By Colin 
Photo Credit: Paul Bachmann
Fresh from supporting the long-awaited Oasis reunion shows at Knebworth Park, Richard Ashcroft has announced a major UK arena tour for spring 2026. Known for his unmistakable voice, timeless songwriting, and era-defining presence, the former Verve frontman will take to the stage across a string of cities, delivering what promises to be one of next year’s standout live tours.
Set to begin in Glasgow on 4th April 2026, the tour will see Ashcroft perform in some of the country’s biggest venues, including stops in Birmingham, Manchester, London and Cardiff. The initial announcement was met with overwhelming demand, leading to the swift addition of extra dates in several cities. These include a second night at Manchester’s AO Arena, a London return to The O2, and an extra show at Cardiff’s Utilita Arena.
The tour marks Ashcroft’s most extensive solo run in years, offering fans a chance to experience a full-scale production that spans his remarkable catalogue. With hits from both The Verve era and his solo career expected on the setlist, audiences can look forward to a night that balances nostalgia with continued creative fire. Songs such as ‘A Song for the Lovers’, ‘Break the Night with Colour’, and of course ‘Lucky Man’ and ‘The Drugs Don’t Work’, are all likely to feature.
Ashcroft’s recent live appearances have reaffirmed his status as one of the UK’s most powerful performers. His energy on stage remains magnetic, and his ability to connect with a crowd undiminished. The 2026 tour follows a string of celebrated festival appearances, select acoustic shows, and his high-profile support slot with Oasis, which placed him back in front of massive audiences.
Tour demand fuels extra shows
With presales quickly snapped up and general tickets moving fast, additional nights were confirmed in key cities within days of the original announcement. The decision to extend the run reflects both Ashcroft’s enduring appeal and a renewed appetite from fans eager to see him live.
The Cardiff addition marks his first arena headline show in the city in over a decade, offering a special moment for Welsh fans. Meanwhile, the return to The O2 in London will likely be one of the tour’s most emotional nights, revisiting a venue where Ashcroft has delivered iconic performances in the past.
Fans can expect a show that blends lush instrumentation, soaring vocals, and deeply personal lyrics with immersive visuals and production. Whether revisiting anthems from the Urban Hymns era or showcasing more recent solo work, Ashcroft is set to reaffirm his place as one of the defining voices of British music.
Tickets for all dates are available now, with many shows already showing limited availability. As anticipation builds for his return to the nation’s biggest stages, Ashcroft stands ready to deliver an unforgettable tour filled with spirit, soul, and some of the most beloved songs of the past three decades.