Wembley Arena Arena / Concert Venue

Originally known as the Empire Pool, Wembley Arena was constructed in 1934 for the British Empire Games, and contained a large swimming pool that was later used in the 1948 summer Olympics. The venue housed performances by musicians and comedians, as well as sporting events. At the time, notable performers included The Beatles (who gave three concerts in the arena), The Rolling Stones, and The Who.

At the cost of £35 million, the Arena was renovated in 2006. The refurbished arena was made to seat 12,500 spectators, making it London’s second biggest indoor arena and third biggest indoor concert venue. In addition, a “Square of Fame” was displayed at the front of the arena. Much like Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, the square honors important pop culture figures; the first celebrity to receive a plaque of honor was Madonna.

Concerts at Wembley Arena include talented performers such as, The Cure, George Michael, Christina Aguilera, Beyoncé, Pink, Pearl Jam, Bob Dylan, Taylor Swift, Shakira, and of course Madonna. Sporting events at Wembley Arena range from boxing to MMA to ice hockey matches. The Wembley Arena will also be the site for the 2012 Olympics badminton and rhythmic gymnastic events.