The echoes of 2025’s incredible live music scene – Oasis’ triumphant return, Black Sabbath’s poignant farewell shadowed by the loss of Ozzy Osbourne – are still resonating. Lily Allen and Lewis Capaldi both captivated audiences on their own terms, while Beyoncé, Sabrina Carpenter, Lady Gaga, and Robbie Williams delivered unforgettable performances across the UK. It felt like every major artist had already graced our stages… but 2026 promises an even more spectacular year.
Prepare for a tidal wave of talent, from pop royalty like Ariana Grande to the raw energy of My Chemical Romance and the enduring legacy of Bon Jovi. The landscape of ticket buying is shifting, offering a glimmer of hope for securing face-value access to these highly sought-after shows. Here’s a glimpse into the ten tours poised to define the UK music calendar in 2026.
Ariana Grande emerges from the enchanting world of *Wicked*, stepping back onto the concert stage. Her latest album, *Eternal Sunshine*, initially overshadowed by her film commitments, finally received the recognition it deserved with a deluxe release, igniting anticipation for her upcoming performances. Instead of a sprawling tour, Grande will command a ten-night residency at London’s O2 Arena, beginning August 15th.
For a generation, My Chemical Romance represented an anthem of youthful rebellion. Now, the band is bringing their celebrated Black Parade anniversary tour to the UK, performing the iconic album in its entirety across shows in Liverpool, Glasgow, and London. The theatrical spectacle debuted last year to fervent acclaim, and fans are eagerly awaiting the moment that unforgettable opening note reverberates through the venues.
Florence and the Machine are preparing a gothic extravaganza with their *Everybody Scream* tour. Featuring the rising star Paris Paloma, known for her powerful tracks “Labour” and “Good Boy,” the shows promise a cathartic experience. Metro hailed Florence’s latest album as “brutal, unrelenting, and honest,” a quality that will undoubtedly translate into a mesmerizing live performance.
Bad Bunny, a global phenomenon and future Super Bowl headliner, is finally returning to the UK after a five-year absence. Supporting his Grammy-nominated album *Debí Tirar Más Fotos*, he’ll play two exclusive nights at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on June 27th and 28th – shows destined to be among the year’s biggest events.
The legendary Bon Jovi is back, defying the odds after frontman Jon Bon Jovi’s vocal cord surgery. After a period of uncertainty, Jon confirmed his readiness to return to the stage, eager to share their new music with fans. The “Forever” tour will encompass stadium dates in Edinburgh, Dublin, and London, marking a triumphant return for the iconic band.
Paramore’s Hayley Williams surprised the music world with a critically acclaimed solo album released seemingly out of nowhere. Tracks like “True Believer,” “Ice in my OJ,” and “Parachute” quickly gained traction, fueling overwhelming demand for her tour. Additional shows were added in Manchester, Glasgow, Dublin, and London, but tickets remain incredibly elusive.
Olivia Dean’s ascent has been nothing short of meteoric. Her track “Man I Need” propelled her to stardom, and she’s already commanding arenas just two years after being crowned BBC Introducing’s Artist of The Year. With a soulful spin on contemporary pop, Olivia Dean is a force to be reckoned with.
Westlife celebrates its 20th anniversary with a spectacular tour following sold-out shows at the Royal Albert Hall. The band, now a trio, continues to captivate audiences with their timeless hits and unwavering connection with their devoted fanbase. They’ll be bringing the party to cities across the UK, including Aberdeen, Birmingham, and London.
Biffy Clyro is set to deliver their biggest headlining show ever at Finsbury Park, preceded by a series of arena dates across the country. The tour follows the release of their critically acclaimed album *Futique*, hailed by NME as “Bowie-esque with a European sheen.” With a decade of music under their belts, Biffy Clyro promises a dynamic and unforgettable live experience.
Lily Allen’s remarkable comeback album, *West End Girl*, was a cultural phenomenon – brutally honest, deeply personal, and undeniably impactful. The album’s success translated into fervent demand for her tour dates, and she responded by adding additional shows, offering a second chance for fans to witness her captivating performance live.
