Band played their most beloved hits at Jurassic Fields

Thousands turned out in West Bay Fields from 3pm, buzzing ahead of time to watch popular noughties band Scouting For Girls play on the main stage.

The trio gave the audience what they wanted, playing a selection of their most beloved hits including She’s So Lovely, This Ain’t A Love Song, and Elvis Ain’t Dead.

They also played a selection of songs from their new album These Are The Good Days, that captures the importance of living in the moment, and crowds cheered as they introduced the audience as the 'honorary 4th member' of the band.

Scouting For Girls performing on the main stage at the Jurassic Fields Festival in Bridport. 14th August 2026. Picture Credit: Graham Hunt Photography (Image: Graham Hunt Photography)

Crowds were also hyped to watch the Artificial Monkeys perform at 6pm, getting rowdy to the beloved songs of the renowned Sheffield indie band.

In the Smugglers Inn tent , Ribble put on a lively performance of rowdy folk music on the fiddle and guitar, getting people stomping, dancing and kart wheeling down the centre of the crowd.

Ribble performing at the Smugglers Inn tent at the Jurassic Fields Festival in Bridport. 14th August 2026. Picture Credit: Graham Hunt Photography (Image: Graham Hunt Photography)

Performances were also enjoyed from comedy hip-hop group Goldie Lookin’ Chain and Stillyano, who got crowds cheering for an encore with their selection of 80s rock classics.

Meanwhile, it got lively in the dance tent as Freestylers took to the floor from 9.30pm until 11pm.

Things are only just getting started in Bridport and upcoming performances include Feeder, Space and Artful Dodger, before it wraps up on Sunday.

READ MORE Jurassic Fields event set for West Dorset summer of sounds | Bridport and Lyme Regis News

The DJ lineup includes Bez, Brandon Block, and Dave Pearce.

People will be camping throughout the weekend before leaving on Monday and the event will no doubt bring a much welcomed boom to businesses in town.

Scouting For Girls performing on the main stage at the Jurassic Fields Festival in Bridport. 14th August 2026. Picture Credit: Graham Hunt Photography (Image: Graham Hunt Photography)

The weekend always promises late evenings of dancing to great music but is also a family favourite for those with children throughout the day, with stalls, a wellness tent, and activities taking place all weekend.

For a full breakdown of what's still to come read more Jurassic Fields Festival to return to Bridport in August | Bridport and Lyme Regis News

Browse our gallery for all photos of the first night.