OVO Arena Wembley

, London

20 Upcoming Events 8 Past Events

Introduction

The OVO Arena Wembley stands as a colossus of the capital's live entertainment landscape, a venue synonymous with the biggest names in music and unmissable sporting spectacles. Nestled within the historic grounds of Wembley, it’s more than just an arena; it’s a crucible where memories are forged, anthems are sung at full volume, and collective energy electrifies the air. With its imposing presence and a history steeped in iconic moments, OVO Arena Wembley offers a truly grand stage for performances that resonate across generations. Its sheer scale and professional operation cater to an audience seeking a world-class live event experience, from the moment they approach its modern facade to the final encore that echoes through the vast space.

The Legacy: A Deep Dive into Venue History

Early Years and Architectural Origin

The story of the OVO Arena Wembley is inextricably linked to its iconic neighbour, Wembley Stadium. The arena itself was conceived and built as part of the ambitious redevelopment of the Wembley complex, aiming to create a multi-purpose entertainment hub. Construction began in the early 2000s, and it officially opened its doors in 2006, transforming the landscape of London's live music and events scene. Unlike many older venues with organic growth, the OVO Arena Wembley emerged as a purpose-built modern facility, designed with cutting-edge acoustics, flexible seating arrangements, and state-of-the-art production capabilities. Its architectural design prioritises functionality and a superior spectator experience, featuring a distinctive, sweeping roofline and a sleek, contemporary interior that can accommodate a vast audience. This deliberate design ensures that the focus remains squarely on the performance, while the surrounding infrastructure supports seamless logistics for both artists and attendees.

Defining Moments and Cultural Impact

Since its inception, OVO Arena Wembley has rapidly carved out its niche as a premier destination for major international tours and large-scale events. It has hosted everything from record-breaking music concerts and major sporting finals to prestigious awards ceremonies and family entertainment shows. The venue’s ability to attract global superstars is a testament to its world-class facilities and its strategic location. Its existence has significantly impacted the London music scene by providing a capacity that bridges the gap between mid-sized theatres and stadium-level events, allowing artists to play to massive audiences within an enclosed, intimate-feeling arena setting. This has cemented its reputation as a key player in the UK’s live entertainment circuit, drawing fans from across the country and beyond.

Iconic Performances and Legendary Nights

The OVO Arena Wembley has been the backdrop for countless unforgettable performances, solidifying its status as a landmark for live music. Its Unique Selling Proposition lies in its impeccable acoustic engineering and its capacity for delivering an overwhelming sense of scale and spectacle, making it the ideal venue for artists who command a massive presence and deliver visually stunning shows.

Here are just a few of the legendary nights that have graced its stage:

  • Queen + Adam Lambert (2012): Kicking off its legacy, Adam Lambert joined the surviving members of Queen for a triumphant and emotional return to the spiritual home of rock. The energy was palpable as they paid homage to Freddie Mercury.
  • Adele (2016): The British superstar sold out multiple nights, delivering intimate yet powerful performances that showcased her phenomenal vocal talent against the backdrop of the vast arena.
  • Beyoncé (2018): As part of her "On The Run II" tour with Jay-Z, Beyoncé delivered a show of unparalleled visual artistry and fierce performance, cementing her status as a global icon.
  • Bruno Mars (2017): Known for his electrifying stage presence and masterful showmanship, Bruno Mars’s performances at Wembley were a masterclass in funk, soul, and pop, leaving the audience dancing throughout.
  • Coldplay (2016): The band held a residency, transforming the arena into a vibrant, kaleidoscopic spectacle with their signature confetti, lasers, and inclusive atmosphere, demonstrating the venue's capability for massive, immersive experiences.
  • Ed Sheeran (2015 & 2018): Ed Sheeran has played the arena multiple times, consistently selling out and performing solo acoustic sets that, despite the massive capacity, felt remarkably personal, highlighting the venue’s ability to adapt its feel to the performer.

Planning Your Visit

Getting There: Transport and Parking

By Train

The nearest station is Wembley Park, served by the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines. It is approximately a 5-10 minute walk from the arena. For national rail services, Wembley Central station is also an option, served by London Overground and Southern trains, and is about a 15-20 minute walk away.

By Bus

Numerous bus routes serve the Wembley Park area, including: 18, 83, 92, 182, 206, 223, 224, 297, 483. Alight at the Wembley Park station stop.

By Car & Parking

The OVO Arena Wembley is located just off the A406 North Circular Road and is easily accessible from major motorways. However, parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging, and pre-booking is highly recommended.

  • Wembley Park Car Parks: There are several official car parks managed by Wembley Park, including the Civic Centre Car Park (HA9 0RF) and Yellow Car Park (HA9 0NP). These are well-signposted and within easy walking distance. It is advisable to check the Wembley Park website for current pricing and availability.
  • Residential Parking: Street parking is often restricted or residents-only in the immediate vicinity.

Accessibility Information

OVO Arena Wembley is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible experience for all visitors.

  • Wheelchair Access: The arena offers dedicated wheelchair-accessible seating areas with excellent sightlines. These seats are available to book through the venue’s official ticketing partners.
  • Accessible Toilets: Accessible toilets are located throughout the venue.
  • Assistance Dogs: Assistance dogs are permitted inside the venue.
  • Hearing Loops: Induction loops are available for hearing aid users.
  • Sensory Kits: For guests with sensory needs, sensory kits may be available upon request. Please contact the venue's accessibility team in advance for specific arrangements.
  • Accessible Parking: Designated accessible parking bays are available in the main car parks, subject to availability and often require pre-booking.

For any specific accessibility requirements, it is strongly recommended to contact the OVO Arena Wembley’s dedicated accessibility team well in advance of your visit.

Before You Go

  • Door Times: Door opening times vary depending on the event. Typically, doors open 60-90 minutes before the advertised start time. Always check your ticket or the specific event information on the OVO Arena Wembley website.
  • Age Restrictions: Age restrictions vary per event. Some shows may be all ages, while others might have a minimum age requirement (e.g., 14+, 16+, 18+). Please check the specific event details. Under 14s typically need to be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over.
  • Bag Policy: For security reasons, a strict bag policy is in place. Generally, only small bags (no larger than A4 size, approximately 30cm x 20cm x 15cm) are permitted. Large bags, rucksacks, and suitcases are not allowed. All bags will be searched.
  • Security: Expect thorough bag searches and security checks upon entry. Prohibited items include professional cameras, video recorders, drones, laser pens, and offensive weapons.
  • Photography Rules: Generally, professional photography and videography are prohibited. Mobile phones are usually allowed for personal use, but flash photography may be restricted during performances.

FAQ Section

What is the capacity of OVO Arena Wembley?

The OVO Arena Wembley has a maximum capacity of 12,500. This can vary depending on the configuration of the event, with seated and standing capacities differing.

How do I get to OVO Arena Wembley by public transport?

The most convenient way is by Tube to Wembley Park station (Jubilee and Metropolitan lines). From there, it's a short walk to the arena. Alternatively, various bus routes serve the Wembley Park area.

Is OVO Arena Wembley wheelchair accessible?

Yes, OVO Arena Wembley is wheelchair accessible and offers dedicated seating areas, accessible toilets, and other provisions. It is recommended to contact the venue directly to discuss specific needs and book accessible tickets.

What time do doors open at OVO Arena Wembley?

Door opening times typically vary per event but usually open 60-90 minutes before the advertised start time. It is best to check the specific event details on the OVO Arena Wembley website or your ticket.

Where can I park near OVO Arena Wembley?

On-site parking is available at the Wembley Park car parks, such as the Civic Centre and Yellow Car Park. Pre-booking is highly recommended as spaces are limited and can be expensive. Alternative parking options are further away, and it's advisable to research and book in advance.

📅 Event Calendar for OVO Arena Wembley

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Upcoming Events at OVO Arena Wembley