The O2 is one of London’s hottest and most popular destinations. Under its spectacular roof, you can eat, drink, attend concerts, go shopping, and more.
Better still, it’s in an easily accessible part of London. Making it an ideal day out for both Londoners and visitors. Find out what to expect on a visit and how to get to the O2 Arena by train.
Why visit the O2 Arena?
The O2 started life as ‘The Millennium Dome’. Opened in the year 2000, it was the flagship of Britain’s millennial celebrations.
In 2007, the centre reinvented itself as the O2, launching with a concert by American rock band Bon Jovi. Since then, it has welcomed 60 million visitors to the Greenwich Peninsula and become one of the busiest entertainment venues in the United Kingdom.
Host to the world’s biggest stars
The O2 has attracted major stars as diverse as the Spice Girls and Led Zeppelin. One of the main destinations for artists on global or UK tours, it has a capacity of up to 20,000 people.
There’s more to the O2 than just music concerts, though. It’s where some of the world’s top comedians do stand-up, with Peter Kay being the first to have a monthly residency. Sporting events such as boxing, basketball and darts matches are all held here too.
As well as the big stage, there’s the smaller O2 Indigo space in the arena. With room for up to 2,750 people and four bars, it has hosted stars like Sarah Millican, Basketmouth, and Luther Vandross.
A fantastic day (and night) out
There’s also plenty to do during the day at the O2.
There’s an outlet shopping centre offering up to 70% off big brands like Nike, Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger. Plus, visitors who spend more than £35 get four hours of free parking.
You won’t be short of refreshments with 44 bars and restaurants to choose from. Pop into Wetherspoon, The Observatory, or the Cocktail Bar for a quick drink.
High-street names like ASK Italian, Five Guys and Gordon Ramsey Street Burger are available. Or, for an upmarket experience, be sure to try out the Lanson Champagne Bar.
There’s a cinema, indoor skydiving, virtual reality experience and bowling alley here too. For those with a head for heights, try climbing onto the centre’s famous roof for an amazing view of London.
Where is the O2 Arena?
The O2 Arena is in the North Greenwich area of London on the south side of the River Thames. Its address is Peninsula Square, London SE10 0DX.
The arena is open from 10 am until 11 pm. On event nights, performances finish at 11 p.m. from Monday to Saturday and 10:30 pm on Sundays.
What's the nearest train station to the O2?
The nearest train station to the O2 London is Charlton, a 40-minute walk away. If you’re getting the Tube, the nearest station to the O2 is North Greenwich which is a three-minute walk away.
Directions to the O2 Arena by train
To get to the O2 Arena from Charlton train station, take these directions:
● Walk north on Charlton Church Lane until it becomes Anchor and Hope Lane
● Turn left onto Bugsby’s Way for around half a mile
● Take a right onto Peartree Way
● Take another right when you see Pilot’s Busway
● At John Harrison Way, take a right. Then a quick left onto East Parkside
● In around 300 feet, cross the road and go up Phoenix Avenue
● In another 300 feet, turn left on Peninsula Square
To reach the arena from North Greenwich tube station, follow these directions:
● Walk around 300 feet east on Peninsula Square
● Talk a left when you see Manna Eating and you’re 300 feet away from the O2
Where do trains to the O2 Arena run from?
To get to Charlton station, you can catch direct trains from London Cannon Street, Gravesend, Luton and Rainham. Trains serving the South East of London and Kent also stop at Charlton station.
Trains from Cannon Street run every five to 10 minutes. There are services every 60 minutes from Gravesend, Luton and Rainham during peak hours.
Getting to the O2: FAQ
Start your day or night out right with a relaxed train journey to the O2 arena.
What train station goes to the O2?
The closest train station to the O2 is Charlton train station. It’s around a 40-minute walk from the station to the O2.
Which tube station is closest to the O2?
The nearest tube station to the O2 is the North Greenwich underground. When you leave the station, walk east on Peninsula Square for about 300 feet before turning left. The O2 is another 300 feet away from there.
What is the best tube station to park at for O2?
There is a car park at North Greenwich underground station. There are 509 spaces available here and it’s around three minutes’ walk from the O2.
There are also four car parks at the O2 arena itself. It’s best to book in advance to secure your space.
Which buses go to the O2 Arena?
You can get to the O2 via the following bus routes: 108, 129, 132, 161, 188, 422, 472 and 486. Get off at the bus stop in front of North Greenwich tube station. This is about a three-minute walk away.
How else can I get to the O2 Arena?
You can catch the cloud cable car and enjoy great views of the River Thames. Get on at the IFS Royal Docks and disembark at the IFS Greenwich Peninsula stop.
The service departs every 30 seconds, so there’s no need to plan your journey in advance. Each car carries up to 10 people.
You could also consider getting to the O2 by the River Bus boat service. Catch the boat at London City Bridge Pier and get to North Greenwich Pier in about 35 minutes. It’s a 10-minute walk from the pier to the O2.
There is a DLR station called Cutty Sark for Maritime Greenwich. This is a 46-minute walk from the arena.
Travel to O2 Arena by train with Avanti
It’s 50 metres high with a circumference of one kilometre. It’s got two performance venues, shops, bars and restaurants. A mini-city within the capital city, start a great day and night out at the O2 by leaving the car behind and getting the train.
Book your train tickets early to save money or buy a Railcard to get the biggest discount on your fares.
