The inaugural Colchester Castle Summer Series unveils an incredible line-up of world-renowned artists including The Smashing Pumpkins, Busted, Tom Jones, Craig David, and more, promising an unforgettable live music experience in a historic setting.
Full Line-up Announced for Colchester Castle Summer Series
The full line-up has now been announced for the inaugural Colchester Castle Summer Series, a huge new open-air concert experience set against the backdrop of one of England's most historic venues. This highly-anticipated event features an incredible line-up of world-renowned artists spanning rock, pop, R&B, and reggae, making it the biggest live music event in Colchester this summer.
The Line-up
Kicking off the series on Thursday, 14 August, alternative rock icons The Smashing Pumpkins will take the stage, joined by British rock legends Skunk Anansie and post-punk favourites White Lies, promising a high-energy night of music. The following evening, on Friday, 15 August, pop-rock favourites Busted make a triumphant return to Essex, bringing their chart-topping hits Year 3000 and Crashed the Wedding. They'll be joined by Scouting For Girls, known for their anthemic crowd-pleaser She's So Lovely.
On Saturday, 16 August, R&B star Craig David will light up Colchester with his electrifying TS5 show, blending live vocals with DJing for an unforgettable performance. Supporting him will be grime and garage favourites Big Narstie, Wes Nelson, and 24hr Garage Girls, ensuring a night of non-stop energy for fans of R&B and UK garage. The festival vibe continues on Sunday, 17 August, with reggae greats UB40 ft Ali Campbell headlining Roots East. They'll be joined by legendary reggae and sound system pioneers Aswad, David Rodigan, Don Letts, and Bitty McLean for a soulful day celebrating the genre's rich history.
On Monday, 18 August, legendary Welsh singer Tom Jones returns to Colchester for the first time in six years, delivering a night of timeless hits with special guests. Later in the week, on Thursday, 21 August, Scottish pop-rock favorites Texas, led by Sharleen Spiteri, will take the stage with classics like Say What You Want. They will be joined by Natalie Imbruglia, best known for her global hit Torn, and rising star Rianne Downey.
The series continues with the Out of Time Festival on Friday, 22 August, a celebration of British music featuring James, Happy Mondays, Lightning Seeds, and folk-rock duo The WAEVE (Graham Coxon & Rose Elinor Dougall). Closing the Colchester Castle Summer Series in spectacular fashion on Saturday, 23 August, ska-pop legends Madness will turn Lower Castle Park into a giant party. Joining them will be The Zutons, famous for Valerie, alongside The Skints and The Beat featuring Ranking Jnr, with a vibrant and energetic finale.
Event Details
The Colchester Castle Summer Series is set to be the largest music event the city has seen in years, with each show welcoming up to 10,000 attendees. This unique celebration of live music promises to deliver unforgettable performances in the heart of one of England's most historic and scenic locations.
Organizers and Artists' Thoughts
Rob Waller of Soundcrash expressed excitement for the series, stating: 'We are thrilled to bring such an incredible line-up to Colchester this summer. Hosting these world-class artists in such a historic setting is truly special, and we can't wait to welcome music fans for an unforgettable experience.'
A representative from Colchester Council shared their enthusiasm for the event, stating: 'Colchester is excited to welcome the array of talent that is being brought to the city. These concerts reinforce Colchester's reputation as the Events Capital of Essex, as well as the East of England. The Summer Series promises to be a real highlight of next year, attracting visitors while providing residents with an exceptional entertainment program.'
Artists performing have also expressed their anticipation, with the legendary Tom Jones saying: 'Performing live is what I love most, so it's great to be playing at Colchester Castle as part of their excellent Summer Series. It's been six years since I last performed at Colchester Castle so I'm really looking forward to coming back. Spending a beautiful summer evening in such a wonderful and uniquely historic setting with an amazing crowd, it's going to be special.'
About the Organizers
The team behind the event, promoters Soundcrash and Supermodified, are well-known in the UK for hosting popular events like the Margate Summer Series, London's South Facing Festival, and Hitchin Priory Series.
Published on 01 April 2025 by Ben Robinson
