The M&S Bank Arena, located on Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, is a premier multi-purpose indoor arena and a cornerstone of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Part of the larger ACC Liverpool event campus, it stands as a testament to the city’s regeneration and its status as a hub for major music, sport, and entertainment events. Since its opening in 2008, the arena has hosted a huge variety of international stars and world-class competitions.
History and Design
Opened in January 2008 as the Echo Arena, the venue was a key part of Liverpool’s year as the European Capital of Culture. Designed by Wilkinson Eyre architects, the arena is a flexible space that can be reconfigured for a wide range of events, from intimate performances to large-scale concerts and sports championships. It boasts 7,513 permanent seats, which can be expanded to a total capacity of 11,000 for standing concerts. The arena is seamlessly connected to the ACC Liverpool Convention Centre and the Exhibition Centre Liverpool, making it a unique and versatile events campus.
Major Events Hosted
The M&S Bank Arena is a hub for diverse entertainment, hosting a wide array of events.
- Music Concerts: The venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Paul McCartney, Beyoncé, Little Mix, and JLS.
- Comedy: Top comedians like Peter Kay and John Bishop have performed sold-out shows at the arena.
- Sports: The arena is a frequent host for major sporting events, including boxing championships, Premier League Darts, and the Liverpool International Horse Show. It also hosted the 2022 Artistic Gymnastics World Championships, and regularly hosts the British Gymnastics Championships.
- Family Entertainment: It regularly hosts family-friendly shows and events, such as the Gladiators Live Tour and Disney on Ice.
Key Information
Official Name: M&S Bank Arena (formerly Echo Arena)
Location: King’s Dock, Liverpool, England
Opened: January 12, 2008
Capacity: Up to 11,000 (with floor standing)
Address: 16 Monarchs Quay, Liverpool L3 4FP
Getting to the M&S Bank Arena
The arena’s location on the waterfront makes it easily accessible from Liverpool city centre and beyond.
By Train
- Liverpool Lime Street: This is the main train station for long-distance services. The arena is a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride away.
- James Street Station: For those using local Merseyrail services, James Street station is a 10-minute walk from the arena.
By Bus
- Most Liverpool city centre-bound buses stop at either Queen Square Bus Station (a 15-minute walk) or Liverpool ONE Bus Station (a 5-minute walk).
- The CityLink Route C4 bus directly links Queen Square, James Street, and Liverpool ONE to the venue.
By Car & Parking
- The venue is located on the King’s Dock, and it is best to follow the “Waterfront” tourist route signs on major routes into the city.
- There is a large, secure 1,600-space car park located right next to the arena. However, it is highly recommended to book parking in advance, especially for large events, as spaces can fill up quickly.
By Foot
- The arena is a pleasant walk from the city centre, located adjacent to the iconic Albert Dock and just a short stroll from Liverpool ONE shopping complex.
Tickets & Seating at the M&S Bank Arena
Tickets for events can be purchased through the official M&S Bank Arena website or via major ticketing partners like Ticketmaster and See Tickets. It’s always a good idea to buy from official sources to avoid scams.
The arena’s seating layout is flexible and can be adapted to suit each event. When booking, always refer to the specific seating plan provided for your chosen event, as the stage and seat configurations can change.
- Hospitality: The arena offers premium experiences, including Premium Super Suites, the Sodexo Live! Lounge, and The Skyline Experience for an enhanced visit.
- Accessibility: The venue is fully accessible, with designated seating areas and facilities for guests with mobility issues.
Where to Stay and Eat Near the Arena
Being in the heart of Liverpool’s vibrant waterfront, there are plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from within walking distance.
Hotels
- Pullman Liverpool: This is the most convenient option, as it is integrated directly into the event campus.
- Leonardo Hotel Liverpool: A modern hotel located a short walk from the arena.
- Albert Dock Area: The Albert Dock and surrounding area offers numerous hotels, many with stunning waterfront views.
Booking Tips
- Book Well in Advance: Hotel availability can be limited during major events or city-wide events.
- Check Transport Links: Ensure your accommodation is conveniently located for public transport to and from the stadium.
- Use Reputable Booking Sites: Utilise well-known and reputable booking websites like Tripadvisor to find and compare accommodation options. Always verify reviews and ratings before booking.
Restaurants & Dining
The area around the arena is packed with dining options for all tastes and budgets, from casual eateries to fine dining.
- Albert Dock: The Grade I listed Albert Dock complex is home to a wide range of restaurants, from Italian and Indian to pubs and burger joints.
- Liverpool ONE: A short walk from the arena, Liverpool ONE offers a huge selection of chain restaurants and independent cafes.
- Baltic Triangle: For something a bit more unique, the trendy Baltic Triangle area is a short walk away and has an array of independent bars and street food markets.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit
Last Updated on August 25, 2025 by Sports Tourist