There’s nothing quite like the energy around Wembley when there’s a major final on. This time, I was lucky enough to be at Wembley Box the night before Newcastle United took on Liverpool in the League Cup Final. The buzz was unreal, especially with Newcastle fans hyped up for what would eventually be a triumphant day for them.
I was there for a Q&A with ex-footballers Rob Lee and Perry Groves, two proper legends of the game. And while Groves had his stories to share, for the Newcastle fans in attendance, it was all about Rob Lee. The man’s a Geordie icon, and I even managed to make one Newcastle fan’s night by helping him meet Lee himself. When you’re surrounded by that much Toon Army passion, it’s hard not to get caught up in it.
But it wasn’t just about football. I was there to eat and drink, and fortunately, I was comped for both. That meant I could make my way through Wembley Box’s food and drink options with absolutely no guilt. And let me tell you, they’ve got a setup that’s both classy and casual—just what you’d expect from the theatre of football itself.
Click to read about the Kiribati project with Perry Groves.
The Bars at Wembley Box
First things first, let’s talk booze. When you’re at Wembley Box, you’ve got a few options depending on your mood and how deep your wallet goes. Here are the main bars I hit up:
- The Signature Bar – Classic cocktails with a polished presentation. It’s the kind of place where you feel like splashing out on something fancier than a pint. Expect to pay around £12-£15 for a decent cocktail.
- The Taproom – More my style. A wide selection of beers on tap and decent enough prices considering you’re in London. Pints here run you about £7-£8.
- Champions Lounge – This is the high-end option, where the drinks are as premium as the prices. Wines, champagnes, you name it. You’re looking at £15-£20 for a glass of the good stuff.
- The Cricket Club (Upstairs) – This one caught me off guard. A cricket-themed bar at the home of football? Why not. The place is decked out with memorabilia and offers a more laid-back vibe compared to the flashier lounges downstairs. Drinks here are a little cheaper—pints around £6.50-£7.50—and the decor gives it a bit of character. Cricket fans would probably love it, but I couldn’t help but think it was a bit out of place at Wembley. Still, a decent spot for a beer before or after a match, or indeed while trying to avoid the fans..
Being comped meant I didn’t have to worry too much about cost, but for anyone paying out of pocket, it’s worth knowing that Wembley Box isn’t exactly budget-friendly. But this is London, and this is Wembley—what do you expect?
The Food Options: From British Classics to Street Food Hits
When it comes to food, Wembley Box covers all the bases. It’s a bit of a culinary melting pot, catering to every taste and dietary preference. Here’s what’s on offer:
- Yorkshire Burrito Company – British comfort food meets street food gold. The Yorkshire Burrito is beef, veg, and gravy, all wrapped in a massive Yorkshire pudding. Costs about £10 and sounds brilliant on paper
- German Doner Kebab – Another classic option, especially when you’re just craving something greasy and satisfying. I went for the Doner Kebab Wrap.
- Gourmet Burger Kitchen (GBK) – When you want something more substantial, GBK’s got your back. Classic beef burgers, chicken burgers, and vegan options all available. Expect to pay around £10-£15 per meal.
- Pizza Express – Reliable as always. You can grab a classic margherita or go for something more adventurous. Pizzas range from £10-£15.
- Chicken Shop – This place does what it says on the tin. Fried chicken, wings, and sides all covered. You’re looking at around £8-£12 for a decent-sized meal.
- Camden Food Co. – More of a healthy option with sandwiches, wraps, and salads. Perfect for those trying to balance out their pints. Prices are around £7-£10.
- Wagamama – A touch of Asian cuisine with ramen, katsu curry, and more. Probably one of the more expensive options, with mains around £12-£18.
- Ben & Jerry’s – If you’ve got a sweet tooth, this is your go-to. Cups, cones, and sundaes all available, priced around £4-£6.
I tried the Yorkshire Burrito and a Doner Kebab Wrap, and while the burrito sounded great in theory, it didn’t quite deliver. The kebab also let down because an English one would have been better. And in Wembley of all places – FOR SHAME!
Click to read about English street food.
The Vibe: Wembley Box on a Major Final Weekend
What really makes Wembley Box shine, though, is the vibe. This isn’t just any bar complex; it’s part of the larger Wembley Stadium experience. And when there’s a major final on, the atmosphere is electric.
It’s one of those places where you can feel the history and hype of football all around you. That night, Newcastle fans were out in force, chanting, drinking, and getting themselves hyped up for the final. And, of course, a good portion of them were simply drowning out their pre-match nerves.
It’s worth noting that Wembley Box doesn’t come cheap. When you’re not getting comped, you can expect to drop a decent amount of cash on drinks and food. A couple of cocktails and a meal can easily set you back £30-£40.
But for the experience? For the chance to soak in that pre-match atmosphere, rub shoulders with football legends, and enjoy food and drinks in one of London’s most iconic locations—it’s worth it.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit for Football Fans
Overall, Wembley Box is a place that’s definitely better when it’s packed with real football fans. Sure, you can come here on a quiet day and have a nice enough time, but it’s those big event days where the place truly comes alive.
If you’re a fan of good food, decent drinks, and football culture, Wembley Box has got to be on your radar. It’s not cheap, but then again, nothing good ever is. And if you’re lucky enough to get in for free like I was? Even better.