Richard Ashcroft, the former frontman of The Verve and one of the UK's most celebrated songwriters, will headline Cardiff Castle on Thursday, July 16, 2026, as part of the Depot Live concert series. Doors open at 5pm, with stage times to be announced closer to the event.
Support Acts
The evening will feature opening performances from Tom Meighan, Apollo Junction, and DJ Wayne. These acts will set the stage for Ashcroft's set, which is expected to include classics like "Bitter Sweet Symphony" and "The Drugs Don't Work" alongside newer solo material.
Road Closures and Parking
Castle Street will close half an hour before the event ends and reopen once crowds disperse. For full Cardiff city centre road closure details, refer to official council information. Parking is available at several locations, including Sophia Gardens, the Civic Centre, St David's Shopping Centre, John Lewis, Capitol Shopping Centre, and NCP car parks on Adam Street, Dumfries Place, and Greyfriars Road.
Banned Items and Entry Rules
Depot Live enforces strict prohibited items at Cardiff Castle. Banned items include alcohol, signs, luggage, computers, laptops, iPads, tablets, large bags over A4 size, selfie sticks, professional cameras, cans, drugs, helmets, air horns, lasers, animals (except guide dogs), glass bottles, spray cans, flags, umbrellas, chairs, flares or fireworks, toxic substances, weapons (including replicas), perfumes, explosives, smoking devices, medicines without a prescription or justification, skateboards and other vehicles, knives, syringes, and scalpels.
Sealed bottles of soft drinks or water under 500ml are permitted, as are empty reusable water bottles (metal, plastic, but not glass). Free water refill stations will be available. Food and drink from outside are not allowed, but concessions are on site. Those with medical conditions may bring diet-specific items with a doctor's note. Registered assistant dogs are allowed; owners should notify Depot via the accessible requirements form from Ticketmaster or email access@depotcardiff.com. Small bags or rucksacks are permitted but subject to search.
Entry and Set List
General admission entry is via the North Gate at the back of the castle. A site map is available from event organizers. Ashcroft's set list may include: "Weeping Willow," "Space and Time," "Music Is Power," "A Song for the Lovers," "Break the Night With Colour," "Velvet Morning," "Hold On," "The Drugs Don't Work," "Lucky Man," and an encore of "C'mon People (We're Making It Now)," "Sonnet," and "Bitter Sweet Symphony."
