Secret Shows Unveiled: Gorillaz Stun Fans With Unexpected UK Tour—Are You Ready to Snag Tickets?

Am I the only one who sometimes wonders if my imaginary friends might one day book out an entire stadium? Well, the Gorillaz have essentially done just that—only they’re a multi-platinum virtual band, and, let’s face it, way cooler (and far better animated) than anything my mind’s ever conjured up. Who could’ve predicted that after 25 years of making cartoon chaos and genre-blurring bangers, Damon Albarn, Jamie Hewlett and their unruly band of misfits would stun us all with a brand-new UK and Ireland tour—and time it perfectly with a mysterious new album? There’s something poetic, maybe even mischievous, about these elusive dates dropping quietly, like an Easter egg hidden in your grandma’s living room—except, in this case, the prize is a ticket (if you’re quick enough) to see Murdoc, 2D, Noodle, and Russel take over real-life cities. So, if you missed their Copper Box Arena gigs, here’s your shot at a comeback. Grab your phone—well, unless they ask you not to, of course—and get ready to break the internet when sales go live. If that doesn’t make you question reality, I don’t know what will. LEARN MORE

Gorillaz have quietly dropped a load of UK and Ireland 2026 tour dates following the news of their new album.

On Thursday evening (September 11), the virtual band stunned fans with the announcement that they’ll play cities including London, Birmingham, Leeds and Cardiff next year.

Fans will be able to snap up tickets from the likes of Seat Unique, Ticketmaster and Live Nation. Presale will kick off at 11am on Wednesday September 17 with general sale kicking off on Friday September 19.

The full list of cities on their tour include Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Dublin, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester and Nottingham.

The shows will coincide with the release of their ninth studio album The Mountain, which is set to be released in March 2026.

The Feel Good Inc hitmakers had help from some famous faces for the project too, with collaborators including Johnny Marr, Sparks, Black Thought, and Trueno.

If you missed out on Gorillaz’ Copper Box Arena gigs, the upcoming UK tour is a second chance to be a part of the crowd. In case you missed it, 2-D, Murdoc, Noodle and Russel Hobbs, performed four one-off shows for London fans to mark their 25th anniversary.

Gorillaz have announced a surprise UK tour (Getty/Michael Loccisano)

For the final ‘mystery’ performance, the group asked the crowd to adopt a no-phones policy, as they teased the new album.

So, if you don’t want to miss out this time around, where can you buy tickets and what time does general sale open? Find out everything you need to know below.

Where to buy Gorillaz UK tour tickets now

General sale will be available via Seat Unique, Ticketmaster and Live Nation.

If you don’t beat the queue, resale tickets are likely to be available on StubHub and Viagogo.

To avoid ticket scams and ensure a money-back guarantee, only purchase resale tickets through verified sites such as the above.

You’ll need to hurry if you’re keen to be a part of the crowd (Getty/Christina House)

Who are the Gorillaz and what is Kong Studios?

Created by Blur frontman Damon Albarn and comic book artist Jamie Hewlett in 1998, Gorillaz are one of the world’s most successful virtual bands.

The group consists of four animated members: singer Stuart ‘2D’ Pot, bassist Murdoc Niccals, guitarist Noodle, and drummer Russel Hobbs.

As per the band’s website, Kong Studios is the home of Gorillaz, and is a gamified fan experience where you can explore the rooms and spaces of 2D, Murdoc, Noodle and Russel. It’s also a place to go to find out everything you want to know about Gorillaz first.

After closing down in 2008, the website is finally back up and running.