Wembley Stadium in north-west London is England’s national football stadium and a major venue for concerts and other sporting events. Its 133-metre arch rises above the stands and supports much of the roof. Come for a match or show to see the stadium filled with fans, or book a guided tour on a non-event day to visit areas such as the changing rooms and Royal Box. Clear signs, colour-coded sections and helpful staff make it easier to find your seat; expect crowds around local stations after an event.
A stadium built for sport and live events
The current Wembley Stadium opened in 2007 on the site of the earlier national stadium. The first Wembley, originally called the Empire Stadium, opened in 1923 and became closely associated with English football. Its twin towers marked the entrance until the old structure was demolished in 2003.
The present stadium has 90,000 seats and hosts England football matches, domestic finals and concerts. Its scale is part of the experience: the stands curve around the pitch in three tiers, while the arch is visible across the London skyline.
The arch and roof
The white arch rises 133 metres above the stadium. It supports the main roof and part of the retractable roof, whose panels move back to the south. This design allows daylight and ventilation to reach the pitch when the panels are open.
The stadium is about a kilometre around its circumference. During an event, the large stands and the crowd create a different atmosphere from a quieter visit on a tour day.
What to see on a tour
Guided tours run on non-event days. They take visitors behind the scenes, with access that can include the changing rooms, players’ tunnel and Royal Box. A tour lasts about 75 to 90 minutes and gives a closer look at the stadium’s role in football and live entertainment.
The VIP tour described in the available information includes the changing rooms and Royal Box, as well as access to the FA headquarters. It also includes the chance to take photographs with the FA Cup. Check the current tour details and calendar before booking, since tours do not operate on event days.
Getting around on event day
Signs and colour-coded sections help direct visitors to their seats, and staff are available to assist. The stadium has wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, restrooms and parking, as well as an assistive hearing loop.
Large crowds can slow the journey out after a match or concert, particularly around nearby stations. Check the stadium’s guidance on bags before travelling, and consider earplugs if you are sensitive to loud sound.
FAQ
How long does a Wembley Stadium tour take?
Guided tours take about 75 to 90 minutes.
What can you see on a Wembley Stadium tour?
Tour access can include the players’ tunnel, changing rooms and Royal Box. The VIP tour also includes the FA headquarters and a chance to take photographs with the FA Cup.
Do Wembley Stadium tours run on event days?
No. Tours operate on non-event days, so check the stadium calendar before booking.
Is Wembley Stadium wheelchair accessible?
The stadium has wheelchair-accessible entrances, seating, restrooms and parking. An assistive hearing loop is also listed.
