Every fan knows that unbeatable high when your team scores, or those lingering goosebumps when your favourite band performs that one song. Big events are exciting, and if you’re thinking about heading to one in your wheelchair, here are some things to consider before you go.
Large venues across the UK are generally great at being accessible. They’re always improving with frequent renovations and accessibility upgrades.
If you’re thinking about buying tickets to a big show and heading there in your Motability Scheme vehicle, you can check the accessibility of a venue first, to see if it suits you.
We’ll also show you what to expect at some of the top accessible music and sports venues across the UK. If you prepare well, it can make a real difference to your big day out.
How big venues are putting accessibility first
Venues know how important accessibility is. That’s why there are plenty of accessible music venues around the UK.
When you’re heading to an event, there are a few basic things everyone in a wheelchair needs and should reasonably expect:
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Step-free access, including lifts and ramps
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Accessible seating areas that are raised or sectioned off
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A clear view, on a raised platform or pitch side, with no one standing in front
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Accessible toilets that are only for disabled people
There are only so many accessible spaces at each venue. And you’re usually only allowed to bring one person with you. This means each pair of accessible tickets tend to go like hot cakes.
Once you’ve booked, the venue will ask to see proof of your disability. Alexandra Palace, for example, gives you seven days to send proof. This is to make sure people never take advantage of these unique tickets.
Here’s how to get accessible tickets at the three biggest concert venues in the UK:
Co-op Live, Manchester
At Manchester’s biggest venue, choose ‘All ticket types’ first, then highlight ‘Wheelchair access’. Make sure you choose where your companion will sit when you book, because you cannot add them later. After you’re done, you’ll need to register for the Ticketmaster Access Scheme.
The Co-op Live arena is the UK’s largest indoor arena, having opened in Manchester in 2024 (image credit: Shutterstock)
OVO Hydro, Glasgow
Scotland’s biggest concert venue has made buying accessible tickets possible both online and over the phone. They also have a number you can call if you need to ask about having more than one carer or companion with you.
The O2 Arena, London
At London’s dome, sign up for a Nimbus Disability ID first. Once you’ve activated your Access Card, you can freely hunt for tickets on the AXS Accessible Tickets site. It’s one extra step, but it means you will not need to contact anyone or carry proof of your disability with you.
SSE Arena, Belfast
You’ll find some of the biggest names in music and entertainment at Belfast’s SSE Arena, one of the city’s leading venues. Since opening in 2000, it has hosted global stars including Cher, Kylie Minogue, The Stone Roses and Rod Stewart. It is also home to the Belfast Giants, the city’s ice hockey team, bringing live sport into the heart of the arena.
Accessibility is built into the experience. The venue offers accessible viewing platforms, low-level counters at the Box Office, and lift access to every floor, helping more people enjoy events comfortably and confidently.
Driving to a match in your Scheme car or Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV)? Once you’re parked, it’s time to head inside and find your accessible seats.
If you’re new to accessible seating, there’s normally a space for your wheelchair and an empty seat next to you for your companion.
The venues choose these seating areas wisely to make sure you can see the entertainment. They’re often close to accessible facilities, so you never need to go far.
Here’s what accessibility looks like at four of the biggest UK sporting stadiums:
Principality Stadium
Designed with independence in mind, Cardiff’s rugby stadium has both an accessibility page and an FAQ you can explore. One highlight is they offer free earpieces and referee link mics for fans who are visually impaired. You need an Access Card symbol on your account first.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Tottenham’s state-of-the-art stadium was designed to be truly inclusive, with over 250 wheelchair accessible bays and 66 accessible toilets. They have a whole section of their site dedicated to accessibility, with five separate guides.
Emirates Stadium
The Gunners’ Emirates Stadium has a great access guide. It covers everything from their nine accessible lifts to the 23 viewing areas for wheelchair users. That’s a lot of seating for disabled fans. Pictures in the guide will help you see what to expect.
Emirates Stadium is home to Arsenal Football Club and has welcomed artists like Coldplay for live performances (image credit: Shutterstock)
Edgbaston Stadium
Birmingham’s cricket stadium says everyone is welcome and that they want to give every fan a positive experience. That have a clear and simple accessibility page. And they even offer a free ticket for wheelchair user assistants, for all domestic and international games.
Aviva Stadium
If you are heading to Dublin for a match, Aviva Stadium is one of Ireland’s best-known sporting venues. It hosts Republic of Ireland football internationals and major rugby fixtures, including Six Nations games and European finals.
The stadium was designed with accessibility in mind. There are wheelchair spaces on every level, step-free routes throughout the ground and accessible toilets across all tiers. Accessible tickets can be booked directly through the official Aviva Stadium website, which explains how to request wheelchair spaces and companion tickets. You can also find match ticket details through the Football Association of Ireland and the Irish Rugby website.
Getting to and from the venue
Your Scheme vehicle is a great way to get to an event, as most big venues have ample accessible parking. If you have a petrol or diesel car, make sure you have enough fuel to get there and back. Or enough charge if you’re driving an EV.
If you’re using public transport instead, most venues, like the Royal Albert Hall, tell you exactly which lines have stations close by. Have a backup plan in case the lines go down.
On the day, arrive early to get ahead of the crowds and allow yourself time to find your way around. While you’re enjoying the event, be mindful of where the exits are, just to stay safe.
Get to know your route well and make sure you’re comfortable with accessibility along the way. If you’re getting a lift, venues like London Stadium have accessible drop-off areas to make things easier for you.
Once it’s all over, wait around a little after the final whistle or encore to let the crowds quieten down.
When you arrive, you should be able to clearly see where to go next, or there should be a steward to ask. A great venue has trained staff who can help you find accessible areas.
If you’re craving a halftime snack or beer, queues are always a little crazy. Some venues have quiet, sensory spaces, if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Wembley Stadium, for example, has two sensory rooms, each with space for two wheelchair users and 12 people.
It’s reasonable to expect that you’ll be able to reach food and drink counters from your wheelchair. Look up the venue’s services before you go. You’ll likely be able to tell how low the counters are from pictures fans, or the venue, have posted online.
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If something’s not covered in their guide, give the venue a call.
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Become confident about navigating the venue comfortably.
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Grab those accessible tickets as soon as they go live.
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Plan how you’ll use your Scheme vehicle to get there, if you’re taking it.
Charities like Attitude is Everything are also there to connect disabled people with live events, in case you need a little extra help.
Your Scheme vehicle is there to help you get to the events you love. It’s great to have your car or WAV waiting for you when it’s all over. And it’s a good way to skirt any tube troubles.
If you have a scooter or powered wheelchair, you’ll always be allowed to take it in. Venues are legally obliged to allow these under the Equality Act 2010.
Some planning, combined with accessible venues, means your day out can be just as independent and enjoyable as anyone’s. The Scheme is there to help you stay mobile and confident every time you’re out and about.
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