The stadium is also a regular host of the FA Cup and England national team matches. However, a tour of the stadium offers so much more than just a chance to visit a football stadium. It is an opportunity to witness the sporting world’s history, technology, and culture. Here’s what you can expect on a tour of the famous Wembley Stadium.
History
The original stadium at Wembley was built in 1923 and hosted the Olympics in 1948, the World Cup in 1966 and many memorable moments in English football history. Many of these events are celebrated on the Wembley Tour. The original stadium was demolished in 2002-2003, and the present stadium was completed in 2007.
Outside of the Stadium
As you approach the stadium, you will first notice its recognisable exterior. The towering arch looming over the stadium, looming over 130 meters tall, is unique and makes the perfect backdrop for a photograph. It’s not just for show but has an essential function in the stadium structure, as you’ll find out during the tour.
You will enter the tour and be ushered into a bar area with a collection of memorabilia. It houses items ranging from an FA Cup replica to famous footballers’ jerseys, making it a fascinating spot to soak up the rich heritage of English football. There are also NFL and rugby-related items should those sports be of interest.
Next, you will get to hold a replica of the FA Cup, considered the ultimate prize in English football. Being able to touch and lift it brings an instant sense of pride among visitors.
Inside of the Stadium
You will get your first glimpse of the pitch as you enter the stadium. It’s a breathtaking view that evokes a powerful emotion, especially for football fans. The stadium’s design ensures that there isn’t a bad seat in the house as every spectator gets a perfect view of the action. The acoustics are also good, which you’ll get to try during the tour.
As you journey through the tour, you’ll pass a corridor adorned with photos of football legends such as Pele, Maradona, Messi, Alan Shearer, and Gary Lineker. These photos provide a glimpse into the stadium’s past; every photo has a story to tell.
Press Area
The press area is an integral part of any stadium. At Wembley, visitors can witness where the players are interviewed, situated just off the pitch, giving you an insight into what goes on behind the scenes. And next time players are interviewed after a game, you can go, “Hey, I’ve been there”.
Moving on, you will enter a press auditorium where players and coaches hold press conferences. It’s another highlight of the tour, and visitors get a peek behind the curtain of a sport where the press plays a significant role. You might even get to sit behind the desk, taking the manager’s seat or one of the players.
Concert Photos
Another corridor at the stadium features pictures of famous artists who have performed concerts at Wembley, including Queen, Michael Jackson, Madonna, and The Rolling Stones. It’s a chance to appreciate the stadium’s cultural history and how it’s not just about sport.
Dressing Rooms
The dressing rooms are essential to the stadium; visitors can see them up close. It adds a personal touch to the tour and gets you up close and personal with the players’ side.
The Tunnel to the Pitch
One of the standout moments of the tour is walking through the tunnel to reach the pitch. For football players, this is where memories are forged, and the chance to walk the same path is an unforgettable experience. The royal booth is a unique feature of Wembley, and visitors get to take a peek into where the royals sit when they attend events at the stadium.
Another corridor houses images of players from various teams and signifies the vastness of the stadium’s reach. It’s an appreciation of the sport and how it transcends borders and continents.
Finally, you will end the tour at the souvenir shop. As always, the shop provides a range of items to purchase as souvenirs of your visit.
Conclusion
Wembley Stadium is the Mecca of football in England, and a tour of the stadium is an experience that one should not miss. It offers a chance to witness the history and glamour of the sport and is an ideal spot for tourists and football lovers alike. The stadium is much more than just a football stadium; it’s a place that epitomises the cultural aspects of English sports. So, if you’re in London, book a Wembley Stadium tour, as it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you will cherish forever.
