The O2, London - stadium in the evening
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The O2

4.5
·78k reviews·, United Kingdom

London's iconic O2 Arena hosts top global concerts, elite sports, and offers extensive shopping and dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Event Evenings

Experience the buzz of live shows

CrowdHigh
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The O2, London - stadium in the evening

The O2

Best Time

Event Evenings

Experience the buzz of live shows

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

London's iconic O2 Arena hosts top global concerts, elite sports, and offers extensive shopping and dining.

4.5
(78k reviews)

"A must-visit for entertainment, shopping, and dining in London!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Skip the Lines with O2 Priority

Use O2 Priority for queue jumps and access to exclusive lounges.

👂 Protect Your Ears

Concerts can be loud; bring earplugs to enjoy the music safely.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World-Class Concerts

World-Class Concerts

Arena Floor & Seating

Experience electrifying performances from global superstars across diverse genres. A must-see for music lovers!

Elite Sporting Events

Elite Sporting Events

Arena Floor

Witness thrilling sports action, from tennis championships to boxing matches, in this state-of-the-art venue.

Outlet Shopping

Outlet Shopping

The O2 Outlet

Score amazing deals at over 60 shops with discounts up to 70% off retail prices. Perfect for pre- or post-event retail therapy.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Secure Your Spot

The O2 is a massive venue, so arriving early is key, especially for popular events. Consider O2 Priority for queue jumps and lounge access if you're an O2 customer. Booking tickets in advance is essential, and check seating charts carefully for the best views.

Navigating Post-Event Exits

Leaving the O2 after a major event can be busy. While some find the tube manageable, others suggest alternative routes like the cable car or buses. Leaving a few minutes before the encore can help you beat the initial rush.

Best Times

When
Event Evenings
Why
Experience the buzz of live shows
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Enjoy shopping with fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The seating layout and pricing for London for the Eternal Sunshine tour at the o2 arena @The O2 @arianagrande #eternalsunshinetour #arianagrandetour #concerttips #eternalsunshine #arianagrande
@sasharidge
24.8K likes • 229.6K views

🎯 Skip the Lines with O2 Priority

Use O2 Priority for queue jumps and access to exclusive lounges. TikTok

👂 Protect Your Ears

Concerts can be loud; bring earplugs to enjoy the music safely. Reddit

Spend a day with me at The O2 @theo2official @BOOMBATTLEBAR #thedateconnoisseur #TheO2 #thingstodoinLondon #london
@thedateconnoisseur
3.8K likes • 263.8K views
#o2priority @O2
@hannahsimpsonx
2.2K likes • 18.8K views

🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop

Explore over 60 outlet stores with significant discounts. TikTok

💺 Best Seat Views

Check 'view from my seat' websites for optimal seating choices. Reddit

reddit.com

Tips for Exiting the O2 Arena Quickly After Shows?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Skip the Lines with O2 Priority

Use O2 Priority for queue jumps and access to exclusive lounges. TikTok

👂 Protect Your Ears

Concerts can be loud; bring earplugs to enjoy the music safely. Reddit

🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop

Explore over 60 outlet stores with significant discounts. TikTok

💺 Best Seat Views

Check 'view from my seat' websites for optimal seating choices. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Beat the Exit Rush

Consider leaving slightly before the end or using alternative transport. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(78k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise The O2 for its incredible lineup of world-class concerts and sporting events, along with its extensive outlet shopping and dining options. While the venue is generally well-regarded for accessibility and amenities, some find exiting after large events can be a bit chaotic, and ticket prices for prime seats can be high.

"Two points:
•Review if you're here to see restaurants/experiences
▪︎Review if you're here for concerts or shows
1) This place offers a great range of restaurants and the food is always fantastic wherever you go. Most restaurants you find here are unfortunately on the more expensive side. It offers interesting experiences for kids such as climbing activities (they are not free though), there's an arcade aswell and a cinema. This is a perfect place If you're looking to do birthdays. The shops are all expensive though but they are high quality shops. No shops for kids or groceries if you're looking for that.

2) If you're here for concerts or shows, the o2 shopping outlet and the outside of the building play music from the artist that is performing which really builds up a nice mood. There are billboards everywhere showing the currently performing or upcoming artist(s) so it's a great place to take pictures. There are MANY official merchandise shops inside and outside the building, and some of them open at different times, so if something gets sold out you can still try to get it later! Inside after ticket check they have multiple bars and food corners to buy something if you need to - multiple toilets, and the staff are very helpful in finding your seats before you even enter the arena. The seats are decent and comfortable- they also fold if you have to stand up to let someone through- for the pit it depends on the artist, but sometimes there are chairs and sometimes not.

There is also the experience to climb the roof of the o2, but unfortunately I have no experience on it, but it does exist!"

Erika Liutikaite (Horroryas)

"We came for the last night of Peter Kay.
A brilliant show.
It's a super venue - we passed through security and ticket checks easily. We had seats in a box 112 which was really good. The bar staff friendly, seats well located and comfy. Great view.
Easy to exit the venue - large queues for the underground- but they moved fairly quickly."

Matthew Randall

"The show was fab... from beginning to end. Great food, complimentary glass of fizz to start with.
We were sat at the very top which was a little disappointing. We had hoped our tickets were for the middle section, but we still had a fab time, dancing along to the songs!"

Fleur Mortimer nee Mccarthy

What People Like

World-class concerts
Outlet shopping deals
Diverse dining options

What People Dislike

Exit crowds
High ticket prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The O2 is easily accessible via the Jubilee Line to North Greenwich station. You can also reach it by bus (e.g., 188, 129) or by Uber Boat from various piers. Reddit+1

Yes, The O2 has a large multi-storey car park. It's advisable to book parking in advance, especially for major events, to secure a spot and potentially a better rate.

Yes, it's about a 2-mile walk along the Thames Path, offering scenic views. Alternatively, the 129 bus is a convenient option. Reddit

Many find the tube at North Greenwich station efficient, though it can get busy. Some suggest leaving a few minutes early or using the cable car for a different experience. Reddit

Yes, there are several hotels within walking distance, including budget-friendly options like Holiday Inn Express. Hotels on the other side of the river, like in Canning Town, also offer good connections. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

For concerts, sections 112 and 101 are often recommended for good views. Checking 'view from my seat' websites is highly advised to see specific sightlines from different blocks. Reddit

It's best to book tickets in advance, especially for sold-out concerts and events. Limited tickets might be available on the day, but it's not guaranteed.

O2 Priority offers exclusive benefits to O2 customers, such as early access to tickets, queue jumps, and access to exclusive lounges like the O2 Blue Room. TikTok

Age restrictions vary depending on the event. It's crucial to check the specific event details on The O2's website or your ticket provider's information.

The O2 has a strict bag policy, generally limiting bags to A4 size. Larger bags may not be permitted. Always check the venue's official website for the most up-to-date policy before your visit.

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Beyond concerts, you can enjoy outlet shopping, dining at various restaurants, visit the ICON Outlet, or even try activities like climbing the roof (Up at The O2) or bowling.

Yes, The O2 has a wide array of food and drink outlets, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. Reddit

The O2 is committed to accessibility and offers facilities for visitors with disabilities, including accessible seating, lifts, and accessible restrooms. It's recommended to contact the venue in advance to discuss specific needs.

Personal photography for non-commercial use is generally allowed, but professional cameras and video recording equipment are usually prohibited. Check event-specific rules.

The O2's general opening hours for shopping and dining vary, but the arena itself opens according to event schedules. It's best to check the specific event details for timings.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The O2 is a great family destination, especially if attending an event. For shopping, the ICON Outlet offers a variety of stores that can entertain younger visitors. When it comes to dining, there are numerous family-friendly restaurants with diverse menus. Reddit Consider arriving early to explore the complex and avoid the rush associated with major events. Reddit

For a unique family adventure, 'Up at The O2' offers a thrilling climb over the arena roof, providing spectacular views. Ensure children meet the height and age requirements for this activity. If attending a concert, earplugs are highly recommended for children to protect their hearing from loud music. Reddit

🛍️ Budget Travelers

The ICON Outlet at The O2 is a paradise for budget-conscious shoppers, offering significant discounts on a wide range of brands. TikTok This is a fantastic way to save money while still enjoying a premium shopping experience. For dining, explore the various food court options and casual eateries within The O2 complex, which often provide more affordable meal choices compared to sit-down restaurants. Reddit

When it comes to getting to The O2, utilizing public transport like the Jubilee Line or buses is generally the most economical option. Reddit+1 If you're looking for accommodation, consider hotels slightly further afield or in areas with good transport links to The O2, as prices can be lower than those immediately adjacent to the venue. Reddit

🎶 Music Enthusiasts

The O2 Arena is a premier destination for live music, hosting a vast array of international artists and bands. To enhance your concert experience, consider leveraging O2 Priority for potential queue jumps and lounge access, making your arrival smoother. TikTok For the best audio-visual experience, research seating options thoroughly, as views and sound quality can vary significantly. Reddit

Don't forget to bring high-quality earplugs to protect your hearing from the loud music, ensuring you can enjoy concerts safely and comfortably. Reddit Exploring the diverse range of food and drink options within The O2 can also add to the overall enjoyment of your concert night. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating The O2: Getting Around and Getting Out

The O2 Arena is a major London landmark, and getting there is straightforward. The most popular method is via the Jubilee Line to North Greenwich station, which is directly opposite the venue. For those who prefer a scenic route, the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers offers a fantastic way to arrive, docking right at The O2 pier. Reddit+1 Several bus routes also serve the area, providing additional options for travelers. Reddit

Exiting The O2 after a major event can be a point of discussion among visitors. While the Jubilee Line is efficient, it can become crowded. Some Redditors suggest that leaving a few minutes before the final song can help avoid the peak rush. Reddit Others have found the tube experience less chaotic than at other large venues like Wembley. For a more unique departure, consider the cable car across the Thames, which offers stunning views and a less direct, but potentially more enjoyable, exit strategy. Reddit

When planning your visit, remember that The O2 is more than just an arena. It's a destination with ICON Outlet shopping, numerous dining options, and attractions like Up at The O2 (a guided climb over the roof). Factor in extra time to explore these before or after your main event.

Securing the Best Views: Seating at The O2

Choosing the right seats at The O2 Arena can significantly impact your concert or event experience. For music events, the arena floor offers an immersive experience, placing you close to the action. However, views can be obstructed depending on the stage setup and your exact position. Sections like 112 and 101 are frequently recommended for their balanced views, offering a good perspective of the stage without being too far away. Reddit

When purchasing tickets, it's highly beneficial to consult resources like 'view from my seat' websites. These platforms provide user-submitted photos and reviews, giving you a realistic idea of the sightlines from various seating blocks. Reddit Pay attention to the block numbers and row positions, as even slight differences can affect your view. For example, seats further down in a section are generally closer to the stage than those at the top. Reddit

For those attending sporting events, the seating arrangement might differ, with a focus on clear sightlines to the entire playing area. Always check the specific seating plan for the event you are attending, as the configuration can change. If you have specific accessibility needs, contacting The O2 directly in advance is the best way to ensure you get suitable seating.

Beyond the Event: Shopping and Dining at The O2

The O2 Arena is a vibrant hub that extends far beyond its event schedule. The ICON Outlet offers a fantastic shopping experience with over 60 brands providing discounts of up to 70% off retail prices. TikTok This makes it a great destination for bargain hunters and those looking for a pre- or post-event retail therapy session. You can find everything from fashion and accessories to homeware and electronics. TikTok

When hunger strikes, The O2 boasts a diverse culinary scene. You'll find a wide range of restaurants and eateries catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you're craving a quick bite from a fast-food chain, a casual meal at a gastropub, or a more formal dining experience, there are plenty of options to choose from. Reddit Many of these venues are conveniently located within the main O2 complex, making it easy to grab a meal before heading to your event or after a day of shopping.

For those looking for a unique experience, consider 'Up at The O2', where you can embark on a guided climb over the iconic roof of the arena, offering panoramic views of London. This adventurous activity provides a different perspective on the venue and the surrounding cityscape, making your visit to The O2 truly memorable.

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