The Heart of the Matter: Ed’s Return to Portman Road
Ed Sheeran is set to perform three exclusive shows on July 11, 12, and 13, 2025, at Portman Road Stadium in Ipswich. These concerts mark his first UK performances since March 2023, making them a significant event for fans and the local community alike. Each night promises a unique experience with different support acts:
• July 11: Myles Smith and Tori Kelly
• July 12: Busted and Dylan
• July 13: James Blunt and Maisie Peters
Ed has expressed that these shows are a dream come true, bringing his music back to the place where his journey began.
🎟️ Ticket Details: How to Secure Your Spot
Tickets went on general sale today, May 9, at 10 a.m. BST. Prices range from £45 to £125, depending on seating preferences, with standing floor and free-flow lower bowl tickets priced at £95. Additional fees include a booking fee (up to 10% of the ticket price), a £1 LIVE Trust levy supporting grassroots music initiatives, and a £3 transaction fee per order.
To purchase tickets, visit the following official platforms:
• Eventim
• MyTicket
It’s crucial to buy tickets only from these authorized sellers, as unofficial tickets will not be accepted at the venue.
🎶 What to Expect: A Blend of Classics and New Hits
Fans can look forward to a setlist that includes Ed’s biggest hits like “Shape of You” and “Perfect,” alongside new tracks from his upcoming album, Play, set to release on September 12. Recent singles such as “Azizam” and “Old Phone” are expected to be part of the performance, showcasing Ed’s evolving musical style.
Why Ipswich Means Everything to Ed
To understand just how powerful these shows will be, you’ve got to understand what Ipswich means to Ed Sheeran. This isn’t just a hometown gig. It’s a full-circle moment. Born in Halifax but raised in Framlingham—a short drive from Ipswich—Ed has always carried Suffolk in his heart, and he’s never shied away from showing it. Whether it’s singing about “Castle on the Hill,” name-dropping the places he grew up, or proudly sponsoring the Ipswich Town Football Club with his “+ – = ÷ x” logos, Ed’s love for the area runs deep.
Fans in Ipswich aren’t just fans. Many have grown up with Ed, watched him busk on the streets, and seen him evolve from a ginger-haired lad with a guitar into one of the biggest global music stars of all time. That’s why these concerts feel more personal. It’s not about big stadiums, flashy lights, or sellout tours—it’s about coming home. It’s about performing for the people who were there before the Grammys, before the BRITs, before the sold-out Wembley shows.
Ed’s decision to play three nights instead of one also shows how much he wants to give back to the area. It’s not a money grab. It’s a love letter.
🤝 A Show for Everyone—Families, Day-Oners, and First-Timers
Another reason this event feels so special is how inclusive it is. This isn’t one of those gigs where you feel like you need to be a hardcore fan who knows every B-side to enjoy it. Whether you’ve been following Ed since his early EPs or you just discovered him through TikTok or Spotify, the atmosphere at Portman Road will be welcoming.
You’ll see entire families there—parents bringing their kids, teens belting out “Shivers” or “Bad Habits,” and old-school fans hoping to hear stripped-back acoustic versions of “The A Team” or “Give Me Love.” That’s the magic of Ed. His music crosses age groups, crosses cultures, crosses everything.
Even better, Ed’s known for doing things differently at his live shows. He doesn’t hide behind a band. He’ll be there, solo, just him, his loop pedal, his guitar, and a sea of fans singing every word back to him. No ego. No gimmicks. Just heart and talent.
🌍 A Boost for Ipswich
On a more practical level, this event is also massive for Ipswich as a town. Thousands of people will be coming from all over the UK (and probably further) just to see these shows. Hotels are getting booked up, local restaurants will be buzzing, and the whole area will feel electric.
For a town that often gets overshadowed by bigger cities, Ed’s bringing a spotlight. And that’s no small thing.
🏟️ A Special Venue: Portman Road Stadium
Portman Road isn’t just a venue; it’s a symbol of Ed’s journey. As a minority stakeholder in Ipswich Town Football Club, performing here holds personal significance for him. The stadium, with its rich history and passionate fanbase, provides the perfect backdrop for these intimate and memorable concerts.
💡 Tips for a Smooth Ticket Purchase
• Create an Account: Ensure you have an account set up on your chosen ticketing platform before the sale begins.
• Be Punctual: Log in a few minutes early to secure your place in the virtual queue.
• Stay Alert: Keep an eye on official channels for any updates or changes.
