Photo Credits: Phil Jon Photography / Jason Siddall Photography
Tramlines 2025 cemented its status as one of the UK’s most beloved inner-city festivals with a weekend full of euphoric moments, hometown pride, and genre-spanning brilliance. Held once again at Hillsborough Park, the event brought together legends, local heroes, and rising stars for a sun-drenched, feel-good celebration that left Sheffield glowing
At the heart of it all was a truly special homecoming from Pulp, whose Friday night headline set was a masterclass in theatrical Britpop brilliance. Jarvis Cocker was on top form—witty, charismatic, and totally captivating—as the band powered through a setlist that paired nostalgic anthems like Common People and Disco 2000 with bold new tracks from their latest album More. The inclusion of Sheffield: Sex City for the first time since 2012 added emotional weight, while guest appearances from Richard Hawley gave songs like Sunrise and Last Day of the Miners’ Strike extra poignancy.
The Reytons also had their moment in the spotlight, taking to the main stage with the swagger and heart of a band destined for even bigger things. Their high-octane performance was a triumph—raw, loud, and full of the kind of energy that only comes when a local band plays to a home crowd. The same could be said for The K’s, who opened to a huge crowd and didn’t waste a second, showing exactly why they’re now considered one of the UK’s most exciting breakthrough acts.
Sunday brought its own magic with Kasabian, who proved why they remain one of the best live acts in the country. Anthem after anthem had the crowd bouncing, with frontman Serge Pizzorno leading the charge through a thunderous, hit-packed set that brought the weekend to a thrilling conclusion.
But Tramlines wasn’t just about the headliners. CMAT dazzled with a bold and theatrical set that left a lasting impression. Red Rum Club delivered infectious indie brass-pop grooves with an electric energy that had fans dancing start to finish. Meanwhile, Natasha Bedingfield brought mainstream pop sunshine to the festival with a set that proved she still knows how to command a crowd—Unwritten in particular became a massive singalong moment.
On the T’Other Stage, Rizzle Kicks made a triumphant return to the live circuit, injecting the festival with pure joy, nostalgia and good vibes. Their chemistry, humour and hits like Down with the Trumpets and Mama Do the Hump had everyone grinning. Also on that stage, Chloe Slater shone as one of the standout newcomers. Her voice, confidence and stagecraft mark her as an artist you’ll be seeing a lot more of very soon.
Heather Small also on the T’Other stage delivered her classic hits, no new album tracks here, just party central.
The real success of Tramlines 2025 lay in its diversity—not just musically, but emotionally. There were moments of introspection, bursts of chaotic energy, and countless smiles. It’s a festival that continues to grow while never forgetting its roots. Across every stage, from breakthrough artists to chart-topping headliners, Tramlines proved once again that Sheffield knows how to throw a party with soul.
Whether you came for Pulp’s homecoming, Kasabian’s firepower, or to discover the next big thing, Tramlines 2025 delivered a weekend of unforgettable memories—and left us counting down the days until next year.
Early bird tickets for 2026 go on sale on 1st August you can grab them here: https://tramlines.org.uk/tramlines-2026-super-early-bird/
