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2026 World Snooker Championship

April 18, 2026 – May 4, 2026 BST

The Crucible

The World Snooker Championship, the pinnacle of the professional snooker season, returns in 2026 for its 50th consecutive year at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, England. This prestigious ranking event will see the world’s best snooker players compete for the coveted trophy. This guide provides essential information for fans planning to attend the 2026 World Snooker Championship, including dates, venue details, ticketing, travel, and accommodation.

When is the 2026 World Snooker Championship?

The 2026 World Snooker Championship will take place from Saturday, April 18, 2026, to Monday, May 4, 2026.

Where is the 2026 World Snooker Championship?

The tournament will be held at its traditional and beloved home:

About the Crucible Theatre

The Crucible Theatre, located in the heart of Sheffield, is synonymous with the World Snooker Championship. Despite its relatively intimate size, it offers a unique and intense atmosphere that is cherished by players and fans alike. The theatre’s design allows spectators to be close to the action, providing an unparalleled viewing experience for live snooker. Its long-standing history as the host venue has cemented its place in snooker folklore.

Crucible Theatre (Sheffield)

How do I get tickets to the 2026 World Snooker Championship?

Securing tickets for the World Snooker Championship is highly competitive due to the venue’s limited capacity.

  • General Sale: The general sale for tickets typically opens well in advance of the tournament. For the 2026 Championship, general sale opened on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 9 am (BST).
  • Official Ticket Agent: Tickets are primarily sold through the official ticket agent, See Tickets.
  • Session-based Tickets: Tickets are usually sold per session (morning, afternoon, or evening) for each table in the early rounds, and then for specific matches as the tournament progresses.
  • Booking Limits: There are often limits on the number of tickets you can purchase per session (e.g., 4 tickets per session).
  • Photo ID Requirement: For the 2025 event, Photo ID matching the name on the ticket was required for entry. If purchasing as a gift, ensure the recipient’s surname is added during the booking process if prompted. It is highly likely this policy will continue for 2026.
  • Hospitality Packages: Premium and Century Club hospitality packages are often available, offering enhanced experiences. Check the official booking office websites for details.
  • Resale Marketplaces: While some secondary marketplaces may list tickets, exercise caution. Only use trusted platforms and be aware that prices will likely be higher than face value.
  • Ticket Prices (Approximate, subject to change and session/round): Ticket prices vary significantly depending on the session (morning, afternoon, evening), the round of the tournament, and the seating category. Standard tickets for early rounds may range from approximately £45 – £66 per session, increasing to £100 – £155+ for later rounds and potentially £230+ for the final sessions.

It is anticipated that all tickets for the 2026 World Darts Championship will sell out during the early access and ballot windows. Should any tickets remain after these phases, details of how these will be sold will be communicated to fans appropriately.

How do I get to the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield?

The Crucible Theatre is centrally located in Sheffield, making it easily accessible by various modes of transport.

  • By Train:
    • Sheffield Railway Station is well-connected to major cities across the UK. The station is approximately a 10-minute walk from the Crucible Theatre.
  • By Tram:
    • Sheffield has a Supertram network. The closest tram stops to the Crucible are Sheffield City Centre (various stops), all within walking distance.
  • By Bus:
    • Sheffield Interchange, the main bus station, is very close to the Crucible Theatre, offering numerous local and regional bus services.
  • By Car & Parking:
    • While the Crucible is in the city centre, parking can be limited and expensive. Several multi-storey car parks are available nearby (e.g., Q-Park Charles Street, NCP Arundel Gate), but it’s advisable to check availability and pre-book if possible, especially during major events.
  • By Air:
    • The closest major airports are Manchester Airport (MAN) and East Midlands Airport (EMA). Both offer direct train or bus connections to Sheffield. London airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton) are further but have good rail links to Sheffield.

Where to Stay During the 2026 World Snooker Championship?

Sheffield offers a variety of accommodation options, particularly in the city centre, which is ideal for easy access to the Crucible Theatre. Booking well in advance is highly recommended due to the popularity of the Championship.

Booking Tips:

  • Book Early: Hotels in Sheffield city centre are in high demand during the World Snooker Championship. Secure your accommodation as soon as your tickets are confirmed.
  • Check Reviews: Use reputable booking sites and check recent reviews to ensure the hotel meets your expectations.
  • Consider Amenities: Look for hotels that offer amenities important to you, such as breakfast, Wi-Fi, or parking (if needed).
TripAdvisor

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to the 2026 World Snooker Championship

Enjoy the unique atmosphere and world-class snooker at the 2026 World Snooker Championship!

Crucible Theatre

Sheffield, United Kingdom

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