Wembley Stadium in London is one of the most iconic concert venues in the world, hosting some of the biggest music acts on the planet. With a capacity of 90,000, deciding where to sit to get the best experience can be a daunting task. This article will provide a quick overview of the pros and cons of different areas in Wembley Stadium for a concert, considering factors like view, sound, atmosphere and price. We’ll also offer some tips on getting the best value seats. Read on to find out the optimal places to see your favorite artist at this legendary venue.
Quick Overview of Wembley Stadium Layout
Wembley Stadium has a rectangular design and is surrounded by curved rows of seating on all sides. The pitch sits below ground level so the views are excellent no matter where you sit. The seats are arranged in tiers ascending up from the pitch. The lower tiers are closer to the stage and more expensive, while the upper tiers are farther back and cheaper.
The stage is typically set up at one end of the stadium, either the east or west end. The seats behind the stage tend to be the cheapest since you’ll be viewing the performer from behind. The best views are from the north and south stands facing the stage directly, as well as from the lower east/west stands at the sides.
North and South Stands
The north and south stands face the stage directly, so these areas offer some of the most coveted seats. The views are straight on, putting you right in front of the action. The lower tiers get you closest to the stage for a more immersive experience.
Pros:
- Direct, close-up views of the stage and performers
- Lower tiers are within 100 feet of the stage
- Feel the energy and scale of the show
- Near catwalks if performers get close to the crowd
Cons:
- Most expensive seats in the stadium
- Can still feel far back on upper tiers
- Sound quality varies if you are off to the side
East and West Stands
The east and west stands are located on the sides flanking the stage, offering a view from an angle. The lower tiers are closest to the action while the upper tiers are farther back.
Pros:
- See the stage from the side for a unique perspective
- Lower tiers still have excellent views
- Cheaper pricing than north/south stands
Cons:
- View is from an angle rather than head-on
- Stage may be blocked if performers stand too far to one side
- Upper tiers can be very far back
Behind the Stage
The seats behind the stage tend to be the most affordable in the stadium. While you won’t see the front of the performers, you can still enjoy a concert from behind the scenes.
Pros:
- Cheapest seats in the stadium
- Unique behind-the-scenes views
- May see performers enter/exit from backstage
Cons:
- View blocked of performer’s faces and the main stage
- Light shows facing the wrong way
- Far from the action and energy
Tip for Finding the Best Value Seats
If you want close seats at the best price, target the rear side sections of the lower tiers on the east and west stands. You can be within 150 feet of the stage at a fraction of the cost of the floor or front lower sections. For low budget seats, go for the upper tiers behind the stage. Compare views using Wembley’s virtual seat viewer tool online for your concert date and find the optimal balance of price and proximity.
Premium Hospitality Seats
If budget is no concern, Wembley Stadium offers luxury hospitality packages with amenities like:
- Club Wembley seats in private enclosed areas
- VIP parking, entrance, and lounges
- All-inclusive gourmet catering
- Open bar service
- Event hosts
These premium hospitality areas provide an exclusive concert experience in stylish, comfortable surroundings. However, they come at a huge cost.
Accessibility Seating
Wembley Stadium provides dedicated wheelchair and accessible seating areas:
- North Stand Lower Tier AA 1-14
- East Stand Lower Tier S 1-30
- West Stand Lower Tier S 1-30
- South Stand Lower Tier S 1-30
These are some of the best viewing areas in the lower bowls of the stadium, with direct sightlines to the stage. Companion seats are available adjacent as well. Contact Wembley’s disability liaison team well in advance to reserve accessible seats.
Where is the Best Sound?
Sound quality varies throughout the massive stadium but is generally best in the lower bowl nearer to the stage. Areas directly facing the main PA speakers, like the lower tiers of the north and south stands, will have clearer audio with less echo. The further back and higher up you go, the more the sound reverberates. Bring earplugs in case booming bass and loud volumes cause discomfort.
Atmosphere and Crowd Energy
The excited crowd energy is highest on the floor and in the lower tiers up close by the action. Here you’ll be surrounded by the most enthusiastic singing and dancing fans. The atmosphere diminishes slightly the farther back you go but can still be lively even in the nosebleeds if it’s a particularly hyped show. East and west stands also have better atmospheres than behind the stage.
Weather Considerations
Wembley Stadium has an open roof, leaving you exposed to potential rain or cold. The stage and the covered lower tiers do get some shelter, but upper levels are open air. Check forecasts and bundle up if needed, as English weather can be temperamental. You’ll get the full outdoor concert experience but should plan accordingly. The show will go on rain or shine!
Conclusion
While there are no definitively “bad” seats at Wembley Stadium, some areas provide a superior concert viewing and listening experience. To summarize the key highlights:
- The lower tiers of the north and south stands offer a prime, close-up perspective right in front of the performer.
- The east and west stands give you side views from an angle, but lower tiers are still excellent.
- Don’t rule out upper tiers on the sides – they can provide the best value seats with a balcony perspective.
- For budget options, seats behind the stage are farthest but cheapest.
- Check the interactive seat views when buying tickets to preview your sightlines.
- Lower levels nearer the action provide better sound quality and crowd energy.
With massive sold-out shows, any seat at Wembley will give you a special concert experience. But armed with these tips, you can narrow down the optimal spots to suit your preferences and budget. Sit back and enjoy the show knowing you chose a prime vantage point in this iconic stadium.
Section | Pros | Cons |
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North and South Stands Lower Tiers |
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East and West Stands Lower Tiers |
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Behind Stage Seating |
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Getting to the Stadium
Wembley Stadium is easily accessed by public transportation. The closest tube station is Wembley Park on the Metropolitan and Jubilee lines. Wembley Central Station offers rail connections. Bus routes run frequently on event days. Driving and parking is not recommended due to congestion. Allow plenty of time when traveling to a concert at Wembley.
Food and Drink
Food and drink inside Wembley Stadium is expensive, but there are ample choices. Options include beer, wine, spirits, soft drinks, burgers, pizza, fish and chips, nachos, candy, ice cream and more. Take advantage of early entry times to beat the queues at intermission. There are also restaurants and bars outside the venue if you want to eat before or after.
Security and Bag Policy
Wembley Stadium has strict security and bag policies. Bags larger than A4 size are prohibited. Be prepared for searches upon entry. Leave ample time to get through security lines before the show starts. Know the list of restricted and prohibited items that cannot be brought into the venue.
Booking Tickets
There are a few options for purchasing concert tickets at Wembley Stadium:
- Directly through the Wembley Stadium website and box office
- Official artist or promoter presales and general sales
- Reputable authorized ticket resale marketplaces
Always buy from trusted official sources to ensure valid event tickets. Check for presale options to get early access before sell-outs. Join fan clubs and follow social media for presale codes.
Concerts Coming Up at Wembley
Some major headliners scheduled to perform at Wembley Stadium in the coming months:
Date | Artist |
---|---|
June 1 | Ed Sheeran |
July 15 | Coldplay |
August 5 | Lady Gaga |
August 30 | Red Hot Chili Peppers |
This is just a sampling of the A-list musical acts you can catch in concert under the lights at iconic Wembley Stadium this year.
The Bottom Line
Wembley Stadium provides an unbeatable live music experience with its massive capacity, enthusiastic crowds, and world-class performers. While any seat lets you be part of the action, some zones are certainly preferable over others. Focus on lower tiers in the north, south, east or west stands to get closest to the stage and the best overall viewing, sound and atmosphere. With smart ticket buying and advance planning, you’ll be rewarded with a concert experience you’ll never forget at London’s legendary Wembley Stadium.