Copper Box Arena

Olympic Legacy and Architectural Innovation

The Copper Box Arena stands as one of London's most distinctive sporting venues, born from the 2012 Summer Olympics as a purpose-built facility for handball, modern pentathlon fencing, and goalball. Designed by Make Architects, the arena earned the affectionate nickname 'the box that rocks' for its electrifying atmosphere during the Games. The structure itself is a masterclass in adaptive design—a copper-clad box housing 7,500 retractable seats that can be reconfigured within hours to accommodate everything from intimate badminton matches to large-scale concerts. This flexibility transformed what could have been a white elephant into one of London's most versatile entertainment spaces, earning international recognition including the IOC/IAKS Special Prize and numerous architectural accolades.

Year-Round Sporting Excellence

Today, the arena pulses with professional sport throughout the year. The London Lions basketball team and London Pulse netball team call it home, competing at the highest national and international levels. Beyond these anchor tenants, the venue hosts an impressive array of sports including wheelchair basketball, handball, volleyball, fencing, badminton, gymnastics, and boxing. The arena's adaptable configuration means it can host single matches or entire tournaments, making it equally suited to grassroots community events and elite professional competitions. The sightlines are exceptional from nearly every seat, ensuring spectators remain close to the action regardless of their location in the venue.

Entertainment Beyond Sport

The Copper Box has evolved into a premier destination for diverse entertainment experiences. It has established itself as the UK's leading e-sports venue, hosting major global tournaments including League of Legends MSI, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty competitions. The arena has also welcomed high-profile music acts and indoor festivals, with artists ranging from UK grime stars to international bands performing to enthusiastic crowds. This programming diversity reflects the venue's commitment to remaining relevant and exciting for contemporary audiences while maintaining its sporting heritage.

Modern Facilities and Amenities

The arena boasts comprehensive facilities designed for both spectators and participants. Multiple hospitality suites offer premium experiences with VIP lounges, private bars, and fast-track entry options. Meeting rooms provide flexible spaces for corporate functions, while the open-air Eastcross Square serves as a vibrant breakout area for events and community gatherings. The venue includes changing facilities, modern sound systems, extensive office space with free Wi-Fi, and professional-grade production and rigging systems. An on-site gym operated by Better offers fitness facilities with views toward the arena, though these views are often obscured during events.

Location and Accessibility

Situated within the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, the Copper Box benefits from excellent connectivity. Stratford station lies approximately a 10-minute walk away, providing direct access to the Central, District, Hammersmith & City, and DLR lines. The venue is also accessible from Westfield shopping centre and its adjacent car parks. The surrounding Olympic Park offers a pleasant environment with landscaped grounds and additional cultural attractions, making a visit to the arena part of a broader Stratford experience.

Visitor Experience Considerations

While the arena excels in sightlines and accessibility, visitor experiences vary significantly based on event type and venue management. Strict bag policies are enforced at entry, with inconsistent application reported by some visitors. Food and beverage options are limited to concession stands offering standard fare at premium London prices, with no outside food or drink permitted. Water fountains are not readily available, though bottled water can be purchased. Seating comfort varies by section, with some areas featuring limited legroom. Security staff are generally described as helpful and efficient, though enforcement of venue policies can be strict. The venue operates a no-entry policy during events, meaning visitors cannot step outside to the concourse for fresh air once inside.