OVO Arena Wembley, previously known as Wembley Arena, is an indoor arena located next to Wembley Stadium in Wembley, London, England. With a seating capacity of 12,500, it is the second-largest indoor arena in London, after The O2 Arena, and the ninth-largest in the United Kingdom.
Originally known as the Empire Pool, the venue has seen various name changes over the years. It was renamed Wembley Arena in 1978, followed by The SSE Arena Wembley in 2014, and OVO Arena Wembley in recent times due to sponsorship reasons.
OVO Arena Wembley has a rich history of hosting major music and entertainment events. Over the years, it has welcomed some of the biggest names in popular music, including Queen, The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, Cher, Michael Jackson, U2, Tina Turner, Madonna, and ABBA, among many others.
The arena's proximity to Wembley Stadium and its convenient location in Wembley Park make it a popular destination for international shows, tours, and entertainment events. It offers a diverse range of performances across various genres, attracting audiences from all over the world.
Architecture and Facilities
OVO Arena Wembley has a distinctive circular shape with a dome-like roof. The venue offers excellent acoustics and a flexible layout that can accommodate a range of events, from music concerts and sporting events to exhibitions and conferences. The arena also features state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems to enhance the overall experience for performers and audiences alike.
Sporting Events
In addition to hosting musical performances, OVO Arena Wembley has also been the venue for several sporting events. It has hosted badminton and table tennis competitions during the 1948 Summer Olympics held in London. The arena has also been the site for professional wrestling events, boxing matches, and even ice hockey games.
Location and Accessibility
OVO Arena Wembley is located in Wembley Park, a vibrant area in North West London. It is well-connected by public transportation, with several nearby underground and rail stations. The venue is also easily accessible by car, with ample parking available nearby.
Major Events
Throughout its history, OVO Arena Wembley has hosted numerous iconic and memorable events. Some notable examples include the annual NME Awards shows, the BBC Electric Proms, and various music concerts and exhibitions. The arena has also held charity events and cultural festivals.
Renovations
The arena underwent extensive renovations in recent years to enhance its facilities and accommodate larger events. The renovations included improvements to the seating, entrance and foyer areas, and backstage facilities.
OVO Arena Wembley continues to be a popular destination for both local and international performers and audiences. It has established itself as a premier entertainment venue in London, attracting a wide range of events and visitors.