London Stadium

🏟️ Brief Description

London Stadium is one of the capital’s largest and most versatile sports venues, located in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford. Originally built for the 2012 Olympic Games, the stadium has since been transformed into a multi-use arena capable of hosting elite football, athletics, concerts, and major international events.
With a seating capacity of over 62,500, it is home to West Ham United and regularly stages high-profile fixtures, including international football, rugby, and large-scale live music shows. Its scale, modern design, and transport links make it a cornerstone of London’s major event calendar.

📝 History of London Stadium

The stadium opened in 2011 as the centrepiece of the London 2012 Olympics, hosting the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and all athletics events. After the Games, it underwent a significant redesign to convert it into a permanent, multi-purpose venue.

In 2016, West Ham United moved in as anchor tenants, marking a new chapter in the stadium’s history. Since then, London Stadium has hosted Premier League football, European matches, international athletics meets, rugby union fixtures, baseball (MLB London Series), and globally recognised concert tours.
The venue represents one of the most ambitious Olympic legacy projects in the world, evolving from a temporary Games stadium into a long-term home for elite sport and entertainment.

🚇 How to Get to London Stadium

Address: Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 2ST

Train & Tube:

• Stratford Station (Central, Jubilee, Elizabeth Line, DLR, Overground, National Rail) – 10 min walk
• Stratford International (DLR & Southeastern) – 15 min walk

Bus:
Multiple routes serve Stratford City and the Olympic Park

Car:
No general public parking on event days (park-and-ride recommended)

🚇 Travel Tip: Stratford Station becomes extremely busy after major events. The Elizabeth Line is often the fastest exit option post-match or concert.

📌 Insider Tips / FAQs

Bag Policy:
Small bags only; large backpacks are not permitted. All bags are searched on entry.

Best Seats:

• Football: Lower tier behind the goals for atmosphere
• Athletics/Concerts: Middle tier for sightlines and acoustics

Food & Drink:
Inside the stadium: modern concourses with wide food and bar options
Nearby: Stratford Westfield offers one of the largest dining selections in London

Atmosphere:
Electric for Premier League and international matches; festival-like for concerts and summer events.

Accessibility:
Fully accessible with step-free routes, lifts, accessible seating, and assistance services throughout the venue.

📊 Stadium Records & Facts

• Opened: 2011 (Olympic conversion completed 2016)
• Capacity: ~62,500 (football configuration)
• Primary Tenant: West Ham United
• Major Events Hosted:
  • London 2012 Olympic Games
  • UEFA Europa Conference League matches
  • World Athletics events
  • MLB London Series
  • Global concert tours
• Unique Feature: Retractable seating system allowing conversion between athletics and football
• Largest Attendance: Over 80,000 (Olympic ceremonies)