About Engineers Way
Engineers Way is a street in Wembley Park that runs beside the iconic OVO Arena Wembley (formerly Wembley Arena) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). This major indoor arena (12,500 seats (everything.explained.today )) defines the area. Originally opened in 1934 as the Empire Pool and Sports Arena, the venue was designed by Sir Owen Williams with a pioneering concrete roof (three arches spanning 240 ft – the world’s longest concrete span at the time (historicengland.org.uk )). Today the arena is a Grade-II listed landmark (everything.explained.today ) and part of Wembley’s entertainment quarter. Its location on Engineers Way links to Olympic Way and Wembley Stadium, making it the heart of the Wembley Park redevelopment. Signature features include the suspended original swimming pool beneath the arena floor and the “Square of Fame” outside (featuring tiles signed by top acts) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Engineers Way and the arena have hosted countless historic moments: 1934 Empire Games events, boxing and swimming in the 1948 Olympics, and today legendary concerts and community gatherings. The venue’s blend of historic architecture and modern concert facilities makes it both practical and culturally significant to the local scene.
Events and Programming
OVO Arena Wembley on Engineers Way is one of London’s busiest mid-sized venues, with over 100 events a year. The programme ranges widely. It hosts international music acts (rock, pop, indie, dance and comedy). In recent years artists from Ariana Grande and Calvin Harris to P1Harmony (K-pop) and local UK chart acts have filled its schedule. Major rock bands of the past (Pink Floyd, Queen, Led Zeppelin, Oasis, etc.) have played here (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (everything.explained.today ), and today the venue still sees big tours (for example recent 2023-2025 shows by Black Stone Cherry, Boris Brejcha, Aya Nakamura and Billy Idol). Pop and R&B stars (ABBA, Spice Girls, Janet Jackson, Take That) have historic ties to the arena (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The arena also hosts comedy (Ricky Gervais, Jimmy Carr), family shows (children’s stage shows like “PAW Patrol Live”), sports entertainment (WWE wrestling tours, boxing nights), and special events (the National Lottery’s New Year’s Eve concerts, charity benefit shows, etc.). Notably, the venue was chosen for the “Together for Palestine” benefit concert in September 2025, organized by Brian Eno, raising funds and awareness for Gaza (www.musicradar.com ).
Recurring events include annual rock/metal tours, K-pop showcases, and seasonal shows (for example dance and theatrical productions at holidays). The arena has also hosted awards ceremonies and televised events (such as the 2017 MTV Europe Music Awards and film premieres). Ticket prices vary by event tier and seating, typically starting from around £30–£40 for basic seats or standing floor and rising to £100–£200+ for premium or VIP packages. Concert-goers report that on popular shows (e.g. chart-topping bands or comedians) tickets often sell out within weeks or months, so it’s wise to check official presales and sign up for alerts. Special guests or limited-capacity events (fan club shows, meet-and-greets) can be higher-priced. Disabled-access tickets and assisted viewing seats are available through a dedicated booking line (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events on Engineers Way are generally sold through the venue’s official partner and box office. The OVO Arena website directs all sales through AXS.com (its exclusive ticketing partner) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Premium and VIP packages (including lounge access) are available via SeatUnique. Signing up for the venue’s mailing list or artist fan clubs can give early access to presale tickets ahead of the general public. If any remain, a box office on site opens on event days; it usually starts selling as early as one hour before doors (closing around 15 minutes after the main act starts) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). This is a good last-minute option if an event isn’t fully sold out.
For sold-out shows, the official AXS resale marketplace is endorsed to securely trade tickets. Beware of other resale sources (tickets from marketplaces or individuals might not be valid if not authorised (www.ovoarena.co.uk )). All tickets now use AXS’s mobile ID system – digital barcodes on your phone – so it helps to download the OVO/Arena app in advance. On entry, staff will scan mobile tickets (you can share them with friends via the app if attending together). If you do purchase physical tickets elsewhere, you’ll need to register and log them into the OVO app in advance to enter (as per the venue’s instructions).
Pricing tiers depend on event and seat location: floor standing (GA) tickets tend to be cheaper, whereas front-tier seats or VIP lounge access cost more. Very popular concerts often have seat categories priced from roughly £50–£100 up to £200+ for the best views. Family shows and theatre productions may have different pricing structures (often allowing children’s seats at a discount for family sections). It’s a good idea to purchase in advance when possible; for big events, tickets often go on sale months ahead, while smaller or local events may appear closer to date. Always use official channels (AXS or the box office) to avoid scams and check the event’s page for specifics on accessible seating or group bookings.
Seating and Layout
The arena on Engineers Way features a classic indoor-arena layout. A large, flat floor area in front of the stage can be configured for standing (General Admission) or sometimes with removable seats, depending on the event. The seating bowl wraps around three sides (left, right, and back) with roughly three tiers of raked seating. These seats are tiered steeply, so even back rows have unobstructed sightlines. In most concerts, the central floor spot will be standing-only for fans, while seating sections (generally labelled by letters and numbers) ascend to the upper decks. For seated events (wrestling, boxing) the floor might be fitted with rows of chairs.
Best seats depend on your preference. For an immersive live-show feel, standing near the stage (if allowed) or front few rows of the pit gets you closest to the performers. In seating, the lower-level stands (especially those labelled N or S in the middle) offer a good mix of view and atmosphere, with minimal neck-tilt. Upper tiers provide a broad perspective of the stage lighting and crowd but feel more distant. Acoustically, the venue is generally well-tuned for concerts, though heavy bass can feel loud on the floor; vantage points higher up tend to hear slightly more reverb. Some fans recommend mid-to-high side seating for a clear sound mix, since the main speakers point partly toward the side stands. When planning seats, note that “Restricted View” tickets occasionally exist (due to lighting rigs or stage design) – always check the event’s seating map.
Special areas: The arena has VIP & lounge sections (like the Amex Lounge or Sky Lounge) which offer food/drink service and private viewing. These usually come with premium ticket packages. There are also a few rows designated for wheelchair and carer spaces in each tier (triples seats with extra legroom). Official accessible seating can be booked in advance through the accessible booking line. In general, any seat in the main bowl has a clear view, but avoid seats right under large video screens for the best experience (side stands are safer if screens are used). If possible, arrive early to choose the best spot on the floor (it’s first-come first-served for GA standing).
Getting There and Parking
Engineers Way is well-served by public transport. The nearest tube is Wembley Park Station (Zone 4), on both the Jubilee and Metropolitan Lines (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk along Olympic Way to the arena entrance. Wembley Park runs direct from central London stops (Baker Street, Bond Street, etc.) every few minutes. On event evenings, extra staff often guide concertgoers from the station to the arena via Olympic Way. In some cases, Wembley Park stations stay open after the show; if it’s a Friday or Saturday, the Jubilee Line Night Tube runs late into the night. Wembley Stadium Station (Chiltern Railways line from Marylebone) is also nearby – it’s roughly a 5–10 minute walk to Engineers Way (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). For local service, the Bakerloo Line at Wembley Central Station is about a 15-minute stroll. Several London bus routes also run close by (for example, routes 83, 92, 182, 224, 297, 444, 483 and others serve the Wembley Park area), but services may be diverted during big events. It’s wise to check Transport for London (TfL) for live updates on buses and any planned closures (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Driving: The arena is just off the North Circular (A406), so it’s easily reached from north/south London or the M1/M25 via the North Circular. (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The postcode for satnav is HA9 0AA (Wembley Park). Parking in the immediate area is limited to official lots managed for events. Wembley Park operates secure, 24-hour car parks (coloured Green, Red, Yellow, etc.) that can be pre-booked online; these are monitored by CCTV and staffed on event days (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Pre-booking a spot is strongly recommended (night-of rates are higher). Expect prices in the range of £20–£30 for a single event parking pass, depending on the operator and event. Note that on event days many local streets have restrictions or require residents’ permits (Brent Council enforces event-day parking zones), so avoid free parking on side streets.
Drop-off and rideshare: For easy drop-off, the closest approach is on Lakeside Way (a short service road beside the arena). There is a dedicated disabled drop-off point on Lakeside Way by the South West and VIP entrances (www.ovoarena.co.uk ); cars can pull in for up to 15 minutes. If that’s closed or full, drop-off is possible on the main road (Engineers Way/Arena Square loop) but expect usual event congestion. Rideshares (Uber, Bolt, traditional taxis) can also use the Lakeside drop-off/collection area when allowed. In any case, allow extra time for traffic jams around Engineers Way on show nights – it can be very busy when multiple events (like a stadium football match) coincide. Separtely, cycling is popular: a Santander cycle hire dock is near Wembley Park Station, and a few secure cycle stands are near the arena (but these often fill up).
Directions from landmarks : From Wembley Stadium, walk northeast along Olympic Way (6–8 minutes). From the London Designer Outlet (just south of the stadium), walk north through the Stadium forecourt and Olympic Way to Engineers Way. From Wembley Park tube, follow relish signage toward Olympic Way and head south (toward the stadium) – you’ll see the arena on your left as you approach the stadium football pitch. Overall, the arena is very easy to find as it’s next to the giant arch of Wembley Stadium.
Inside the Venue
On entering from Engineers Way, you arrive in the main foyer (Arena Square). Security staff check tickets and bags at the doors. Note the bag policy: **no bags larger than A3** (30×40×20 cm) are allowed (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Large rucksacks, suitcases or camping chairs are prohibited (there are no storage lockers inside). If you must leave oversized luggage, nearby luggage-storage services (e.g. Stasher) can be used. After entry, an internal foyer leads down to the concourse level around the arena bowl. The concourse is spacious, brightly lit, and lined with amenities.
The concourse has multiple bars and food stalls (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Typical concessions offer “arena favourites”: gourmet burgers, hot dogs and sausages, pizza slices, chicken-and-dips, nachos, fries, and sandwiches. Vegan and vegetarian options (falafel wraps, vegan burgers, etc.) are usually available at at least one kiosk (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). For drinks, you’ll find craft lagers, bottled beers and ciders, wines/Prosecco, plus a selection of spirits and cocktails on tap or bottled (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Soft drinks (sodas, water) and hot tea/coffee are also sold. The venue is now entirely cashless (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) – bars and stalls accept cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, contactless ApplePay etc. as listed) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). You can even pre-order drinks or food via the official OVO Arena app to skip queues. Concession menus frequently offer combo “bundle” deals (e.g. burger+drink) at a fixed price. Prices in the concourse are comparable to other London arenas or festivals (expect ~£5-£7 for a basic drink, £10-£15 for meal items, and premium cocktails higher).
Merchandise: Official show merchandise (t-shirts, programmes, posters) is sold at pop-up stands inside the concourse. The arena runs three merch areas around the bowl (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). These are the only places to get authentic merch – hawkers outside Wembley Park Boulevard sometimes sell pirated T-shirts (avoid them). You can pay with card or (in a few stalls) small change, but card is easier. The venue app also allows ordering merch in advance for pickup. After the show, remember that any merchandise stands close to the auditorium will stay open briefly as fans exit, so you can often grab items then.
Facilities: Toilets are located on every concourse level (north and south ends); most are gender-neutral “family/accessible” too. There are baby-changing facilities in some stalls. Free drinking-water fountains are usually available on each level (please bring a reusable bottle if needed). For seating events, coat checks are generally not provided, so plan to carry or trust belongings. First aid and security stations are staffed; the arena works with the local police to ensure a safe environment. There is a hearing loop and infra-red assist system in the auditorium (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), and staff can supply Sennheiser or similar headsets on request for those with hearing impairments. A platform lift accesses the floor and all seated levels, and all main concourse entrances are step-free (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Atmosphere: The general vibe is lively and family-friendly. Staff in high-vis jackets are stationed throughout to guide guests. The interior surfaces are mostly dark blue and black, with big LED screens for announcements. Artwork includes photos of past performers along some walls, and the foyer has benches and a small merchandise display. If you arrive early you might see sound checks or DJ sets for events that require it. Mobile signal is good (multiple operators) and the stadium Wi-Fi sometimes extends a bit. Above all, expect a buzz: families out for kid shows, drinks with friends at concerts, or sporting crowds cheering. Sipping a pre-show pint at the concourse bar, or sampling a burger, is part of the experience – but plan time for it so you’re back at your seat before the lights dim.
Nearby Amenities
Engineers Way is at the centre of Wembley Park, so there are plenty of options nearby. On the venue doorstep is Arena Square itself, which often has a few kiosks or a licensed bar for quick drinks. Just a two-minute walk from the arena is the **London Designer Outlet (LDO)**, a large shopping and dining complex. The LDO houses many familiar eateries (Nando’s, PizzaExpress, Five Guys, The Real Greek, etc.) plus a cinema and high-street shops (wembleypark.com ). For a quick family meal or a budget option, these chains (Nando’s for peri-peri chicken, PizzaExpress for pasta, Big Moe’s for burgers) are handy (wembleypark.com ). There are also a few local pubs and sports bars in the vicinity – for example, “The Underdog” and “The Crossing” — where fans often gather before shows. Turn left out of the main entrance onto Wembley Park Boulevard and you’ll find several pubs, fast-casual places and late-night takeaways.
Hotels near Engineers Way include the **Novotel London Wembley** and **Holiday Inn London – Wembley**, both within a 5–7 minute walk. (These are popular on event nights.) A Travelodge and Ibis Styles are a bit further out but still reachable by foot or tube. If you plan to stay overnight, book early as weekends can fill up quickly. Wembley Park itself has a modern, pedestrianised feel with plenty of chains and convenience stores, so everything from coffee shops to boutique fitness studios are in the area if needed.
Arrival timing: To avoid rushing, consider getting into the Wembley Park area at least 45–60 minutes before doors. This lets you find your seats and visit nearby restrooms or grab a snack at the LDO. Wembley Park tube station usually handles large crowds efficiently, but it’s wise to use the station separate from the stadium visitors (staying on the Jubilee/Metropolitan lines, not mixing with Arena/Green or Stadium lines sections). After the event, exits are clearly signposted back to London Underground, over a new footbridge under the M1. If you missed dinner beforehand, there’s usually plenty of post-show food still available (some LDO fast-food spots and food trucks stay open late, and West London 24h kebab shops aren’t far). In summary, Engineers Way’s locale means you’re never far from transport and facilities – Wembley Park is one of London’s best-connected entertainment districts.
What Makes This Venue Special
Wembley Arena on Engineers Way is special for its blend of history, architecture and legendary performances. It’s one of London’s oldest indoor arenas, surviving from the 1930s and still serving crowds 90 years later. Its original designer, Owen Williams, achieved a world-record concrete roof span in 1934 (historicengland.org.uk ), and the result is a lofty, clear-sighted interior that few modern venues match. The arena’s marquee has hosted cultural milestones: the Empire Pool stage saw the Beatles receive an award on film in 1963 and gave them their final scheduled concert in May 1966 (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). In the 1970s and ’80s it became a premier rock venue – Pink Floyd played nine nights here in the ’70s, and in 1985 Dire Straits played 13 sold-out shows on the “Brothers in Arms” tour (everything.explained.today ) (everything.explained.today ). Pop icons like Madonna, ABBA and Kylie Minogue have filmed live albums here (everything.explained.today ). Alice Cooper appears in the “Square of Fame” because he hit five decades of shows at the arena.
Culturally, Engineers Way is a plateau of community. Beyond global tours, it hosts local events like the annual Lottery Big Bash (a huge charity concert broadcast each New Year’s Eve) and even religious or record-breaking gatherings (e.g. the UK’s largest-ever Jewish event, the Siyum HaShas, in 2020 (everything.explained.today )). After its 2005–06 refurbishment (a £35M project (everything.explained.today )) the arena reopened with Art Deco touches preserved: you’ll still see the original concrete columns and triangular windows along the sides – rare 1930s features in modern Britain.
For Wembley and Brent locals, Engineers Way/Arena is more than just a building. It sits next to the borough’s civic centre (a modern council office), and acts as a regular cultural hub. Many Londoners have memories of early concerts here – Poll Winners shows in the ’60s with The Who and The Animals, or Spice Girls’ massive ’90s gigs. Even the 2018 premiere of the film *Bohemian Rhapsody* took place at this very arena, a nod to its musical heritage. In short, both artists and audiences love it for its atmosphere: an old-school “big room” feel with excellent acoustics and sightlines, combined with modern production tech. It’s intimate enough that even floor seats feel close to the action, and yet large enough to draw mega-artists (it’s the UK’s second-largest indoor arena after the O₂ (everything.explained.today )). Engineers Way’s Celtic cross of venues – OVO Arena, Wembley Stadium, London Designer Outlet – makes it stand out as a vibrant entertainment crossroads, unlike any other in the city.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility : The venue is fully accessible to those with mobility needs. All main entrances are step-free, and a lift goes from foyer to concourse (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). On each concourse there are wheelchair spaces with adjacent seats – you should book these in advance via the accessible booking line. Accessible (ambulator) toilets are provided on each level near the lifts, and there is an adult-changing unit on the main foyer (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). A hearing loop is installed in the bowl zones (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Blue badge parking is available in official car parks (pre-booked) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), and a disabled drop-off point is on Lakeside Way near the West/VIP entrance (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The venue partners with charities like Attitude is Everything, so staff are trained to assist neurodiverse and differently-abled visitors as well.
What to Bring/Not Bring : Only small items are needed inside. The bag limit is A4/A3 size (≈30×40×20 cm) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Large suitcases, rucksacks and picnic baskets are banned (if oversized you must check them beforehand or consider a luggage service). Cameras with detachable lenses (35 mm+ telephoto) are not allowed on the floor (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) – small point-and-shoot or phone cameras are fine. You may bring snacks (e.g. sandwiches or candy) for personal consumption, but outside alcohol and drinks are prohibited (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The arena provides free water dispensers; if you have a medical need (beyond a doctor’s note) to bring in special food or formula, you can email Customer Services in advance. Note the bag recommendation: if you really do have to bring a large bag, consider leaving it at a nearby safe deposit or using the Stasher service mentioned on the venue’s website (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Age Restrictions : Unless an event states otherwise, all patrons (even kids/toddlers) must have a ticket to enter. Children aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times. For safety, children 13 and under are not allowed on the standing floor areas (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). So if you’re bringing younger teens, book them seats. Infant seats are not provided, so plan to hold babies on laps. For more on disabled attendees, one free personal assistant ticket is available for customers with disabilities (proof needed at booking) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Arrival : Check your ticket for the door time (often 6–7pm for evening shows). Doors, act start, and end times vary by promoter (all are listed on the event page). Generally, it’s wise to arrive as soon as doors open, as recommended by the venue (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) – this avoids last-minute delays and lets you settle in before the support act. Expect lines at security (especially on sold-out nights). Staff advise getting through entry well before the main act or first tip-off to avoid missing a moment (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
On the Day : There is no formal dress code – wear whatever you like, but most people dress casually. Comfortable shoes are a good idea if you’ll be on your feet in the pit. The air-conditioning is usually on at cool concert levels, but the floor can heat up quickly once the crowd is jumping – a light jacket or layers you can remove is helpful. Strollers must be folded and carried at entry (no storage inside). If you plan to appear on the “Square of Fame” plaza before/after the show, note it’s an open public area on Engineers Way (legally cameras/phones are fine outside).
Other Tips : The arena is well connected, but it’s smart to pre-check live transport info (TfL updates on tube/bus closures due to roadworks and London events (www.ovoarena.co.uk )). If the event is ending close to tube closing time (e.g. a Twilight Zone screening), be prepared for night buses (the N18 and N83 serve Wembley Park) or taxis. Keep a bit of change for public transport or rideshares, since the venue is cashless. Personal mobile reception can be spotty inside due to the roof – a built-in paper map or saved directions can’t hurt. Most importantly: have fun! Every concert or sports night here has staff on hand to assist, so don’t hesitate to ask a steward if you’re unsure about seating, facilities, or anything else. By being informed, you’ll make the most of this historic and atmospheric venue on Engineers Way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Engineers Way in Wembley?
Engineers Way is the street address that leads into the Wembley Park event complex. The famous indoor arena on Engineers Way is OVO Arena Wembley (formerly Wembley Arena) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). It’s not a club or park itself, but the road name used by the arena and nearby facilities. If someone says “Engineers Way, Wembley,” they usually mean OVO Arena and its surroundings near Wembley Stadium.
Where is Engineers Way and how do I get there?
Engineers Way is located in Wembley Park, Greater London, under postcode HA9 0AA (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The simplest way by public transport is via Wembley Park tube station (Jubilee/Metropolitan lines), about a 10-minute walk away along Olympic Way (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Wembley Stadium Station (Chiltern Rail from Marylebone) is a similar distance (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). By car, follow the A406 North Circular (exit at Wembley Park); Wembley Park’s official event car parks (Green/Red/Blue) are a short walk away (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Taxis and ride-shares can drop you near the Lakeside Way entrance if needed. (www.ovoarena.co.uk )
What is the seating capacity of Engineers Way (OVO Arena Wembley)?
OVO Arena Wembley on Engineers Way holds about 12,500 people in a full-pay ticket setup (everything.explained.today ). This counts seated capacity; if a show uses all-floor standing, total capacity can be similar. It is the second-largest indoor arena in the UK after the O2. Note that specific configurations (like adding seats on the floor) might slightly change the number.
How do I buy tickets and when do they go on sale?
Tickets must be purchased in advance through the official partners. OVO Arena’s primary ticket outlet is AXS.com (you'll be redirected there from the arena’s site) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Premium VIP tickets may be sold via SeatUnique. Tickets usually go on general sale a few months before the event. Big-name tours often have pre-sales (for fan clubs or mailing lists) a week or two earlier. If an event doesn’t sell out, you can also buy day-of tickets at the OVO box office, which opens about 1 hour before doors (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Always get tickets from the official outlets to avoid invalid reprints.
Are there rush tickets or door sales available?
Yes — if an event isn’t completely sold out, the box office at OVO Arena sells leftover tickets on show day. The box office opens on event days (usually about 1 hour before the front doors) and closes shortly after the main act begins (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Keep in mind this is first-come-first-served and subject to availability, so arrive early if you plan to buy at the door. If the show is sold out, unfortunately no more will be printed. There are no same-day online ticket releases, so waiting for the door sale is the only strategy then.
What are typical ticket prices?
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the show and seating category. For popular pop/rock concerts, expect mid-range seats to start around £40–£60 and rise to £100–£150 for prime seats or VIP packages. Comedy shows and smaller events often start lower (£30-ish). Family shows (kids’ entertainment or musicals) may have tiered family pricing. Major live acts (Madonna, celebrated anniversaries) or VIP packages can exceed £200. Statistically, recent events have bottom-tier tickets in the £50–£80 range, with mids around £80–£120 (concerts50.com ). Always check the event’s page for the exact price brackets.
Is there a place to park near Engineers Way?
Yes, there are official car parks in Wembley Park, but they must usually be pre-booked. The Wembley Park estate operates on-site 24-hour parking (often color-coded as Red, Green, etc.) that is fenced and ticketed. These are a few minutes’ walk from the arena (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). It’s strongly recommended to purchase a space in advance via the Wembley Park parking portal to guarantee entry on event day (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). On event days the standard price is about £20–£30 (online pre-booking often cheaper than gate). Note local residential street parking is restricted during events (blue badge holders exempt), so do not rely on free street parking. Unofficial lots may exist but are farther away and not security-checked, so use them at your own risk.
What is the bag policy?
Bag rules are strict at OVO Arena. No bag larger than roughly A3 size (30×40×20 cm) is allowed (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Large backpacks, luggage, briefcases or picnic baskets are banned. Bring only what you truly need. Medical bags (with proof) are permitted after check. All bags are subject to search at the door. If you do need to carry a large bag, you will have to arrange outside storage, as there are no cloakroom facilities at the venue. The site suggests services like Stasher or using nearby lockers if needed (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Aside from size, items blocked are: any weapons, sharp objects, fireworks, and professional camera rigs (detachable lenses are not allowed) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Are cameras allowed? Can I take pictures or video?
You are welcome to bring a small camera or smartphone for personal photography (no flash). However, professional cameras with long lenses (35 mm-plus, DSLRs) are not permitted inside (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Video recording on phones is usually allowed except if specifically barred by the artist/promoter (the event info page will note if “no filming” is in effect). On general admission standing floors, it’s common for people to film short clips, but full video filming is frowned upon. The OVO staff may ask you to switch off or put away any high-end camera; best approach is leave bulky cameras at home and stick to phones. Post-show, promoters often sell official video downloads or DVDs for full performance footage.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
You may bring small snacks or confections (for example, candy or sandwiches) if you need them. However, all beverages must be purchased inside. Outside drinks of any kind (including sodas or alcohol) are not allowed past the security check (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). This policy is for safety and to support on-site concession stands. If you have prescription medication in liquid form or baby milk, you should notify staff at entry – they will check it and allow it. Otherwise, plan to buy any drinks (soft/hot or alcoholic) inside the concourse. Water fountains are provided free on the concourse if you need water.
Does Engineers Way have accessible facilities?
Yes – the arena on Engineers Way is very accessibility-friendly. All concourse levels and seats are step-free. There are reserved wheelchair spaces and companion seats throughout the seating bowl (these must be booked in advance). Accessible toilets with Radar-key entry are on each concourse within 40 m of any seat (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). An adult changing room is available off the main foyer. The ticket office has a lowered counter for wheelchair users (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Wembley Park Station has step-free access and lifts serving the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The venue encourages disabled guests to use the dedicated booking phone line for added assistance (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Drop-off for mobility-impaired visitors is on Lakeside Way near the South West entrance (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Hearing-impaired patrons can use the infra-red hearing loop in the auditorium (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Where is the food and drink inside the venue?
Food and drink kiosks are scattered around the concourse level behind the stands. Look for brightly lit stalls – they sell typical arena fare like gourmet burgers, hot dogs, pizza slices, fries, nachos and vegetarian snacks (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Drink bars (self-service counters) are interspersed with the food areas, offering beer, cider, soft drinks, wine and mixed drinks. All venues sellers are cashless (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), so use card or mobile pay. There are also a couple of sit-down bars in the side lounges (premium areas) where you can order cocktails or bottled beer. You can purchase at any time during the event, but snacks are often busy during intermissions or between acts, so in big shows it can help to grab something early or late in the show. You cannot bring outside food in, so either eat before you arrive or buy on-site. (Tip: The London Designer Outlet one block away also has restaurants if you want a full meal beforehand (wembleypark.com ).)
Are children allowed, and what about age restrictions?
Children of all ages can attend, but there are rules. Anyone aged 2 and above must have a paid ticket (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Young teens (under 14) must be accompanied by an adult. Importantly, kids aged 13 or below are not allowed on the standing floor at concerts (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (due to crowd safety). Parents should book seating tickets in such cases. Events that are *specifically for children* (like kids’ musicals) are exceptions, but accompany and ticketing policies will be clearly noted. In summary: anyone under 14 needs an adult, and those under 13 can only be in seated areas. If in doubt, check the event’s terms (children’s policies are listed on the ticket info).
Is there a cloakroom or locker at the venue?
No, OVO Arena Wembley doesn’t offer a public cloakroom or lockers for coats and bags. Since bag size is limited (nothing over 30×40×20 cm (www.ovoarena.co.uk )), large coats should be worn in or left behind. On mild days you won’t need a coat; on cold days you can drape it on your seat or carry it. For anything really bulky, arrange storage off-site. Quick-visit benches and the lobby can hold a few items, but there’s no formal check. The good news is the show isn’t outdoors, so you won’t need rain gear once inside.
