The Wombats To Headline Depot in the Castle

Liverpool rockers The Wombats are set to headline next summer’s Depot in the Castle, the much-loved one-day festival that transforms the grounds of Cardiff Castle into a celebration of live music, street food, and family fun.

The annual event has become a firm fixture in Cardiff’s summer calendar, drawing thousands to the historic venue each year. For 2026, the festival will return on Saturday 25 July, with The Wombats leading the charge as headliners. Known for indie anthems like Let’s Dance to Joy Division and Greek Tragedy, the trio are sure to bring an electrifying set to the castle stage.

Fresh from the release of their acclaimed sixth studio album Oh! The Ocean and a huge headline cycle that’s seen them play arenas across the globe, The Wombats remain one of the UK’s most loved and enduring indie bands. 

Known for generation-defining anthems including Let’s Dance to Joy Division, Moving to New York, Greek Tragedy and Kill the Director, their infectious guitar-pop continues to captivate audiences old and new. Their 2024 headline performance at Reading proved they’re still at the peak of their powers, with a crowd of 18–24-year-olds spilling far beyond the Radio 1 tent.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Cardiff Castle, Depot in the Castle is more than just a music festival. Expect street food, family-friendly activities, and a buzzing festival atmosphere for all ages to enjoy; support artists for DITC 2026 will be announced soon.

Now firmly established as one of Wales’s standout summer events, Depot in the Castle has welcomed some incredible names to its stage. Last year’s 2025 edition was headlined by Jess Glynne, alongside a stacked line-up including Maxïmo Park, Sigma, Kate Nash, Professor Green, and Goldie Lookin’ Chain. Previous headliners have also included Mel C, Kaiser Chiefs, Tom Grennan, Ella Eyre, Clean Bandit, Toploader and The Fratellis.

Festival founder Nick Saunders said: “We’re thrilled to welcome The Wombats to Cardiff Castle for Depot In The Castle 2026. They’re one of the most exciting live acts in the UK, with a catalogue of hits that span nearly two decades and a new album that shows they’re still pushing forward. 

After the energy and atmosphere of last year with Jess Glynne and a brilliant line-up, we can’t wait to see Cardiff Castle bouncing again in 2026.”

This all-day event is known for selling out fast, so fans are urged to secure tickets early – pre-sale opens at 10am on Thursday 2^ndOctober; general sale starts at 10am on Friday 2^nd October.

The announcement adds to Cardiff Castle’s growing 2026 music lineup, which already includes the Blackbird Festivaland a headline show from David Gray.

With The Wombats topping the bill, Depot in the Castle promises another unforgettable day of music, food, and summer celebrations in the heart of the city.