West Ham United FC London (Olympic) Stadium Tour

If you’re a football enthusiast visiting London, a tour of the London Stadium—home to West Ham United—definitely deserves a spot on your itinerary. This private experience offers a behind-the-scenes glance at one of London’s most iconic venues, blending the history of the Olympics with the energy of Premier League football. While the price might seem steep at over $670 for a group of 15, many find the personalized nature and exclusive access well worth the cost.

What we particularly love about this tour is the personalized attention it offers—no large crowds or generic guides here. Plus, the chance to explore areas most fans never get to see, like the changing rooms and the pitch, adds a layer of authenticity you won’t find in bigger group tours. That said, a potential drawback is the non-refundable policy, so planning ahead is essential if you’re set on visiting. This experience is best suited for dedicated football fans, sports history buffs, or anyone wanting a special peek into London’s Olympic legacy combined with West Ham’s storied history.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Offers personalized attention, making it feel special and tailored.
• Flexible Options: Four different tour types and transfer choices suit various preferences.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: See the locker rooms, pitch, and more—most fans rarely get this chance.
• Olympic & Football Fusion: Discover how the Olympic stadium has been transformed into a football hub.
• Photo Opportunities: Capture memories at the West Ham home ground, with iconic views and moments.
• Cost & Duration: Around 4 hours for $674, with transportation included but tickets not covered.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting at London Stadium

Your journey begins inside the London Stadium, formerly built for the 2012 Olympics. As you step into this sprawling venue, you’ll immediately notice its impressive architecture and versatile layout. Originally designed as a track-and-field arena, it was transformed afterward into a football stadium primarily serving West Ham United. The stadium’s history as an Olympic site, combined with its modern refurbishments, provides a fascinating backdrop for your visit.

Behind-the-Scenes Access

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the chance to go behind the curtain. You’ll visit areas most fans only see on TV—like the changing rooms, the players’ tunnel, and the pitch itself. Several reviewers have highlighted how special it is to stand on the pitch when it’s empty, taking in the vastness of the stadium from the field level. One reviewer mentioned sitting in the manager’s chair, which was a ‘goo’ moment for any football lover.

Learning the Stadium’s Evolution

Your guide will likely share insights into how this stadium transitioned from hosting Olympic events—such as athletics, opening, and closing ceremonies—to becoming a thriving football venue. It’s intriguing to see how the space has been adapted for different purposes, including concerts and other sports, making it a true multi-purpose site.

West Ham and Olympic Legacy

While most of the tour focuses on West Ham, you’ll also hear about the Olympics’ legacy and the stadium’s role in London’s sporting scene. Reviewers appreciated the detailed explanations about the venue’s history, along with anecdotes about the Olympic athletes and events hosted here.

Additional Highlights

Some tours include glimpses into the baseball facilities and other sports that use the stadium. One reviewer called the tour “a great mix” covering West Ham, Olympics, and baseball, which adds more value, especially for those interested in London’s diverse sporting landscape.

Photo Opportunities & Souvenirs

Most guests enjoyed snapping photos of key areas—such as the stands, the pitch, and the locker rooms. Many reviewers appreciated holding Olympic medals or seeing memorabilia, making the experience more tangible.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour includes private transportation, which means you won’t need to worry about navigating public transit or waiting around for group departures. The group is limited to up to 15 people, ensuring plenty of space to ask questions and get close to the action. The tour lasts roughly four hours, giving enough time for a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.

Pricing & Value

At $674.23 for a group of up to 15, the cost might seem high, but considering the exclusivity and private nature, many find it worthwhile. The price covers your transportation and personalized guide but does not include the stadium entry tickets—which you’ll need to purchase separately. One review pointed out that the tour offered good value, especially when guided by knowledgeable hosts who are often football fans themselves.

Reviews & Authentic Feedback

The reviews are generally positive, with a 4.2 out of 5 rating based on 22 feedbacks. Several reviewers praised their guides—many of whom are passionate fans or former players. For example, one review highlighted a tour guide named Graham, who made the experience “extra special” with his knowledge and enthusiasm. Others appreciated the opportunity to hold Olympic medals or see the stadium during quiet moments, which is not possible during match days.

However, some critics pointed out the shorter-than-expected duration (a typical 90-minute tour being advertised as longer). One disappointed visitor felt the tour lacked enough content and described it as feeling “robbed,” especially when expecting more extensive access. On top of that, booking issues—like fixture rescheduling—were mentioned as frustrating; it’s important to note that the tour itself is non-refundable.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Authentic Behind-the-Scenes Access: More than just a walk around the stadium, this tour lets you step into the locker rooms, sit in the managers’ seats, and walk the pitch when it’s empty—experiences that really resonate with football fans.

Knowledgeable Guides with Passion: Several reviews applaud the guides—like Simon and Mustafa—who are well-informed and enthusiastic, adding depth with their stories about West Ham, the Olympics, and the stadium’s evolution.

Versatile Experience: The tour combines the Olympic legacy with football history, making it appealing for those interested in sports architecture, London’s Olympic history, and the Premier League. The possibility of seeing different sports facilities also adds a unique touch.

Spectacular Views & Photo Opportunities: From the stands, you’ll get striking views of the pitch and cityscape. Guests have enjoyed holding medals, and some even got to sit in the commentator booths or in the players’ changing rooms.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for dedicated football fans who want a private, intimate look at a major stadium. It’s also great for those interested in Olympic history and how a venue can be repurposed over time. Because of the personalized attention and detailed access, it offers more than a typical stadium walk—perfect for travelers seeking a memorable, authentic experience.

If you’re traveling with kids or sports enthusiasts who love photo ops and memorabilia, this tour might be an especially good fit. Just keep in mind the non-refundable policy and plan your visit accordingly.

The Sum Up

The West Ham United FC London (Olympic) Stadium Tour combines an impressive venue with insightful storytelling, making it a worthwhile experience for fans of football and Olympic sports alike. The private aspect, knowledgeable guides, and behind-the-scenes access offer a level of intimacy and authenticity that larger tours often lack.

While the price tag may seem steep, many visitors feel it reflects the exclusivity and personalized service they receive. The tour’s focus on the stadium’s transformation from Olympic venue to football hub adds an educational layer that enriches the visit. It’s particularly ideal for fans who want a deeper connection to the stadium and its history—without the crowds typical of match days.

If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic stadium experience with expert guides and plenty of photo opportunities, this tour could be a highlight of your London trip. Just remember to book early, prepare for the non-refundable policy, and enjoy your private peek into one of London’s most iconic sporting landmarks.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation is included, making it easy to get to and from the stadium without hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore key areas and ask questions.

Are tickets to the stadium included?
No, the tour price does not include stadium entry tickets, which you will need to purchase separately.

Can I customize or choose a specific tour option?
Yes, you can select from four different tour types and transfer options to suit your preferences.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for kids who are interested in sports and stadiums. Always check with the provider if you have young children.

What is the cancellation policy?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Once booked, plans need to be final, so make sure your schedule is set before booking.

In essence, this tour offers a rare glimpse into London’s Olympic and football history with a private, tailored experience. It’s perfect for fans eager to go beyond the usual and see the stadium from a truly insider perspective.