AO Arena Tickets & Seating Plan
Manchester, England · Capacity 21,000 · Opened 1995
The AO Arena is one of the largest indoor arenas in Europe, located in the heart of Manchester city centre. With a capacity of around 21,000, it hosts a wide range of events including major music concerts, comedy shows, boxing bouts, and ice hockey matches. It is the home arena of the Manchester Storm ice hockey club.
AO Arena is one of Manchester's most iconic entertainment destinations, hosting major concerts, live sport and family shows throughout the year. With a capacity of around 21,000, it draws some of the biggest names in music and entertainment to the heart of the city. When you buy AO Arena tickets on Staadly, you can shop with confidence thanks to verified sellers, all-in pricing with no surprise fees at checkout, and a 100% buyer guarantee.
AO Arena seat layout
Our AO Arena seat layout maps every stand and tier in Manchester into a single seating chart. Whether you're after a specific block or just getting a feel for the stadium layout, this seating map shows how the ground's sections fit together.
Upcoming events at AO Arena
All prices are all-in — the price you see is the price you pay, backed by Staadly's 100% buyer guarantee.
No upcoming events at this venue right now. Check back soon — new fixtures and concerts are added regularly.
About AO Arena
The AO Arena opened in 1995 as the Manchester Evening News Arena, built as part of the broader regeneration of the area around Victoria Station. It was constructed to serve as a flagship venue for the city and played a central role in Manchester's successful 2002 Commonwealth Games bid, hosting the boxing events. The arena has undergone several naming rights changes over the years — from the MEN Arena to the Phones 4u Arena, before becoming the AO Arena in 2015. It has hosted some of the world's biggest musical acts and remains one of the busiest arenas in the world by ticket sales.
The sheer scale of the AO Arena creates an electric atmosphere for major events. The steeply raked seating brings even upper-tier fans close to the action, and the acoustics suit everything from intimate comedy sets to full arena rock productions. Floor standing areas for concerts generate a festival-like energy, while sporting events such as boxing nights draw passionate, loud crowds that fill the bowl with noise.
Set in Manchester, AO Arena holds roughly 21,000 spectators and delivers a matchday and concert experience that draws crowds from across the region. Browse upcoming events below and buy with confidence on Staadly.
Located in the centre of Manchester, AO Arena has long been a cornerstone of the city's thriving live events scene. Over the years it has welcomed world-renowned musicians, comedians, boxing and other sporting spectacles, cementing its reputation as one of the busiest indoor arenas in the country. Its city-centre setting and impressive scale make it a natural choice for headline tours and marquee events. The atmosphere inside is electric, with tiered seating and a lively standing area helping to create an intimate feel despite the venue's size. Whether you're there for a sell-out concert or a big fight night, the energy of a packed Manchester crowd is hard to beat, and the sense of shared excitement makes every visit memorable.
How to get to AO Arena
The AO Arena sits directly adjacent to Manchester Victoria railway station in the city centre, making it one of the most accessible arenas in the UK. Victoria is served by Metrolink tram lines and regular Northern and TransPennine rail services. The venue is also within easy walking distance of the city centre's bars and restaurants, and numerous bus routes serve the surrounding area.
Getting to AO Arena
AO Arena sits in the heart of Manchester, making it easy to reach by public transport. The venue is conveniently close to Manchester Victoria station, which is served by both national rail and Metrolink tram services, while Manchester Piccadilly is also within easy reach. Numerous bus routes serve the city centre, and the arena is within walking distance of many hotels, bars and restaurants. If you're travelling by car, there are several car parks nearby, though public transport is often the simplest option given the central location. Allow extra time on busy event nights, as the surrounding area can get crowded before and after shows.
Frequently asked questions about AO Arena
How do I know my AO Arena tickets are genuine?
Every listing on Staadly comes from a verified seller, and all purchases are covered by our 100% buyer guarantee. This means you can buy with peace of mind, knowing your tickets are backed for the event you've booked.
Are there any hidden booking fees when buying on Staadly?
No. Staadly uses all-in pricing, so the price you see includes fees. There are no unexpected charges added at the final checkout stage, making it easy to know exactly what you'll pay.
When will I receive my tickets?
Delivery timing depends on the ticket type and the event. Many tickets are delivered electronically ahead of the event date, and you'll receive clear instructions on how and when to access them once your order is confirmed.
Can I choose where I sit at AO Arena?
Listings on Staadly typically show the section, row or seating details available, so you can select tickets that suit you. For standing events, admission is usually general and unreserved once inside the relevant area.
What should I bring on the day of the event?
Bring your ticket, whether digital or printed, along with a valid form of ID if requested. It's also worth checking the venue's latest guidance on bag policies and prohibited items before you travel, as these can vary by event.
Have tickets for an event at AO Arena?
Sell them on Staadly — set any price, above or below face value, and get paid fast once your tickets sell.
Venue information
| Capacity | 21,000 |
| Opened | 1995 |
| Surface | Indoor court |
| City | Manchester |
| Country | England |