Emirates Stadium

Emirates Stadium has been Arsenal's magnificent home since 2006, when the Gunners made the historic move from Highbury after 93 years. With a capacity of 60,704, it is one of the largest and most modern stadiums in English football, featuring striking contemporary architecture with its distinctive curved roof and transparent panels that flood the bowl with natural light. The stadium was designed to preserve the intimate atmosphere of Highbury whilst providing world-class facilities, and has become one of the Premier League's most impressive venues.

Located in Holloway, North London, the Emirates sits in the heart of Arsenal's traditional community, just minutes from the site of the beloved Highbury stadium. The area surrounding the ground has been regenerated as part of the stadium development, creating new housing, commercial spaces, and the beautiful Drayton Park approach. With excellent transport links including Arsenal and Holloway Road tube stations, the Emirates offers easy access for fans whilst maintaining strong connections to the club's roots. Whether you're watching Arteta's side challenge for titles or taking the comprehensive stadium tour that includes the Highbury memorabilia, Emirates Stadium delivers a premium matchday experience that rivals any venue including Tottenham's new stadium across North London.

Arsenal's move to Emirates Stadium in 2006 marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter. After 93 years at Highbury, the club needed a larger venue to compete financially with rivals whilst maintaining their North London identity. The £390 million stadium was primarily self-funded through a £260 million naming rights deal with Emirates airline and property development of the Highbury site - a bold financial model that influenced how modern stadiums are built.

Building the Future

Construction began in 2004 on the Ashburton Grove site, an industrial area just 500 metres from Highbury. The stadium design by HOK Sport (now Populous) prioritised maintaining the close-to-pitch atmosphere that made Highbury special, with the lower tier extending close to the touchline. The distinctive curved roof with triangular glass panels was designed to maximise natural light whilst creating an enclosed bowl that intensifies the atmosphere. Arsenal continued playing at Highbury during construction, with the final game there on 7 May 2006.

Opening and Early Years

The Emirates officially opened on 22 July 2006 with a testimonial for Dennis Bergkamp, fittingly honouring one of Highbury's greatest players in the new home. The first competitive match was a Champions League qualifier against Dinamo Zagreb on 2 August 2006. Early years saw the club adjust to the new surroundings whilst servicing significant debt from construction - Arsenal's conservative transfer policy during this period was a direct result of the stadium investment.

Modern Era

Since 2020, Emirates Stadium has witnessed Arsenal's resurgence under Mikel Arteta, with the ground becoming a fortress once again. The atmosphere, initially criticised as subdued compared to Highbury, has evolved dramatically as a new generation of supporters has made the Emirates their own. Investment in fan experience, improved acoustics, and the success of the team has transformed matchdays, with the stadium now generating one of the most intense atmospheres in English football.

How to Get Arsenal Tickets

There are three main ways to attend an Arsenal match at Emirates Stadium:

1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)

Purchase directly from arsenal.com when tickets are released. General sale tickets are released approximately 4-5 weeks before matches, though most games sell out to members first. Prices range from £30 (upper tier) to £100+ (lower tier central). Red and Silver Members receive priority access.

⚠️ Important: Arsenal have one of the largest memberships in football - most matches sell out before general sale. Red Membership (£50/year) is virtually essential for regular attendance, providing access to member-only sales.

2. Official Hospitality (Guaranteed Access)

Arsenal offers premium hospitality packages guaranteeing tickets even for sold-out matches:

• Club Level - Premium seating with enhanced facilities from £150
• The Avenell Club - Fine dining experience from £350
• Private Boxes - Exclusive suite experience from £500+ per person

Book through arsenal.com/hospitality for guaranteed authentic experiences.

3. Third-Party Platforms (Sold-Out Matches)

When official tickets sell out, these established platforms offer alternatives:

• LiveFootballTickets - Premier League specialists, from £70
• SeatPick - Comparison platform aggregating sellers

⚠️ Note: Third-party tickets often cost significantly above face value. Arsenal operates strict ticket transfer policies - ensure any tickets can be legitimately transferred to your name.

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Stadium Tours & Museum

The Emirates Stadium Tour and Arsenal Museum offer an immersive journey through one of English football's most storied clubs.

What You'll See

• Trophy Cabinet featuring 13 league titles, 14 FA Cups (record holders), the 2004 Invincibles Premier League trophy, and European honours
• Home dressing room where the likes of Henry, Bergkamp, and current stars prepare for battle
• Players' tunnel walking out to the Emirates pitch with crowd noise simulation
• Pitch-side and dugout standing where Wenger and Arteta have orchestrated Arsenal's play
• Press conference room sitting where managers face the media
• Diamond Lights display corridor showcasing Arsenal legends
• Arsenal Museum covering 138 years of club history with interactive exhibits
• Highbury memorabilia including the marble halls entrance, Clock End clock, and Art Deco features saved from the old ground

Practical Details

• Duration: Self-guided tour approximately 90 minutes, guided tours available
• Schedule: Tours run daily except matchdays and the day before European games
• Price: Adults from £30, concessions available, museum-only option from £10
• Languages: Audio guides available in 10 languages including English, Spanish, French, German
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with lifts throughout
• Best times: Weekday mornings are quietest; legends tours with former players are premium options

Booking

• GetYourGuide - Stadium tours from £30
• Viator - Tour experiences including legends options from £30

Pro tip: The museum's Highbury section is essential for understanding Arsenal's history - don't rush through. Non-football fans consistently enjoy the architectural tour and club history.

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Quick Tips

• Book early: Red Membership (£50) is virtually essential for ticket access
• Top matches: Spurs, Chelsea, Man United, Liverpool require membership or hospitality
• Avoid touts: Emirates has strict anti-touting enforcement
• Cashless stadium: Ensure you have card or phone payment
• North London Derby: The biggest match of the season - extremely difficult to get tickets

Best Seats at Emirates Stadium

For the optimal Emirates Stadium experience, the Upper Tier central sections (Clock End or West Stand) offer the best combination of atmosphere, view, and value. The stadium's design ensures excellent sightlines from almost every seat, but these elevated central positions capture both tactical perspective and the full bowl atmosphere. Here's the complete breakdown.

Lower Tier

Provides pitch-side proximity and excellent views of the action. Central sections of the West Stand and East Stand lower tier offer the best sightlines, though corner sections can feel slightly distant from the opposite end. Prices typically £60-100 for Premier League matches, rising to £150+ for top-six clashes. The lower tier benefits from the steep rake designed to replicate Highbury's closeness.

Upper Tier

Offers superb panoramic views and is where many fans prefer to sit. The steep angle means even the back rows feel connected to the action. Clock End Upper and North Bank Upper central sections provide the best balance of atmosphere and sightlines. Prices £40-80 for league matches - excellent value given the views. Photography enthusiasts favour upper tier central positions.

Club Level

The middle tier features premium seats with enhanced legroom, padded seating, and access to exclusive concourses with superior food and drink options. Prices from £100-200 per match. Club Level offers the best in-seat comfort whilst maintaining excellent views.

Box Level

Private boxes and premium hospitality suites offering the ultimate matchday experience. Packages from £300 per person include fine dining, premium drinks, and exclusive access. Book through Arsenal's hospitality department.

Standing Sections

Arsenal has introduced safe standing in the North Bank Lower tier, creating improved atmosphere in this traditional home end. Supporters must opt-in for safe standing areas.

Accessibility

The Emirates provides excellent accessible facilities, with wheelchair platforms across all levels offering unobstructed views. Accessible seating includes companion seats, and the stadium features accessible toilets, lifts, and dedicated entrances. Audio-descriptive commentary is available. Contact Arsenal's accessibility team when booking.

Pro Tips

• Best atmosphere: North Bank Lower (home supporters' heartland, now with safe standing)
• Best views: Upper Tier central sections of Clock End or West Stand
• Family area: Family Enclosure in Block 26 (Lower Tier) offers a dedicated space
• Away fans: Allocated lower tier corner section (South-East corner)
• Photography: Upper Tier central sections for stunning stadium-wide shots

A matchday at Emirates Stadium blends modern Premier League football with Arsenal's rich traditions, from the Highbury Clock on the stadium exterior to the legendary cannons at each entrance.

What to Bring

Arsenal operates strict security measures. Bags larger than A4 size (21cm x 30cm) are not permitted, so travel light with essentials only. Prohibited items include large backpacks, umbrellas, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and alcohol. Recommended items: match ticket (mobile via Arsenal app preferred), phone, wallet, layers for changeable London weather. Security queues can be lengthy for big matches - arrive 45-60 minutes early. The stadium is cashless, so ensure you have a card or phone payment.

Pre-Match (2-3 hours before)

The area around the Emirates transforms on matchdays, with the Armoury Shop and surrounding streets bustling with red and white. Traditional pre-match pubs include The Tollington on Hornsey Road, The Gunners on Blackstock Road, and The Bank of Friendship - all packed with singing supporters. Piebury Corner on Holloway Road serves legendary football pies (the 'Thierry Henry' is a favourite). The Highbury area, a short walk away, offers the atmospheric Highbury Barn gastropub district. Many fans gather outside the Ken Friar Bridge entrance and by the iconic Herbert Chapman statue.

Inside the Stadium

Gates open 2 hours before kickoff, allowing time to explore the impressive concourses, visit the club shop, and soak in the atmosphere. Pre-match entertainment includes the famous 'North London Forever' song and the spine-tingling moment when 60,000 voices sing the Arsenal anthem. The Clock End displays the famous Highbury Clock - relocated from the old ground - connecting past and present.

Food & Drink

The Emirates offers above-average stadium food by English standards. Options include Piebury Corner pies (highly recommended), burgers, fish and chips, and various hot snacks. Prices are standard Premier League (expect £5-7 for pies, £6-7 for pints). The stadium is fully cashless. Club Level and hospitality areas have enhanced dining. Many fans prefer eating in Holloway Road before arriving.

After the Match

Post-match, the tube stations become extremely congested - consider walking to Finsbury Park (15 minutes) or waiting 20-30 minutes for crowds to disperse. The Holloway Road and Highbury & Islington areas offer excellent post-match pubs and restaurants. Upper Street in Islington (20-minute walk) is perfect for celebratory dinners.

International Visitor Tips: The Emirates is well-connected with Arsenal and Holloway Road tube stations (Piccadilly Line) a short walk away. London's Oyster/contactless system works on all transport. The atmosphere is passionate but family-friendly - Emirates is known as one of the Premier League's more welcoming venues. Book stadium tours separately to experience the Highbury memorabilia.

Where to Stay for Emirates Stadium

Near the Stadium (Islington/Holloway)

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Hilton London Islington (1.5 km)

Modern hotel in the heart of Islington with excellent transport links. Approximately 20-minute walk or short tube ride to Emirates. Upper Street's restaurants and bars are on your doorstep, making this ideal for combining football with London's best dining scene. Comfortable rooms, good breakfast, and staff accustomed to matchday visitors.

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The Islington Townhouse (1.8 km)

Boutique guesthouse offering characterful rooms in a Victorian townhouse. Personal service, excellent breakfast, and authentic Islington atmosphere. Walking distance to Emirates via pleasant residential streets. Perfect for those seeking charm over chain hotel efficiency.

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Premier Inn London Islington (2 km)

Reliable budget option with clean, consistent rooms. Close to Angel tube station with direct Piccadilly Line access to Arsenal. Good value for money with Premier Inn's standard amenities. Book early for matchday weekends.

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Central London (Better for Tourism)

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Most visitors find staying in central London more convenient, with the Emirates easily accessible via the Piccadilly Line in under 15 minutes from many locations.

King's Cross/St Pancras Area (2 km to Emirates)

Excellent transport hub with Eurostar, mainline trains, and Piccadilly Line access. The regenerated area around Coal Drops Yard offers excellent restaurants and bars. Hotels range from budget to luxury, and you're well-positioned for both the Emirates and central London attractions.

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Central London (Piccadilly Line)

Anywhere on the Piccadilly Line offers easy Emirates access. Covent Garden, Leicester Square, and South Kensington all provide direct tube connections. Journey time approximately 20-30 minutes depending on where you stay. Central locations let you experience London whilst easily reaching the stadium.

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Our Recommendation

For the best overall experience, stay in Islington to enjoy one of London's most vibrant neighbourhoods whilst being within easy walking or transport distance of the Emirates. Upper Street and Exmouth Market offer exceptional dining, and you'll experience authentic London life rather than tourist areas.

For tourists combining the match with sightseeing, the King's Cross area offers the best balance - excellent transport links, regenerated surroundings, and quick access to both central London and the Emirates. The Piccadilly Line makes reaching the stadium simple from almost anywhere in London.