Attending a concert at The O2 Arena—often referred to simply as “the Globe” due to its unique dome-like structure—is a bucket-list experience for many music fans. With its iconic architecture, stellar acoustics, and world-class performances, The O2 attracts top artists and enthusiastic crowds from around the globe. But one question consistently echoes through fan forums and social media groups: Can you take your own drinks to the Globe? Whether you’re budget-conscious, health-aware, or just prefer your favorite beverage, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about bringing drinks into The O2 Arena, including policies, alternatives, and insider tips to ensure you have a smart, stress-free experience.
Understanding The O2 Arena: Why It’s Called the Globe
Before diving into drink policies, it’s worth clarifying a common misunderstanding. While The O2 Arena in London is often casually referred to as “the Globe,” it’s not to be confused with the historic Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on the South Bank. The O2 got its nickname thanks to its striking spherical design, which resembles a giant globe when illuminated at night—especially during concerts and special events.
The O2, located on the Greenwich Peninsula, is one of Europe’s most prominent entertainment venues. With a capacity of up to 20,000 for concerts, it hosts A-list performers ranging from pop icons to rock legends. Whether you’re attending a Beyoncé concert, a Harry Styles tour, or an Ed Sheeran residency, the experience is unforgettable—but it doesn’t come cheap, and refreshments are no exception.
The Official Drinks Policy at The O2 Arena
When it comes to bringing your own drinks into The O2 Arena, the answer is straightforward: No, guests are not permitted to bring their own alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages into the venue. This policy is strictly enforced for several reasons, including safety, revenue considerations, and contractual agreements with beverage sponsors.
Security and Bag Checks
As you approach The O2 on event days, you’ll encounter a thorough security screening process. All bags are subject to inspection, and security personnel are trained to detect prohibited items, including outside drinks.
Even seemingly harmless items—such as plastic water bottles, coffee thermoses, or juice boxes—are not allowed inside. The only exceptions are items related to medical needs or baby formula, which can be brought in with proper documentation and will still be inspected.
What Happens If You Try to Sneak Drinks In?
Attempting to bypass the rules can lead to immediate consequences. Security staff routinely confiscate outside drinks, and in some cases, repeated or egregious attempts (such as concealing alcohol) may result in denied entry or ejection from the venue. There are no gray areas—outside drinks are prohibited.
Exceptions to the Rule
While the general rule is strict, there are a few specific circumstances under which drinks may be permitted:
- Medical Necessities: Guests requiring specific beverages for health conditions (such as diabetes or dehydration) may be allowed to bring drinks after providing a doctor’s note or medical proof.
- Infant Care: Baby bottles, formula, and specialized milk substitutes are allowed for parents attending with young children.
- Accessibility Accommodations: Registered disabled guests or carers may request special accommodations through The O2’s Access Team in advance.
In all cases, declare the item at the security checkpoint and be prepared for inspection.
Why Doesn’t The O2 Allow Outside Drinks?
Understanding the reasoning behind the policy can help attendees accept it more graciously. Several factors contribute to the decision:
Venue Revenue and Sponsorship Agreements
Concession sales are a vital part of event venue revenue. The O2 partners with major beverage brands (including Coca-Cola, Heineken, and official sponsors of specific tours) to offer drinks inside the arena. These agreements often stipulate exclusivity, making the sale of outside drinks incompatible with contractual obligations.
Health, Safety, and Crowd Control
Unregulated beverages pose various risks:
- Contamination Risks: Unchecked liquids could be tampered with or include substances that endanger public health.
- Safety Hazards: Glass bottles or cans can become projectiles in crowded, high-energy environments.
- Theft and Waste: Unattended drink containers increase litter and strain on staff, impacting the overall guest experience.
Consistency with Industry Standards
The O2 is not unique in banning outside drinks. Most major concert venues and sports stadiums—including Wembley Arena, the Emirates Stadium, and international arenas like Madison Square Garden—have similar policies. This consistency ensures venue operators can manage crowds, maintain hygiene, and enforce safety protocols uniformly.
What Drinks Are Available Inside The O2 Arena?
Knowing what beverage options are available inside can help guests plan accordingly. The O2 offers a wide selection of drinks throughout its bars and kiosks.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Guests can purchase bottled water, soft drinks, energy drinks, fruit juices, and hot beverages like coffee and tea. Prices typically range as follows:
| Drink | Size | Average Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|
| Still Water | 500ml | £3.50 |
| Sparkling Water | 500ml | £4.00 |
| Coca-Cola | Can | £4.50 |
| Energy Drink | Can | £5.00 |
| Hot Coffee | Medium | £4.80 |
These markups may seem steep, but many guests find them reasonable for the convenience and immediacy of access during events.
Alcoholic Beverages
For those looking to enjoy a drink with the show, The O2 offers:
- Beer and lager (e.g., Heineken, Tennent’s) – £7–£9 per pint
- Wine (white, red, rose) – £8–£11 per glass
- Cocktails – £10–£14 per serving
- Champagne – £12 and up per flute
- Cider and spirits also available
Prices can vary based on artist sponsors or special events (e.g., premium bars during award shows).
Smart Tips for Managing Drink Costs and Needs
While you can’t bring your own drinks inside, there are still ways to enjoy your beverage preferences sensibly and economically.
Plan Ahead: Hydrate Before You Arrive
A smart move is to hydrate well before entering the arena. Since water is not free at The O2, arriving properly hydrated reduces your need to buy overpriced bottles in the venue. Consider drinking a large glass of water or a sports drink before your journey.
Use Refillable Containers—But Not Inside
Although refillable water bottles are not allowed in the arena, you *can* carry an empty bottle and fill it at public water fountains before you enter. Note: As of 2023, The O2 has installed more hydration stations around the exterior concourse, but these are outside security zones. Therefore, once you’re inside, there are no public water refill points.
Look for Pre-Event Promotions or Packages
Some concerts offer VIP or premium packages that include free drinks or bar credits. For example:
- Meet & Greet Tickets: Often come with complimentary beverages and access to private lounges.
- All-Inclusive VIP Upgrades: Include unlimited soft drinks or alcoholic beverages for a set period.
- Season Ticket Holders or O2 Priority Members: Occasionally receive discounts on food and drink.
Check the ticket vendor site (e.g., Ticketmaster, AXS) for add-on options when purchasing.
Pro Tip: Arrive Early for Happy Hour-Like Deals
While The O2 doesn’t officially run “happy hours,” early arrivals (1–2 hours before doors open) may find bars less crowded and quicker service. Some guests report special offers promoted by staff during test runs or soft openings before major concerts, though these are not guaranteed.
Alternatives Outside the Arena
If you’re not willing to pay arena prices, consider these alternative strategies:
Visit Nearby Bars and Restaurants
The O2 isn’t just an arena—it’s part of a massive entertainment complex that includes restaurants, cinemas, and indoor arenas. Just steps from the main concert hall, you’ll find:
- Food and Drink Outlets: Strada, Wagamama, Gourmet Burger Kitchen, and more offer pre-concert meals and drinks at more reasonable prices.
- Bars and Lounges: The Brooklyn Bowl and O2 Forum have full-service bars open before events.
Enjoy a cocktail or non-alcoholic drink before heading into the main security zone. Just note: once you go through screening, you won’t be allowed to re-enter the complex to fetch more drinks.
Host a Pre-Show Gathering
Many fans make a night of it by meeting friends at a nearby pub or hosting a picnic at the Thames Path overlooking The O2. You can toast your favorite artist with your preferred drink before queuing, then head in refreshed and ready.
Just ensure you don’t bring opened containers or attempt to re-enter with drinks later.
Public Perception and Fan Feedback
The O2’s drink policy has sparked debate across social media platforms. While some fans understand the necessity, others express frustration.
Common Criticisms
- High Prices: Many feel that £4.50 for a can of Coke is excessive, especially for family groups.
- Limited Free Options: Unlike some stadiums that offer free water, The O2 doesn’t provide complimentary hydration.
- Inconsistency with Festivals: Outdoor music festivals often allow sealed water bottles, making indoor venues seem unnecessarily restrictive.
Support for the Policy
On the flip side, many attendees appreciate:
- Efficient Service: With centralized vendors, drinks are distributed quickly.
- Hygiene and Safety: Regulated supplies reduce contamination and litter.
- No Crowding: Allowing outside drinks could slow down security screening and create chaos at entry points.
Overall, fan sentiment reflects a balance between frustration and recognition of operational necessity.
Beverage Policies at Other Major UK Venues
To put The O2’s policy into perspective, let’s compare it with other major UK entertainment venues.
| Venue | Outside Drinks Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The O2 Arena | No | Strict ban on all outside beverages. |
| Wembley Arena | No | Similar security and beverage rules. |
| Etihad Stadium (Manchester City) | No (alcohol) | Non-alcoholic drinks allowed in sealed plastic. |
| Twickenham Stadium | Limited | Only small sealed water bottles; no alcohol. |
| Hyde Park Concerts (BST) | Yes (limited) | One sealed water bottle per person allowed. |
As the table shows, **indoor arenas in the UK tend to have stricter controls** than outdoor events. The O2’s stance aligns with modern venue safety standards.
Can You Bring Your Own Drinks to Other Areas of The O2 Complex?
An important distinction: The O2 Arena is just one part of The O2 complex. Other sections operate under different rules.
The O2 Cineworld
Cinemas typically don’t allow outside food or drinks, but enforcement varies. While it’s not recommended, some guests report sneaking in small snacks or water bottles for movies.
Indigo at The O2
This smaller performance space, hosting gigs and live events, follows the same strict rules as the main arena.
The O2’s Rooftop and Public Spaces
Outside the secured concert areas—such as the circular walkway or viewing platforms—guests may consume drinks bought from on-site vendors. However, bringing your own still violates general complex policies.
Final Verdict: Should You Bother Trying to Bring Drinks?
To answer the original question directly: No, you cannot bring your own drinks to The O2 Arena—and it’s not worth attempting. Security is vigilant, the rules are well established, and the risks outweigh any potential savings.
Instead, adopt a strategic approach:
- Hydrate well before arrival
- Buy drinks at concession stands efficiently—arrive early or use intermissions wisely
- Explore VIP packages with inclusions
- Enjoy pre-show drinks at nearby venues
Conclusion: Enjoy the Experience, Not the Binge
The O2 Arena is designed to deliver an exceptional concert experience—and part of that includes controlled access to food and beverages. While the cost of drinks may feel steep, they are part of the infrastructure that makes large-scale events safe, enjoyable, and logistically seamless.
By understanding the rules and planning ahead, you can manage your expectations and still enjoy your favorite artist without unnecessary stress. Focus on the music, the atmosphere, and the shared excitement of being part of a live performance in one of the world’s most iconic venues.
So, can you take your own drinks to the Globe? The simple answer is no—but with a little preparation, you won’t need to. Your concert experience at The O2 will be unforgettable, thirst included.
Can I bring my own drinks to concerts at the Globe?
Generally, outside drinks are not permitted inside the Globe for concerts and events. The venue enforces a strict policy prohibiting outside beverages, including alcohol, to maintain safety, support on-site concessions, and streamline entry procedures. This rule applies to both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, regardless of whether they are sealed or unopened. Exceptions may be made for medical or dietary needs, such as bringing water for health reasons, but this typically requires prior approval and may be subject to inspection upon arrival.
Guests are encouraged to take advantage of the Globe’s wide selection of drinks available for purchase inside the venue. Concession stands and bars throughout the facility offer various options, including bottled water, soft drinks, beer, wine, and cocktails. Prices may be higher than retail, but the convenience and variety help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. It’s best to check the official Globe website or contact customer service ahead of time if you have specific concerns about beverage access or restrictions due to medical conditions.
Why does the Globe have a no outside drinks policy?
The no outside drinks policy at the Globe is in place for several important reasons. First, it helps maintain a safe and controlled environment by reducing the risk of unauthorized alcohol consumption and ensuring that all beverages meet health and safety standards. Additionally, this policy supports the venue’s operational model, as food and beverage sales are a significant part of event revenue, helping to fund staffing, maintenance, and overall production quality for concerts and shows.
From a crowd management perspective, prohibiting outside drinks speeds up the security screening process. Having fewer items to inspect allows for quicker entry and reduces congestion at gates. It also minimizes litter and ensures consistent service standards, as all drinks served inside are handled by trained staff. This policy is standard across most major concert venues and aligns with industry best practices aimed at providing a better, more secure experience for all attendees.
Are there any exceptions to the drink policy at the Globe?
Yes, limited exceptions exist for individuals with medical or specific dietary needs. For instance, guests who require access to water due to health conditions like diabetes or dehydration may be permitted to bring unflavored bottled water into the venue. These exceptions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and often require coordination with the Globe’s guest services team in advance. Empty reusable water bottles are frequently allowed and can be filled at water stations inside the venue.
Infants and young children may also be allowed to bring in formula, breast milk, or juice in sealed containers, especially if attending a family-friendly event. These items usually undergo inspection at entry points to ensure compliance with safety regulations. It’s strongly recommended to contact the Globe’s customer support or review accessibility services on their official website prior to your visit to confirm what accommodations are available and to be prepared with appropriate documentation if necessary.
What types of drinks are available for purchase at the Globe?
The Globe offers a full range of beverage options for concertgoers at various price points. Patrons can purchase non-alcoholic drinks including bottled water, soda, sports drinks, and energy drinks from concession stands throughout the venue. These are strategically placed for convenience, often located near seating areas, entrances, and restrooms. Water is typically available at a lower cost, and some events may even offer complimentary water refills at hydration stations.
For those of legal drinking age, the Globe provides a selection of alcoholic beverages such as domestic and craft beers, wines, and spirits. Specialty cocktails and premium options are often available at main bar areas. Drink prices reflect those common to large entertainment venues, with typical markups due to operational costs. Consider arriving early to beat long lines, or look into VIP packages that may include drink vouchers or expedited service for a more seamless experience.
Can I bring an empty water bottle into the Globe and fill it there?
In most cases, yes—empty reusable water bottles are allowed inside the Globe and can be refilled at designated water stations. This policy supports sustainability efforts and encourages hydration without violating the ban on outside beverages. Bottles must be empty upon entry and are typically limited to plastic or metal containers under a certain size, usually 32 ounces or less. Glass containers or insulated bottles with wide mouths may be subject to additional scrutiny or prohibited for safety reasons.
Water refill stations are often located near restrooms, concourses, and entrance areas throughout the venue. These stations are maintained regularly to ensure cleanliness and functionality during events. Bringing an empty bottle not only helps you stay hydrated during longer concerts but also reduces plastic waste and supports eco-friendly practices. Always confirm the current policy by checking the Globe’s official website before your visit, as guidelines may vary slightly depending on the event or security protocols in place.
What happens if I try to bring a drink into the Globe?
If you attempt to bring a drink into the Globe, it will likely be confiscated at the security checkpoint. Patrons are screened upon entry, and any outside beverages in bags, containers, or backpacks will be identified and denied access. Security personnel are trained to enforce the policy consistently, and there is typically no option to store or return to your vehicle to discard the item. Attempting to sneak in drinks can also result in delays, denied entry, or in rare cases, loss of ticket privileges.
To avoid inconvenience, it’s best to leave all drinks at home or in your vehicle before arriving at the venue. If you’re traveling from a distance, consider hydrating or having refreshments before entering the concert grounds. Remember, the Globe provides ample beverage options on-site, and the goal of the policy is to ensure safety and a positive experience for everyone. Planning ahead and following the rules will help ensure a smooth entry and enjoyable concert experience.
Do VIP or premium tickets allow outside drinks at the Globe?
No, VIP or premium ticket packages at the Globe do not grant exceptions to the outside drinks policy. Even guests with access to exclusive lounges, private bars, or enhanced seating areas must abide by the same rules prohibiting outside beverages. These premium experiences often include complimentary or discounted drink vouchers, private service, and exclusive access to upscale bars, which is part of the added value of the ticket tier.
Instead of allowing outside drinks, VIP packages are designed to elevate the guest experience through convenience and quality service. Benefits may include reduced wait times for drinks, premium selections, and personalized hospitality. If you have specific beverage needs—especially for medical reasons—it’s advisable to communicate with the venue’s guest services when booking a VIP package to explore any available accommodations. Overall, the policy ensures fairness and safety across all ticket levels while enhancing on-site offerings for premium guests.