Emirates Stadium: A Complete Guide

History of Emirates Stadium

Emirates Stadium, known as the Emirates, stands as the hallowed home of Arsenal Football Club and an iconic London sporting venue. The history of Emirates Stadium came about from Arsenal's necessity for a modern, larger stadium and its determination to stay competitive in English and European football.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the club recognised the limitations of its outdated and compact Highbury stadium, spurring the need for a more substantial and modern home. Planning and construction of the new stadium commenced in 2004 on a brownfield site near Highbury. Designed by architectural firm HOK Sport (now Populous), Emirates Stadium was completed in July 2006, sporting an innovative "bowl" structure, a capacity exceeding 60,000 seats, contemporary hospitality suites, and eco-friendly features like rainwater harvesting and solar panels.

The old site of Highbury now contains housing developments and sits just a few hundred metres from Emirates Stadium.

The stadium's inauguration marked a pivotal moment in Arsenal's history, with Emirates Stadium offering a new era of success both on and off the pitch. Arsenal achieved consistent UEFA Champions League qualifications and triumphs in domestic cup competitions. It stood as a symbol of the club's unwavering commitment to excellence and ambition. The loyal Arsenal fan base embraced their new home.

Over the years, Emirates Stadium has hosted not only exhilarating football matches but also international games, concerts, and diverse events, engraving its significance in London's sporting and cultural landscape.

Emirates seating plan

North Bank Stand: Located behind the northern goal, this stand houses some of Arsenal's most passionate supporters. It's known for its energetic atmosphere.

East Stand: This is the largest stand at Emirates Stadium, offering an expansive view of the pitch. It includes hospitality suites and VIP seating.

West Stand: Often called the "Bank of Friendship" Stand, it's the opposite side of the East Stand and provides great views of the game. It also houses the Directors' Box and press areas.

Clock End Stand: Situated behind the southern goal, this stand has its own unique character and is favoured by many fans. Away fans are allocated a section here.

Lower and Upper Tiers: Emirates Stadium has both lower and upper tiers in each of the four stands. The lower tiers are closer to the pitch, while the upper tiers provide a higher vantage point and a broader perspective of the game. The two tiers are separated by Club Level which hosts hospitality guests.

Hospitality Seating: Emirates Stadium offers various hospitality packages that include exclusive seating and access to premium lounges. Seating is either based at Club Level or as part of individual executive boxes. Club Level seats are located in the East and West Stands and offer premium facilities, including lounges, bars, and fine dining options. They provide an enhanced matchday experience.

Pubs near Emirates Stadium

There's no shortage of pubs in North London (or London generally), so this list could be much longer. We've also written a full article on this exact topic, here you can find our complete list of best pubs near Arsenal.

• The Tollington Arms: Located just a short walk from the stadium, The Tollington Arms is a classic football pub and a favorite among Arsenal supporters. It offers a great selection of beers and a lively matchday atmosphere.
  
  
• The Twelve Pins: Situated near Finsbury Park Station, The Twelve Pins is known for its large screens, making it an excellent spot to catch live games. It's often bustling with football fans before and after matches.
  
  
• The Gunners Pub: This traditional pub is conveniently located close to the stadium. It provides a welcoming environment, an array of beverages, and matchday excitement.
  
  
• The Drayton Park: Found right across from Emirates Stadium, The Drayton Park offers a convenient location for pre-match drinks. Its proximity to the ground makes it a popular choice for fans.
  
  
• The Alwyne Castle: A bit further from the stadium, The Alwyne Castle is a gastropub with a cozy atmosphere, ideal for a more relaxed matchday experience. It's also known for its food.
  
  
• The Faltering Fullback: Although not immediately next to the stadium, The Faltering Fullback is a short bus or tube ride away, and it's one of the best pubs in the area so well worth the trip! It's a quirky and popular pub, with a spacious garden and a vibrant atmosphere.
  
  
• The Auld Triangle: Located near Finsbury Park, The Auld Triangle is an Irish pub known for its friendly staff and a selection of drinks. It's a good choice for both Arsenal and away supporters.
  

Hotels near Emirates Stadium

• Hilton London Angel Islington (££): A popular chain, this upscale hotel is located in the trendy Islington neighbourhood and offers modern rooms, on-site dining, and a fitness centre. It's within walking distance of Emirates Stadium and well-connected to public transport.
  
  
• Premier Inn London City, Aldgate (££): Situated in the Aldgate area, as with any Premier Inn, the room is fairly affordable, clean and comfortable. There's an on-site restaurant, and easy access to the London Underground for reaching Emirates Stadium.
  
  
• The Montcalm Royal London House - City of London (£££): A stylish luxury hotel in the City of London, it offers chic rooms, a rooftop bar, and spa facilities. While it's a bit further from Emirates Stadium, it's well-connected to public transport.
  
  
• Travelodge London Central City Road (£): This budget-friendly option is a short distance from the stadium. It provides simple, clean rooms and is well-suited for travellers seeking affordability and convenience.
  
  
• The Z Hotel Shoreditch (££): A trendy and compact hotel in the vibrant Shoreditch district, it's known for its stylish rooms and prime location for exploring the local nightlife and culture.

Emirates Stadium tours

At an Emirates Stadium tour you'll have the opportunity to explore the home and away dressing rooms, sit in the dugouts, and walk through the player's tunnel onto the pitch, just as the teams do on matchdays. Tours also include a visit to the press conference room and access to the Arsenal Museum, where you can delve into the club's rich history and see historical artefacts.

For some tours, you may also have access to The Diamond Club, one of Emirates Stadium's luxury hospitality suites, providing an exclusive perspective of the stadium. The experience often concludes at the Arsenal Superstore, where you can purchase club merchandise and souvenirs.

Emirates Stadium occasionally offers special themed tours, such as legends tours featuring former players, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Some tours may even provide a taste of what it's like on a matchday at the stadium.

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