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Off to see Rod Stewart? Here’s all you need to know

by in Things to do

Rocking out in Bristol. Photograph: Rod Stewart on Twitter

There are still tickets available as Rod Stewart brings his biggest ever tour to York Racecourse this weekend.

Sir Rod Stewart
  • Sat 30 June from 6pm
  • York Racecourse
  • £62.00 – £137.50
  • Tickets here

A 30,000 pop-up stadium is being put together on Knavesmire ready for Sir Rod, his band, and his fans.

The hitmaker kicked off his European tour at Southend before hitting Bristol kitted out in an animal print jacket, and backed by blonde women backing singers and musicians in matching outfits.

The 74-year-old singer is belting out lots of his chart-busters at the concerts, including Maggie May, The First Cut Is The Deepest and Some Guys Have All The Luck.

So it sounds like a top night in prospect. But there are quite a few rules, including a ban on umbrellas and ‘professional’ cameras. Here’s what you need to know.

The concert lowdown

An aerial view of the stage, all set for Sir Rod at York Racecourse. Photograph: Marc Bichtemann on Twitter
Can you buy tickets on the day?
Yes, subject to availability.


What are the times for the concert?
General admission gates open at 5pm, while the VIP gates open at 4pm. Entertainment is expected to begin at 7pm and should finish approximately at 10:30pm. Please note timings are subject to change (apparently Rod didn’t rock up till 9pm at one of his earlier concerts).


What are the transport options?
By car – a one way system will be in place so organisers ask you to follow the yellow event signage and not satellite navigation systems. York Racecourse says: “Those coming to the venue by car on the day of the event should therefore be prepared for significant delays on both the entry and exit phase.”

By bus – shuttle buses are running at peak demand times from York Station costing £2 each way or £3 return. First York is also running extra buses from Askham Bar Park and Ride.


Can you park at the racecourse?
There is parking at the racecourse, but according to the racecourse website it has now sold out. They warn: “Residents permit schemes are enforced in the areas around the racecourse and so it is not advisable to try by car without pre-booking parking.”



Photograph: Rod Stewart on Twitter

What bags are allowed in?
Organisers ask people to bring a bag no larger than an A4 piece of paper. All bags are subject to a search. “So please avoid bringing one where you can as this will speed up your entry to the concert.”


Can you take food and drink?
No. Do not attempt to bring food or drink into the venue, as it will be confiscated. You are allowed one sealed bottle of water per person, maximum size 500ml.

If you have a medical condition, then a doctor’s note will be required to permit diet-specific food and drink only.

Food will be available to buy on the night.


Is the concert seated?
Yes, the concert is fully seated, but that won’t stop people standing up around you. Please note the floor seating is not tiered.


It’s an outdoor concert. What if it rains?
The concert will still go ahead, so come prepared. But no umbrellas, they are not permitted.


Can I bring a professional camera?
No. The organisers state: “Any cameras that are deemed ‘professional’ will be confiscated until the end of the concert.”


More information on the organiser’s website and the York Racecourse website (PDF).

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