Tom Jones & Nile Rodgers: Chester Racecourse 2026 Live!

Introduction

Prepare yourselves for a truly monumental night of music as two absolute legends descend upon the hallowed turf of Chester Racecourse. On Friday, 14th August 2026, the iconic Chester Racecourse will transform into a vibrant concert arena, playing host to the incomparable Sir Tom Jones and the groove-masters themselves, Nile Rodgers & CHIC. This is more than just a gig; it's a celebration of musical heritage, a dazzling display of enduring talent, and an evening poised to become one of the standout events of the summer calendar. Imagine the roar of the crowd, the infectious rhythms of disco, and the soul-stirring power of one of the world's greatest vocalists, all set against the charming backdrop of historic Chester. This is your chance to witness a night where timeless hits meet unparalleled showmanship. Get ready to dance, sing, and make memories that will echo long after the final note fades.

About the Artist

Sir Tom Jones: With a career that defies time and trends, Sir Tom Jones is a global phenomenon. His voice, a rich, resonant instrument capable of conveying raw emotion and electrifying power, has captivated audiences for over sixty years. From his explosive arrival on the scene in the 1960s with hits like 'It's Not Unusual', 'What's New Pussycat?', and the enduring 'Delilah', to his reinvention with 'Sex Bomb' and his critically acclaimed 'Spirit in the Room' albums, Sir Tom has navigated the musical landscape with unparalleled success. His live performances are legendary – a whirlwind of energy, charisma, and pure showmanship. He connects with his audience on a primal level, delivering each song with passion and conviction. Whether he's crooning a heartfelt ballad or belting out an up-tempo rocker, Sir Tom Jones remains a force of nature, a true showman who knows how to command a stage and leave an audience spellbound.

Nile Rodgers & CHIC: The name Nile Rodgers is synonymous with infectious rhythm, groundbreaking production, and pure, unadulterated funk. As the driving force behind CHIC, Rodgers crafted a sound that defined an era and continues to influence music today. Hits like 'Le Freak', 'Good Times', 'Everybody Dance', and 'Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah)' are not just songs; they are cultural touchstones, anthems of joy and celebration that have filled dance floors across the globe for decades. Beyond CHIC, Nile Rodgers' career as a producer and songwriter is nothing short of extraordinary. He has collaborated with an astonishing array of artists, including David Bowie ('Let's Dance'), Madonna ('Like a Virgin'), Duran Duran, Sister Sledge, and Daft Punk ('Get Lucky'). His distinctive guitar playing is instantly recognisable, a shimmering, percussive sound that adds an irresistible groove to every track. Nile Rodgers & CHIC deliver a live experience that is pure euphoria – a testament to the enduring power of their music and their mastery of funk and disco.

Complete Venue Guide

Chester Racecourse, nestled within the ancient Roman walls of Chester, offers a unique and picturesque setting for this spectacular concert. Known affectionately as 'The Roodee', it holds the distinction of being Britain's oldest racecourse, established in 1539. The natural amphitheatre created by the surrounding landscape, coupled with its proximity to the River Dee, provides a stunning backdrop that few other venues can match. The racecourse grounds are extensive, featuring modern facilities alongside the historic charm of its location. For concert-goers, the expansive grounds offer ample space for standing and dancing, with clear sightlines to the stage from various points. The grandstands provide an elevated perspective, while the main enclosures offer an immersive experience close to the action. The venue is well-equipped to handle large crowds, with numerous entry and exit points, well-staffed bars, and food concessions strategically placed throughout the site. Its historical significance combined with its contemporary event capabilities makes The Roodee an exceptional location for a summer music festival.

Getting There & Transport

Chester Racecourse is conveniently located just a short walk from Chester city centre and its main transport hubs.

• By Train: Chester Railway Station is a major hub with regular services from London Euston, Liverpool, Manchester, and other key cities. The racecourse is approximately a 15-20 minute walk from the station, a pleasant stroll through the city. Taxis are readily available outside the station if you prefer not to walk.
• By Car: Chester is accessible via the M53 and A55. Follow signs for the city centre and then for Chester Racecourse. There will be dedicated event parking available, details of which will be confirmed closer to the date and communicated via ticketing partners. Please be aware that traffic congestion is likely on event days, so allow ample time for your journey. Sat Nav users can use the postcode CH1 2LY.
• By Bus: Numerous bus routes serve Chester city centre. From the city centre, it's a short walk to the racecourse. National Express and other coach operators also run services to Chester.
• Park and Ride: Chester operates a park and ride service from various locations around the city, which can be a convenient option to avoid city centre traffic and parking charges.

Plan your journey in advance, especially if travelling by car, and consider car-sharing to reduce environmental impact and potential parking stress.

Where to Eat & Drink

Chester itself offers a fantastic array of dining options to complement your concert experience.

• Near the Racecourse: Within a short walk of Chester Racecourse, you'll find pubs and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. The historic Rows in the city centre offer a unique shopping and dining experience with many eateries nestled beneath their distinctive medieval galleries.
• City Centre Dining: Chester boasts everything from casual cafes and traditional pubs serving hearty British fare to sophisticated restaurants offering international cuisine. Popular areas include Bridge Street, Watergate Street, and Eastgate Street.
• On-Site: During the concert, Chester Racecourse will provide a wide selection of food and drink vendors. Expect classic festival fare such as burgers, hot dogs, and fish and chips, alongside vegetarian and vegan options. Multiple bars will be serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the evening. It is advisable to check the specific event policies regarding bringing your own food and drink, though typically only sealed, non-alcoholic drinks and small snacks may be permitted.

Where to Stay

For those travelling from further afield, Chester offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

• Hotels: Chester city centre has numerous hotels, from budget-friendly chains like Premier Inn and Travelodge to more luxurious options such as The Chester Grosvenor Hotel and Oddfellows. Many hotels are within walking distance of the racecourse.
• Boutique Stays: Explore charming boutique hotels and guesthouses dotted around the city, offering a more personal and unique experience.
• Bed & Breakfasts: For a homely feel, numerous B&Bs provide comfortable stays with a local touch.
• Serviced Apartments: Ideal for groups or longer stays, serviced apartments offer flexibility and self-catering facilities.

Book your accommodation well in advance, as Chester is a popular tourist destination, and demand will be exceptionally high around major events like this concert.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the highly anticipated Tom Jones + Nile Rodgers & CHIC concert at Chester Racecourse on Friday, 14th August 2026, are expected to sell out rapidly. Fans are strongly advised to secure their tickets as soon as they become available.

• Where to Buy: Tickets will be exclusively available through StubHub. Please ensure you are purchasing directly from StubHub to guarantee authenticity and avoid inflated prices from unofficial sources. StubHub is the official resale marketplace and ticketing partner for this event.
• On-Sale Dates: Keep a close eye on official announcements for exact on-sale dates and times. These will be communicated through the artists' official websites, Chester Racecourse, and StubHub.
• Ticket Types: Various ticket tiers may be available, potentially including general admission standing, seated tickets, and VIP packages. Details on pricing and availability for each category will be released by StubHub.
• Resale Market: StubHub also operates as a secure resale platform, allowing fans who can no longer attend to sell their tickets to others. Always use the official StubHub platform for any resale transactions to ensure safety and validity.

Do not miss out on this incredible musical event. Visit StubHub regularly for the latest updates and to book your tickets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When is the concert? A1: The concert is scheduled for Friday, 14th August 2026.

Q2: Where is the concert taking place? A2: The venue is Chester Racecourse, Chester, CH1 2LY.

Q3: Who is performing? A3: The event features Sir Tom Jones and Nile Rodgers & CHIC.

Q4: How can I buy tickets? A4: Tickets are exclusively available through StubHub. Please do not attempt to purchase from any other vendors.

Q5: What time do the gates open? A5: Gate opening times will be announced closer to the event date. Typically, for evening concerts, this is in the late afternoon.

Q6: Is there parking available? A6: Yes, dedicated event parking will be available. Details will be confirmed by StubHub and the event organisers. Consider using public transport or park and ride options.

Q7: Can I bring my own food and drink? A7: Venue policies on bringing food and drink vary. Generally, sealed non-alcoholic drinks and small snacks might be permitted, but check the specific event rules on StubHub or the Chester Racecourse website.

Q8: What are the seating arrangements? A8: Depending on the ticket purchased, there will be general admission standing areas and potentially seated options. VIP packages may also be available.

Q9: Is the venue accessible for disabled patrons? A9: Chester Racecourse is committed to accessibility. Information on disabled access and facilities will be provided by StubHub. Please check their listings or contact them directly for specific requirements.

Q10: What should I wear? A10: Comfortable footwear is essential, especially if you plan to stand and dance. Dress for the weather; layers are advisable, and a waterproof jacket or poncho is a sensible precaution for British summer weather.

Q11: Will there be security checks? A11: Yes, standard security procedures, including bag checks, will be in place for the safety of all attendees.

Q12: What happens if it rains? A12: The concert will proceed in most weather conditions. Umbrellas may be restricted in some areas; check venue guidelines. A waterproof jacket is recommended.

Top Tips for Attendees

1. Book Early: Tickets are expected to be in high demand. Secure yours via StubHub as soon as they are released.
2. Plan Your Travel: Chester Racecourse is accessible, but plan your journey in advance, especially if driving. Consider public transport or car-sharing.
3. Arrive Early: Allow plenty of time to get through security and find your spot. Arriving early means less stress and more time to soak up the atmosphere.
4. Dress Comfortably: You'll likely be on your feet for hours. Comfortable shoes are a must. Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
5. Check the Weather: Pack accordingly. A waterproof jacket or poncho is wise, even if the forecast looks good.
6. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if it's warm. Food and drink vendors will be available on site.
7. Bring Essentials: Pack light but smart. Consider a portable phone charger, sunscreen (if sunny!), and any necessary medication.
8. Familiarise Yourself with the Venue Layout: Check the racecourse map online beforehand to know where entrances, exits, facilities, and concessions are located.
9. Keep Valuables Secure: Be aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings safe.
10. Enjoy the Music: Most importantly, relax, sing along to your favourite songs, and savour this incredible musical experience with two legendary artists.

Conclusion

The concert featuring Sir Tom Jones and Nile Rodgers & CHIC at Chester Racecourse on Friday, 14th August 2026, promises to be an evening of pure musical brilliance. It's a rare opportunity to witness two distinct yet equally captivating forces in the music industry share a stage. From the timeless soul and rock anthems of Sir Tom to the infectious funk and disco grooves of Nile Rodgers & CHIC, this event offers something for every music lover. Combined with the unique and historic setting of Chester Racecourse, it guarantees an unforgettable atmosphere. Make sure you're part of this spectacular celebration of music. Head to StubHub to secure your tickets and prepare for a night that will undoubtedly be etched in your memory for years to come.