Bars and Best Spots Near the O2 Arena London

You’ve got your tickets for a concert at the O2? Brilliant! There’s nothing quite like an evening at the O2 for a brilliant night out. But between the end of the show and getting home, there’s often that nagging urge to keep the night going. A drink on a rooftop terrace, a good atmosphere, somewhere quiet to debrief the evening with your mates.

Don’t worry. The Greenwich Peninsula area has plenty of great spots, and we’ll walk you through everything you need to make the most of it.

The O2: A Neighbourhood That Comes Alive

The O2, formerly known as the Millennium Dome, is one of the largest indoor arenas in Europe [O2 Arena, official website]. It hosts hundreds of concerts, sporting events, and shows every single year. The surrounding area has been completely transformed over the decades.

Today, the Greenwich Peninsula offers a fantastic setting for visitors. The O2 itself, standing proud on the Thames, is a testament to this regeneration. These former docklands areas have been converted into vibrant entertainment hubs [Greenwich Peninsula, area information]. Restaurants, bars, and venues now occupy these spaces with rich maritime history.

Whether you arrive early to soak up the atmosphere or you’re looking for somewhere to wind down after the show, there are no shortage of options in this ever-changing part of London.

Getting There Without the Hassle

Transport is worth thinking about before the big day. Nothing worse than missing the start of a concert because of a badly planned journey.

The easiest way to reach the O2 is via the Jubilee line or the DLR. The DLR takes you directly to the O2/North Greenwich station [Transport for London, official journey planner]. It’s quick, frequent, and saves you the nightmare of finding parking.

If you’re coming from further afield, the Emirates Air Line cable car can also get you there in style – with spectacular views across the Thames [Transport for London, Emirates Air Line]. Just bear in mind you may need to change lines or walk a bit to reach the venue [Transport for London, official journey planner]. Always check the TfL website before you set off, as connections can change.

For those who prefer driving, there is parking available at the O2, with easy access from the Blackwall Tunnel approach [Q-Park O2, parking information]. The car park is just a short walk from the venue entrance. Handy if you’re coming back late and want to avoid the last Underground.

Where to Grab a Drink Before or After the Event

The atmosphere around the O2 shifts depending on the time. Before shows, the area has a different energy. After concerts, it’s a whole new vibe taking over the streets.

The O2 itself has several bars and restaurants within the venue. The terraces come alive especially on warm evenings. The venues in the area often offer special menus tailored to the irregular timings of events.

Do bear in mind that establishments around the O2 can get particularly busy on nights with major concerts. If you’re after something a bit quieter, don’t hesitate to venture slightly further from the immediate area.

For those who like finding hidden gems, a walk along the Thames Path towards Canary Wharf opens up even more possibilities. Their knowledge of the area often means you can find lesser-known spots that are absolutely brilliant.

Good Habits to Make the Most of Your Evening

Here are some practical tips gathered from regular visitors to the area.

Firstly, plan your journey in advance. On busy nights, the Greenwich Peninsula can get extremely crowded. Arrive a bit early if you want time to settle into a pub or bar before the show.

Secondly, check the official O2 programme before your visit [O2 Arena, official website]. Events come thick and fast and the calendar is constantly changing. A concert one evening won’t draw the same crowd as a match or show the next day.

Thirdly, keep in mind that bars and restaurants in the immediate vicinity have opening times that depend largely on what’s on. Some evenings, venues close relatively early. Other nights, the atmosphere carries on well past midnight.

Fourthly, if you’re planning to drink, sort out your journey home in advance. The last Underground can be rammed. A taxi or rideshare might be more comfortable on busy nights.

When to Check Official Resources

The O2 area is changing rapidly. New bars open up, venues refresh their concepts, transport timetables get updated.

For the most current information, head to the Visit London website [Visit London]. You’ll find regularly updated listings of nightlife spots in the area.

Similarly, the TfL website remains your best source for up-to-date tube and DLR timetables [Transport for London, official journey planner]. Changes can happen, especially in the evenings or on weekends.

Finally, don’t hesitate to check directly with venues that take your fancy. Social media is often the best way to get the latest information on opening times and special events.