Here are nine stadium experiences which take groups behind-the-scenes, pitchside and even on to the roof.
1. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
Visitors can go behind-the-scenes at the world-class Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on a self-guided visit which gives exclusive access to first team areas. Gain an insight into how the players prepare on a match day and follow their journey by walking out of the first team changing rooms, through the tunnel and into the dugouts. The multimedia device includes information about Spurs’ history from club legends, as well as never-heard-before interviews with players past and present.
For those feeling extra brave, you can combine a tour with the Dare Skywalk or The Edge experiences. Both take visitors up to the roof of the stadium with unrivalled views across north London and the pitch below. Adrenaline junkies who want to go one step further can abseil down the outside of the building when selecting The Edge option!
2. Wembley Stadium, London
If you truly want to experience the facilities that Sarina Wiegman and her England team had access to when they triumphed over Germany in the Women’s Euro 22 final, then Wembley Stadium is a must. There’s no denying Wembley’s importance around the world in football, with visitors able to go pitch side where legends of the game have graced the field, climb the 107 steps to the Royal Box and even see the very crossbar that Sir Geoff Hurst hit in the 1966 World Cup final.
3. St James’ Park, Newcastle
Home to Newcastle United, groups can book private tours of the iconic St James’ Park stadium where Alan Shearer scored many of his 260 Premier League goals – the highest of all time. Groups can take a seat in the Media Suite to see how the manager deals with questions after a match and travel to one of the highest points of the stadium to see the city’s iconic skyline.
4. Old Trafford, Greater Manchester
Combine a tour of Manchester United’s historic stadium with a visit to the site’s museum to gain a deeper perspective of the club and some of the heroes that have put on the famous red jersey over the years. Groups can get a picture taken from the Ability Platform and make the most of the experience by adding a meal at the Red Café to their itinerary.
5. Emirates Stadium, London
Arrive at the red half of north London and get an idea of how Arsenal as a club work behind the scenes. Journey through each section of the route which takes in the likes of the media rooms, Diamond Club and players’ entrance with optional commentary from past players such as Lee Dixon, Charlie George and Nigel Mitchell on hand-held devices. These special devices also include an interactive shirt and tour camera, with discounts available for 15 or more people.
6. Etihad Stadium, Greater Manchester
When would you ever get the chance to interview Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola? By using the latest technology, visits to the Etihad Stadium offer this opportunity with exhibition spaces and holographic content to create a truly exciting day out. You will see how players prepare for a match in the warm-up area, watch the story of Manchester City unfold in a 360-degree cinema suite and discover what the home dressing room is like in an audio-visual show.
7. Stamford Bridge, London
A tour of Chelsea’s stadium begins with the opportunity to view exclusive match-worn items from the men’s first team, before a tour guide will lead you through the rest of the VIP route. Each visit includes a 30-minute visual presentation of the history of the club, detailing the journey from a small London club to European champions, winning every domestic trophy available. A souvenir lanyard is also given out as part of the experience.
8. London Stadium
This stadium not only resonates with West Ham fans, becoming the club’s permanent home in 2016, but also with the rest of the UK as the venue which saw Team GB win multiple gold medals at the London 2012 Olympics. Tours of the London Stadium include all the usual aspects of a sporting venue tour, including the dressing rooms and the chance to grab a snap in the dugout. Be sure to take your time and appreciate the size of the stadium too as it’s one of the largest in London.
9. Anfield, Merseyside
Enjoy epic views of the pitch and city landscape from the top level of the Main Stand, before experiencing the home of Liverpool football club like never before. You will pass underneath the iconic sign Anfield sign in the tunnel and take a photo with The Premier League or UEFA Champions Leage trophy. Each ticket includes entry to the club’s interactive museum The Liverpool FC Story, the six European cups and The Boom Room: The Epic Story of Jurgen Klopp’s Dream Team.
This exhibition pays homage to the players and all who contributed to making this dream a reality. Showcasing memorabilia and the personalities as well as world class footballing talent, it gives a unique exploration into the DNA of this historic Liverpool team.
