28/07/2017
London Stadium, a monumental centrepiece of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, stands as a beacon for major sporting events and world-class concerts. Since its iconic debut at the 2012 London Olympics, where it hosted unforgettable moments like Super Saturday, it has evolved into the proud home of West Ham United FC and a premier venue for British Athletics. Given its immense popularity and the sheer volume of visitors, understanding the most efficient and accessible ways to reach the stadium is paramount. For many, particularly those prioritising convenience and tailored accessibility, a taxi presents an ideal solution. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through everything you need to know about taking a taxi to London Stadium, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey from start to finish, with a particular focus on the invaluable accessibility provisions available.
Opting for a taxi to London Stadium offers a direct and often less strenuous alternative to public transport, especially for those with specific mobility requirements or large groups. The stadium's strategic location within Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park means it's well-served by London's renowned black cab network. However, a little forethought can significantly enhance your experience, particularly on event days when the surrounding areas become exceptionally busy.
For those planning their arrival, the primary point of access for black cabs is conveniently located on Montfichet Road. This rank can be found directly outside the Northern Ticket Hall of Stratford station, making it an excellent drop-off point for pre-event arrivals. Its proximity to one of London's major transport hubs ensures a steady supply of taxis, though demand will naturally surge closer to kick-off or concert start times.
When it comes to your departure, the landscape shifts slightly. Due to post-event crowd management and road closures, a temporary black cab rank is established on Pool Street. This temporary setup is crucial for facilitating efficient departures and helps manage the flow of traffic and pedestrians after a major event. Always be prepared for potential queues, as thousands of attendees will be looking for transport simultaneously. Planning your return journey in advance, even if it's just knowing the location of this temporary rank, can save considerable time and frustration.
Key Taxi Ranks and Accessible Drop-off Points
Understanding the specific locations for taxi services is vital for a hassle-free experience. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
| Location | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Montfichet Road | Pre-event drop-off/pick-up | Located outside Stratford Station's Northern Ticket Hall. |
| Stratford North Bus Station | General Black Cab Rank | Alternative pick-up point, well-connected. |
| Pool Street | Post-event Temporary Rank | Designated for departures after events; expect queues. |
For supporters with accessibility needs, a significant advantage of travelling by taxi or private car is the availability of accessible drop-off areas. These are strategically located at Westfield Stratford, specifically at the entrance of each car park. This provision allows for a much closer and more convenient drop-off than might be possible with general taxi ranks, minimising the distance to the stadium for individuals with mobility challenges. Always remember to clearly display your Blue Badge and clock if using these dedicated areas or any street parking facilities.
Understanding Event Day Road Closures
A critical factor for anyone planning to arrive or depart by taxi on an event day is the implementation of road closures around London Stadium. These measures are put in place for public safety and crowd management. Typically, roads surrounding the stadium will be closed for three hours before doors open for concerts, and three hours before kick-off for football matches. These closures usually remain in effect for approximately two hours post-final whistle or the end of a concert.
Roads commonly affected include Westfield Avenue (from International Way to Montfichet Road), Montfichet Road itself, Pool Street, Carpenters Road (from East Bank to Carpenters Arms), Sidings Street, and Marshgate Lane (adjacent to the Stadium). While these closures significantly impact direct vehicular access, it's important to note that Car parks A, B, and C at Westfield Stratford City remain open throughout. This means taxis can still access these car parks for drop-offs and pick-ups, albeit with potentially longer routes due to diversions.
It is strongly advised that all supporters and attendees plan their journey to and from London Stadium well in advance, particularly on event days, keeping these road closures in mind. Communication with your taxi driver about potential diversions and expected delays is highly recommended.
Beyond Taxis: Accessible Public Transport Options
While this guide focuses on taxi travel, it's worth noting that London Stadium is exceptionally well-connected by public transport, with significant emphasis on accessibility. For those who might combine modes of transport or choose an alternative, understanding these options provides a comprehensive view of accessible travel to the venue.
London Stadium is within one mile of several major transport hubs. Stratford and Stratford International stations serve as key gateways, offering access via the Jubilee & Central Lines, Queen Elizabeth Line, DLR, London Overground, Greater Anglia, C2C, and South Eastern services. These stations boast impressive accessibility features, including low-level ticket machines, dedicated gates for wheelchair access, induction loops, and crucial step-free access to all platforms via lifts. Accessible toilets and step-free bus stops are also standard, and assistance dogs are always welcome.
Bus services also play a vital role. Stratford North and South bus stations serve the area, and all Transport For London’s main bus routes are wheelchair accessible. The closest bus stops to the stadium are located on Carpenters Road and Wick Lane, offering convenient connections.
For those considering driving their own vehicle, especially Blue Badge Holders, London Stadium and West Ham United offer dedicated provisions. During the football season, West Ham United allocates 49 spaces for blue badge holders for each home match. Applications for these spaces can be made via email to [email protected]. The designated blue badge car park is found on the Marshgate Lane side of Bridge 3, attended by friendly stewarding teams. Additionally, street parking is available in dedicated blue badge bays or vacant residents’ bays, though local regulations should be checked via the Newham Borough Council website.
Comprehensive Venue Accessibility: What to Expect Inside
London Stadium takes immense pride in its philosophy of being a venue for all, offering a dedicated service to all guests, including football supporters and concert-goers with disabilities. This commitment extends far beyond just getting to the stadium; it encompasses a wide array of features, facilities, and services designed to support disabled customers throughout their visit.
Accessible Entrances and Seating
Upon arrival, supporters with tickets for accessible seating can use any entrance to enter London Stadium. All turnstile blocks used for football matches are equipped with disabled access doors. The main concourses are level and entirely step-free, with accessible lifts conveniently spread across all levels, ensuring seamless navigation within the venue.
For specific events and concerts, tickets may indicate a designated entry bridge. In such cases, customers with accessible needs should follow the directions on their event ticket and utilise the accessible entry lane on their specified bridge. If no bridge is specified, the accessible lane on any bridge can be used. Once on the Stadium Island, volunteers are on hand to provide mobility assistance and guide guests to their entry points.
Accessible seating is available in both the lower and upper tiers, catering to a variety of needs. This includes dedicated wheelchair and companion seats, aisle seats, step-free seating, and ambulant seats (typically fewer than seven shallow steps from the concourse or lift). Seating closest to toilet facilities is also prioritised. When booking a wheelchair and companion space, it's essential to bring your own wheelchair or mobility scooter, as a transfer seat will not be provided in these areas. It is important to note that customers with mobility scooters or wheelchairs do not have access to the pitch area or golden circle for concerts or stage events, as these areas are typically ticketed for standing admission.
During football matches, West Ham United’s accessibility teams provide support on key routes in and out of the venue. For other events and concerts, a dedicated team of volunteers offers mobility assistance at designated hubs throughout Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Specialised Facilities and Support Services
The stadium's commitment to accessibility is further demonstrated through its specialised facilities:
- Assistance Dogs:Assistance dogs are warmly welcomed at London Stadium. It is requested that all assistance dogs wear a harness or jacket clearly identifying them as a working animal. The most suitable seating area for customers with assistance dogs is on the accessible platforms, with a designated spending area conveniently located close to Bridge 4.
- Box Office Access: The West Ham United ticket office features five windows at an accessible height for wheelchair users, incorporating induction loops to support visitors using hearing aids. For concerts and other events, a lowered counter is available at a dedicated ticketing cabin.
- BSL Performance Interpreting: For D/deaf customers, BSL (British Sign Language) interpretation can be requested for some events and concerts. Requests should be made via email to [email protected], allowing the London Stadium Operations team and Event Organisers to coordinate.
- Catering Kiosks: All concourse catering units in close proximity to wheelchair-accessible seating areas have been thoughtfully designed to accommodate wheelchair users, ensuring ease of access to refreshments.
- Changing Places / Accessible Toilets: London Stadium provides unisex accessible toilets on all levels, close to wheelchair bays, which require a radar key for entry. Crucially, the stadium boasts three adult Changing Places facilities – two on the podium level and one in the Hospitality area. These facilities are significantly larger than standard accessible toilets, featuring height-adjustable changing benches, hoists, and ample room for up to two personal assistants. For access or information, stewards and event ticketing staff are readily available.
- Quiet Spaces: For customers who may feel overwhelmed by the stadium environment, Quiet Spaces are available for events and concerts. While these areas may not offer a view of the event, they provide a calm retreat. For some events, this might be a room in the mid or upper tier (available on request), while for others, a designated quiet space outside the venue (on the stadium island) might be provided, away from amplified sound and crowds. Requests for Quiet Spaces can be made by contacting [email protected].
- Pyrotechnics and Lights: Attendees concerned about special production features such as pyrotechnics, flashing, and/or strobe lights can contact the customer services team at [email protected] for specific information ahead of each event.
- Free Stadium WI-FI: The stadium offers free, fast, and stable Wi-Fi throughout the concourse and in the bowl (LSFreeWIFI), which is also Friendly Wi-Fi certified, ensuring a safe browsing experience for all.
Planning Your Visit: Essential Tips for Accessible Travel
To ensure your visit to London Stadium is as smooth and enjoyable as possible, especially when considering taxi travel and accessibility, keep these essential tips in mind:
- Plan Ahead: Always check event schedules, road closure timings, and potential public transport disruptions well in advance. This is particularly crucial for post-event departures.
- Communicate with Your Driver: If booking a private accessible taxi, inform your driver about your specific drop-off requirements, especially if you intend to use the accessible drop-off points at Westfield Stratford.
- Blue Badge Display: If utilising blue badge parking or accessible drop-off areas, ensure your blue badge and clock are clearly displayed.
- Contact the Stadium: For any specific accessibility queries not covered, or to request services like BSL interpretation or Quiet Spaces, do not hesitate to contact the London Stadium accessibility team via email at [email protected] or [email protected] as appropriate.
- Arrive Early: On event days, arriving earlier than planned can help you navigate crowds, find your bearings, and access facilities without rush.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions regarding taxi travel and accessibility for London Stadium:
Q: Where can I find a black cab to London Stadium before an event?
A: The main black cab rank for pre-event arrivals is located on Montfichet Road, just outside the Northern Ticket Hall at Stratford station. You can also find black cabs at Stratford North Bus Station.
Q: Where can I get a taxi from London Stadium after an event?
A: For your return journey, a temporary black cab rank is set up on Pool Street after events. Be aware that road closures will be in effect, and there may be queues.
Q: Are there accessible drop-off points for taxis or private vehicles?
A: Yes, accessible drop-off areas are available at Westfield Stratford, located at the entrance of each car park. These are ideal for visitors with mobility needs.
Q: How do road closures on event days affect taxi access?
A: Roads immediately surrounding the stadium are typically closed for three hours before an event and for approximately two hours after. Taxis may need to use alternative routes, and drop-offs might be limited to areas like Westfield Stratford car parks. Always plan ahead and inform your driver.
Q: What accessibility features are available at the stadium itself?
A: London Stadium offers extensive accessibility features including step-free access throughout, accessible lifts on all levels, accessible toilets (including Changing Places facilities), dedicated wheelchair and companion seating, assistance dog facilities, accessible catering kiosks, and Quiet Spaces. The West Ham United ticket office and event ticketing cabins also have accessible counters and induction loops.
Q: Can I bring my assistance dog to London Stadium?
A: Yes, assistance dogs are welcome. It is requested they wear a harness or jacket. There is a designated spending area near Bridge 4, and accessible platforms are the most suitable seating areas.
Q: How do I request BSL interpretation or a Quiet Space for an event?
A: For BSL interpretation or to request a Quiet Space, you should email [email protected]. It's best to do this in advance to allow time for arrangements to be made.
Q: Is there accessible parking for blue badge holders?
A: Yes, during West Ham United home matches, 49 blue badge spaces are allocated. You can apply by emailing [email protected]. Street parking in dedicated blue badge bays or vacant residents’ bays is also an option, but ensure your badge and clock are clearly displayed.
Q: What if I have a mobility scooter or wheelchair? Can I access all areas?
A: While the stadium offers excellent accessibility with step-free access and lifts, please note that mobility scooters and wheelchairs do not have access to the pitch area or golden circle for concerts or stage events, as these are typically standing areas.
London Stadium's commitment to accessibility ensures that every visitor, regardless of their needs, can enjoy the world-class events it hosts. By understanding the taxi services available and the comprehensive accessibility provisions, you can plan a seamless and truly inclusive experience at this magnificent venue.
If you want to read more articles similar to Taxi Travel to London Stadium: An Accessible Guide, you can visit the Transport category.