Emirates Stadium, London – Iconic Home of Arsenal FC
Explore the iconic Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal FC, blending modern architecture with rich football heritage in the heart of London.
Architectural Marvel and Sporting Venue
Opened in 2006, the Emirates Stadium is a state-of-the-art football ground with a seating capacity of 60,361, making it one of England’s largest stadiums. Its modern design features excellent sightlines and padded seating, providing comfort and clear views for spectators. Situated in the Islington district of London, the stadium replaced Arsenal’s former home at Highbury, offering a significantly larger capacity and enhanced facilities. The stadium’s sleek, contemporary architecture contrasts with the historic charm of its predecessor, reflecting Arsenal’s forward-looking ambitions.Immersive Stadium Tours and Arsenal Heritage
Visitors can experience the Emirates Stadium through self-guided tours equipped with audio guides or opt for guided tours led by Arsenal legends. These tours provide exclusive access to behind-the-scenes areas such as the players’ dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and the Directors' Box. The Arsenal Museum, located within the stadium complex, showcases a rich collection of memorabilia including iconic items like Jens Lehmann’s goalkeeper gloves from the unbeaten Invincibles season and Michael Thomas’ boots from the historic 1989 Anfield match. The museum also features video theatres and interactive exhibits celebrating the club’s storied history since its founding in 1886.Location and Accessibility
Nestled on Hornsey Road in North London (postcode N7 7AJ), the Emirates Stadium is conveniently accessible via multiple London Underground stations. The closest is Arsenal station on the Piccadilly line, just a short walk away. Other nearby stations include Finsbury Park and Highbury & Islington, both approximately a 10-minute walk. Due to the residential setting and event-day parking restrictions, visitors are strongly advised to use public transport rather than driving. The stadium’s proximity to central London makes it an easy and popular destination for football fans and tourists alike.Matchday Atmosphere and Facilities
On matchdays, the Emirates Stadium buzzes with excitement as up to 60,000 fans gather to support Arsenal FC. The stadium is known for its modern amenities, including numerous food and drink options, clean restrooms, and dedicated fan zones. While the atmosphere is vibrant, some note that the stadium’s size and tourist presence can temper the traditional football ground’s intensity. Nonetheless, the stadium offers a welcoming environment for fans of all ages, with excellent crowd management and safety measures in place.Events Beyond Football
Besides hosting Premier League matches, the Emirates Stadium occasionally serves as a venue for concerts and other large-scale events, leveraging its vast capacity and modern infrastructure. The stadium’s multifunctional design allows it to accommodate a variety of sporting and entertainment occasions, contributing to its status as a landmark in London’s cultural and sporting landscape.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Tours typically last between 55 to 90 minutes, with the self-guided option allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The Legends Tour, featuring commentary from former Arsenal players, lasts about 75 minutes. The stadium is open for tours seven days a week, except on matchdays or during special events. Ticket prices for tours range from approximately £17.50 for self-guided visits to £35 for guided experiences. The stadium also includes an official Arsenal shop offering a wide range of merchandise. Visitors are encouraged to check opening hours in advance due to occasional closures for maintenance or events.Local tips
- Use public transport to reach the stadium; Arsenal tube station on the Piccadilly line is the closest and most convenient.
- Book stadium tours online in advance to secure your preferred time, especially for the popular Legends Tour.
- Visit the Arsenal Museum during your tour to see unique memorabilia and interactive exhibits.
- Be prepared for limited parking and avoid driving on matchdays due to strict residential parking restrictions.
- Take a walk to nearby Finsbury Park or Highbury & Islington stations after events to avoid crowds at Arsenal station.
A brief summary to Emirates Stadium
- Hornsey Rd, London, N7 7AJ, GB
- +442076195000
- Visit website
Getting There
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London Underground
Take the Piccadilly line to Arsenal station, just a 3-minute walk from the stadium. Alternatively, use Finsbury Park or Highbury & Islington stations, both about a 10-minute walk. Tube services run frequently, with travel times from central London around 15-25 minutes. This is the recommended mode due to limited parking and traffic on matchdays.
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Bus
Several London bus routes serve the area around Hornsey Road near the stadium, including routes 4, 19, 43, 91, and 153. Bus travel times vary depending on traffic, typically 20-40 minutes from central London. Buses provide a flexible option but may be slower during peak hours or event days.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you close to the stadium but expect potential delays and higher fares on matchdays due to traffic and road closures. Travel time from central London is approximately 20-30 minutes off-peak, with fares typically ranging from £15 to £30.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to the Emirates Stadium is pleasant and takes about 15-30 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is mostly flat and suitable for most visitors, offering a chance to explore the local neighborhood atmosphere.
