Last updated by Molly Saxby on 30th September 2025

Outdoor concerts in the UK have always held a special magic: open skies, historic backdrops, and a sense of shared experience. In this article, we spotlight some of the country’s most iconic outdoor venues—celebrating the legendary artists and concerts that shaped their legacies—and look ahead to Roundhay Park, where a brand-new festival in summer 2026 may become one to watch.

Edinburgh Castle

Perched above Edinburgh, this fortress offers a majestic and atmospheric backdrop. Artists such as Rod Stewart, Tom Jones, Kylie Minogue, and Pink have graced its stage. In 2019, Rod Stewart gave a show that brought generations of fans together in a setting that blended Scotland’s history with modern pop music.

The castle setting makes every concert feel special: the historic surroundings add a unique touch to the live experience.

BST Hyde Park

In London, BST Hyde Park is now synonymous with blockbuster summer shows. It regularly draws global superstars: The Rolling Stones (notably their 2013 return, nearly 44 years after their 1969 Hyde Park concert) helped cement its status as a landmark in British music. Adele’s 2022 performances also proved Hyde Park’s ability to host huge concerts that still feel personal and emotional.

VIP experiences at BST Hyde Park

This year’s BST Hyde Park line-up features Garth Brooks and Lewis Capaldi, making it the perfect setting to enjoy live music with added comfort and style. Hospitality packages at BST Hyde Park give fans the chance to enjoy the festival in style. These can include access to exclusive terraces with incredible stage views, early entry to beat the crowds, private bars serving complimentary drinks, curated food options, and access to luxury spaces with comfortable seating and premium facilities. It’s the ultimate way to make the most of one of London’s biggest live music events.

Buy BST Hyde Park VIP Tickets

Knebworth Park

Knebworth holds near-mythical status among UK concert venues. Queen’s 1986 show here was the band’s final concert with Freddie Mercury, an unforgettable night in rock history. In 1996, Oasis staged two record-breaking shows that drew a combined 250,000 fans, cementing their place as one of the biggest British bands of all time.

Knebworth has become known as the home of “mega shows” – the place where the most ambitious live events are staged.

Glastonbury Festival

No conversation about outdoor concerts in the UK is complete without Glastonbury. Since the 1970s, this festival has grown into the world’s most famous music event, merging music, art and community. Legendary performances by David Bowie (2000), Beyoncé (2011), Paul McCartney (2004 & 2022), and many others form part of its long history.

The Pyramid Stage is now a global symbol of live music: to headline there is to join a legacy that shapes British culture as well as music.

Roundhay Park – A festival to watch in 2026

Roundhay Park in Leeds has long had a history of hosting major concerts. In the 1980s and 1990s, it welcomed artists such as Michael Jackson—famously performing in 1988 on his Bad tour—alongside The Rolling Stones and Madonna. In 2006, Robbie Williams brought the venue back into the spotlight with two huge shows.

Now in summer 2026, the Roundhay Festival is launching, with Lewis Capaldi announced as a headliner on Saturday 4th July 2026. With a natural amphitheatre setting and a new festival identity, Roundhay is set to re-emerge as a major destination for live music.

VIP experiences at Roundhay Festival

Roundhay Festival offers a range of VIP ticket options for those seeking a more exclusive experience. Packages can include reserved seating in premium areas, early entry through dedicated entrances, access to exclusive lounges and bars, complimentary drinks and food vouchers, and use of private facilities. These extras make the festival feel even more special, adding comfort and luxury to the excitement of live music.

Buy Roudhay Festival VIP Tickets

Experience live music in style

From the historic walls of Edinburgh Castle to the scale of Knebworth Park, the cultural impact of Glastonbury, and the rising promise of Roundhay Park, the UK continues to offer unforgettable outdoor concert experiences. Whether steeped in history or shaping the future of live events, these venues define the magic of live music in Britain.