Food and drink at UK arenas has improved over the past decade, but it still comes with arena-level pricing and arena-level queues. Knowing what to expect, where the best options are, and how to avoid paying over the odds can make a genuine difference to your evening. Here is a venue-by-venue look at the food and drink scene at the UK's major arenas, plus some general tips that apply everywhere.
What to expect inside UK arenas
The concessions inside most UK arenas follow a similar pattern. You will find a selection of fast food options: burgers, hot dogs, pizza slices, nachos, and loaded fries. Drinks include lager (usually two or three brands), cider, wine, spirits, and soft drinks. Some venues also offer premixed cocktails in cans.
Prices are significantly higher than you would pay on the high street or in a pub. A pint typically costs between £6 and £8, and food items range from £7 to £13. Card payment is standard at all major UK arenas, and some have gone cashless entirely.
The quality is functional rather than memorable. The burgers will be hot, the nachos will be loaded with cheese, and the beer will be cold. But you are paying a premium for convenience, not cuisine.
Venue-by-venue highlights
The O2 Arena, London
The O2 has the best surrounding food options of any UK arena. The Entertainment District inside the O2 dome but outside the arena has a wide range of restaurants, including Wagamama, Nando's, Five Guys, Pizza Express, and several others. Many people eat here before the show and skip the arena concessions entirely. Inside the arena, the concessions are standard but adequate.
AO Arena, Manchester
The arena itself has standard concessions. The real advantage is Manchester's Northern Quarter, a five-minute walk away, which is one of the best independent food and drink areas in the country. Mackie Mayor food hall, on the edge of the Northern Quarter, is a popular pre-show spot with multiple street food vendors under one roof.
OVO Hydro, Glasgow
The SEC campus has limited dining options, but Finnieston, the neighbourhood along Argyle Street east of the campus, has evolved into one of Glasgow's best food areas. For a pre-show meal, it is well worth the 10 to 15-minute walk. Inside the Hydro, the concessions are standard.
First Direct Arena, Leeds
Leeds city centre is excellent for food, and the arena is right in the middle of it. The Corn Exchange, a short walk from the arena, has a good selection of independent food outlets. The arena's own concessions are fine but unremarkable.
M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool
The Albert Dock restaurants are a five-minute walk along the waterfront. The Dock has a mix of chains and independents with waterfront views. Inside the arena, standard concessions apply.
Resorts World Arena, Birmingham
The Resorts World complex attached to the NEC campus has several chain restaurants. Because the arena is out of town, these are more practical than trying to eat in Birmingham city centre before heading out to the venue. The arena's internal concessions follow the standard pattern.
Utilita Arena, Sheffield
The arena is in the Don Valley area, which has limited food options nearby. The smart move is to eat in Sheffield city centre and then take the Supertram to the arena. Inside the venue, the concessions are standard.
Utilita Arena, Newcastle
The Quayside restaurants and bars are within walking distance and are a much better option than eating inside the arena. The Newcastle city centre dining scene is also excellent and accessible on foot.
Tips for saving money on arena food and drink
- Eat before you go -- This is the single biggest money-saving tip. A meal at a restaurant near the venue will cost less and taste better than anything available inside.
- Bring a water bottle -- Most arenas allow you to bring in an empty water bottle and fill it at water fountains inside. This saves you buying overpriced soft drinks.
- Check the bag and food policy -- Some arenas allow you to bring in food. Some do not. Check the venue's website before you go. If food is allowed, a sandwich in your pocket is free.
- Avoid peak queues -- The concession stands are busiest during the interval or break between the support act and the main act. If you want food or drink, go earlier or later.
- Share portions -- Arena food portions are often large. Nachos, for example, are usually big enough for two people to share. Splitting a portion saves money and reduces waste.
The VIP and hospitality option
If budget is less of a concern, most arenas offer VIP or hospitality packages that include food and drink as part of the ticket price. These typically provide access to a private lounge, a pre-show meal, drinks, and sometimes a better view. Whether the premium is worth it depends on the specific package. Our guide to VIP and hospitality at UK arenas covers this in detail.
Dietary requirements
Arena concessions have improved their offering for vegetarians and vegans, though the range is still narrower than in restaurants. Most venues now offer at least one or two plant-based options. Gluten-free options are less consistently available. If you have specific dietary requirements, eating before the show at a restaurant where you can check ingredients is the safer option.
Alcohol policies
All major UK arenas sell alcohol, but policies on when and where you can drink vary. At some venues, alcohol is not served after a certain time. At some sporting events, alcohol is restricted or not available in the seating areas. Drink limits (typically four drinks per transaction) are common at busy events. Drinks are served in plastic containers, not glass.
For more on getting the most out of arena visits, read our guide to avoiding queues at arena events and our guide to the best seats at arena shows. Browse all our venue guides on the Tickts homepage.
