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Ed Sheeran Returns to Ipswich: What You Need to Know for the upcoming shows at Portman Road

Global superstar Ed Sheeran is returning to his roots this weekend with three massive homecoming concerts at Portman Road Stadium in Ipswich — the home of his beloved Ipswich Town Football Club.

The shows, taking place on Friday 11, Saturday 12, and Sunday 13 July, will see up to 30,000 fans gather each night for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Sheeran’s career and connection to Suffolk.

A Suffolk Star Comes Home

Born in Halifax but raised in Framlingham, Ed Sheeran has never shied away from showing love for his home county. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter has performed on the biggest stages around the world — from Wembley to Madison Square Garden — but returning to Ipswich is particularly special.

A lifelong Ipswich Town fan, Sheeran has even sponsored the club’s shirt through his music tour branding. He’s spoken many times about how the local music scene and people shaped his early years as a performer.

Joining him across the three nights are big-name support acts, including Busted and James Blunt.

Travel information for Ed Sheeran’s Shows at Portman Road

🚗 Travelling to the Concerts: Parking, Trains and Buses

With tens of thousands of fans heading to the centre of Ipswich each evening, planning your journey in advance is essential.

🅿️ Parking Options

Portman Road is just a short walk from several town centre car parks. Key options include:

• Layard House (New Road)
  • 180 spaces
  • Opens from 12:00 (except 14:00 on Friday)
  • Pre-booking required
• Gyppeswyk Park (Ancaster Road)
  • 500 spaces
  • Opens from 12:00
  • Pre-booking required
• Portman Road B & C car parks will be open from 08:00
• Portman Road A & D, and Princes Street, will be closed

There is also parking in Ipswich Borough Council’s short stay car parks, though spaces are expected to fill quickly.

• Coach parking is available at West End Road Coach Park from 08:00
• Car park staff will help manage queues and check vehicle registrations for pre-booked spots

⚠️ Expect delays entering and leaving town centre car parks. Allow plenty of time.

🚆 Train Services

Train operator Greater Anglia is running extra late-night trains on all three concert days to help people get home safely.

Friday 11 Jul

23:47 – Ipswich → London Liverpool Street
00:22 – Ipswich → Colchester
00:45 – Ipswich → Norwich

Saturday 12 July

23:50 – Ipswich → London Liverpool Street
00:12 – Ipswich → Colchester
00:45 – Ipswich → Norwich

Sunday 13 July

23:55 – Ipswich → London Liverpool Street
00:15 – Ipswich → Colchester
00:50 – Ipswich → Norwich

❌ No post-concert services to Lowestoft, Felixstowe, Cambridge or Peterborough.
⚠️ Trains expected to be extremely busy with long queues at the station.

🚌 Park and Ride

First Bus will operate extended Park and Ride services from:

• London Road (Copdock)
• Martlesham
• Tickets: £3 per person, includes unlimited same-day travel
• Tickets available on the day
• Keep your ticket for your return journey

Several private coach providers are also offering services from surrounding towns.

⏰ Key Timings and Local Disruptions

Gates open: 16:30
Concert ends: Around 22:30
Orwell Bridge roadworks: One lane closed each way – expect delays on the A14

🎶 A Big Weekend for Ipswich

Ed Sheeran’s concerts mark a milestone not only for the artist but for the town itself. With his global reach and local pride, Sheeran’s return to Ipswich celebrates the town’s culture and his journey from Suffolk school halls to international arenas.

If you’re heading to one of the shows — whether it’s your first time seeing Ed live or a long-awaited hometown gig — plan ahead, allow time for travel, and get ready for a memorable night under the lights of Portman Road.