About The SSE Arena, Wembley
The SSE Arena, Wembley (often simply “Wembley Arena”) is an iconic indoor entertainment venue in north-west London’s Wembley Park. With around 12,500 seats for concerts, it is the UK’s second-largest indoor arena (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). Built in 1934 as the Empire Pool for the British Empire Games (now Commonwealth Games), it was an engineering marvel – the world’s widest concrete-span roof at the time (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). Its bold concrete arch and external fins are Grade II-listed for architectural innovation (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ) (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). Notably, the arena hosted swimming and ice sports in its early years (including the 1948 Olympic diving events), then in 1976 earned Grade-II heritage status and was renamed “Wembley Arena” in 1978 (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ).
Over the decades, Wembley Arena has become legendary for live entertainment. It has welcomed dozens of rock, pop, dance and classical superstars – from The Beatles and Queen to Madonna, Michael Jackson and ABBA (wembleypark.com ) (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). In fact, the arena’s walls echo with the “Hello Wembley!” shout of adoring London crowds. It sits alongside Wembley Stadium, forming the heart of the area’s concert and sports scene. In 2006 the arena reopened after a major £35m refurbishment (modernising the bowl and public space) and remains run by ASM Global. In 2014 SSE plc acquired its naming rights (hence “SSE Arena”), a title it held until a 2022 rebranding to “OVO Arena Wembley” with renewed sponsorship (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ) (www.theticketingbusiness.com ). The venue’s story combines Olympic history with pop culture, reflecting its special place in London’s entertainment heritage. Today it hosts over 100 events a year and over a million visitors, drawing people from across the city and beyond (wembleypark.com ).
Events and Programming
The SSE Arena stages an eclectic mix of events year-round. Top-tier concerts dominate the schedule, with international pop, rock and electronic artists routinely touring through. Recent and upcoming acts include the likes of 50 Cent, Armin van Buuren, Sigrid, The Cure, KSI and Anne-Marie (among many others) as the venue reopened in 2022 under its new OVO Arena title (accessaa.co.uk ). Recurring highlights range from singer-songwriter gigs and full-band rock shows to dance music festivals and world pop. It also hosts comedy and theatre tours – from stand-up specials (e.g. Bill Bailey) to variety shows and family acts on tour. The arena sometimes serves as the finale for major UK events; for example, televised finales of “The X Factor” have been held here (wembleypark.com ).
Beyond music, The SSE Arena remains true to its sporting roots. It regularly hosts sports-entertainment shows: boxing cards (often live on BT Sport), WWE wrestling tours, darts exhibitions, and even cage-fighting or mixed martial arts events. The arena’s 1934 design – open bowl with floor area – lends itself to many layouts. Some events use an end-stage for concerts, while sports or award shows may use an in-the-round stage on the floor. Because of its versatility, it thrives on “one-night-only” spectacles and multi-day residencies alike.
Ticket prices vary widely by show. A general admission ticket for an average artist might start around £30–50, while high-demand front-floor or premium seats can top £100 or more. VIP upgrades and “Club Seat” packages (with lounge access) are also offered for many concerts at higher prices. Tickets usually go on sale via the venue’s official partner (AXS) several months in advance. Several presale opportunities often exist (e.g. fan club or newsletter presales), so signing up for venue mailing lists or artist fan clubs is a good strategy. In general, fans can expect anything from bargain bundle deals in the stalls to full-price band endorsements for front-stage sections.
Tickets and Booking
For all events, tickets are sold through the arena’s official partner. The SSE Arena partners with AXS.com (and associated resale/secondary markets) for online sales. When buying, make sure you are on the AXS page for Wembley . The venue warns that purchases through other sites may not be valid (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Disabled-access tickets (for wheelchair spaces or seats) must be booked by phone via the venue’s accessible line (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). All other tickets (general sale or VIP packages) can be bought online via AXS. AXS’ mobile ticketing means your tickets live on your phone (dynamic QR code) so you can store and access them easily (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
If the show isn’t sold out in advance, you may also buy tickets at the arena on the day of the event. The box office opens only on show-days – typically 1 hour before doors – and closes shortly after the headliner goes on stage (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Keep in mind tickets purchased that way are “subject to availability,” so the safest approach for a popular concert is to book ahead. For big acts, early bird or fan-club presales often go live several weeks before general sale. It never hurts to check the arena’s official booking page or social media for announcements. On busy nights even “on-sale rush” tips (festive queueing, venue membership, or credit-card presales) can make a difference in securing the cheapest seats.
Pro Tip: Printed tickets are largely obsolete here. Use the AXS mobile app and ID-ticket barcode. Have your payment card ready (the arena is fully cashless (www.ovoarena.co.uk )). Lastly, consider premium options: the Arena offers “Club Seats” (front rows of lower tiers with lounge access) and VIP experiences (champagne, dedicated host) for a higher price (wembleypark.com ).
Seating and Layout
The SSE Arena is an enclosed bowl with a large flat floor area and two tiers of stands rising from it. Floor-level seating (or standing) is set up for concerts on one end of the hall, with the main stage against that end wall. The lower and upper seating tiers (often labeled by compass directions, e.g. North, South, East side sections) wrap around the floor. The total capacity is about 12,500 (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). Under one roof and without pillars, every seat gets a clear line of sight to the stage. The lower tier and first few rows of the upper tier tend to have the best balance of view and proximity.
Best seats: Most hardcore fans prefer the floor (if standing GA is offered) for energy, or the front rows of the lower tier (especially Centre or slightly off-centre) for an unobstructed view. Club seats in the lower bowl (with VIP lounge access) offer plush surroundings and great sightlines (wembleypark.com ). Many concertgoers find the views excellent even in the upper tier, given the stretching roof; seats in blocks N4–N12 and S4–S12 (rows A–H in the stands) are known to work with the improved hearing loop (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). In general, a middle-of-the-tier seat gives a balanced, centered perspective.
Avoiding bad seats: Try to avoid extreme side-slab sections where the view angle can be awkward. If seats are behind the speaker stacks or far off-north side (for an endstage setup), sound and visuals can suffer. Also note that at standing events, all reusable bottles are banned in any area (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (spare some water or drinks until you pass security). For sporting or endstage formats, bleacher-like seating curves tightly around the action; any seat still offers a good overall view because of the arena’s compact shape.
Getting There and Parking
The SSE Arena is located at Arena Square, Engineers Way, Wembley Park, London HA9 0AA (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), right beside Wembley Stadium in north-west London. It’s within Wembley Park, a major transport hub. By public transport, take the London Underground to Wembley Park station (Zone 4 on the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines). From that station it’s about a 10–12 minute walk south-east along Olympic Exit and Wembley Park Boulevard to Arena Square (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Alternatively, Wembley Central station (Bakerloo and London Overground) is about a 15-minute walk to the south-west (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Chiltern Railways trains run from Marylebone to Wembley Stadium station, which is also within walking distance.
On event nights, several London bus routes serve Wembley Park (for example, 83, 297, 18 and others). Always plan ahead on the TfL website or app (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If driving, the arena is conveniently just off the A406 North Circular Road (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). However, roads get very busy when events and stadium matches coincide. Parking \guide\ levels are in official Wembley Park car parks (colour-coded “Red,” “Pink,” etc) a short walk away. These are 24/7, CCTV-monitored and staffed on event days (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Pre-booking a space (with the Wembley Official Parking portal) is strongly recommended for best rates and availability (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Blue badge (disabled) holders can park in these official lots too (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Just follow the signs to the Arena/ZumSto car parks and display your booking number.
Drop-off points: For taxis or ride-share, there is a designated short-term drop-off area on Lakeside Way by the arena’s south-west corner (near the OVO VIP and Sky Bet entrance) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Vehicles can stop for up to 15 minutes to let passengers off. During very busy events the road may be temporarily closed for crowd safety – in which case drivers often pull up at the road’s end (roughly 100–150m from the venue) and let passengers walk the rest. If you are dropped off, simply enter via the closest doors (follow venue signage for “Main Entrance – Door 1” or the VIP entrance).
Inside the Venue
On arrival, you’ll pass through security screening before entering the concourse. The arena uses a modern Evolv AI scanning system so you don’t need to empty your pockets (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Security staff will still quickly check bags. Note the strict bag policy : only small personal bags (roughly A4-sized or smaller) are allowed (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Backpacks or any bag larger than 30cm×20cm×40cm are prohibited (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Metal detectors are enforced, so leave any weapons or tools at home. Also, no outside food or drink (bottled water larger than a few sips, alcohol, cans, etc.) is permitted (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If you do bring a large bag you’ll be denied entry – there is no cloakroom. Free “Stasher” luggage storage is suggested off-site for large items (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Patrons proceed through the main foyer into the arena’s concourse. The concourse wraps around all sides of the seating bowl. Atmosphere inside is typically lively and family-friendly; excited crowds line the barriers awaiting each act. The house lighting and fresh interior make the space bright and clear. Bars and kiosks are found conveniently around the concourse. They sell standard arena fare – hot dogs, burgers, pizzas, nachos and similar snack combos (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) – as well as alcoholic drinks and soft drinks (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). All concessions are cashless (card/contactless only) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), so bring a suitable payment card. Free water fountains (for plain drinking water) are installed on each level (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Vegans and vegetarians will find options among the menu bundles (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If you have food allergies, speak to vendors – staff are trained to help find safe items (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Facilities include plenty of restroom banks on every concourse level (note ladies’ queues can form at peak times). There is no formal coat-check, so keep coats with you. Many guests bring small seat cushions or stuff their pockets with snacks to breathe ease during long acts. Alcoholic drinks are readily sold at bars, but under “Challenge 25” you must show ID (passport or driving licence) if asked (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
For camera/phones: mobile phones and small non-professional cameras (no detachable lenses, GoPros or selfie-sticks ) are generally tolerated for snapshots (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Professional cameras and video equipment are banned. Once inside, find your seats by the door number on your ticket. Ushers are on hand if you need directions. The arena generally maintains good crowd management; trained staff patrol the floor and stands at all times. Relax and enjoy the vibe – historically, many fans note the sound quality and sightlines are excellent everywhere.
Nearby Amenities
Wembley Park has been fully redeveloped, so the arena is surrounded by shops, restaurants, entertainment and hotels. Immediately outside the arena is Boxpark Wembley – an outdoor street-food and bar zone in a repurposed shipping container village. It offers global cuisine, craft beers and live DJs on event days, making it a pre-show favourite. Nearby restaurants include Bread Ahead bakery, Pizza Express, Pasta Remoli (Italian) and many chain options. The London Designer Outlet (just across the boulevard) has high-street shops, cafes and food courts open late.
For drinks, the local pubs around Olympic Way (near Wembley Park station) and Wembley Central serve crowds on concert nights. Inside the stadium area, the Wembley Park Boulevard also has bars and cafés. Most restaurants will be busy on show nights, so booking ahead or arriving early is wise. A popular tip is to eat well before heading in (or afterward) to avoid queues inside. Because public transport can be packed right after the show, many diners opt for a quick meal nearby rather than rushing home immediately after the curtain.
There are several good hotels in the vicinity: the Hilton London Wembley (with direct bridge access to the stadium), Novotel London Wembley, the Holiday Inn and Travelodge Wembley Central, among others. These are often booked by concert-goers looking to stay overnight. If arriving from afar, having a hotel nearby means you can leave through quieter floors after events. Uber and taxi ranks for local cabs are also nearby, especially around Wembley Park Station, if you need a ride late. Remember Night Tube (Jubilee line) runs on weekends, but on other days you may need a late-night London bus (e.g. N18 or N83) if Tube service has ended.
What Makes This Venue Special
The SSE Arena’s unique character comes from its rich history and architecture. As one of Britain’s oldest arenas (opened in 1934), it carries a nostalgic charm. Its landmark parabolic roof and glass-ended structure are visible for miles, a heritage design that helped earn its Grade II listing (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ) (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). Unlike generic modern arenas, Wembley’s story – from Olympic pool to rock stage – gives it a distinct personality. For many Londoners, the Arena’s wooden stage and art-deco trimmings invoke decades of concert memories.
Culturally, this building is where pop and rock history was made. The list of performers is a “who’s who”: Queen, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, David Bowie, Madonna, Stevie Wonder, ABBA, U2, Michael Jackson, and scores of others have headlined here (wembleypark.com ) (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). It’s also the site of legendary residencies (ABBA’s six sold-out shows in 1979, Tina Turner’s record run, Prince’s annual gigs) (wembleypark.com ). Even today, artists flock here because the crowd is passionate and the atmosphere intimate – it’s big enough to feel major, but small enough that fans feel connected.
In recent years the venue has also earned recognition for sustainability. Renovations have made it Britain’s most carbon-efficient arena: it has officially completed the “Greener Arena” certification, meaning despite its age it now aims for the lowest environmental footprint in the industry (wembleypark.com ). All of this – its storied past, beloved stage, and forward-looking upgrades – combine to make The SSE Arena, Wembley a one-of-a-kind destination in London’s music scene. Whether it’s a local act’s first London gig or a global superstar’s greatest hits tour, there’s a sense of tradition and excitement unique to “Hello Wembley.”
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The arena is fully accessible. Guests with mobility needs will find step-free access from nearby stations (Wembley Park station has lifts) and ramps to all concourse levels (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Wheelchair spaces are scattered throughout the lower and upper tiers. For hearing-impaired guests, infrared assistive-listening devices are available (just ask for a receiver) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If you require a sign-language interpreter or other assistance at a performance, contact the box office at least 2–4 weeks ahead. The “PA Goes Free” scheme means a personal assistant ticket is provided at no extra cost to qualifying customers (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
What to bring: Carry only essentials in a small bag (under A4 size). Bring your tickets on your phone (AXS Mobile ID) or printout, and a valid photo ID if you plan to buy alcohol. Dress comfortably and in layers – the venue is well-heated in winter but may feel cool with crowd sweat in summer. Ear plugs are a must for children or noise-sensitive adults, as concerts can be loud. Chargers or battery packs are recommended; expect spotty phone signal indoors. Lastly, arriving early (at least 45–60 minutes before showtime) is wise so you can get through security without stress (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Avoid bringing: Large backpacks, outside food or drink, cans/bottles, and any professional-camera equipment (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Selfie-sticks or GoPro mounts are banned (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The venue has free water fountains, so you don’t need a full bottle. Also steer clear of wearing clothing with offensive slogans, signs or lights – the arena prohibits disruptive signage or dress (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Weapons of any kind, laser pointers, balloons, and glitter guns are strictly forbidden (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), so leave anything questionable at home.
Arrival and departure: Doors typically open about an hour before showtime, with the main act usually starting an hour later. There is no re-entry – once you leave for any reason (including smoking), you cannot go back in (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Plan bathroom breaks accordingly. After the show, expect heavy crowds around exits. The Tube can be very busy; if you left a car in a public lot, note that all licensed car parks are electronically cleared. Taxis and rideshares can pick you up on Lakeside Way, or buses and the Tube will run until at least midnight (Night Tube on weekends) to get you home safely.
Other tips: Follow the arena’s social media or app for last-minute info. It’s a cashless venue, so carry cards (Apple/Google Pay accepted). Note that event pages often list prohibition details or special instructions (for example, to mention special effects like strobes or smoke). Finally, cue up the classic “Hello Wembley” chant and enjoy the show – the SSE Arena, Wembley may be a concrete behemoth, but it often feels like home once the lights go down.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity at The SSE Arena, Wembley?
The SSE Arena, Wembley has around 12,500 seats for most events, making it one of the UK’s largest indoor arenas (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ).
How can I buy tickets for events at The SSE Arena, Wembley?
All tickets must be purchased through the official partner (AXS). You can buy tickets online at AXS.com or via the venue’s website. Disabled access tickets are also sold via phone through the arena’s accessible booking line (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Avoid any unauthorized ticket suppliers to ensure validity.
Does The SSE Arena have a box office, and when is it open?
Yes. A box office operates on event days only. It typically opens 1 hour before the doors of the show (and closes shortly after the main act starts) for any remaining tickets (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If the show is not sold out, you can often buy tickets there until shortly after the performance begins (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
How early should I arrive before a show?
It’s wise to arrive at least 45–60 minutes before the advertised start time. Security screening can take time, so giving yourself an extra half hour allows for passing through the Evolv scanners and bag checks (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Doors usually open 60 minutes prior to the show, so arriving early ensures you won’t miss any part of the performance.
Where is the nearest Tube station to The SSE Arena?
The closest underground stop is Wembley Park station (Jubilee and Metropolitan lines), about a 10-minute walk from the arena (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Wembley Central (Bakerloo and London Overground) is also nearby (roughly a 15-minute walk) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Both stations are in Travelcard Zone 4.
Are there car parking options at The SSE Arena?
Yes. Official Wembley Park car parks (colour-coded and signposted) are close to the arena and are available on event days (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). You should pre-book your space through the Wembley event parking website for best rates (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). There are also a limited number of Blue Badge parking spaces reserved in these lots (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Note that outside private or unofficial parking lots may not be secure – it’s safest to use the designated car parks.
Is The SSE Arena Wembley wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The arena is fully wheelchair-friendly. Wembley Park station offers step-free access by lift, and the arena itself has lifts to all levels (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). There are wheelchair-accessible seating areas on the concourses. Guests can take advantage of the “PA Goes Free” scheme (one free personal assistant ticket) by booking in advance (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The venue also provides an infrared hearing loop system for the hard-of-hearing (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Can I drop off my party at the arena?
Yes. There is a designated drop-off/pick-up point on Lakeside Way at the south-west entrance (marked OVO VIP entrance) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Private vehicles may stop there briefly (usually up to 15 minutes) to let passengers out. If the road is closed for crowds, drivers often let passengers off at the road’s end and the rest walk the last 100–150m. Taxi and rideshare vehicles commonly use this drop-off point or nearby laybys.
What are the food and drink options inside the arena?
Wide varieties of food and drink are sold on the concourse. Kiosks offer classic arena snacks – hot dogs, burgers, pizza and nachos with dips (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Bars serve beverages ranging from soft drinks and coffee to beers, ciders, wines and spirits (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). There are also vegan and vegetarian choices at many stalls. Remember, the arena is cashless, so all purchases are by credit/debit card (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Free water fountains are available if you need to refill.
Can I bring my own food or drink?
No. Outside food or drink (except for small bottled water) is not permitted. Large bags are checked for prohibited items like food, alcohol, cans or spray bottles (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). This rule helps keep walking aisles clear and lines moving. If you have a medical need (e.g. baby formula or insulin), inform staff and they will typically accommodate you with an exception after verification.
What items are prohibited inside the venue?
The arena enforces a strict ban on many items. Large bags over A3 size, backpacks, weapons or sharp objects, laser pointers and illegal substances are all forbidden (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Reusable bottles, cans or any outside drinks (alcoholic or not) are also disallowed (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Professional cameras (detachable lenses) and recording gear are prohibited (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). In general, if it has the potential to disrupt the show or other guests (like smoke bombs, glitter, noisy noisemakers, large signs), security will refuse it (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Can I take pictures inside The SSE Arena?
Personal photos with your phone or small camera (without detachable lens) are generally allowed, provided the event promoter has not banned all photography. However, professional cameras and camcorders (anything with a large or removable lens) are never allowed (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Selfie-sticks, GoPros and video-recording devices are also banned (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If photography restrictions apply for a particular show, you’ll be informed on entry and you may need to check gear at reception.
Is smoking allowed?
No. The arena has a strict no-smoking policy. There is no exit for smoking once inside (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If you smoke outside before entering, plan to arrive without smoking breaks, as you will not be admitted back in until a show break.
Are there age restrictions for shows?
Most concerts are all-ages but younger children may require tickets and an accompanying adult. However, some events (especially comedy or late-night shows) enforce a minimum age (16 or 18+). Always check the event details on the ticketing page. When buying, be mindful that concessions like alcohol will require photo ID if the buyer looks under 25 (UK Challenge 25) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
How early do doors usually open?
Doors typically open about one hour before the advertised showtime. The main act usually starts approximately 60–90 minutes after doors. Arranging to arrive early will help you clear security and take your seat in time. Latecomers may have to wait for a break in the performance to enter (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Does the arena provide coat check or lockers?
No. The arena does not offer a coatroom or luggage storage inside. You should plan to keep coats and belongings with you at your seat or use nearby off-site services. Security allows only personal items small enough to carry. Anyone bringing a large bag will be directed to external bag-drop services (e.g. Stasher) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), as no on-site storage is available.
