Mogwai at Crystal Palace promises to be one of the standout live shows of the 2025 UK summer. As part of the South Facing Festival series. The Scottish post-rock legends are set to headline the iconic Crystal Palace Bowl on Thursday 7 August 2025. Delivering an exclusive open-air performance in one of London’s most historic venues. This marks Mogwai’s only UK festival appearance of the summer. And a rare chance to experience their immersive, cinematic sound in an atmospheric outdoor setting.
Joining them on the bill are Lankum, the critically acclaimed Irish folk group known for their brooding, experimental arrangements. The pairing of Mogwai and Lankum sets the stage for a night of dynamic intensity, musical storytelling, and emotional depth. For fans of adventurous live music, this is an unmissable event.
A Singular UK Summer Show
For over two decades, Mogwai have stood at the forefront of the post-rock genre, crafting sprawling instrumentals and intense live shows that transcend traditional rock structures. Since forming in Glasgow in 1995, they’ve released a steady stream of acclaimed albums, including Come On Die Young, Happy Songs for Happy People, and 2021’s As the Love Continues, which topped the UK charts.
Known for their deafening crescendos, minimalist beauty, and visceral soundscapes, Mogwai live is not just a gig—it’s a sensory experience. Their headline slot at Crystal Palace Bowl is expected to draw fans from across the UK and beyond. With no other UK dates on the calendar, this is their only scheduled opportunity to see them in action this summer.
Crystal Palace Bowl: A Unique Venue
Crystal Palace Bowl is unlike any other venue in the UK. Set in a natural amphitheatre within the tranquil grounds of Crystal Palace Park, it combines lush greenery with striking acoustics and a floating stage over the lake. Nicknamed the “Rusty Laptop” due to its unusual architectural design, the bowl has hosted legendary artists over the years, from Bob Marley to Elton John.
Reopened to the public in recent years as part of the South Facing Festival, the bowl offers a perfect blend of heritage, nature, and cutting-edge programming. The setting offers a relaxed yet electric atmosphere, where fans can spread out on the grass or gather near the stage as the sun sets and the music intensifies.
Lankum: Support with Substance
Opening for Mogwai is Lankum, one of Ireland’s most compelling and innovative acts. Their sound merges traditional folk with drone, noise, and post-punk textures, drawing comparisons to the likes of Swans and Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Albums like The Livelong Day and False Lankum have pushed the boundaries of modern folk, combining ancient ballads with experimental flair.
Their inclusion on the bill is no accident—Lankum’s intense, atmospheric performances complement Mogwai’s own commitment to dynamics and emotion. Expect a mesmerising set that builds slowly, peaks dramatically, and leaves the crowd spellbound.
Doors, Times and Entry Info
Gates to the Crystal Palace Bowl open at 4:00 PM, with performances scheduled to run until 10:30 PM. The event is strictly for ages 16 and over. Under-18s must be accompanied by an adult aged 21 or over. Food and drink vendors will be on site, with both general admission and VIP areas available.
The relaxed but organised setup allows for easy movement, a range of viewing spots, and a comfortable, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re up front for the full sonic assault or laying back on the hill with a drink, the sound quality remains immersive and rich across the entire venue.
What to Expect
Mogwai’s live shows are famously intense. Expect walls of feedback, moments of pin-drop silence, and sudden bursts of unfiltered power. Their setlists span their vast back catalogue, often weaving newer material with fan favourites like “Mogwai Fear Satan,” “Auto Rock,” and “Ratts of the Capital.”
Under the open skies of Crystal Palace Park, their sound is likely to take on an even more epic scale. With twilight descending and the lake reflecting the stage lights, the experience promises to be part concert, part communion. Lankum’s support set will add layers of folk mysticism and slow-burning tension, warming up the audience with dense harmonies and haunting arrangements.
This isn’t your typical summer show. It’s an atmospheric escape, a moment to be enveloped in mood and melody, with two of the most evocative live acts currently touring.
Travel and Accommodation
Crystal Palace Bowl is located in South East London, easily accessible by train, Overground, and bus. The closest train stations are Crystal Palace and Penge West, both a short walk from the venue. London Overground also connects Crystal Palace to East and North London, making post-show travel simple.
For those visiting from outside London, staying overnight is highly recommended. You’ll find a mix of boutique hotels and affordable accommodation in nearby areas such as Sydenham, Dulwich, and Brixton. For easy booking and great rates, visit Laterooms.com to secure your stay in advance.
Driving is not advised due to limited local parking and road closures during South Facing events. Public transport remains the best option, especially for a stress-free experience at the end of the night.
Tickets and Info
Tickets are available now via the through our ticket affiliates. Early booking is recommended—this is Mogwai’s only UK show of summer 2025, and demand is high. Both general admission and VIP packages are available.
VIP tickets offer access to a dedicated area with better views, a private bar, and faster entry. But no matter where you stand or sit, the sound carries—and the atmosphere is collective. It’s about immersion, not just attendance.
Merchandise
Fans can get their hands on exclusive Mogwai releases to accompany the Crystal Palace show. Two standout items are available now:
- If The Stars Had A Sound – DVD edition for £12.00. Buy here
- The Bad Fire – Double Vinyl edition for £24.00. Buy here
Perfect for collectors or long-time followers of the band, these official releases are essential additions to any Mogwai fan’s collection.
Video Courtesy of bbc music you tube
