About The Lock No. 4, Twickenham Stadium
The Lock No. 4 is a premier event and hospitality lounge built into the East Stand of Twickenham Stadium (now officially Allianz Stadium). Opened in 2018 as part of a major East Stand refurbishment (www.willmottdixon.co.uk ), it offers a sleek, modern interior with lofty ceilings, natural light and rugby-themed décor. The venue seats up to 580 guests (banquet style) or 860 standing (www.tagvenue.com ), making it ideal for mid-sized dinners, conferences, awards and parties. Its walls are lined with images of England’s legendary rugby locks (players wearing jerseys 4 and 5) (kp-prod-uksouth-cd-app.azurewebsites.net ), paying homage to the stadium’s heritage. From The Lock’s tiered glazed windows you can see both the hallowed turf below and a sweeping view toward central London. A large bar and lounge area give ample space for pre-event drinks (www.headbox.com ). As a private-space venue within Twickenham, The Lock stands out as one of England Rugby’s most refined hospitality suites – a blend of modern design and sporting history that elevates rate-standard stadium venues into something special.
Events and Programming
The Lock No. 4 primarily hosts high-end hospitality during England rugby internationals and other major Twickenham events. On match days (Six Nations, autumn internationals, World Cup fixtures, Premiership finals, etc.) it serves as an exclusive lounge where ticket holders enjoy meals, drinks and entertainment alongside the game outside. Each season it opens for England’s home games and special tournaments, providing a five-star matchday experience. When not used on rugby days, The Lock is available for private hire: companies and groups book it for conferences, gala dinners, Christmas parties and awards ceremonies. The venue’s calendar is driven by the rugby schedule (typically September–May), with club and international fixtures dictating when hospitality packages are sold. Ticket prices for Lock hospitality depend on the event – premium Six Nations match packages often run around £1,000–£1,500 per person (gulliverstravel.co.uk ), including included match tickets, whereas off-season private hire is priced per event (often based on a minimum spend). Notable past uses include seasonal corporate gatherings and the eponymous “Christmas in The Lock” parties (festively themed in December). Because The Lock is an upscale hospitality suite rather than a general nightclub or concert hall, typical “artists” are surprise appearances by players (post-match Q&A with England stars is a regular feature (gulliverstravel.co.uk )). In short, The Lock’s programming revolves around rugby hospitality: fine dining with Michelin-level menus, premium bars, unique fan experiences and the chance to mingle with rugby personalities – all set against the backdrop of England’s home of rugby.
Tickets and Booking
The Lock No. 4 is not a public-access theatre but a hired facility. To visit, you usually book a hospitality package or hire the suite privately. For international rugby matches, hospitality tickets must be bought in advance through official channels. England Rugby launches hospitality and match ticket sales well before each season; for example, Six Nations packages for 2026 became available in 2025. These packages include a guaranteed seat in The Lock’s exclusive area plus match entry, meals and extras (gulliverstravel.co.uk ). Due to high demand, bookings often sell out quickly. If you’re planning for a popular event, check for announcements on the RFU or stadium’s official outlets and, if possible, join any early-registration lists. Group bookings (for corporate tables or parties) may require contacting the stadium’s events team directly. On event days, The Lock opens several hours before kickoff (roughly 3–4 hours prior (gulliverstravel.co.uk )) and stays open until after full-time. There is no public box office or door sale for The Lock – all access is via pre-arranged hospitality tickets or private hire contracts. In summary: secure your place early via official hospitality providers, as last-minute tickets are virtually never available.
Seating and Layout
The Lock No. 4 is an open-plan space on Level 3 of the East Stand. There are no fixed stadium seats as in the bowl; instead the room is arranged for events. Banquet tables can seat up to 580 guests, theaters-style setups fit about 250, and cabaret (round-table) layouts up to 160 (www.tagvenue.com ). A discrete booth or table overlooking the pitch is the ultimate spot (upgrade to a “boardroom” style table for the best sideline view). The venue’s large floor-to-ceiling windows face out toward the North End of the pitch, so any seated guest can still glimpse the game. The central bar is also popular for viewing; it has cocktail tables that look out over the field, as well as lounge seating. Unlike General Admission areas, The Lock offers covered, climate-controlled comfort without obstructed sightlines. Acoustically, The Lock is lively but not deafening – music and match audio are played at moderate level so conversation is still possible. Avoid standing right at the back near the entrance if you prefer quieter space. Overall, whether you sit at a private table or mingle by the bar, the sightlines translate into an intimate “ringside” feel: you can lean on the rail (or the bar) and see the action just meters above you. The wooden floors and white-panelled walls (designed by Willmott Dixon to integrate rugby motifs (www.willmottdixon.co.uk )) keep sightlines clear throughout. In short, the best viewing spots in The Lock are by the windows or raised booths, while central lounge areas and the bar are great for socialising without missing the pitch.
Getting There and Parking
The Lock No. 4 sits at Twickenham Stadium, 200 Whitton Road, Twickenham, London TW2 7BA (www.tagvenue.com ). The stadium is well-connected by public transit. The nearest station is Twickenham , about a 10-minute walk away (www.southwesternrailway.com ). Trains from London Waterloo (South Western Railway) and the District line (via Richmond) regularly serve this station. On event days additional trains run and Oyster/Contactless pay options are valid. London buses 281, 267, 490 and R68 all stop near the stadium, and the stadium runs special shuttle buses for some big events. For drivers, there are official on-site car parks (many bookable only in advance via the stadium’s parking portal) and a large managed lot on Rugby Road opposite the East Stand. That Rugby Road lot (run by Diamond Car Parks) has space for around 300 cars and additional buses (www.twickenhamrugbyparking.co.uk ), plus a small 15-vehicle VIP area (www.twickenhamrugbyparking.co.uk ) – reservations are highly recommended. Nearby premium parking (e.g. by local schools on match days) can be found via private operators brainstorming event parking. Rideshare drop-off points are usually directed to specific zones on Whitton Road or Rugby Road – signage appears on event-day traffic diversions. If you use a taxi or Uber, wait in the marked pickup line on Rugby Road after the event. Remember that nearby streets may be road-closed or busy on match days; allow extra time. Once parked or dropped off, follow the East Stand VIP entrance signs (on the south-east corner of the ground) to reach The Lock via its dedicated entrance. In summary, Twickenham is easiest by train or coach on game days, with parking proof-of-booking required for the stadium lots. (www.southwesternrailway.com ) (www.twickenhamrugbyparking.co.uk )
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, guests enter via a VIP door (the East Stand’s hospitality entry) and pass through a staff-assisted security check. A concierge greets you and directs you upstairs to The Lock, where coat checks (for larger events) and cloakrooms are available near the entrance. The atmosphere inside is chic yet relaxed: warm wood floors meet white walls decorated with black-and-white portraits of rugby legends (kp-prod-uksouth-cd-app.azurewebsites.net ). The room is flooded with light from large windows. Staff in smart uniforms will guide you to your table or mixologist at the bar. The Lock’s main feature is its spacious bar area (the “club” vibe), where guests enjoy pre-dinner cocktails and canapés (www.headbox.com ) before being seated. White-gloved waiters circulate with British-inspired finger food and later a multi-course meal crafted by Chef Tom Kerridge and his team (gulliverstravel.co.uk ). Throughout the day there are tea and coffee stations, plus an open bar serving Champagne, premium wines, beers and spirits on the house as part of hospitality (gulliverstravel.co.uk ). Restrooms (including accessible stalls) are just steps away. Wi-Fi is provided, and the sound system plays announcements or matched commentary in the background. For entertainment, large video screens may display highlights and scores. After the match, traditional "Twickenham tea" (scones, cakes and mugs of tea) is served (gulliverstravel.co.uk ) and often a live Q&A session with players occurs on a small stage at pitch-side (accessible from The Lock) (gulliverstravel.co.uk ). Staff will then escort guests to the stadium’s reserved seats for the game. Merchandise stands for team gear are available on the concourse outside, in case you want jerseys or scarves. In short, The Lock is a high-end lounge: expect top-notch service, multiple food courses, a full open bar, and plenty of space to move around (or dance once a DJ kicks in at party events). Coat-check is available but limited, so bring only a small day bag if needed. Overall, The Lock feels like the living room of a luxury sports club – it’s everything one hopes for in corporate hospitality.
Nearby Amenities
The Lock is a short drive or taxi ride from Twickenham town centre, which offers pubs, restaurants and shops. For pre-event dining, the famous Cabbage Patch pub (rich in rugby lore) and the modern Penny Black bar are about 5 minutes’ drive away. Twickenham High Street has cafes, pizza places and Indian/British restaurants (Tsaretta Spice, The Anglers at the riverbank, etc.) ideal for a pre-show meal. If you prefer riverside views, the nearby White Cross Inn on the Thames is a 10-minute drive. Hotels abound in the area: the on-site Radisson RED London Twickenham (formerly Marriott) offers direct stadium access. Additional local stay options include a Premier Inn and Travelodge near Twickenham station, plus boutique B&Bs in Twickenham village. For nightlife after events, note that most local pubs close around midnight; rideshare or trains run late on Saturdays. Plan accordingly: the District line to central London runs 24 hours Fridays–Saturdays, and National Rail trains run until late. If staying late, Richmond or Hounslow (accessible by bus or cab) have late pubs. In summary, plan to arrive 1–2 hours ahead of a match for dinner or drinks locally (the stadium itself has no full-service restaurant open to casual walk-ins). After the event, options narrow, so either book a nearby hotel or pre-arrange your return trip. Public transport and taxis are plentiful immediately outside the stadium on event days.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Lock No. 4 stands out for its combination of world-class hospitality and deep rugby heritage. Architecturally, it is part of Twickenham’s £30–34 million East Stand upgrade completed in 2018 (www.willmottdixon.co.uk ), which gave England Rugby one of the UK’s most extensive event spaces. Each insertion – from the rosewood floors to the built-in stage on the rooftop garden – was carefully designed to echo the stadium’s legacy (www.willmottdixon.co.uk ). Inside The Lock, walls are adorned with photos of England’s greatest locks (the forward position) throughout history (kp-prod-uksouth-cd-app.azurewebsites.net ), making every dinner a lesson in rugby lore. Culinary soul comes from Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, whose English-inspired menus change seasonally. Post-match routines like a proper “Twickenham tea” and an on-field players’ Q&A turn a simple meal into an experience money can’t buy (gulliverstravel.co.uk ). In essence, The Lock blends luxury dining with fan passion: it has hosted countless historic match days and celebrations. Locals also love its modern elegance (white panelled walls, stylish lighting) contrasted with cosy lounges. It’s not just another stadium box; players and guests routinely praise its relaxed yet refined atmosphere and top-tier service. Many consider The Lock cover-the-park views (both of pitch and skyline) and its attention to every detail – from dedicated concierges to in-seat service – to be the very definition of premium Twickenham hospitality (kp-prod-uksouth-cd-app.azurewebsites.net ). For visitors, it’s the place where the magic of English rugby’s birthplace meets five-star treatment, a combination unique to Twickenham.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Twickenham Stadium is fully accessible, and The Lock No. 4 has step-free entry via lifts. The venue provides wheelchair-friendly restrooms and wide aisles. Hearing loops are available on request. Contact staff ahead if you have special needs – they are trained to assist (help.englandrugby.com ).
Dress Code: There is no strict uniform policy, but smart-casual attire is advised. Business-rugby attire (e.g. a neat rugby jersey with trousers) is common. For autumn/winter games layer up; bring a smart jacket or Barbour-style coat for before/after the game (www.keithprowse.co.uk ). In summer you may wear lighter shirts and sunglasses (though the stadium interior is air-conditioned anyway). Avoid flip-flops or overly casual gear – think of it as attending a country club or upscale sports box.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring only essentials – small bags (under 30x20cm) are permitted, large backpacks are usually refused at security. You’ll need your ticket confirmation (print or mobile RFU mailout) and ID. Photography for personal use is fine, but professional cameras or heavy equipment are not allowed. Outside food/drinks are prohibited (the venue provides everything). No weapons, no drone toys, and no large flags or banners. As with any big event, arrive early (doors open ~3.5 hours pre-kickoff (gulliverstravel.co.uk )) to allow time for parking and security checks.
Age Restrictions: The Lock welcomes all ages on match days (children must have a ticket). However, it is a lounge environment rather than a kids’ playground, so keep an eye on children. Some hospitality events are 18+, so check before booking. Remember it’s a formal dining setting, not a casual pub corner.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is provided inside the suite. Mobile signal is generally strong (multiple carriers). Outlets are available for charging at tables.
Avoiding Mistakes: Do not try to enter via general stadium gates – use the dedicated VIP entrance on the East Stand. If you’re heading home right after the final whistle, allow time for the crowds; many guests linger for post-match tea/Q&A (gulliverstravel.co.uk ) rather than rushing out. Finally, know that The Lock is indoors – the weather won’t affect the interior, but it might when you walk to/from the stadium.
How do I book tickets or hospitality for The Lock No. 4?
Tickets for The Lock are sold as part of matchday hospitality packages. These are offered by England Rugby or accredited hospitality agents. You must book in advance (often months ahead) through official RFU hospitality channels. There are no walk-up or door sales – all entry requires a purchased package or private hire agreement.
What is the capacity of The Lock No. 4?
The Lock No. 4 can hold up to 860 people standing or about 580 seated for a banquet (www.tagvenue.com ). Cabaret-style seating is up to 160 and theatre-style up to 250. This makes it one of the larger hospitality suites in the stadium, suited to big dinners and events.
Is The Lock No. 4 open to the general public?
No – The Lock is not a public bar or nightclub. It’s an exclusive venue for private bookings and official matchday hospitality. You can only enter if you have an invitation or have bought a hospitality package that includes access. It’s best viewed as a private restaurant/lounge, not a pub.
Where is The Lock No. 4 located in Twickenham Stadium?
The Lock No. 4 is on Level 3 of the East Stand (officially called the Allianz Stadium East Stand). It overlooks the pitch from the North/South-East corner. Guests should enter via the East Stand hospitality entrance – a separate VIP gate from the main stadium.
Is The Lock No. 4 wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Lock and the East Stand are fully accessible. There are elevators to all hospitality levels and wheelchair spaces are available. Accessible parking and restrooms are provided. Staff are on hand to assist any guests with mobility needs.
What is the dress code for The Lock No. 4?
There’s no formal uniform rule at The Lock, but smart-casual is expected. Many guests wear neat business attire or smart jade-team clothing (www.keithprowse.co.uk ). For winter matches, a tailored coat or jacket is wise. Team jerseys can be okay if paired with smart trousers. Rough sportswear or beachwear would be out of place.
Where can I park, and how much does it cost?
Twickenham has official stadium parking which usually requires pre-booking. The main car park is opposite the East Stand on Rugby Road (about 300 spaces, plus a small VIP section) (www.twickenhamrugbyparking.co.uk ). Typical matchday rates are around £25–£30. There are also private lots run by local charities (pre-paid, around £20–£25). Without a pre-book, street parking is very limited. Many fans prefer train or coach to avoid parking hassles.
How do I get to The Lock No. 4 by public transport?
Take a South Western Railway train or the District Tube line to Twickenham Station , then walk ~10 minutes to the stadium (www.southwesternrailway.com ). London bus routes F11, 281 and R68 also stop near the stadium. On big match days, extra trains and shuttle buses run. Using a Travelcard or Oyster is usually the cheapest option, and trains run from Waterloo roughly every 10–15 minutes.
Are walk-up tickets or entry available without booking?
No – you cannot simply walk in to The Lock without prior booking. All access is controlled. Even on event days, entry is by pre-issued ticket or invite only. Unannounced guests or last-minute arrivals without a reserved package will be turned away.
Is outside food or drink allowed inside The Lock No. 4?
No. The Lock’s catering (champagne, wine, beers, spirits, coffee and a full menu) is provided in-house. Outside beverages or food are not permitted. You’ll enjoy a premium complimentary bar and multi-course meals, so there’s no need to bring any refreshments with you.
Can children accompany adults into The Lock No. 4?
Yes. If the hospitality package is purchased, children with tickets are welcome. The Lock is a family-friendly space during matchdays. However, note it may not have formal play areas or kids’ menus like a restaurant. Always check specific event terms; some corporate events might be 18+ but typical rugby hospitality is all-ages.
Is smoking allowed inside The Lock No. 4?
No. Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is banned inside the stadium entirely. Please step outside to designated outdoor areas. For matches, there are usually large outdoor concourses or plaza where a quick cigarette is permitted before getting back inside.
What food and drink can I expect? Is it included?
Hospitality packages at The Lock include a full premium menu by Tom Kerridge (often a 3- or 4-course British-inspired meal) (gulliverstravel.co.uk ) plus unlimited drinks from the top-shelf bar. Expect Champagne on arrival, fine wines, spirits, lagers and soft drinks. After the match you’ll enjoy a “Twickenham afternoon tea” with sandwiches and pastries (gulliverstravel.co.uk ). All this is included in the ticket price – you just pay the hospitality fee and VAT.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Yes, free stadium Wi-Fi is available throughout the hospitality areas, including The Lock. You can also use your mobile data with good 4G coverage in this part of the stadium.
When does The Lock No. 4 open and close on match days?
Typically The Lock opens about 3½ hours before kick-off and closes roughly 2 hours after full-time (gulliverstravel.co.uk ). For example, a 3pm rugby game would see doors open ~11:30am and hospitality areas remain open until early evening. Exact times are confirmed closer to each fixture.
Are there toilets and coat checks available inside?
Yes. Modern restrooms (including disabled-accessible ones) are located in and near The Lock. During large events a cloakroom or coat rack is provided at the entrance. It’s best not to bring large coats or luggage, but small bags are okay. Staff can store a limited number of coats or umbrellas for you.
