There’s something truly special about watching an NFL game live, but when that experience takes place in the heart of London, it reaches another level. Imagine the intensity of American football, the roar of passionate fans, and the unique excitement of blending British and American sports cultures.
The NFL games in London have been growing in popularity since 2007, and for a good reason—it’s not just about the game; it’s about the atmosphere, the community, and the chance to immerse yourself in something completely unforgettable. Whether you’re a dedicated NFL fan or simply someone looking for an exciting sports experience, catching a game in London should be on your radar.
Which NFL Games is London Hosting in 2024?
The 2024 NFL international schedule promises some epic matchups in London that will have fans on both sides of the Atlantic buzzing with anticipation. Here’s a look at the upcoming games you won’t want to miss:
- Sunday, October 6: New York Jets vs Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
- Sunday, October 13: Jacksonville Jaguars vs Chicago Bears at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
- Sunday, October 20: New England Patriots vs Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium
Each game offers something different, but the venues themselves are also part of the experience. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was built with NFL games in mind and offers a state-of-the-art setting that any fan will appreciate. Wembley Stadium, on the other hand, is a legendary venue known worldwide, adding a sense of grandeur to the event.
How to Get Tickets for These Games
Now, let’s get to the important part—how do you secure your tickets? NFL London games are popular and all the public-sale tickets for this season have already been sold out. The general tickets for a single game started at £68 for seats at the back and went up to £195 for the best ones. However, you may still find tickets through the following methods:
- Ticketmaster exchange and resale page for people who cannot make it to the games and want to sell their tickets at face value.
- Resale platforms like Ticketmaster or StubHub where tickets may be available at a premium. Ticketmaster exchange and resale page
For those looking to elevate their experience, VIP packages are available that offer premium seating, hospitality, and exclusive perks like meet-and-greets with NFL players or legends.
Planning Your Trip to London for the Games
Whether you’re traveling from within the UK, flying in from overseas, or even commuting from within London itself, planning ahead will ensure you make the most of your NFL London experience. London is a sprawling city, and getting to the stadiums—Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley Stadium—requires a bit of preparation depending on where you’re coming from.
For Those Traveling from Outside the UK
If you’re flying in from overseas, there are several international airports serving London, with Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City being the most common for international arrivals. Heathrow is the largest, and it’s well connected to the city via the Heathrow Express, Tube, or bus services.
Accommodation will be one of your first considerations. Staying near the stadiums or in central London gives you easy access to both game venues, but will be expensive as well. If you want to stay close to the heart of the city and enjoy sightseeing, areas like Camden, Islington, or Paddington offer great connections to public transport. These areas are also packed with cafes and restaurants, ideal if you’re health-conscious and looking for nutritious pre-game meals.
For those staying a bit further from the stadium, make sure to plan your game-day travel. The Tube is your best bet, with multiple lines running to both stadiums. You can also use buses or even rideshare services like Uber, but public transport is often the quickest and most cost-effective option on game days, especially with expected road closures and traffic around the stadiums.
For UK Residents Traveling to London
If you’re traveling from another part of the UK, whether by train, car, or even domestic flight, getting to London is relatively straightforward. Trains arrive at major stations like Euston, King’s Cross, and Paddington, which are all well-connected to the rest of the city via the Tube.
For those driving into London, parking near the stadiums is limited and often expensive. It’s a good idea to check out Park and Ride services or leave your car at a nearby station and take public transport the rest of the way.
If you’re looking to stay overnight, central London or the neighborhoods near the stadiums offer plenty of hotel options. Staying central allows you to explore the city’s highlights, and from there, you can easily get to the game using the London Overground or Tube services. Remember to factor in extra time if you’re traveling on game day, as the Tube will likely be crowded with fellow fans.
For Those Already in London and Commuting to the Games
If you’re already based in London or nearby, you already know that the London Underground (Tube) is the most efficient way to get to both Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley Stadium.
For Tottenham, the Victoria Line will take you to Seven Sisters, where you can either walk or take a quick bus to the stadium. Alternatively, the London Overground runs to White Hart Lane Station, just a 5-minute walk from Tottenham Hotspur.
For Wembley, the Metropolitan and Jubilee lines will take you directly to Wembley Park Station, just a 10-minute walk from the stadium. If you’re near Marylebone Station, you can also take a Chiltern Railways train to Wembley Stadium Station, another easy option.
While public transport is the most convenient, if you’re planning to drive or take a taxi, be aware that traffic around the stadiums can be heavy, especially on game days. Arriving early will help avoid the rush and give you plenty of time to soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
Wherever you’re traveling from, consider getting an Oyster Card or using contactless payment for easy, cash-free travel around London’s public transport system. If you’re traveling from outside London, you might also want to download travel apps like Citymapper or Google Maps to stay on top of schedules and routes.
How to Get the Most Out of Your NFL Experience at the Stadium
When game day finally arrives, the energy will be contagious. To make the most of your time at the stadium, it’s a good idea to arrive early. Gates typically open 2 hours before kickoff, which gives you time to explore, grab food, and soak in the atmosphere. If you’ve never experienced tailgating, London-style tailgating might surprise you. Fans gather outside the stadium for food, drinks, and pre-game excitement. It’s a great way to meet fellow fans and feel the excitement build before the game.
Once inside the stadium, be sure to check out the various food vendors and, if you’re at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, you might even visit its own brewery. Wembley Stadium, meanwhile, offers its own unique charm, with panoramic views and an aura of history that adds to the magic of the day.
The NFL’s Clear Bag Policy applies here as well. Expect stringent security checks and be sure to avoid carrying alcohol, selfie sticks, cans or other prohibited items.
Beyond the Game: Other London Experiences
London knows how to do NFL week right. In the days leading up to the games, there are often NFL fan zones around the city. These zones offer activities like meet-and-greets with players, NFL-themed games, and even live entertainment. It’s a fun way to get even deeper into the experience.
If you’re staying in London for a few days, consider checking out some of the city’s top attractions apart from the popular ones such as Buckingham Palace and others. If you’re a fan of museums, the British Museum should be at the top of your list. Housing a collection that spans over two million years of human history, it’s one of the most comprehensive museums in the world and offers free entry.
For art lovers, head over to the Tate Modern, which showcases cutting-edge contemporary works, or the National Gallery, where you can admire masterpieces by the likes of Van Gogh, Monet, and Da Vinci.
History buffs will want to visit the Tower of London, where the Crown Jewels are kept, or take a stroll through Westminster Abbey, the site of royal coronations and burials. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Churchill War Rooms offer a captivating glimpse into Britain’s World War II history.
For theater enthusiasts, catching a show in London’s West End is a must. Known for its world-class productions, the West End is home to iconic performances like Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera, as well as newer favorites like Hamilton.
London’s Food Scene
London has evolved into one of the world’s most exciting food destinations. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, street food, or something in between, the city offers an extraordinary range of culinary experiences that will delight food lovers of all kinds.
For high-end dining, you’ll find an array of Michelin-starred restaurants like The Ledbury, Core by Clare Smyth, or Sketch. These restaurants feature innovative menus that highlight seasonal ingredients and modern takes on British cuisine.
But London is just as much about its vibrant street food culture. Head to Borough Market, one of the city’s oldest and most famous food markets, where you can sample everything from gourmet cheese and cured meats to mouth-watering curries and freshly baked pastries. Camden Market is another hot spot, offering food from all corners of the world, with stalls serving up everything from Korean barbecue to Venezuelan arepas.
For a more traditional taste of London, don’t miss afternoon tea at places like Fortnum & Mason or the Ritz. It’s a quintessential British experience that will have you sipping tea while enjoying finger sandwiches and delicious scones with clotted cream.
And if you’re after something plant-based or health-conscious, London has no shortage of options. Vegan and vegetarian restaurants like Mildreds and Farmacy are perfect for a nutritious meal, while juice bars like Raw Press offer the perfect recharge before or after game day.
Conclusion
Attending an NFL game in London is a must-do for any fan, but it’s more than just a football game—it’s a chance to explore a new city, meet fellow fans, and soak in a unique sports culture. From securing your tickets to planning your trip and enjoying game day, every part of the experience can be tailored to your personal style, whether that’s health-conscious travel or full-on fan frenzy.
The 2024 NFL games in London will no doubt be a highlight of the sports calendar. Whether you’re rooting for your team or just enjoying the spectacle, it’s bound to be an unforgettable adventure.
