Planning a trip to London and wondering about one of its most iconic sporting venues? The Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal Football Club, isn’t just a ground; it’s a modern marvel that redefines the matchday experience for over 60,000 passionate fans. Located in the vibrant heart of North London, it stands as a testament to contemporary stadium design and Arsenal’s rich history.
Whether you’re a die-hard Gunners supporter or simply a sports enthusiast looking to explore London’s premier attractions, a visit to Emirates Stadium promises an unforgettable journey into the world of top-tier English football.
The Iconic Home of Arsenal FC in North London
Opened in 2006, Emirates Stadium quickly established itself as one of England’s premier football arenas, replacing Arsenal’s beloved but smaller Highbury stadium. Its strategic location in Holloway, North London, places it conveniently close to the city center, offering improved accessibility compared to its predecessor.
With a seating capacity exceeding 60,000, Emirates Stadium is currently the third-largest football stadium in England, surpassed only by Wembley Stadium and Old Trafford. This immense scale ensures an electric atmosphere during Premier League and cup fixtures, making every home game a truly memorable event.
A Modern Architectural Gem
From the moment you approach, the stadium’s sleek, bowl-shaped design makes a powerful impression. Inside, its four distinct stands – the East Stand, West Stand, North Bank, and Clock End – create an intimate yet expansive viewing experience for every attendee. Each stand offers excellent sightlines, bringing fans closer to the action on the meticulously maintained pitch.
Beyond the Pitch: Facilities and Matchday Experience
Emirates Stadium is designed for more than just watching football; it offers a comprehensive visitor experience. The concourses are wide and modern, housing numerous food and beverage outlets catering to diverse tastes. You’ll find everything from traditional matchday pies to gourmet options, ensuring you’re well-fueled for the game.
The stadium also features the Arsenal Store, offering a vast array of merchandise for fans of all ages. For a deeper dive into the club’s illustrious history, consider an official stadium tour, which provides exclusive access to the dressing rooms, players’ tunnel, and pitchside.
Exploring the Area Around Emirates Stadium
The vibrant Holloway area surrounding Emirates Stadium comes alive on matchdays. Before or after the game, you’ll find plenty to do within easy walking distance:
- Local Pubs: Experience traditional English pub culture. There are numerous establishments nearby, perfect for pre-match drinks, a hearty meal, or simply soaking in the atmosphere.
- High Street Buzz: Stroll along the bustling high street, observing the local life and exploring independent shops and eateries.
- Transport Links: The stadium boasts excellent public transport connections. Arsenal (Piccadilly Line) and Drayton Park (Great Northern Rail) stations are just a short walk away, while Holloway Road (Piccadilly Line) and Highbury & Islington (Victoria Line & Overground) are also easily accessible. Numerous bus routes also serve the area, making your journey seamless.
Why “Emirates”? The Naming Rights Story
The stadium proudly bears the name “Emirates Stadium” thanks to a landmark sponsorship deal with Emirates Airline. This partnership began in 2004, prior to the stadium’s opening, and saw the airline acquire the naming rights for 15 years, along with shirt sponsorship. This original agreement was later extended in 2012 and again in 2018, solidifying Emirates’ long-term association with Arsenal until at least 2028.
While the original proposed name for the new ground was “Ashburton Grove,” after its location, the significant financial investment from Emirates was crucial in funding the stadium’s construction. This type of commercial naming rights deal is common in modern football, providing vital revenue for clubs to invest in their facilities and playing squad.
Emirates Stadium FAQs
Where is Emirates Stadium located?
Emirates Stadium is situated in Holloway, a district within the London Borough of Islington, North London. Its postcode is N7 7AJ, making it easy to locate via GPS or public transport.
Is Wembley Stadium an Emirates Stadium?
No, Wembley Stadium is not called Emirates Stadium. Wembley is England’s national stadium, famous for hosting major cup finals, international matches, and large-scale concerts. Emirates Stadium is the specific home ground of Arsenal Football Club.
Why is Arsenal’s stadium called Emirates?
Arsenal’s stadium is called Emirates Stadium due to a major sponsorship agreement with Emirates Airline. The airline paid a substantial sum for the naming rights, which was integral to financing the stadium’s construction and ongoing development.
Where is Arsenal FC located in London?
Arsenal Football Club is headquartered at Emirates Stadium in Holloway, North London. This area has been the club’s spiritual home for over a century, tracing its roots back to the nearby Highbury stadium.
Where is Chelsea Football Club’s stadium?
Chelsea FC’s home ground, Stamford Bridge, is located in Fulham, West London. This highlights the geographical spread of top-tier football clubs across the capital.
Which is the biggest stadium in the UK and London?
The biggest stadium in both the UK and London is Wembley Stadium. It boasts a seating capacity of 90,000 spectators and is renowned for hosting national and international sporting events, as well as major concerts.
Which are considered the most beautiful stadiums in England?
Beauty is subjective, but many football enthusiasts often cite iconic grounds like Anfield (Liverpool FC) and Old Trafford (Manchester United) for their historic charm and unique atmospheres. Modern marvels like the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium also receive accolades for their innovative design and fan experience.
