Hackney Wick Stadium

Hackney Wick Stadium Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to London Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in East London’s Hackney Wick neighborhood, the former Hackney Wick Stadium is an emblematic chapter in the city’s sporting and cultural evolution. Built in the early 1930s on Hackney Marshes, the stadium quickly became a bustling center for greyhound racing and speedway, reflecting the vibrant social fabric of the era (Greyhound Racing History; Wikipedia). Though demolished in 2003 to make way for the London 2012 Olympics, its legacy persists through the creative energy and ongoing regeneration of Hackney Wick and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

This comprehensive guide explores Hackney Wick Stadium’s rich history, practical visitor information for today’s London Stadium and Hackney Wick, nearby attractions, transport options, and essential tips. Whether you are a sports enthusiast, history buff, or urban explorer, you’ll find insights and resources to enrich your visit to this dynamic part of East London (WHUFC Supporter Guide PDF; Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Visitor Info).

Historical Overview
Visiting Today
Attractions and Experiences
Practical Tips
Conclusion and Resources

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Years

Hackney Wick Stadium was constructed between 1931 and 1932 on Hackney Marshes, just west of the River Lea. Built at a cost of £70,000 (plus £18,000 in wages), it was a major undertaking for its time. The stadium, developed by Hackney Wick Stadium Ltd. under Arthur Gilbert and Fred Whitehead, opened on April 8, 1932, with ambitious weekly racing schedules (Wikipedia; Everything Explained Today; Greyhound Racing History).

Boasting stands for 10,000 (later increased to 15,000), Hackney Wick Stadium quickly became a favorite for both greyhound racing and speedway, offering affordable entertainment and legal betting to East London’s working class (Hackney Speedway).

Post-War Boom and Major Events

The stadium flourished after World War II, mirroring the national popularity of greyhound racing. In the 1940s, Britain saw over 50 million annual visitors to greyhound tracks. Hackney Wick hosted marquee events like the Eastwater Cup, Leaside Stakes, and, later, the Guineas, cementing its reputation as a premier racing venue (Greyhound Racing History).

Ownership Changes and Modernization

The 1970s and 1990s brought significant change. George Walker’s business maneuvers led to the formation of Brent Walker, with Hackney Wick as a key asset. A major redevelopment in the 1990s sought to modernize the stadium, rebranding it as “The London Stadium.” However, financial difficulties led to receivership and eventual closure in 1997 (Greyhound Racing History; Hackney Speedway).

Decline and Closure

Declining attendance, changing leisure habits, and urban redevelopment pressures led to the stadium’s closure in 1997. It stood derelict until 2003, when demolition paved the way for the London 2012 Olympic Games. The site now lies beneath the International Broadcast Centre and near the Olympic hockey pitches (Greyhound Racing History).

Legacy and Cultural Transformation

The story of Hackney Wick Stadium reflects the broader transformation of East London. Once a symbol of working-class recreation, its demolition marked the area’s shift towards creative industry and urban regeneration. Today, Hackney Wick is celebrated for its arts scene, independent businesses, and role in the city’s Olympic legacy (Urban Transcripts Journal; Hackney Wick Warehouse).

Visiting Today

Hours, Tickets, and Access

Hackney Wick Stadium no longer exists. The site is now part of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, home to the London Stadium (built for the Olympics and now West Ham United’s ground). While you cannot visit the original stadium, the Olympic Park and Hackney Wick neighborhood are open to the public year-round, with most outdoor areas accessible 24/7.

London Stadium Events: Gates usually open 90 minutes before events (matches, concerts). For non-event days, check the London Stadium website for guided tour availability.
Tickets: Purchase event tickets online via official club or event channels. Guided tours require advance booking (WHUFC Supporter Guide PDF).

Getting There: Transport Guide

Train/Tube: Stratford Station is the main hub, accessible via Jubilee, Central, London Overground, DLR, and Elizabeth lines.
Overground: Hackney Wick station is a 15-minute walk.
Bus: Numerous day and night buses serve Stratford and Hackney Wick (London Stadium Getting Here).
Cycling: Cycle superhighways and Santander Cycles docking stations are plentiful.
Car: No public parking at the stadium; accessible parking by arrangement only. Westfield Stratford provides limited parking; check for event-day restrictions.

Stadium Facilities and Accessibility

Step-free access and accessible toilets throughout the stadium (WHUFC Supporter Guide PDF).
Security checks: Expect airport-style screening.
Amenities: Food, drink, and merchandise kiosks; free WiFi; lost property service.

Exploring Hackney Wick and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park: Open daily, with riverside walks, playgrounds, and boat tours (Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Visitor Info).
Hackney Wick Neighborhood: Renowned for its street art, independent cafes, breweries, and creative studios (Hackney Wick Warehouse).
Victoria Park: A short stroll away, perfect for relaxing or picnicking.

Attractions and Experiences

Art, Dining, and Nightlife

Street Art: The Lord Napier pub and canal-side murals are must-sees (Huck Magazine).
Cafes and Breweries: Enjoy Barge East, Crate Brewery, and Number 90 Bar & Kitchen for food, craft beer, and live music (Candace Abroad).
Markets: Victoria Park Market on Sundays offers gourmet foods and local produce.

Outdoor Activities and Parks

Olympic Park: Open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily; ideal for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
Hackney Marshes: Year-round access to sports fields and green spaces.

Events and Festivals

Hackney Moves Festival and the Hackney Half Marathon each May (Runner’s World).
Hackney WickED Arts Festival: Annual September celebration of local artists (Urban Transcripts Journal).
Live Music and Comedy: Regular events at venues like Colour Factory and Grow (Eventbrite).

Guided Tours and Heritage Trails

Discover Hackney Wick’s industrial and creative history on walking tours or by following the Hackney Wick Heritage Trail (Hackney Wick Warehouse).

Practical Tips

Safety, Weather, and Sustainability

Weather: London is changeable—bring layers and a rain jacket.
Safety: Hackney Wick is safe and welcoming; standard urban precautions apply.
Sustainability: Support local eco-friendly shops like Refill Therapy, and bring reusable bags.

Accommodation Options

Snoozebox Olympic Park: Modern rooms near Stratford.
Boutique Hotels and Rentals: Available in Stratford and Hackney Central (Candace Abroad). Book early during major events.

Visitor FAQs

Q: Can I visit the original Hackney Wick Stadium?
A: No, it was demolished in 2003. Visit Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Hackney Wick for related experiences.

Q: How do I get to Hackney Wick?
A: Use Overground to Hackney Wick station, Stratford for tube/DLR, or bus. Cycling is also popular.

Q: Are tickets required?
A: Public areas are free; event and tour tickets must be purchased online or at official outlets.

Q: Is the area accessible?
A: Yes, with step-free routes, accessible toilets, and support available for visitors with disabilities.

Q: Where can I park?
A: Limited public parking at Westfield Stratford; use public transport if possible.

Conclusion

Hackney Wick’s transformation—from greyhound stadium to Olympic venue and creative district—beautifully encapsulates East London’s resilience and dynamism. Today, visitors can immerse themselves in a lively mix of history, sport, art, and urban regeneration. Whether you’re attending a match at London Stadium, exploring street art, or relaxing by the canal, Hackney Wick offers an unforgettable experience.

For more curated insights, guided tours, and up-to-date event information, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Explore related articles on London’s hidden historical gems to plan your perfect East London adventure.