Wembley Arena is one of the most iconic concert and events venues in London. It has played host to some of the biggest names in music and entertainment and is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
However, navigating the area around Wembley Arena can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time visiting. This Wembley Arena Travelers Guide aims to provide visitors with all the information they need to plan their journey to the arena and make the most of their visit.
The guide covers everything from transportation options to accommodation recommendations. The closest tube station to Wembley Arena is Wembley Park, which is on the Metropolitan or Jubilee Lines and is a 10-minute walk away.
However, visitors can also travel to nearby Wembley Central, which is a 15-minute walk away and can be reached via the Bakerloo Line or London Overground lines. The guide also provides information on local bus services that serve the area and how to pay for bus fares using an Oyster card, Visitor Oyster card, Travelcard or UK-issued contactless payment card.
History of Wembley Arena
Wembley Arena, originally known as the Empire Pool, is an indoor arena located next to Wembley Stadium in Wembley, London, England. It was built for the 1934 British Empire Games and was designed by Arthur Elvin.
The venue was converted into a concert hall in the 1950s and has since hosted numerous high-profile events, including concerts, sporting events, and awards shows.
The arena has a rich history of hosting some of the most iconic events in music history. The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Led Zeppelin have all performed at Wembley Arena, and it has also been the venue for the BRIT Awards, the MTV Europe Music Awards, and the X Factor live shows.
The venue has also played host to a number of sporting events, including boxing matches, wrestling matches, and ice hockey games.
Over the years, the arena has undergone numerous renovations and upgrades to ensure that it remains a world-class entertainment venue. In 2006, it underwent a major refurbishment that included the installation of new seating, improved acoustics, and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems.
Today, Wembley Arena remains one of the most popular entertainment venues in the UK, attracting millions of visitors each year. With its rich history and world-class facilities, it is sure to remain an iconic part of the UK’s cultural landscape for many years to come.
Location and Accessibility
Wembley Arena is a world-renowned concert and events venue located in London, UK. The arena is conveniently located and easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
Getting There
Visitors can reach Wembley Arena by train, tube, bus, or car. The closest tube station is Wembley Park, which is served by the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines. Visitors can also take a train to Wembley Stadium station or Wembley Central station. There are also several bus routes that stop near the arena.
Accessibility
Wembley Arena is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors. The venue has worked closely with the charity Attitude is Everything to ensure that visitors with accessibility needs have the best possible experience.
Booking Tickets
Visitors who require accessible seating or other accommodations can book tickets through the accessible booking line at 020 8782 5629 or by visiting the official website at ovoarena.co.uk. Personal assistants accompanying visitors with accessibility needs can also receive a free ticket.
Shuttle Service
Wembley Arena offers a shuttle service for visitors with accessibility needs. The shuttle service operates from Wembley Park tube station and Wembley Stadium station to the arena. Visitors can book the shuttle service in advance by calling the accessible booking line.
Wheelchair Service
Wembley Arena provides a Staxi wheelchair service for visitors who require assistance getting around the venue. The Staxi service is available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked at the accessible booking desk located inside the arena.
Blue Badge Parking
Visitors with a blue badge can park in designated accessible parking spaces located near the arena. Blue badge parking spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved in advance.
Overall, Wembley Arena is a highly accessible venue that welcomes visitors with accessibility needs. Visitors can contact the accessible booking line for more information or to book tickets and accommodations.
Transport Links
Wembley Arena is well-connected by various modes of transportation, making it easy to reach for visitors. Here are the options available:
Public Transport
The closest tube station to Wembley Arena is Wembley Park, which is a 10-minute walk away. This station is in Zone 4 and can be accessed by the Metropolitan or Jubilee Lines. Alternatively, visitors can use Wembley Central station, which is a 15-minute walk away and can be accessed by the Bakerloo Line or London Overground lines.
Local buses, such as the 18/N18, 83/N83, 92, 182, 206, 223, 297, and 483, also serve Wembley and connect the area to central London and North West London. Visitors can use Transport for London’s Journey Planner to plan their route.
Driving and Parking
Visitors who prefer to drive can use the postcode HA9 0FA in their Sat Nav to reach Wembley Arena. From the M1, A40, or M25, drivers can follow signs for Wembley Stadium when they reach the A406 North Circular. From central London, visitors can drive up the Harrow Road (A404) northwest until they reach Paddington Station, then take the A40.
There are several parking options available, including official car parks and nearby parking facilities. Visitors are advised to book their parking in advance to avoid disappointment.
Cycling and Walking
Cycling and walking are also viable options for visitors who prefer to avoid public transport or driving. Wembley Arena is accessible via several cycle routes, and there are bike racks available for visitors to park their bikes. Pedestrians can use the designated walking routes to reach the venue, which are well-signposted and easy to navigate.
Overall, Wembley Arena is easily accessible via various modes of transportation, providing visitors with a hassle-free journey to the venue.
Seating and Facilities
Wembley Arena is a popular venue for music, comedy, and family entertainment, as well as for sports events. The arena has a seating capacity of up to 12,500 people, and it offers a range of seating options to suit different preferences and budgets.
The seating plan of the arena is divided into different blocks, which are further divided into bays. The blocks are lettered from A to S, and the bays are numbered from 1 to 20.
The blocks are arranged in a circular pattern around the stage, with the lower blocks closer to the stage and the upper blocks further away. The seating plan also includes two terrace sections, North and South, which are located on either side of the stage.
The seating options at Wembley Arena include standard seats, premium seats, and VIP boxes. The premium seats are located in Blocks A and B, which are situated on either side of the stage. These seats offer a better view of the stage and come with additional amenities, such as access to exclusive bars and lounges.
The VIP boxes at Wembley Arena are located on Level 2 and offer a private viewing experience for up to 12 people. The boxes come with a range of amenities, including a private bar, catering service, and dedicated host.
Wembley Arena also offers a range of facilities to enhance the visitor experience. The arena has multiple bars and food outlets, as well as merchandise stalls selling souvenirs and memorabilia.
The arena also has accessible seating options for visitors with mobility issues, as well as baby-changing facilities and first aid stations.
Visitors to Wembley Arena are advised to arrive early to avoid crowds and to familiarise themselves with the seating plan and facilities. The arena also offers pre-booked parking facilities for visitors arriving by car, with a flat rate fee for the day.
Events and Performances
Wembley Arena is one of London’s most iconic venues for live entertainment. The arena has hosted some of the biggest names in music, sports, and entertainment since it first opened its doors in 1934. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of events and performances you can expect to see at Wembley Arena.
Concerts
Wembley Arena is a popular destination for concerts and live music events. The arena has a capacity of up to 12,500 people, making it one of the largest indoor music venues in the UK. Some of the biggest names in music have performed at Wembley Arena, including Beyoncé, Adele, and Ed Sheeran. The arena also hosts a number of music festivals, such as Capital’s Jingle Bell Ball and We Are FSTVL.
Sporting Events
Wembley Arena is also a popular venue for sporting events. The arena has hosted a number of high-profile sporting events over the years, including basketball, boxing, and wrestling. In particular, the arena is known for hosting WWE events, with the likes of John Cena and The Rock having performed at the venue in the past. The arena is also a regular host of the Premier League Darts tournament.
Family Shows
Wembley Arena is not just for music and sports fans – the venue also hosts a variety of family shows and events throughout the year. From Disney on Ice to the Harlem Globetrotters, there’s something for everyone at Wembley Arena. The arena also hosts a number of comedy shows, with the likes of Michael McIntyre and Russell Howard having performed at the venue in the past.
Overall, Wembley Arena is a versatile and exciting venue that caters to a wide range of tastes and interests. Whether you’re a music fan, sports enthusiast, or looking for a family-friendly day out, Wembley Arena has something to offer.
Food and Drink Options
When visiting Wembley Arena, travelers have several options for food and drink. The arena offers a range of on-site refreshments, while nearby restaurants and pubs provide additional choices.
On-Site Refreshments
The arena’s food stalls and bars are cashless, and payment is accepted by card or via the OVO Arena Wembley app. Visitors can skip the queue by ordering selected food and drink via the app, with collection points available inside the venue. Free WIFI is also available inside the arena, powered by OVO.
The on-site refreshments include a variety of options, such as fish and chips, red lentil falafel, southern coated chicken and chips, and British beef burgers. Visitors can also enjoy popcorn, crisps, and a range of beverages, including beer, coffee, and bottled water.
Nearby Restaurants and Pubs
For travelers looking for more dining options, there are several nearby restaurants and pubs. The London Designer Outlet, located near the arena, offers a variety of eateries, including Nando’s, Pizza Express, and Wagamama’s. Wembley Tandoori, located under the Wembley Stadium Arch, is also a good option for those looking to stay closer to the arena and enjoy Nepalese dishes.
Other nearby pubs and restaurants include The Corner House, The Blue Room, and The Copper Jug. The Corner House offers a range of pub food, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The Blue Room is a popular choice for cocktails and tapas, while The Copper Jug is known for its traditional British pub fare.
Overall, visitors to Wembley Arena have a variety of food and drink options available to them, both on-site and nearby. Whether looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, there are plenty of choices to suit every taste and budget.
Accommodation Options
When traveling to Wembley Arena, visitors have a variety of accommodation options to choose from. This section will provide a brief overview of the different types of accommodation available near the arena.
Hotels Near Wembley Arena
There are several hotels located within walking distance of Wembley Arena, making them a convenient option for those attending events at the venue. Some of the most popular hotels in the area include:
- Novotel London Wembley Hotel: This four-star hotel is just a seven-minute walk from the main entrance of Wembley Arena. It features an on-site conference room and state-of-the-art gym, making it a great choice for business travelers.
- Hilton London Wembley: This contemporary hotel is connected to Wembley Stadium and offers stunning views of the iconic arch. It has a fitness center, on-site restaurant, and bar.
- ibis London Wembley Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel is just a five-minute walk from Wembley Arena and features comfortable rooms and a 24-hour bar.
Budget Accommodation
For those on a budget, there are several affordable accommodation options located near Wembley Arena. Some of the most popular budget hotels in the area include:
- Travelodge London Wembley Hotel: This hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Wembley Arena and offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.
- Premier Inn London Wembley Park Hotel: This hotel is located just a short walk from Wembley Park underground station and offers comfortable rooms at reasonable rates.
- Euro Hotel Wembley: This budget hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Wembley Arena and offers basic rooms at an affordable price.
Overall, there are plenty of accommodation options available to suit all budgets and preferences when visiting Wembley Arena.
Tips for a Successful Visit
If you’re planning to visit Wembley Arena, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:
Booking Tickets
It’s important to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. You can purchase tickets online through the official Wembley Arena website or through third-party ticketing websites. Be sure to check the seating plan and choose seats that suit your preferences.
Security Measures
Wembley Arena has strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of all visitors. Before entering the arena, all bags will be searched and visitors may be subject to a pat-down search. To avoid delays, it’s recommended that you arrive at the arena early and avoid bringing large bags or prohibited items.
Accessibility Information
Wembley Arena is committed to providing access to all visitors, regardless of their physical abilities. The arena has designated accessible seating areas and offers a range of services for visitors with disabilities, including audio description and sign language interpretation. If you require any special assistance, it’s recommended that you contact the arena in advance to make arrangements.
Overall, by following these tips and planning ahead, you can ensure a successful visit to Wembley Arena.