts in the bar, each performing for 20 minutes. They can be soloists, duos, trios or small quartets as there's not a lot of space.

It's open to everyone of any musical style but mainly based around those playing acoustic instruments which we plug in using our small PA system.

If you would like to play here simply email us with your details and we'll add you to this or future Slightly Plugged Nights.


The list of who's playing this month will appear below.

 

  • Bottleneck Brothers (duo)
  • Kris & Minch (duo)
  • Graham Swannell (solo)



Unplugged Night at The Flowing Spring

Unplugged Night

Tuesday 4 November

Our Unplugged Nights are in their eleventh year.

Taking place on the first Tuesday of each month, we host a variety of musicians performing in the bar unplugged. Any genre, any acoustic instruments, any standard: anything goes - as long as nothing is plugged in!

Simply turn up, add your name to the list and you'll get to perform. How long you play for depends on the number of acts.

Otherwise known as Acoustic Jam in Quirky Corner, this monthly event is hosted by our good friend Mike Tuffery.

There is a facebook page dedicated to Acoustic Jam in Quirky Corner. Click here to view it.

  •  Starts 7:45pm
  • Finishing no later than 11pm
  • Takes place in the bar



Big Dez and his band at The Flowing Spring, 6 November 2025

Big Dez and his Band

Internationally renowned blues guitarist

Thursday 6 November

International blues guitarist Big Dez has played in the US with legends including Luther Allison, W C Clark and Billy Branch, and has been a regular headliner at blues clubs in Japan, Texas and Chicago including Buddy Guy's Legends Club, House Of Blues and Rosa's Lounge. This side of the pond, Big Dez continues to be a big draw at European blues clubs and festivals.


"Big Dez was superb, sizzling guitar mastery combined with rich powerhouse vocals....Big Dez is the real, international blues deal. Go see!"  - Review from recent 100 Club headline - Denise Lester - Blues In Britain.


“Dez is heavily influenced by Albert Collins and Chicago blues; his slashing guitar combines Albert Collins’ icy tension with Johnny ‘Guitar’ Watson¹s metallic crunch, and vocals like Omar Kent Dykes” - Blues Revue USA


  • Performing in the Acoustic Lounge
  • Limited capacity. Get your tickets early.
  • Tickets £12 cash in advance direct from the pub, £14.50 when paying by card and online
  • Buy tickets for £14.50 online from our Ticket Store by clicking here
  • Tickets £18 on the door (if it's not sold out)
  • Food will be available with a menu published here nearer the time
  • Performance starts 8:45pm, finishing no later than 11pm



Slightly Plugged Night at The Flowing Spring

Slightly Plugged Night

Friday 28 November

On the last Friday of each month we host a variety of acts in the bar, each performing for 20 minutes. They can be soloists, duos, trios or small quartets as there's not a lot of space.

It's open to everyone of any musical style but mainly based around those playing acoustic instruments which we plug in using our small PA system.

If you would like to play here simply email us with your details and we'll add you to this or future Slightly Plugged Nights.


The list of who's playing this month will appear below.

 

  • The K&M Lectures (duo)



Selina and the Howlin' Dogs at The Flowing Spring, 29 November 2025

Selina and the Howlin' Dogs

Live in the Acoustic Lounge

Saturday 29 November

Selina and the Howlin' Dogs are a great local four-piece band pumping out upbeat, soulful, funky blues-rock originals.


Both their studio and live albums hit the IBBA top 40 album playlist in 2022 resulting in opening for Geno Washington and the Ram Jam band, Dr Feelgood and Emma Wilson Band.


The “Live at The Harlington” release won Live Album of the Year 2022 by Docs Blues Awards on Severn FM which resulted in being aired across 20+ blues radio stations/shows in the UK, Netherlands, Belgium and the US.


Their highly anticipated third album entitled Biscuit City pays tribute to where it all began with a rockier edge. It entered the IBBA top 40 album playlist at #14 in 2023.


Influences include Gary Clark jr, Vintage Trouble, Kyla Brox, Jimi Hendrix, Cream, Joe Bonamassa, Jeff Healey, Rolling Stones, Robben Ford, Led Zeppelin and Muddy Waters.


  • Performing in the Acoustic Lounge, starting 8:45pm, two sets
  • Admission to this gig is free but you must register with us as attending to gain entry. Use the form below
  • Spaces are very limited: first come first served
  • Food will be available. A special menu will be published here nearer the time.

Register for Selina and the Howlin' Dogs


Unplugged Night at The Flowing Spring

Unplugged Night

Tuesday 2 December

This is the last Unplugged Night of 2025.

Taking place on the first Tuesday of each month, we host a variety of musicians performing in the bar unplugged. Any genre, any acoustic instruments, any standard: anything goes - as long as nothing is plugged in!

Simply turn up, add your name to the list and you'll get to perform. How long you play for depends on the number of acts.

Otherwise known as Acoustic Jam in Quirky Corner, this monthly event is hosted by our good friend Mike Tuffery.

There is a facebook page dedicated to Acoustic Jam in Quirky Corner. Click here to view it.

  •  Starts 7:45pm
  • Finishing no later than 11pm
  • Takes place in the bar



Sing-along-a-Nicktivity Christmas Shows at The Flowing Spring

Sing-along-a-Nicktivity

The Christmassiest Show around!!

Friday 19 December and Saturday 20 December

The Sing-along-a-Nick trio's annual venture into the world of all things Christmas. Featuring carols, traditional festive songs and cheesy Christmas hits from across the decades, plus, of course, antics and audience involvement to make everyone feel in the festive mood.

These two nights always sell out, so grab your tickets sooner rather than later.

They are just £5 each in cash from the pub or £6 when paying by card or online.


Moonage Unplugged at The Flowing Spring

Moonage Unplugged

A rare opportunity to hear a selection of Bowie's songs unplugged performed by the Moonage trio

Saturday 7 March 2026

As everyone knows we're huge Moonage fans and have been since they formed over 3 years ago. The 7-piece Bowie tribute band has grown into a hugely popular touring act, playing theatres, venues and festivals across the UK.

We were also the first to book Moonage Unplugged, the 3-piece version who perform popular and lesser known Bowie tracks with just vocals, guitars and piano.

A year on from Moonage Unplugged's first booking, we welcome them back to our Acoustic Lounge.

This is a rare treat, not to be missed.

Featuring Andrew on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, Paul on acoustic and electric guitars and Ollie on keys and backing vocals.


  • Performing in the Acoustic Lounge
  • Limited capacity. Get your tickets early.
  • Tickets £12 cash in advance direct from the pub, £14.50 when paying by card and online
  • Buy tickets for £14.50 online from our Ticket Store by clicking here
  • Tickets £18 on the door (if it's not sold out)
  • Food will be available with a menu published here nearer the time
  • Performance starts 8:45pm, finishing no later than 11pm






The Electric Soul Company at The Flowing Spring

Electric Soul Company

with Will Jacobs and Breezy Rodio

Wednesday 11 March 2026

We are excited to welcome Electric Soul Company as part of their European tour to The Flowing Spring.

Hailing from Chicago, this band is made up of two amazing singer/songwriter guitarists from the US: Breezy Rodio and Will Jacobs, plus Lorenzo Francocci on drums and Light Palone on bass guitar. Together they play wonderful, soulful blues.

Breezy Rodio and Will Jacobs are renowned in their own right, with their own bands and projects. Together, they just work so well. There's bags of soul in their music, upbeat with an infectious groove, often funky. You've got to see them in action.


  • Performing in the Acoustic Lounge
  • Limited capacity. Get your tickets early.
  • Tickets £12 cash in advance direct from the pub, £14.50 when paying by card and online
  • Buy tickets for £14.50 online from our Ticket Store by clicking here
  • Tickets £18 on the door (if it's not sold out)
  • Food will be available with a menu published here nearer the time
  • Performance starts 8:45pm, finishing no later than 11pm


Classic Cars & Bikes at The Flowing Spring, 14 September 2025

Classic Cars & Bikes

Sunday 12 April 2026, 9:30-11:30am

The first Meet of 2026, our Classic Cars & Bikes Meet welcomes all classics from any era and with any number of wheels!

Just come along, bring your prized machine, enjoy a cuppa and a bacon roll and admire all the other motors on show.

April's Meet is always hugely popular so we should get a bumper turnout.

  • Entry is free
  • Tea, coffee, bacon rolls and refreshments available
  • If you're a member of a car or bike club, talk to us about having your own Meet here.




Rea-Loaded, a tribute to Chris Rea - at The Flowing Spring

Rea-Loaded

A live tribute to the fabulous music of Chris Rea

Saturday 18 April 2026

Rea-Loaded is a new band of highly experienced musicians based in the West Midlands with a desire to re-create the authentic sound of Chris Rea and his music.


The band was started by drummer Ed Taylor (who has played here with Fleetwood Mad) who has spent much of his life in the world of Formula One. Ed has met Chris Rea several times over the years in the motorsport paddocks of the world: a huge passion and big part of Chris's life.

 

Rea-Loaded is fronted by Neil Gordon who possesses the raspy voice and guitar skills to do justice to these songs.

Neil and and Ed are joined in the band by three other highly experienced musicians: Mick Lown (guitar), Dave Williams (keys) and Pez Connor (bass).


Expect to hear great songs, including Road To Hell, Auberge, Lets Dance, Josephine, Stainsby Girls, On The Beach, Fool If You Think Its Over and many, many more.


  • Performing in the Acoustic Lounge
  • Limited capacity. Get your tickets early.
  • Tickets £15 cash in advance direct from the pub, £18 when paying by card and online
  • Buy tickets for £18 online from our Ticket Store by clicking here
  • Tickets £20 on the door, subject to availability
  • Food will be available with a menu published here nearer the time
  • Performance starts 8:45pm, finishing no later than 11pm





Jewels & The Jacuzzis at The Flowing Spring

Jewels and the Jacuzzis

Saturday 2 May 2026

It's great to have this highly talented band return for their annual May Day Bank Holiday Saturday gig here in the Acoustic Lounge.


Fronted by singer-guitarist Jewels Vass, this 5-piece takes you through an evening of soul, blues, jazz and reggae originals and covers; all upbeat, feel-good, summery grooves.


The band have supported The Wailers, Daddy G (Massive Attack) The Skints and The Slits among others and singer-front lady Jewels Vass has recorded and performed with Mad Professor, Zion Train and Pama International with radio plays, including from Craig Charles and Don Letts.


The line-up is:

  • Jewels Vass - Vocals & Guitar (Pama International, Zion Train, Mad Professor)
  • Andy Purcell - Keys and backing vocals (Electric Groove Temple, Mano Piano)
  • Rhys Munday - Percussion (Mano Piano)
  • Richard Quittenton - Bass (Skangsters)
  • Vincent Charles - Drums (Linton Kwesi Johnson, Electric Groove Temple, La Mort Subite, Mano Piano)


  • Free admission to this gig when you register using the form below
  • Takes place in the Acoustic Lounge, mainly all-standing
  • Starts 8:30pm, finishing no later than 11pm
  • Food will be available with a menu published here nearer the time





Jewels & the Jacuzzis Booking Form


Live Music in the Garden, 17 May 2026, raising funds for Blood Cancer UK at The Flowing Spring

Live Music in the Garden Charity Fundraiser

in aid of Blood Cancer UK, a memorial to Dave Robinson

Sunday 17 May 2026, 2pm to 8pm

We're holding a very special afternoon and evening of live music in the garden to remember Dave Robinson, a good friend to many of us here, who passed away in the summer having suffered from Blood Cancer.


In discussions with Dave's wife, Isobel, we're very happy to host some excellent bands and musicians on the Rose Stage and in one of the marquees, all of whom knew Dave and who want to help raise funds for Blood Cancer UK.


You will get to see some fantastic musicians and hear loads of great songs. Whilst entry is free, we ask that everyone brings sackfuls of cash to dump in our collection buckets. That's the main reason for holding this day, so please be as generous as you can with your contributions.


Among the acts are:


Moonshine (Southern US Rock)

Rotherfield Walking Football Club musicians

The Incredible Spring Band, reformed for this one-off gig!

The Ding Dong Daddios (amazing swing and jive)

Moonage (Best of Bowie tribute band)


  • Free admission to this event when you register using the form below
  • Takes place in the garden
  • Please bring cash for our collection buckets
  • Gates open 2pm, live music from 3pm, finishing no later than 8pm
  • Food will be available and there will be an outside bar
  • Please do not bring your own drink or food

17 May Fundraiser Registration


80s Stadium Rock with King Awesome at The Flowing Spring

King Awesome

They were so good, we had to get them back!

Saturday 20 June 2026

King Awesome will be bringing the ultimate 80s stadium rock show back to The Flowing Spring. They were so entertaining when they performed here last July we just had to get them back!


Featuring the greatest hits of Bon Jovi, Van Halen, Def Leppard, Mötley Crüe, Guns N’ Roses, Poison, Whitesnake and all their hard-rockin’ amigos, these boys will transport you to those late ‘80s nights on L.A.’s Sunset Strip where big riffs and even bigger hair ruled the airwaves; where you rocked all night and party'd all day.


King Awesome fuse huge riffs, anthemic choruses and an incendiary live show full of high kicks, fist pumps and tongue-in-cheek references to all your favourite 80s rock cliches!


King Awesome hold their crowds in the palm of their leather-gloved hands and party like it’s 1989!


  • Tickets are £15 cash direct from the pub or £18 when paying by card and online through our ticket store
  • Click here to buy online
  • Performing on the Rose Stage as part of our Summer season of Gigs in the Garden.
  • Gates open 6:30pm. The band will strike up around 8:45pm, finishing no later than 11pm
  • Food will be available and there will be an outside bar
  • Please do not bring your own drink or food
  • Tickets non-refundable



MORE DATES COMING SOON!


We'll be announcing more great events soon so don't miss out on the news! Join our mailing list so we can keep in touch and let you know all the latest news on bookings and tickets. Simply email info@theflowingspringpub.co.uk asking to join our mailing list. We don't share your data with anyone else.

OUR FLOWING SPRING GIGS YOU TUBE CHANNEL
Live Music at The Flowing Spring
01189699878 info@theflowingspringpub.co.uk

The Flowing Spring, Henley Road, Playhatch, Reading, Oxfordshire RG4 9RB