If you’re looking for a place to catch a big concert, a sport match or a live show in London, the O2 Arena is the spot. It sits in the Greenwich Peninsula, right by the river, and is easy to spot with its huge dome. Below we’ll walk you through the biggest events, ticket tricks, getting there and making the most of your visit.
The O2 Arena hosts everything from pop stars to boxing fights. Check the arena’s calendar weekly – you’ll often see big names like Ed Sheeran, Beyoncé or major UFC bouts. When a favorite artist is booked, tickets sell fast, so sign up for the arena’s email alerts or follow their social feeds. For a chance at cheaper seats, keep an eye on resale platforms a day or two after the official sale; many fans let go of extra tickets at lower prices.
Here’s a quick cheat‑sheet: 1) Use the official O2 website first – it’s the safest spot for genuine tickets. 2) If you need a specific seat, filter by section and row before you click ‘add to cart.’ 3) Create an account beforehand; the checkout can be a race and you don’t want to lose time re‑entering details. 4) Consider a package that includes a drink voucher – it can save you a bit of cash on the night.
For students or groups, look for discount codes that pop up during the checkout process. Some credit‑card companies also run promotions that shave off a few pounds. Just make sure the promo is valid for the event you’re buying.
The arena sits right next to the North Greenwich Underground station on the Jubilee line. That’s the fastest way if you’re coming from central London. If you prefer the river, the Thames Clippers river bus stops right at the O2, offering a scenic ride. For those driving, there’s a paid car park at the O2 with a few thousand spots – book a space online to guarantee a spot.
Public transport can get crowded before a big show, so aim to arrive 30‑45 minutes early. The station has extra staff on event nights to help with crowd flow, and there are clear signs for the venue’s multiple entrances.
Beyond the main stage, the O2 has a range of food stalls, bars and a large open‑air plaza. If you’re not a fan of the premium drinks at the bar, grab a slice of pizza or a burger from one of the many vendors – they’re cheaper and still tasty. The arena also offers a backstage tour on select days; it’s a great way to see the behind‑the‑scenes action, especially if you’re a fan of live production.
Families with kids should check out the O2’s “Arena Club” – a dedicated area with games and a mini‑stage for kid‑friendly shows. It’s a solid way to keep the little ones entertained while you enjoy the main event.
Finally, remember to bring a portable charger. The O2 is a massive venue and you’ll likely use your phone for photos, tickets and maybe a quick snack order. A small power bank keeps you from missing a moment.
Whether you’re a first‑timer or a regular, the O2 Arena offers a mix of top‑tier entertainment and easy access. Follow the tips above, grab your tickets early and enjoy a night you’ll remember.