Frequently Asked Questions - Colchester Castle

Where

Colchester Castle, Castle Park, Colchester CO1 1TJ 

When

For more information about show dates, please click here. 

Map

Please note, the map is subject to change.

Timings

Set times will be confirmed about 24 hours before the show on Instagram HERE. 

Show times are subject to change.

We recommend arriving early to enjoy the atmosphere.

The last entry time for all weekday events is 8:00 PM.

The last entry time for all weekend events is 7:00 PM.

Entertainment is scheduled to finish at approximately 11:00 PM.

For these specific shows, gates will open at the following times:

• Billy Ocean – 4:00 PM
• Hollywood Vampires – 4:00 PM
• Becky Hill – 2:00 PM
• Bastille – 2:00 PM
• Richard Ashcroft – 4:00 PM
• JLS – 4:00 PM
• Fatboy Slim – 2:00 PM

Can I See The Stage From The VIP Area? 

Whilst there is a good view of the stage from the VIP area, please note that this is not a golden circle and that the VIP area is at the back of the arena.

VIP Premium Ticket is our superior option which includes access to the main concert arena as well as the below benefits:

* Fast track entry into the arena 
* Access to the exclusive garden zone 
* Raised decked viewing platform at the rear of the arena for premium views of the stage 
* Ample picnic tables, seating and comfortable furnishings 
* Exclusive premium bar 
* Premium flushable toilet facilities * Souvenir VIP event lanyard

VIP Premium 

VIP Premium Ticket is our superior option which includes access to the main concert arena as well as the below benefits: 

* Fast track entry into the arena  
* Access to the exclusive garden zone  
* Raised decked viewing platform at the rear of the arena for premium views of the stage  
* Ample picnic tables, seating and comfortable furnishings  
* Exclusive premium bar  
* Premium flushable toilet facilities  
* Souvenir VIP event lanyard 

Please note that there is no golden circle at this event.

Is the Event Outdoors?

Yes — we are an outdoor venue and at the mercy of the elements! Please dress appropriately for the weather — bring sun cream on bright days and suitable clothing for wet conditions.

Please note: umbrellas are not permitted, as they may block the view for others.

Can I Bring a Chair?

There are no designated seated areas at Colchester Castle 2026 concerts, including in the VIP Premium area. While ticket holders are welcome to bring a picnic-style blanket to sit on the grass, chairs, portable seating, foldable furniture, and inflatables are not permitted within the venue. 

If It Rains, Will the Concerts Still Go Ahead?  

Yes — concerts will continue rain or shine. They would only be cancelled if weather conditions were deemed unsafe. 

What Is Your Policy for Children?  

• All under-18s must be accompanied by an adult ticket holder (aged 18+). Unaccompanied under-18s will not be permitted on site.

• Please note that the minimum age for all shows is 6 years and over. Children aged 5 and under will not be admitted.

• All other children must have a full-price ticket to enter the festival. Please check the age restrictions for each show before purchasing tickets.

• Prams and pushchairs are not permitted.

Can I Buy Official Merchandise?  

Yes — official merchandise will be available to purchase within the festival, if available. 

Is the Venue Cashless?

All food concessions, bars and merchandise outlets at Colchester Castle are cashless. Payments can be made using debit cards, credit cards and contactless payment methods, including Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Cash and cheques are not accepted anywhere on site, so please ensure you have a suitable card or digital payment method available.

All major card providers are accepted, including American Express, whether used physically or via a digital wallet on Android or iPhone devices.

Bag Policy  

No rucksacks or backpacks larger than A4 size are permitted. Bag searches will be in operation at all entry points.

If you require a larger bag for medical reasons — for example, to carry medication, medical apparatus or food and drink required for a medical condition — please contact us in advance to request permission. Supporting documentation, such as a doctor’s letter or confirmation from the NHS app, may be required. Once approved, please show this confirmation email to security on entry.

Can I Bring Food and Drink?  

You are not permitted to bring food or drink into the venue, except as noted below.

• Allowed items:
• One sealed water bottle (maximum 500ml) per person.
• One empty reusable water bottle per person.

A wide array of food and drink stalls will be available inside the venue, offering something for everyone throughout the night. Free water refill stations will also be available.

If you have a medical condition or specific dietary requirement (e.g. allergies, coeliac, diabetes), please contact us in advance to request permission to bring food or drink for personal consumption.

Supporting documentation, such as a doctor’s letter or confirmation from the NHS app, may be required and should be shown to security on entry, along with our confirmation email, once approved.

Please keep any permitted food or drink with you at all times.

Can I Bring a Dog?   

Dogs are not permitted on site, except for assistance dogs. You can find more details in our Assistance Dog policy here.

Can I Apply To Be a Trader? 

We work with approved traders to support our festivals and events. To apply to trade at a Live Nation event, please complete the application form here.

Can I Apply To Be a Supplier? 

We work with approved suppliers to support our festivals and events.

Please note that we do not accept unsolicited supplier enquiries or requests.

How Can I Apply To Be An Artist At Colchester Castle? 

We typically work with agents, managers, and record labels when considering bookings for our events. Unfortunately, we’re unable to respond to unsolicited emails or booking enquiries.

How Can I Apply For Charity Tickets For My Upcoming Event? 

You can apply for charity tickets by filling out this form. 

Our team will review your request and get in touch if necessary.

If you do not hear from us, unfortunately, we were unable to accommodate your request on this occasion.

Please note that we require a 5 – 6 month lead time for our consideration and approvals process.

Contact Us 

For further information, you can email us here. For any ticketing questions, please contact your ticketing provider directly.