London Stadium

London Stadium, the iconic centrepiece of the 2012 Olympic Games, has been West Ham United's home since 2016. With a capacity of 62,500, it stands as one of the largest club grounds in England. The stadium's conversion from athletics venue to football ground was controversial, yet the Olympic legacy lives on in this stunning East London venue. The sweeping design by Populous creates a modern amphitheatre that offers excellent sightlines throughout.

Located in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, London Stadium benefits from exceptional transport links and sits within a vibrant regenerated area. Whether experiencing Premier League action, exploring the Olympic Park, or enjoying the views from the upper tiers, London Stadium offers a distinctly modern football experience quite different from traditional English grounds like Emirates Stadium or Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

London Stadium was built as the centrepiece of the 2012 Summer Olympics, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies plus all athletics events. Designed by Populous with a focus on sustainability and legacy, the original 80,000-capacity venue was always intended for transformation after the Games.

Post-Olympic Conversion

Following the Olympics, a lengthy and contentious process saw West Ham United selected as the anchor tenant. The conversion, completed in 2016, involved adding a roof, lowering the field, and installing retractable seating to reduce the gap between fans and pitch - a necessary change from the athletics configuration. The transformation cost significantly more than initially planned, becoming a source of political controversy.

West Ham's New Home

West Ham moved from their historic Boleyn Ground (Upton Park) in 2016, ending 112 years at their previous home. The transition was emotional for many fans, though the increased capacity and modern facilities offered clear advantages. The stadium has hosted major events including athletics championships, concerts, and international football matches.

Looking Forward

Despite ongoing debates about atmosphere compared to the Boleyn Ground, London Stadium has established itself as a major Premier League venue. Its Olympic legacy and East London location represent a new chapter in West Ham's history, with the club embracing the modern facilities whilst building new traditions.

How to Get West Ham United Tickets

There are three main ways to attend a West Ham United match at London Stadium:

1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)

Purchase directly from whufc.com when tickets go on sale. General sale typically occurs 2-4 weeks before matches, following priority windows for members and season ticket holders. Prices range from £40 (Upper Tier ends) to £80+ (Lower Tier central). Claret Membership provides priority access.

⚠️ Important: The large capacity means tickets are generally more available than at smaller grounds, though big matches against top clubs sell out.

2. Official Hospitality (Guaranteed Access)

West Ham United offers extensive hospitality packages:

• Matchday Hospitality - Premium dining from £200
• Executive Boxes - Private suite experience from £500+ per person
• The Forge - Modern hospitality experience

Book through whufc.com/hospitality for guaranteed access.

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

When official tickets sell out, established platforms offer alternatives:

• LiveFootballTickets - Premier League specialists
• SeatPick - Price comparison platform

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Stadium Tours

The London Stadium Tour offers behind-the-scenes access to this Olympic legacy venue.

What You'll See

• Home dressing room where West Ham players prepare
• The tunnel walking towards the pitch
• Pitch-side and dugout experiencing the manager's view
• Press conference room where managers face the media
• Directors' box with panoramic views
• Olympic legacy areas celebrating 2012

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 60-75 minutes
• Schedule: Tours run regularly on non-matchdays
• Price: Adults from £20, concessions available
• Languages: Tours in English
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible

Booking

• Book directly through West Ham United official site
• GetYourGuide - Alternative booking
• Viator - Experience packages

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Quick Tips

• Larger capacity: Tickets more available than many Premier League grounds
• Big matches: Still sell out - book early for top-six fixtures
• Transport: Exceptional links make arrival easy
• Olympic Park: Arrive early to explore the area
• Bubbles: The pre-match bubble display is a unique experience

Best Seats at London Stadium

London Stadium's bowl design offers good views throughout, though the converted athletics stadium means fans are further from the pitch than at purpose-built football grounds. Here's the complete breakdown.

West Stand (Sir Trevor Brooking Stand)

The main stand housing the most passionate West Ham supporters. Lower Tier provides the best atmosphere and closest views (£55-80), whilst Upper Tier offers panoramic views across the pitch (£45-65). This is where the singing sections are located - recommended for atmosphere.

East Stand (Bobby Moore Stand)

Named after the legendary captain, this stand provides excellent side-on views. Lower Tier £55-75, Upper Tier £45-65. Contains the directors' box, press facilities, and main hospitality areas. Good sightlines throughout.

North Stand (Billy Bonds Stand)

Behind the goal at the north end. Home supporters in designated sections, with some areas for away fans. Lower Tier £45-60, Upper Tier £40-55. Further from the action but atmospheric when full.

South Stand

Opposite end to the Billy Bonds Stand. Houses away supporters in one section, with home fans in the remainder. Lower Tier £45-60, Upper Tier £40-55. Good views despite distance from pitch.

VIP & Hospitality

London Stadium offers extensive hospitality options in the Bobby Moore Stand. Packages range from £200 for matchday dining to £500+ for premium executive experiences. The modern facilities provide excellent hospitality environments. Book through West Ham United's official hospitality service.

Accessibility

Excellent accessible facilities throughout as a modern venue designed with accessibility in mind. Wheelchair platforms in all stands, accessible toilets, dedicated entrances, and lifts to all levels. Sensory rooms and audio-descriptive commentary available. Contact West Ham's accessibility team when booking.

Pro Tips

• Best atmosphere: West Stand (Sir Trevor Brooking) Lower Tier
• Best views: Bobby Moore Stand Lower Tier central sections
• Best value: Upper Tier ends offer good views at lower prices
• Away fans: Sections of the South Stand
• Note: Arrive early to explore the Olympic Park before the match

A matchday at London Stadium combines modern Premier League facilities with the Olympic Park's unique atmosphere and excellent accessibility.

What to Bring

West Ham operates standard Premier League security. Bags larger than A4 size (21cm x 30cm) are not permitted - bring only essentials. Prohibited items include large backpacks, umbrellas, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and alcohol. Recommended items: match ticket (mobile via West Ham app preferred), phone, wallet, layers for variable weather. Arrive 60-90 minutes early for security and to enjoy the Olympic Park.

Pre-Match (2-3 hours before)

The Olympic Park offers unique pre-match experiences. Westfield Stratford City shopping centre has numerous restaurants and bars - popular gathering spots include chains and independent venues. Within the park, Podium offers food and drink near the stadium. The ArcelorMittal Orbit tower provides stunning views. Traditional pubs are more distant than at older grounds, though the area around Stratford High Street has options.

Inside the Stadium

Gates open 2 hours before kickoff. The concourses are spacious and modern. 'I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles' - West Ham's anthem since the 1920s - fills the stadium pre-match with thousands of bubbles released. The atmosphere builds through fan chants in the Sir Trevor Brooking Stand.

Food & Drink

Stadium concourses offer varied food options reflecting the modern venue - beyond standard pies and burgers, there are international cuisines and healthier options. Prices are typical Premier League (£5-8 for food, £5-6 for drinks). Multiple bars and kiosks reduce queuing.

After the Match

Westfield Stratford City is the natural post-match destination, with numerous restaurants and bars. The excellent transport links mean rapid departure - but consider staying to enjoy the Olympic Park. The journey back to central London is quick and easy.

International Visitor Tips: London Stadium has exceptional transport links - Stratford station connects to the Underground (Jubilee, Central lines), DLR, Elizabeth Line, and National Rail. Westfield Stratford City is one of Europe's largest shopping centres. The Olympic Park is worth exploring - the Velodrome, Aquatics Centre, and ArcelorMittal Orbit are nearby attractions.

Where to Stay for London Stadium

Near the Stadium

Search hotels near London Stadium

Stratford has transformed since the Olympics, with numerous hotels within walking distance of London Stadium.

Hyatt Place London Stratford (Olympic Park, 10-minute walk)

Modern hotel right in the Olympic Park with excellent facilities. Perfect location for matchday with stadium views from some rooms. Contemporary design and reliable quality.

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Holiday Inn Express Stratford (Westfield, 12-minute walk)

Convenient location adjacent to Westfield shopping centre. Good value with modern rooms. Easy access to transport and numerous dining options.

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Staybridge Suites Stratford (Olympic Park, 8-minute walk)

Apartment-style accommodation ideal for families or longer stays. Kitchen facilities, comfortable spaces, and excellent location within the Olympic Park.

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Central London (Alternative)

Search hotels in Central London

With exceptional transport links, staying in Central London is viable. The Elizabeth Line reaches Stratford quickly from Liverpool Street, Tottenham Court Road, and Paddington.

The Hoxton Shoreditch (Shoreditch, 25 minutes to stadium)

Trendy boutique hotel in vibrant Shoreditch. Excellent restaurants and bars nearby. Quick journey to Stratford via Overground or bus.

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Andaz Liverpool Street (City, 20 minutes to stadium)

Luxury hotel above Liverpool Street station. Direct Central Line to Stratford. Excellent facilities and central location for exploring London.

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Our Recommendation

For matchday convenience, stay in Stratford - the Hyatt Place offers the best combination of proximity and quality. For a broader London experience, Shoreditch hotels provide trendy East London atmosphere with easy stadium access.

The excellent transport links mean you can stay almost anywhere in London - the Elizabeth Line has transformed connectivity to Stratford.