Spot the best hotels near Copper Box Arena

The Copper Box Arena stands as a versatile sporting hub in the heart of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, easily recognisable by its distinctive weathered copper cladding. Originally built for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, it now hosts everything from professional basketball games to community fitness classes. It is a fantastic place to visit if you want to soak up the energy of a live match or simply admire the clever sustainable design that earned it a BREEAM Excellent rating. You will find a friendly, community-focused atmosphere inside that makes every guest feel like part of the local sporting legacy.

This large multi-purpose venue in East London earned a reputation for its loud and energetic atmosphere during the 2012 Summer Games. It sits within the parkland of Stratford and remains one of the most versatile spaces for professional sport and community fitness in the capital.

The story behind the box

The Copper Box Arena was originally built to host handball and fencing events, eventually becoming a permanent fixture of the city's sporting landscape. It is clad in 3,000 square metres of external copper, which was designed to change colour naturally over time. As a London 2012 Olympic venue, it represents a successful legacy project that turned an elite competition space into a public facility used by locals every day.

Getting inside for a look

You can visit the building for various reasons, whether you are attending a high-stakes basketball game or just popping in to use the gym. While the main arena floor is often reserved for scheduled events or club matches, the cafe area is generally open to those strolling through the park. If you want to see a specific match, it is best to book in advance as seats for popular teams like the London Lions can fill up quickly.

What you will find inside

The venue features a massive main hall with retractable seating that can accommodate up to 7,500 spectators. There is a large, fully equipped 80-station gym and a dedicated studio for fitness classes located on the upper levels. For those visiting during a match, there are several kiosks serving snacks and drinks, along with accessible toilets and baby changing areas throughout the corridors.

Please check the official Copper Box Arena website for the most recent opening times, event schedules, and ticket availability before you travel.

Finding your way around the Copper Box Arena is easy, and there are plenty of options to stay nearby. Reaching the venue is just as simple thanks to the excellent transport links in this part of East London.

Where to base yourself

Staying in Stratford is your best bet as it puts you within a 10-minute walk of the venue. You will find a great mix of accommodation here, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to serviced apartments that are perfect for families. The area has changed completely over the last decade and now feels like a modern hub with plenty of places to eat and shop right on your doorstep.

If you prefer something with a bit more character, look at Hackney Wick. This area is just a short stroll across the canal from the Copper Box Arena and is known for its independent studios and boutique stays. It has a very laid-back, creative atmosphere with lots of canal-side cafes and craft breweries, making it a fun choice if you want to experience a more local side of London.

Getting to the venue

The quickest way to arrive is via Stratford Station, which is a major hub served by the Tube, Overground, and Elizabeth Line. From the station, it is a pleasant 15-minute walk through the park, or you can hop on a local bus for a 5-minute journey. If you are coming from St Pancras International, the High Speed 1 train will get you to Stratford International in just 7 minutes, leaving you only a short distance from the entrance.

It is simple to find your base near the Copper Box Arena. You can browse and compare hotels that suit your style without any fuss. Whether you want to stay within 1 mile of the venue or prefer a spot closer to Stratford Station, eDreams helps you pick the right place. Spot great deals on hotels and choose a stay that fits your plans perfectly. Head over to eDreams to grab your hotel and get ready for the action in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Book your stay today and enjoy the trip.