How to Visit Emirates Stadium Tour

Emirates Stadium, located in Holloway, North London, is more than just the home of Arsenal Football Club—it’s a monument to football heritage, architectural innovation, and fan passion. Since its opening in 2006, the stadium has welcomed millions of visitors from across the globe, each eager to step onto the hallowed turf, explore the locker rooms, and soak in the electric atmosphere that defines one of England’s most storied clubs. A guided tour of Emirates Stadium offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of a world-class football institution, making it a must-do experience for football enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and families alike.

Whether you’re a lifelong supporter of the Gunners or a curious traveler seeking a unique London attraction, understanding how to plan and execute a seamless Emirates Stadium Tour enhances your experience significantly. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of everything you need to know—from booking tickets and navigating the venue to maximizing your visit with insider tips and real-world examples. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have all the knowledge required to turn your Emirates Stadium visit into an unforgettable journey through football history.

Step-by-Step Guide

Planning your Emirates Stadium Tour doesn’t require advanced logistics, but attention to detail ensures a smooth and enriching experience. Follow these seven essential steps to guarantee a successful visit.

Step 1: Determine Your Visit Date and Time

Before booking, check the Arsenal FC match schedule. Stadium tours are typically unavailable on match days, during pre-match preparations, and on days when the stadium hosts major events such as concerts or international fixtures. Tours generally run daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry at 4:00 PM. However, hours may vary during holidays or special events, so always verify the official website for the most current schedule.

Weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded than weekends. If you prefer a quieter experience with more opportunity to ask questions, aim for midweek. Morning slots often provide better lighting for photography and fewer groups ahead of you in the tour queue.

Step 2: Book Your Tickets Online

The only guaranteed way to secure your spot is through the official Emirates Stadium Tour booking platform. Visit arsenal.com/tours and select your preferred date and time. Avoid third-party resellers—they often charge inflated prices and may not offer the same access or customer support.

There are several ticket types available:

• Standard Tour – Includes access to the players’ tunnel, dressing rooms, press room, pitchside, and the Arsenal Museum.
• Family Ticket – Designed for groups with children under 16; includes a complimentary souvenir.
• Group Booking (10+ people) – Offers discounted rates and priority entry; requires advance coordination.
• Multi-Experience Pass – Combines the stadium tour with a visit to the Arsenal Museum and a digital photo opportunity.

Payment is processed securely via credit or debit card. You’ll receive an e-ticket via email immediately after booking. Print it or have it ready on your mobile device for scanning at the entrance.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation

Emirates Stadium is well-connected by public transport, making a car unnecessary and often inconvenient due to limited parking. Here are the most efficient options:

• Tube (London Underground): Take the Piccadilly Line to Arsenal Station (formerly Gillespie Road). The station is a direct 3-minute walk from the stadium entrance. Look for the iconic red and white signage.
• Bus Routes: Buses 143, 153, 259, 253, and 393 stop within a 5–10 minute walk. Check Transport for London’s journey planner for real-time updates.
• Cycling: Secure bike racks are available outside the stadium. Sustrans Cycle Route 1 runs nearby.
• Taxi or Ride-Sharing: Drop-off points are clearly marked on the stadium’s northern perimeter. Avoid parking in residential streets—strict enforcement is in place.

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time to allow for security screening and ticket scanning.

Step 4: Arrive at the Stadium and Check In

Enter through the main tour entrance located on the stadium’s north side, near the Emirates Air Line cable car stop. Look for the large, white sign reading “Stadium Tours Entrance.” Do not attempt to enter through matchday gates—these are restricted to ticket holders on event days.

At the entrance, present your e-ticket on your smartphone or printed copy. Staff will scan your ticket and provide a numbered audio guide device (if included in your package) and a complimentary tour map. Security checks are minimal but include bag inspections and metal detectors. Avoid bringing large backpacks or prohibited items such as alcohol, glass containers, or professional filming equipment without prior authorization.

Step 5: Begin Your Guided Tour

Guided tours last approximately 75 minutes and are led by knowledgeable, passionate staff—many of whom are lifelong Arsenal fans. The tour is narrated through a multilingual audio system, with live guides available in English. The route includes:

• The North Stand Entrance: Walk through the same tunnel as the players before kickoff.
• The Home and Away Locker Rooms: See the actual changing rooms where players prepare for matches. Spot the personalized lockers, including those of legends like Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp.
• The Players’ Tunnel: Stand where the team emerges onto the pitch. The tunnel walls are lined with historical photos and club mottos.
• The Pitchside: Step onto the actual playing surface. A photo opportunity is available here with a digital screen showing your face superimposed on the pitch.
• The Press Conference Room: Where managers like Arsène Wenger and Mikel Arteta have addressed the media after tense matches.
• The Directors’ Box: Enjoy panoramic views of the entire stadium from the premium seating area.
• The Arsenal Museum: Located within the stadium complex, this award-winning exhibit features over 1,000 artifacts, including the 1971 and 1998 FA Cup trophies, vintage kits, and interactive multimedia displays.

At the end of the tour, you’ll have time to browse the official Arsenal Store, which offers exclusive merchandise not available elsewhere.

Step 6: Explore the Arsenal Museum

While the stadium tour is included in your ticket, the Arsenal Museum is a separate but complementary experience. Open to all visitors, the museum is a chronological journey through the club’s 130+ year history. Highlights include:

• The 1930s “Wembley Wizards” team that won five consecutive FA Cups.
• Thierry Henry’s 2003–04 “Invincibles” jersey and the match ball from the final game of the unbeaten season.
• Interactive touchscreens where you can compare player stats across generations.
• A virtual reality experience that lets you “play” a match from the perspective of a 1930s forward.

Don’t miss the “Wall of Fame,” which honors every player to have made 100 or more appearances for the club. Many fans spend over an hour here—consider allocating extra time if you’re a serious enthusiast.

Step 7: Visit the Arsenal Store and Depart

The stadium’s official retail outlet is one of the largest football merchandise stores in the UK. It stocks everything from replica kits and scarves to collectible figurines, books, and limited-edition memorabilia. Many items are exclusive to the stadium store, including tour-specific souvenirs like engraved keychains and signed photos.

Before leaving, consider downloading the Arsenal FC app. It offers digital collectibles, exclusive content, and real-time updates on future tour availability. Exit through the main concourse, and if you have time, take a final photo outside the iconic “Go Gunners” mural on the stadium’s exterior wall.

Best Practices

Maximizing your Emirates Stadium Tour isn’t just about following the route—it’s about engaging with the experience thoughtfully. Here are proven best practices to elevate your visit.

Book Early, Especially During Peak Seasons

Tours sell out weeks in advance during school holidays, summer months, and around major events like the FA Cup Final or Champions League matches. If you’re traveling from abroad, book your tour at least six weeks ahead. Even during off-peak times, availability can be limited on weekends.

Dress for Comfort and Weather

The tour involves walking on hard surfaces for over an hour. Wear supportive footwear. London weather is unpredictable—carry a light waterproof jacket even if the forecast looks clear. Indoor areas are climate-controlled, but the pitchside section can be chilly in winter.

Bring a Fully Charged Smartphone

Your ticket will be scanned digitally. The museum features QR codes linking to extended video content. Bring a portable charger if you plan to take extensive photos. Note that tripods and professional cameras require prior approval.

Engage with Your Guide

Don’t hesitate to ask questions. Guides are trained to share anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, and historical context not found in brochures. Many have worked at the stadium for over a decade and can offer unique insights into player routines, matchday rituals, and club culture.

Time Your Visit Around Non-Match Days

Avoid visiting on days when Arsenal is playing at home or hosting a major event. The stadium operates under strict security protocols on match days, and tour access may be restricted or canceled with little notice.

Consider a Guided Tour with a Former Player

Occasionally, the club offers “Legend Tours,” where former Arsenal stars such as Tony Adams, Robert Pires, or Ian Wright lead private group sessions. These are rare and expensive but offer unparalleled depth. Check the official website monthly for announcements.

Bring Children’s Entertainment

While the tour is family-friendly, younger children may lose interest during longer segments. Bring a small toy or book for quiet moments. The museum has a dedicated children’s zone with puzzles and football-themed games.

Respect the Space

This is a working sports facility. Do not touch display cases, sit on benches marked “Staff Only,” or attempt to enter restricted areas. Photography is allowed in most zones, but flash is prohibited in the locker rooms and museum galleries to preserve artifacts.

Save Your Receipt and E-Ticket

You may need your ticket for future reference, especially if you plan to return for a special event or anniversary visit. Keep your email confirmation and receipt for at least 30 days.

Tools and Resources

Planning a visit to Emirates Stadium is easier with the right digital tools and official resources. Here’s a curated list of the most valuable tools to ensure a seamless experience.

Official Arsenal FC Website

arsenal.com/tours is the primary source for tour availability, pricing, terms, and updates. It also features a live calendar showing which days tours are running, canceled, or modified due to events.

Transport for London (TfL) Journey Planner

Use the TfL app or website to plan your route with real-time updates on tube delays, bus arrivals, and service disruptions. The app allows you to save favorite destinations like “Emirates Stadium” for quick access.

Google Maps with Street View

Before your visit, use Google Maps to explore the stadium’s exterior and surrounding area. The Street View function lets you virtually walk from Arsenal Tube Station to the tour entrance, helping reduce orientation stress on arrival.

Arsenal FC App

Download the official Arsenal app for iOS or Android. It includes a digital tour map, push notifications for tour changes, exclusive behind-the-scenes videos, and a photo gallery of past tours. Members can also access member-only content, such as interviews with current players.

YouTube Official Arsenal Channel

Watch the “Inside Emirates Stadium” video series on YouTube. These 10–15 minute documentaries cover the construction of the stadium, the design of the pitch, and interviews with staff. They’re excellent prep material before your visit.

TripAdvisor and Trustpilot Reviews

Read recent visitor reviews to gauge crowd levels, guide quality, and any recent changes in tour content. Look for reviews posted within the last 30 days for the most accurate insights.

Language Translation Apps

While tours are primarily in English, the audio guides support Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, and Arabic. If you’re non-native English speaker, use Google Translate or DeepL to review key phrases beforehand. The app can also translate on-screen museum text in real time using your phone’s camera.

Weather Apps

Use AccuWeather or the Met Office app to monitor conditions in North London. Rain or wind can affect outdoor portions of the tour. Pack accordingly.

QR Code Scanners

Some museum exhibits feature QR codes linking to extended interviews or historical footage. Install a free QR scanner app (like QR Code Reader by Scan) to quickly access this content without needing to type URLs.

Real Examples

Real-world examples illustrate how different visitors have successfully navigated their Emirates Stadium Tour experience. These stories highlight common challenges and how they were overcome.

Example 1: The International Family Visit

Emma and David, from Melbourne, Australia, planned a 10-day UK trip centered around football. They booked their Emirates Stadium Tour two months in advance, selecting a Tuesday morning slot to avoid weekend crowds. They used the TfL app to map their route from their hotel in Zone 2 to Arsenal Station, arriving 45 minutes early.

They purchased the Family Ticket, which included a free kids’ activity pack with a quiz sheet and stickers. Their 8-year-old daughter loved the VR experience in the museum and was thrilled to see the “Invincibles” trophy. They spent an extra 40 minutes in the store, buying matching replica shirts for the whole family. Emma later posted a photo of their tour group outside the tunnel on Instagram with the hashtag

ArsenalTourLife, which was shared by the club’s official account.

Example 2: The Solo Football Historian

James, a 62-year-old retired teacher from Birmingham, visited the stadium alone after reading about the 1971 Double-winning team. He booked a standard tour and chose a late afternoon slot to avoid the lunchtime rush. He asked his guide detailed questions about the club’s early years and was given a printed booklet on the history of the club’s kit evolution.

He spent two hours in the museum, photographing every exhibit and taking notes. He later wrote a detailed blog post comparing the museum’s current layout to its 2012 version, which was featured on a popular football history forum. James said, “I’ve visited 17 Premier League stadiums, but this was the only one where I felt the soul of the club.”

Example 3: The Corporate Group Tour

A London-based marketing agency booked a group tour for 15 employees as a team-building event. They contacted the stadium’s group booking team three weeks ahead and requested a private tour with a dedicated guide. The group arrived at 10:00 AM and received a complimentary coffee and pastry upon arrival.

The guide tailored the commentary to include corporate parallels—comparing team chemistry to workplace dynamics, and the stadium’s design to brand consistency. The group later used the photos from the pitchside photo booth in their internal newsletter. The agency booked a repeat tour the following year.

Example 4: The Last-Minute Visitor

Lucas, a student from New York, had a free afternoon during a study abroad program. He checked the website at 2:00 PM and found two spots available for a 3:00 PM tour. He booked instantly, took the Piccadilly Line, and arrived with five minutes to spare. He didn’t know much about Arsenal but left with a newfound appreciation for the club’s global fanbase.

He later said, “I thought it would be a glorified museum. I didn’t expect to stand where Henry scored his 200th goal. That moment made the whole trip worth it.”

FAQs

Can I bring a camera on the Emirates Stadium Tour?

Yes, personal cameras and smartphones are permitted for non-commercial use. Flash photography is not allowed in the locker rooms or museum to protect artifacts. Professional equipment such as tripods, drones, or external microphones requires prior written permission from the club’s media team.

Are tours accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, Emirates Stadium is fully wheelchair accessible. Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are available throughout the tour route. Audio guides include hearing-impaired transcripts, and tactile maps are available upon request. Contact the tour team in advance to arrange any specific accommodations.

Is the tour suitable for young children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and recommended for children aged 5 and above. Children under 5 may enter free of charge but must be accompanied by an adult. The museum includes interactive exhibits designed for younger visitors.

How long does the Emirates Stadium Tour last?

The standard guided tour lasts approximately 75 minutes. Additional time should be allocated for the Arsenal Museum (30–90 minutes) and shopping (15–45 minutes).

Can I upgrade my ticket on the day of the tour?

Upgrades are subject to availability and can only be processed at the tour desk before entry. It’s recommended to select your desired package during the initial booking to ensure access and pricing.

What happens if I’m late for my tour?

Tours begin promptly at the scheduled time. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, entry may be denied, and no refunds or rescheduling will be offered. Plan your journey with buffer time.

Is food and drink allowed on the tour?

No food or beverages (except bottled water) are permitted inside the tour route or museum. There are several cafes and kiosks located just outside the tour exit where you can purchase refreshments.

Do I need to print my ticket?

No. A digital ticket displayed on your smartphone is sufficient. Ensure your screen brightness is high enough for quick scanning.

Are there restrooms available during the tour?

Yes, accessible restrooms are located at the start and end of the tour route. No restroom access is available during the guided portion of the tour.

Can I visit the stadium without taking the tour?

Yes, you can visit the Arsenal Museum and store independently without booking a tour. However, access to the players’ tunnel, locker rooms, and pitchside is exclusive to tour ticket holders.

Conclusion

Visiting Emirates Stadium is more than a tourist activity—it’s a pilgrimage for football lovers and a celebration of modern sports culture. From the hushed reverence of the players’ tunnel to the vibrant energy of the Arsenal Museum, every moment of the tour connects you to a legacy that spans over a century. By following this detailed guide, you’re not just learning how to visit—you’re learning how to experience the heart of one of the world’s most iconic football clubs.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fan returning for another glimpse of the pitch, the key to a remarkable tour lies in preparation, presence, and passion. Book early, arrive with curiosity, and let the stories of the game come alive around you. The Emirates Stadium doesn’t just house a football team—it houses dreams, history, and the unwavering spirit of a global community.

So lace up your shoes, charge your phone, and head to North London. The tunnel awaits—and so does the next chapter of your football story.