O2 Arena Bag Policy, Lockers & Cloakroom Info

The O2 Arena in London is a large, modern entertainment venue with a famous white dome on the Greenwich Peninsula. It was first built as the Millennium Dome and later changed into this busy arena. The main arena can hold up to 20,000 people. It hosts big-name concerts, major sports events like ATP tennis and NBA games, comedy shows, and large corporate events. If this is your first visit, knowing the size of the venue and its rules will help you have a smooth time. Before you leave home, check what you can and cannot bring. Planning for an O2 Arena storage point for any items that do not meet the rules is a smart move.

The O2 is not just an arena. It is an entertainment area where you can spend a whole day. Around the arena you will find Entertainment Avenue, a busy street with more than 25 bars and restaurants. These places cover every taste, from quick snacks to sit-down meals. If you like shopping, Icon Outlet has over 60 brands offering outlet prices. There is also a Cineworld multiplex, the interactive Mamma Mia! The Party experience, and the Oxygen Freejumping trampoline park. For thrill-seekers, you can try ‘Up at The O2,’ a guided climb across the dome roof that gives 360-degree views of London. With this mix of activities, a visit to The O2 can be more than just a show; it can be a full day out.

O2 Arena Bag Policy

Getting into The O2 is easy if you understand the arena’s bag rules. This is one of the most important parts of planning your visit. The o2 arena bag policy aims to keep everyone safe and speed up entry. All bags may be searched, so bringing a compliant bag will make your arrival quicker. Staff enforce these rules closely and they rarely make exceptions on event day.

Types of Bags Allowed

You are allowed to bring one small bag per person. The size limit is strict and follows the size of A4 paper. That means the bag should be no larger than 21cm wide, 30cm high, and 20cm deep. This is about the size of a small purse, clutch, or a very small backpack. A clear plastic bag of the same size is also allowed and can speed up checks. Merchandise bags from the Icon Outlet are okay if they contain only items bought that day.

Choosing a bag that fits these rules is the best way to avoid trouble at the entrance. If you arrive with a bag that fits A4 size, you will usually get in quickly. Good tip.

Types of Bags Not Allowed

Bags larger than A4 are not allowed. This covers standard backpacks, travel bags, laptop bags, and large totes. If you use a bag for commuting, school, or a short trip, it will probably be too big. Luggage like suitcases or cabin bags are also banned. The o2 bag policy is clear about this to protect everyone in crowded areas and to keep evacuation routes clear. Large bags can slow down people and cause hazards in an emergency. If you show up with a forbidden bag, staff will not let you enter and will tell you to find off-site storage.

O2 Arena Lockers

Many guests, especially visitors from out of town, ask about on-site storage. The arena’s options are limited. The o2 arena cloakroom, when open, mainly takes coats and small bags that already meet the A4 size limit. It is not meant for large luggage or backpacks that the policy forbids. Cloakroom availability can change by event and can fill up fast on sold-out nights, so do not depend on it.

There are no public o2 lockers for big bags. The venue does not run a regular locker service for prohibited items. There is also no formal o2 bag drop for oversized luggage. Staff will guide you away from the arena to find a nearby option. Because of this, plan for your bags before you arrive at the security gate. If you show up with a large bag and hope to store it on-site, you will likely be disappointed and stressed. You might even miss the start of your event.

O2 Arena Transportation

Getting to The O2 is easy thanks to good transport links. The most direct way is by the London Underground. North Greenwich station sits right at the O2 entrance and is on the Jubilee Line. Trains run often and can take you to central London spots like London Bridge, Waterloo, and Bond Street in less than 20 minutes. The station has step-free access from platform to street. After big events the station is very busy. You might want to relax for a short time at a nearby bar or restaurant before you head home.

Buses are another good option. Multiple routes serve North Greenwich Bus Station next to the Underground. Some key routes are 108, 129, 132, 161, 188, 422, 472, and 486. The 188 bus runs 24 hours, making it useful for late-ending concerts. Taking the bus can be cheaper and gives a different view of the city. You can pay with an Oyster card or contactless card.

For a scenic trip, consider the river service. The Uber Boat by Thames Clippers runs a route that stops at North Greenwich Pier, a short walk from The O2 entrance. This offers views of London’s landmarks from the water and can feel more special than other ways to travel. Boats run from early morning until late and link to piers such as Embankment, London Bridge City, and Canary Wharf.

If you want a short, fun ride, the IFS Cloud Cable Car crosses the Thames to the Royal Docks. It gives panoramic city views and is a quick, memorable way to arrive.

O2 Arena Camera Policy

Many people want to take photos or record a show, but The O2 has rules to protect artists and the audience. You can take personal photos. Mobile phone cameras and small point-and-shoot cameras are normally fine. The venue encourages sharing your experience online. But flash photography is usually banned because it can distract or harm performers. Keep your screen dim and avoid using flash.

Professional cameras are not allowed. This includes SLR or DSLR cameras, any camera with a removable or large zoom lens, and video equipment. Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are also banned. Action cameras like GoPros are typically not allowed in the main arena. The final decision can depend on the promoter or the artist’s rules. If you are unsure about a device, it is a good idea to check the specific event page on the official O2 website for rules that might be different that night.

O2 Arena Food Policy

The O2 generally does not allow food or drink bought outside the venue. This applies for security, hygiene, and to respect the vendors who work inside. If you bring food or drink through security, it will probably be taken from you. This includes sealed water bottles, soft drinks, coffee, and snacks. You will be asked to dispose of them before you can enter.

There are reasonable exceptions for medical needs and for babies. If you need specific food or drink for a health reason, contact the venue’s accessible booking team before the event to avoid problems. You may need to show a doctor’s note or medical-need card. A fair amount of baby food or milk is allowed for infants. For everyone else, the arena and the wider O2 complex have many food and drink choices, from fast food to full meals and bars.

Other O2 Arena Rules & Information

One key rule is no re-entry. After your ticket is scanned and you go into the arena, you cannot leave and come back. This rule covers leaving to go outside, to the wider entertainment area, or to smoke. If you step out of the arena building, you will not be allowed back in. This is common at large venues for safety and crowd control. So, bring everything you will need with you and visit the restaurants or shops outside before you go through the final ticketed gates.

Age limits and ID checks are also common. Many events have age restrictions like 16+ or 18+. Staff will enforce these limits and may ask to see ID. Anyone who looks under 25 should carry a photo ID such as a passport or driver’s license. The venue follows a Challenge 25 policy, so expect to be checked if you look young. Also note that The O2 is a cashless venue. All purchases inside must use card or mobile payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay. No cash is accepted, so bring a suitable payment method.

If you smoke or vape, use the designated outdoor areas only. Smoking and electronic cigarettes are not allowed inside the building, including concourses and restrooms. You must leave the main building to smoke, but remember the no re-entry rule that could stop you from returning to your seat.

The venue also bans items that could cause harm or disturb others. This includes large signs (bigger than A3), laser pens, fireworks, and air horns. For a full list of prohibited items, check the venue’s website.

Tips for Visitors

The most important tip is to check the official O2 website on the day of your event. This guide covers the usual rules, but policies sometimes change for special tours or for requests from artists or promoters. The event page on the official O2 website will have the latest details, such as doors and show times, any support acts, and any changes to camera or bag rules for that night. This short check can save you stress and help you arrive at the right time. It’s simple but effective.

Travel light to make everything easier. Pack only the essentials: phone, wallet, keys, and your ticket. Put them in a small bag that fits the A4 limit, a pocket, or a clutch. This avoids the risk of being turned away at the gate or needing to find last-minute storage. It also helps speed you through security so you can start enjoying the event sooner. Take note.

If you cannot travel light because you are coming from work, the airport, or a day of shopping, there is a clear solution. The venue does not offer on-site storage for oversized bags, which can be a big problem. Instead, consider external storage options. Don’t let heavy luggage ruin your plans. Use Qeepl luggage storage services near The O2 Arena—this lets you book a secure place to leave your bags in a nearby shop or hotel in minutes. With affordable fees starting from £3.69 per day for a piece of luggage, you can drop off your items and enjoy your event without worry. Simply book online, leave your bag, and enjoy the show.

A few more small tips: arrive early to avoid the busiest times at North Greenwich station. If you want a relaxed exit, have a post-show meal or drink in the Entertainment Avenue and wait a little while before leaving. Keep your ID handy if you might buy alcohol. Charge your phone before you come, and bring a portable charger if you will be out a long time. And finally, treat staff with respect—security checks and rules exist to keep everyone safe.

FAQ

Are bags allowed in The O2?

Yes, but they must be small. One bag per person is allowed, provided it is no larger than an A4 sheet of paper (21cm x 30cm x 20cm). This applies to small handbags or clutches. Larger bags like backpacks are not permitted inside the arena for security and safety reasons.

Can you bring a water bottle into The O2?

No, you cannot bring your own food or drink, including sealed water bottles, into The O2 Arena. Security will confiscate these items upon entry. The only exceptions are for baby food or items needed for medical reasons, which require contacting the venue’s accessible booking team in advance.

What happens if my bag is too big for The O2?

If your bag exceeds the A4 size limit (21cm x 30cm x 20cm), you will be denied entry. The O2 does not provide on-site lockers or storage for oversized bags. You will be advised to use an external storage facility, such as Qeepl, before you can enter the venue for your event.

Do you have to bring clear bags to concerts?

No, clear bags are not mandatory at The O2. You are allowed to bring any small bag that adheres to the A4 size policy (21cm x 30cm x 20cm). However, the venue does state that using a clear bag can help expedite the security screening process when you arrive.

What time do concerts finish at The O2?

Concert finishing times are not fixed and vary for each event and artist. To get the most accurate schedule, including the expected end time for a specific show, it is essential to check the official event page on The O2 website on the day you are attending.