Best Live Music in Colchester, Essex
Looking for live music in Colchester? Browse 13 listings from trusted local providers on Discover Essex. Whether you need a recommendation or want to compare options, our directory makes it easy to find the right live music serving Colchester and the surrounding area.
Showing 1–13 of 13 results
The Rezillos
The Rezillos are a punk/new wave band formed in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1976.
BOSS CASS at Coda
BOSS CASS Live at Coda with support from GURN VICTIM- BOSS CASS is a one man punk band powerhouse! Expecting to bring MASSIVE energy to Coda's stage!
EXTC 'This is Pop'
Catch a huge night of live music in Colchester as EXTC bring ‘This is Pop’ to Colchester Arts Centre on Friday 21 May 2027 (7pm). If you love razor-sharp hooks, new wave energy and classic British pop-rock, this is one gig you’ll want in your diary. Led by XTC’s legendary drummer Terry Chambers, EXTC delivers the punch, precision and playful spirit that made XTC such an enduring influence. Expect a high-energy set packed with fan favourites and deep cuts, performed by a tight, road-tested band named and approved by XTC frontman Andy Partridge. Whether you grew up with the records or you’re discovering the songs for the first time, you’ll get a proper live experience—big rhythms, bright guitar lines, and choruses that stick. Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere and secure a great spot. Colchester Arts Centre is a much-loved Essex venue set in the town centre, easy to reach by local buses and a short trip from Colchester stations and nearby parking.
Martin Stephenson & The Daintees
Looking for an unforgettable night of live music in Colchester? Martin Stephenson & The Daintees arrive at Colchester Arts Centre on 11 April 2027 for an evening packed with melody, storytelling and crowd-pleasing energy. Expect a warm, up-close performance from the North East favourites, known for passionate vocals, skilled musicianship and a setlist that moves from intimate moments to full-band lift-off. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering them for the first time, this is the kind of gig that feels personal—singalong choruses, heartfelt lyrics, and plenty of atmosphere in a room made for live sound. Come early to soak up the buzz, grab a drink, and settle in for a show that’s as much about connection as it is about craft. Colchester Arts Centre is a much-loved Essex venue in the heart of Colchester, easy to reach from the town centre and ideal for a night out before or after the gig.
The Style Councillors
AGMP presents THE STYLE COUNCILLORS The Style Councillors are the world's one and only tribute to The Style Council.
London Calling Play The Clash
Feel the rush of punk’s greatest anthems as London Calling Play The Clash bring their ‘Should I Stay or Should I Go’ Tour to Colchester Arts Centre in Colchester on Saturday 22 May 2027. If you’ve ever shouted along to The Clash in the car or on a night out, this is your chance to hear those songs hit with full live intensity. Expect a high-energy live music night packed with era-defining tracks, sharp musicianship, and the rebellious spirit that made The Clash legendary. London Calling are known for recreating the sound and attitude of the original band, delivering crowd favourites with punchy guitars, driving rhythms, and singalong choruses. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering the catalogue for the first time, it’s an uplifting, feel-good gig made for dancing, chanting, and reliving classic moments. Colchester Arts Centre is one of Essex’s best-loved venues, set in the heart of Colchester with easy access from local buses and nearby parking options. Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere before the music kicks off.
The Specials Ltd. “Ghost Town” 45th Anniversary
Feel the pulse of two-tone history as The Specials Ltd. bring the “Ghost Town” 45th Anniversary show to Colchester Arts Centre in Colchester on Saturday 21 November 2026. If you love ska, reggae rhythms and sharp-edged social commentary, this is a live music night made for you. Expect a high-energy tribute celebrating the era-defining sound of The Specials, with The Specials Ltd. delivering the hits with bite, brass and bounce. Hear “Ghost Town” in all its eerie glory alongside fan favourites that helped shape British music culture, from dancefloor anthems to politically charged classics. With a crowd that knows every word and a band built to recreate that iconic feel, it’s set to be a singalong, skank-along evening from first note to encore. Colchester Arts Centre is a much-loved Essex venue in a converted church close to the town centre, with great transport links and plenty of nearby parking. Arrive early for drinks and soak up the atmosphere before the show starts.
Queen Greatest Hits Colchester
Get ready to sing, clap and relive the magic of Queen at Queen Greatest Hits Colchester, live at Mercury Theatre Colchester in the heart of Colchester. On Friday 11 September 2026 at 7:00pm, this is your chance to experience one of the most iconic songbooks in rock—performed with the big-stage energy it deserves. Expect a comprehensive re-enactment of Queen’s Greatest Hits, celebrating the band’s unforgettable sound, showmanship and crowd-pleasing anthems. From soaring vocals and layered harmonies to guitar-driven classics and stadium-style moments, the night is packed with singalong favourites and dramatic rock theatrics. Whether you grew up with these tracks or discovered them later, you’ll be pulled in by the atmosphere and the feel-good nostalgia. Come early, grab a drink, and settle in for a live music night made for fans. Mercury Theatre Colchester is a popular Essex venue close to Colchester town centre, with easy access to local transport, parking and nearby places to eat before the show.
Circu5 & The Round Window
Get ready for a big night of live music as Circu5 and The Round Window bring a co-headline show to Three Wise Monkeys, Colchester on Friday 6 November 2026. If you love discovering bands up close in a buzzing Essex venue, this is the kind of gig that turns a normal weekend into a proper night out. Expect two full sets with contrasting sounds, plenty of energy, and that special atmosphere you only get in an intimate room where the crowd is right with the performers. Arrive early to grab a good spot, soak up the pre-gig vibes, and enjoy a drink before the music kicks off at 7pm. Whether you’re already a fan or you’re searching for your next favourite live act, this co-headliner is ideal for anyone who wants a memorable evening of original music in Colchester. Three Wise Monkeys sits in the heart of Colchester, making it easy to reach from across Essex. With great local nightlife nearby, it’s a perfect base for a full evening in town.
Fatboy Slim
Get ready for a huge summer party as Fatboy Slim lands at Colchester Castle in Colchester for an unforgettable open-air live music night. Set in one of Essex’s most iconic historic landmarks, this is your chance to dance under the sky to a true electronic legend on Saturday 29 August 2026. Expect a high-energy DJ set packed with era-defining anthems, big beats and hands-in-the-air moments, delivered with the showmanship that’s made Fatboy Slim a festival favourite worldwide. The Colchester Castle Summer Series is known for its electric atmosphere, with a lively crowd, great production and a backdrop that turns every drop into a memory. Arrive early to soak up the setting, grab a drink, and settle in as the grounds transform into a buzzing dancefloor. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the party, this is a must-do Essex night out. Colchester Castle is centrally located in Colchester, Essex, with easy access from local transport links and nearby parking options for a smooth trip in and out.
Richard Ashcroft
Get ready for a huge summer singalong as Richard Ashcroft brings his unmistakable voice and anthemic hits to Colchester Castle in Colchester on Thursday 27 August 2026. Set in the historic open-air surroundings of Colchester Castle Park, this is a live music night that feels special from the first chord. Expect a headline set packed with crowd favourites, soaring choruses and that classic Britpop energy, all delivered with Ashcroft’s signature stage presence. With a festival-style atmosphere in the park, you can arrive early, soak up the buzz, and enjoy an evening of big moments in one of Essex’s most iconic settings. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering him live for the first time, this is the kind of outdoor show you’ll be talking about long after the final encore. Colchester Castle is right in the heart of Colchester, making it easy to reach from across Essex by train, bus or car. Plan ahead for entry times and travel, and settle in for an unforgettable night under the summer sky.
JLS Featuring Gabrielle
Get ready for a huge summer singalong as JLS Featuring Gabrielle lands at Colchester Castle in Colchester for an unforgettable Live Music date in the open air. Set against one of Essex’s most iconic backdrops, this is a feel-good evening packed with big choruses, nostalgia and festival energy. Presented by Cuffe & Taylor as part of the Colchester Castle Summer Series, expect JLS to bring their chart-topping pop and slick choreography, with crowd favourites that are made for singing along. Special guest Gabrielle adds a soulful, uplifting set to warm up the afternoon with timeless hits and powerful vocals. With the show starting at 4pm on Friday 28 August 2026, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere, grab refreshments and settle in for a full evening of live entertainment. Whether you’re coming with friends or making it a family treat, it’s a standout summer date in Essex. Colchester Castle sits in the heart of Colchester, with easy access from local transport links and town-centre parking nearby—ideal for visitors across Essex and beyond.
Bastille
Get ready for an unforgettable summer evening as Bastille brings their stadium-sized sound to the historic Colchester Castle in Colchester. Set within ancient walls and open-air skies, this is live music with a truly Essex backdrop. As part of the Colchester Castle Summer Series, expect a high-energy set packed with big choruses, atmospheric moments and the crowd-pleasing hits that have made Bastille a global favourite. From soaring vocals to immersive production, it’s a chance to hear fan favourites alongside newer tracks in a one-night-only setting. Arrive early to soak up the pre-show buzz, grab a drink and settle into the unique ambience of this landmark venue. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering them live for the first time, this is a standout date for your 2026 gig calendar. Colchester Castle is right in the heart of Colchester, making it easy to pair your concert with the town’s restaurants and bars. Plan ahead for travel and allow time for entry, as this popular Essex live music event is set to draw a big crowd.
How to Find the Right Live Music in Colchester
Colchester is home to a range of live music providers serving residents and businesses across the local area. Whether you need reliable live music in your area, Discover Essex makes it straightforward to compare your options and get in touch directly.
Every listing on our directory includes contact details, a full description, and reviews from verified local customers. We recommend contacting at least two or three providers to compare availability, pricing, and approach before making your decision.
Reading reviews from other local customers can help you make a confident choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many live music are listed in Colchester?
There are currently 13 listings for live music in Colchester on Discover Essex. New providers join regularly, so check back often.
Is it free to list my business on Discover Essex?
Yes, creating a basic listing is completely free. You can upgrade to an Enhanced or Premium listing for greater visibility and additional features.
How do I choose the best live music in Colchester?
Read customer reviews, compare descriptions, and contact providers directly through their listing. We recommend getting quotes from at least two providers.
