About The SSE Arena, Wembley
The SSE Arena, Wembley (now branded OVO Arena Wembley) is a landmark indoor arena in Wembley Park, north-west London. Originally built in 1934 as the Empire Pool for the British Empire Games, it was an engineering marvel of its day – featuring three hinged concrete arches spanning 240 feet to create a pillar-free interior (everything.explained.today ). This pioneering reinforced-concrete roof (still the widest house-span in 1934) and the distinctive corner water towers make the venue unusually dramatic (everything.explained.today ) (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). In 1976 the original pool structure was Grade II listed for its architectural innovation (everything.explained.today ). The building was reopened in April 2006 after a £26m refurbishment, now seating up to 12,500 people (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ) – making it London’s second-largest indoor arena (after The O2 ) (everything.explained.today ) (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ). From 2014 until early 2022 it was known as The SSE Arena, Wembley during a sponsorship deal, and it is now officially named OVO Arena Wembley (everything.explained.today ). The arena is an integral part of the regenerated Wembley Park entertainment district, earning a reputation as one of the UK’s most iconic music venues (www.iqmagazine.com ) (www.iqmagazine.com ).
Events and Programming
The SSE Arena hosts a year-round mix of events. Concerts by major rock, pop, dance and world music artists are the headline: over the decades everyone from The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin to David Bowie, Queen, Dire Straits and Beyoncé has played here (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ) (www.iqmagazine.com ). Contemporary 2020s shows have included British and international stars – for example, All Time Low (March 2023), UK grime artists like Headie One, global pop acts and even e-sports and wrestling nights (such as celebrity boxing bouts featuring KSI) (everything.explained.today ). The venue also stages comedy tours (stand-up acts like Bill Bailey), classical crossover shows (e.g. London Philharmonic playing ‘ABBA’ music) and family shows (occasional Disney on Ice or live children’s theatre versions). Sporting events appear occasionally – for instance boxing cards or pro-wrestling (WWE often visits). The programme is very busy: in 2018 the arena had its busiest year on record, underscoring its broad appeal (www.iqmagazine.com ). On a typical month you might find two or three events (concerts, comedy or sports) per week, covering a wide range of styles and genres.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are sold through official channels (primarily AXS.com or the arena’s own box office). It’s recommended to buy early: major concerts often go on sale many months in advance and can sell out quickly. The arena’s official ticketing partner is AXS (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), whose site or app (and the OVO Arena Wembley app) will show on-sale dates and seating plans. Whenever possible, join artist or venue mailing lists for pre-sales. The on-site box office is only open on event days (typically from 1 hour before doors until about 15 minutes after the show starts (www.ovoarena.co.uk )), so most tickets are bought online. Price ranges vary by show: for a pop or rock concert expect upper-level seats or standing tickets from around £30-£40, with mid-range around £50-£70 and premium seats (floor front or VIP sections) up towards £100 or more. Exact pricing depends on the promoter. When buying, use only the official box office or recognized partners – avoid ticket resale sites to steer clear of over-inflated prices or scams. If an event sells out, any official resale (through AXS) will be clearly advertised.
Seating and Layout
The arena is arranged as a bowl. The stage (for concerts) is typically at one end, with two tiers of seating wrapping around. At floor level, Blocks A and B (front centre) are flat standing areas (or seated for special events) (www.seatingplan.net ). Behind these are C and D blocks which are stepped tiered seating, giving good sightlines over the floor (www.seatingplan.net ). Further back along the sides are N and S blocks (North and South side seating) split into lower (even-numbered bays) and upper (odd-numbered) tiers (www.seatingplan.net ). On one end is Block E (East Terrace), which is a high stepped section. In concert mode, front-floor general admission offers close-up standing space; seated tickets fill the tiers. In sporting or centre-stage setups (wrestling, boxing, FIFA esports etc.), seating can be arranged all around the stage/platform. The best views are generally mid-level seats facing the stage head-on (blocks like C1/C2) where acoustic and sight lines are optimal. Seats behind or beside the stage give poorer sight; big video screens are used to help those areas. The concrete-and-glass hall is quite live-sounding – most visitors find the sound clear, although front-floor positions can feel very loud (ear protection is often recommended for children (www.ovoarena.co.uk )). There are 42 wheelchair platforms in the auditorium and nearby companion seats (www.seatingplan.net ), and premium lounges (Sky Lounge, Amex Lounge, etc.) with their own balcony views. Comfortable peaked seating in the tiers and expansive balconies generally ensure everyone has a good line-of-sight or can follow the action on screen.
Getting There and Parking
The SSE Arena is at Arena Square, Engineers Way, Wembley Park, London HA9 0AA (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). It’s very well-served by public transport: Tube – Wembley Park station (Zone 4) is about a 10-minute walk and is on the Metropolitan and Jubilee lines (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Wembley Central station (Bakerloo Line and London Overground) is roughly 15 minutes’ walk southwest. Chiltern Railways trains to Wembley Stadium (each few minutes from London Marylebone) drop at Wembley Stadium station, a 15-20 minute walk around the corner. Buses – Several London bus routes stop nearby; use TfL’s journey planner for exact routes. Driving – The arena is just off the A406 North Circular Road (turn onto Engineers Way from the A4089 or A404). Wembley Park has official 24-hour event car parks (secure and manned on event days) that should be pre-booked online in advance (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Do not use random on-street lots on event nights, as only the official lots guarantee security. For drop-offs (black cabs or rideshares) there are dedicated zones on Lakeside Way (at the South West corner of the venue), but cars cannot wait – only a 15-minute drop-off is allowed (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Plan to arrive early, as traffic and station crowds build quickly around event start times. Late-night travel: the Jubilee line runs through the night on Fridays/Saturdays, and some night buses serve Wembley Park. Otherwise plan your route in advance, as tube services end around midnight on weeknights (slightly later on weekends).
Inside the Venue
Entry is easy but strict. All guests must pass through security scanners at the entrance; the arena uses a no-contact ‘Evolv’ AI system which checks bags and people without needing to empty pockets (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). You can bring a small bag (up to A4 size: 30×20×20cm) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), but no large backpacks or rucksacks are allowed. In general, arrive 30–60 minutes early to queue comfortably, especially for popular shows. Once inside, the foyer and concourses are bright and modern. Staff will scan your ticket (mobile or printed) and check any bag. Throughout the North and South concourses there are food and drink kiosks selling snacks, hot food and alcoholic beverages. The arena has free water fountains on concourses (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), so you can refill water bottles. Big screens display information on refreshments and facilities. Merchandise stalls (in the foyer or concourse) offer official show souvenirs – staff at these carts can assist wheelchair users or anyone who needs help at the counter (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Restrooms are plentiful: standard toilets on each concourse and one accessible toilet cluster on both the North and South ends (each within ~40m of the wheelchair seating areas) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If you need to find assistance or have questions during the show, venue staff and information points are always available. There is no cloakroom or coat check, so travel light and wear layers if needed (it can be warm inside due to the crowd and lighting). Mobile phone coverage is generally good; some events may offer Wi-Fi or social media apps for fan interaction, but don’t rely on it during the show. Photographs (for personal use, no flash) at your seat are OK, but professional cameras or video recording are strictly banned (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Overall, expect a lively concert arena atmosphere – staff are well-trained, and security is highly visible, so guests can focus on the show.
Nearby Amenities
Wembley Park has been transformed into a very convenient entertainment precinct. Right next to the Arena is the London Designer Outlet (LDO), a semi-open shopping center with about 70 shops and 15 restaurants (blog.westminster.ac.uk ). In the LDO you’ll find familiar chains – Frankie & Benny’s, Las Iguanas, Big Moe’s burgers, Pizza Express, Wagamama, Nando’s and more (wembleypark.com ). There are also cafés like Pret a Manger and Costa, bakeries, and even a cinema. If you want street food, BOXPARK Wembley (a short walk away) houses 20+ indie vendors and bars in a fun open-air container park (blog.westminster.ac.uk ). On Wembley High Road (the main road into town) there are dozens of casual pubs, takeaways and restaurants – you can get anything from fish’n’chips and curry to Thai or Italian just 5–10 minutes’ walk from the Arena. Hotels: several good ones are nearby – Holiday Inn London-Wembley, Premier Inn London Wembley Stadium, Hilton London Wembley and a Travelodge are all within 1–2 miles. If you plan to stay in Wembley, book early for big events. After a show, tube and buses are best for going home. On a weekday evening services taper off after midnight, so some people take late-night buses or licensed taxis from the station forecourt. Overall Wembley Park offers more than enough dining, drinking and accommodation options to make a full night out of your event.
What Makes This Venue Special
Aside from being London’s oldest large arena (built before the war), Wembley Arena is beloved for its heritage and character. Its original design – concrete shell arches and towering vertical fins – gives it a memorable look and excellent sightlines. Inside, many legendary “Wembley moments” have occurred: historic gigs like The Beatles’ early UK shows, ABBA’s sold-out 1979 concerts (documented on film), and decades of chart-topping tours (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ) (everything.explained.today ). In 2019 the Getty Images Gallery even opened a long exhibition (“Heroes”) chronicling 60 years of classic performances here (www.iqmagazine.com ). Venue managers note that playing an arena like Wembley is a milestone for any artist (www.iqmagazine.com ), so performers often bring full-production shows here. The Arena’s place in local culture is also unique: it pre-dates the new stadium and stands as a reminder of old Wembley days. Critics and fans alike say it has a special atmosphere – John Drury (the GM) notes that “the chemistry” between artists and audiences at Wembley Arena is hard to beat (www.iqmagazine.com ). In short, the SSE Arena is not just another concert hall; it combines historic architecture (it’s Grade-II listed), state-of-the-art sound and lighting (updated in 2006 renovation), and a rich legacy of shows. It’s a venue both audiences and performers love for its intimate feel (for a 10k-plus arena) and its storied place in London’s music history.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to arrive early – at least 30-45 minutes before the advertised doors time (or an hour if you have general admission). That gives you time to clear security and find your seat without missing any of the show. There are strict bag and item policies : no bags larger than A4 size (30×20×20 cm) and no backpacks/rucksacks (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Do not bring outside food (the only exception is sealed bottled water for medical reasons) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ); the venue has plenty of food/drink stands inside. If you or family members are waiting in line, bring a jacket or raincoat for outside – Wembley weather can be chilly, but you won’t need it indoors. If you attend a rock or dance concert with kids, consider earplugs for them – the venue itself advises protection against loud music (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Official tickets (paper or mobile) must be kept intact and ready for scanning – lost or altered stubs can be invalidated (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Dress is casual for nearly all events (jeans, tees, etc.). The floor area can get hot and crowded, so wear comfortable shoes. Remember there is no re-entry: once you go through security, you cannot exit and return without a new ticket. Also, it’s a cash-less venue: bars and kiosks accept cards, and you’ll find ATMs in the LDO area outside if needed. Photos for personal use (no video) are allowed at your seat but professional cameras and recording are strictly banned (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Finally, stay aware of train or night-bus schedules when planning late departures. By keeping these tips in mind – arriving early, packing lightly, and following staff instructions – you’ll avoid common pitfalls and have a smooth, enjoyable evening at SSE Arena Wembley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the seating capacity of The SSE Arena, Wembley?
The arena holds up to about 12,500 people in its maximum concert configuration. This includes all seated levels plus the floor area. After its 2006 renovation, the capacity was increased to 12,500, making it London’s second-largest indoor arena (after The O₂) (www.designingbuildings.co.uk ) (everything.explained.today ).
Where is The SSE Arena located and what is the address?
The SSE Arena, Wembley (now OVO Arena Wembley) is at Arena Square, Engineers Way, Wembley Park, London HA9 0AA . It’s right next to Wembley Stadium in north-west London. The nearest Tube station is Wembley Park (10 minutes’ walk, on the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines) and Wembley Central station (Bakerloo/Overground, 15 min walk) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
How do I buy tickets for an event at The SSE Arena?
Tickets can be bought in advance online through the arena’s official ticket partner (AXS.com) or from the box office on event days. It’s best to buy as soon as tickets go on sale, since popular shows sell out quickly. The official arena website (or the OVO Arena app) will link you to the authorized seller. Avoid unofficial resale sites to prevent overpricing or fraud. On show nights, the window-level box office opens about 1 hour before doors (and closes shortly after the show starts) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ), but most people simply order online ahead of time.
When do tickets usually go on sale?
On-sale dates vary by event but are often announced months in advance, especially for big-name tours. Promoters may offer presales for fan club members or credit-card holders before the general sale. Check the arena’s and artist’s websites or signing up for newsletters is the best way to get notified early. Rules of thumb: major concerts often go on sale 3–6 months before the show; smaller events (comedy shows, local gigs) sometimes only 1–2 months out.
What are the seating options and is there a standing area?
The arena has tiered seating on two sides (North and South) plus a flat floor area. For most concerts, the floor (Blocks A & B) is general admission standing, with seating in blocks C, D, N and S behind it (www.seatingplan.net ). Some events use floor seating instead of standing (largest concerts and sporting events). There are also premium lounge areas and accessible seating. If you want to stand by the stage, pick floor tickets; if you prefer a seat, choose a tiered section. Note: seats right behind or beside the stage often have a restricted view of stage, so many concert tickets will show some seats disabled there.
Where are the best seats in the arena?
Excellent views are found in middle-tier blocks near the centre (for example, Blocks C1/C2 facing stage). These give a good balance of proximity and overview. Upper-tier center seats (e.g. higher rows of N7/S7) also have an unobstructed broad view. If you’re standing, the center floor area (near the stage barrier) is ideal for energy and atmosphere. Avoid seats directly behind the stage or in the highest rows, as the stage will be at an acute angle or rely heavily on screens. Ultimately “best” depends on your preference for closeness versus a full view and good sound.
What is the bag policy at The SSE Arena?
All bags must be small. The rule is no bags larger than 30cm×40cm×20cm (about A4 paper size) and no backpacks or large handbags (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Clear bags up to the maximum size are allowed. If your bag exceeds these dimensions, you will be asked to return it to your vehicle or use a third-party luggage service. There are no coat checks or storage lockers, so plan to carry only essentials. Removing prohibited items at the door may delay entry, so pack light (passport/ID, phone, wallet, any medical items) to move through security quickly.
Can I bring food or drink into The SSE Arena?
No, outside food and drink are not permitted except for sealed bottled water for medical use (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). All food and beverages must be purchased from the in-house concessions. The arena provides free water fountains on the concourses, so you can refill a bottle once inside (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If you have special dietary needs due to medical conditions, you should contact box office in advance for assistance. In any case, be prepared to buy snacks and drinks at the stands – beer, soft drinks and typical concert food (burgers, pizza, chips, candy, etc.) are available inside.
Are professional cameras allowed at The SSE Arena?
No, professional cameras and recording equipment are strictly prohibited. Venue rules forbid any camera with detachable lenses, video cameras, tripods or similar devices (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Smartphones or small point-and-shoot cameras for personal still photos are usually okay (as long as no flash is used), but filming videos is not allowed. Security will ask you to put away any large camera gear before entering.
How do I get to The SSE Arena by public transport?
The easiest way is by London Underground. Take the Jubilee or Metropolitan line to Wembley Park station (Zone 4); from there it’s roughly a 10-minute walk along Olympic Way (the straight road toward the stadium). Alternatively, Bakerloo line or London Overground trains go to Wembley Central , about a 15-min walk away. Numerous buses also serve Wembley Park. If driving, the arena’s postcode is HA9 0AA and it’s off the A406. Official event parking (pre-booked online) is available nearby (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) – otherwise public parking on event nights is very limited. Coach or taxi drop-off can use Lakeside Way by the South-West entrance, but cars must move on quickly after drop-off (www.ovoarena.co.uk ).
Is The SSE Arena wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue works closely with accessibility guidelines. Wheelchair users have dedicated viewing platforms and seats throughout the lower tiers (www.seatingplan.net ). All public entrances are level or have ramps. There is an elevator that accesses the foyer level from the street and concourse-to-seat levels. Accessible toilets are located on each concourse, and dropped counters at food/drink stands and merchandise desks make purchasing convenient (www.ovoarena.co.uk ) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). If you need a personal assistant ticket, they offer a free “PA ticket” scheme (you must provide proof of need when booking) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Transport: Wembley Park tube has lifts and/or portable ramps, and staff can assist on request. In short, the arena is fully equipped for wheelchair users and guests with special needs.
Can children attend events at The SSE Arena?
Children are welcome, but local guidelines suggest kids under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Some shows may have specific age restrictions (check the event details). There are no general age limits at the arena itself – it depends on the promoter. Note that sound levels can be high, so consider ear protection for young children (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Strollers are not allowed inside performance areas, so plan seating arrangements ahead of time. Otherwise, it’s a family-friendly venue with multiple concession stands and restrooms to make a visit with kids manageable.
Is there parking available at The SSE Arena, and how much does it cost?
Yes, but only official Wembley Park lots should be used. These 24-hour car parks are dedicated to stadium/arena customers (bookings are done in advance through the official Wembley parking service) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Prices vary by event and location; typically a parking space costs £20–£30 for the event duration. These lots are secure (CCTV and marshals on hand) (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). Important: During events, local street parking is restricted or permit-only, so don’t plan on finding a random space. Pre-book car parking online early to guarantee a spot and save time on the night. Note that lots fill up quickly on concert days, so arrive well before showtime if driving.
What dining and drinking options are near the arena?
There are many choices. The London Designer Outlet next door has restaurants and cafés of all types – for example Nando’s, Pizza Express, Wagamama, Frankie & Benny’s, Las Iguanas, a burger grill (Big Moe’s) and more (wembleypark.com ). Boxpark Wembley (a street-food mall ♦ fresh containers) is a 5-minute walk south, offering about 20 independent food stalls and craft bars (blog.westminster.ac.uk ). Directly outside the venue you’ll also find chain coffee shops and fast-casual eateries (Subway, Pret A Manger, etc.). For sit-down pubs or indie restaurants, head along Wembley High Road or into nearby Sudbury Town – you’ll find traditional British pubs, Indian restaurants, fish’n’chips shops and other local spots within a 10-minute walk. In short, Wembley Park has plentiful pre- and post-show dining options to suit most tastes and budgets.
Is there a coatcheck or cloakroom at the arena?
No. The arena does not provide a coat check or cloakroom service. Guests are encouraged to wear weather-appropriate clothing (you will not need heavy coats once inside). Carry only small bags or pockets of personal items. In practice, this isn’t usually a problem, since shows at the arena are indoors year-round. Just make sure any items you bring comply with the bag policy (see above). If warming up, store jackets in your car; if meeting after the show, plan to leave coats with friends or use a paid luggage service outside (e.g. near Wembley Park station).
What time do the doors and the box office open?
Door opening times vary by event, but typically doors open about 45–60 minutes before the advertised show time. The foyer usually starts admitting ticketed guests (without access to the floor) about 1 hour before doors (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). The box office windows usually open around the same time (about 1 hour before doors) and close roughly 15 minutes after the main act has begun (www.ovoarena.co.uk ). It’s always wise to double-check your event tickets or the arena website for precise door-opening information for that night. Arriving early is recommended, especially if you need to collect physical tickets, pick up accessible seating passes, or simply want to secure your spot on the floor.
Are The SSE Arena and OVO Arena the same venue?
Yes. The SSE Arena, Wembley was renamed to OVO Arena Wembley in early 2022 when a new sponsorship deal took effect (everything.explained.today ). It’s still the same historic venue – only the name (and signage) has changed. Locals may use “Wembley Arena” or “OVO Arena,” but all refer to the building next to Wembley Stadium. The naming sponsor (energy company OVO) simply took over from SSE.
