Photo by Ian Wallman

We are delighted to release our debut album
‘All Hands Together’
which is the culmination of over 10 years working together.

It is a musical journey through time. Travelling along the River Thames, the Oxford and the Grand Union Canals, navigating history, politics, living folklore, and everyday life on the Water. The trio capture snapshots of life through the eyes of boaters.

The album features a mix of traditional and original songs, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who live and work on the water. From tales of love and adventure to songs celebrating the beauty of nature. All hand’s together is a heartfelt tribute to the waterways that have inspired the trio for over a decade

Exploring ideas of socio-geography, deepening connections to place and landscape and one’s relationships to nature, they reference and celebrate boaters and characters, both past and present, who have offered helping hands and embody the album’s theme of linear community, shared stewardship and belonging.

Album Reviews

“All Hands Together has been a revelation – one of the best things I’ve heard all year…I’m delighted to have discovered Three Idle Women and I heartily recommend that you do the same. You won’t regret it.”
John Barlass Off the Record

“Channelling the storytelling of The Unthanks and the warmth of The Staves, yet stands on its own as a heartfelt tribute to England's waterways and the people who call them home.”
Damon Boughen Nightshift

“There’s many albums and songs about waterways, but whether you’re a boater or just a gongoozler, All Hands Together is definitely a cut above.”
Mike Davies

“Utterly charming,  made me feel like home."

“if these songs don’t delight you, I can only conclude that you’re made either of iron or of concrete”  AT THE BARRIER

“We loved the music, the versatile musicianship, the glimpses into canal life and the spirit that you all share”

Gigs

22nd February 2025 7:30pm
Three Idle Women with support from Bryony Afferson
Upper Heyford Village Hall,
OX25 5LB

SOLD OUT

Saturday 12th April 2025
Three Idle Women at the Oxford Folk Festival,
venue & times to follow

Friday 16th May 2025 7pm
Sam Carter with support from
Three Idle Women 
Harwell village hall, High St,
Didcot, OX11 0EX
Tickets here

Saturday 7th June 2025 7:30pm
Three Idle Women with support from the Towpath Singers 
The Wharf Theatre, Devizes,
Wiltshire, SN10 1EB
Tickets here

Tuesday 15th July 2025 7:30pm
Three Idle Women
Dartford folk club, 40 Essex Road, Dartford, DA1 2AU
Tickets Here