Best seats at Co-op Live: standing floor, Level 1 or Level 3?

Co-op Live, opened in May 2024, describes itself as the UK's only "music-first" arena. Its bowl was designed for concerts: the largest floor space of any indoor venue in the country, a significantly lower ceiling than most arenas, and tiered seating that brings fans closer to the stage. With up to around 23,500 people for a show with a standing floor, according to public sources, it is also the largest indoor arena in the UK.

Seating plans vary from one show to the next: some concerts have a standing floor, others are fully seated, and the stage can be at one end or in the centre. The arena reminds fans that production differs for every event, so always check the Ticketmaster seat map when you book.

How the arena is laid out

The bowl is organised by levels:

• Level 0: the floor, standing or seated depending on the show (floor blocks such as D1 and D2 when seated);
• Level 1: the lower tier, with blocks numbered in the 100s (for example 102 to 114);
• Level 2: premium seating and hospitality;
• Level 3: the upper tier, with blocks in the 300s.

Before buying, use the arena's interactive 3D seat map, powered by Ticketmaster, which lets you preview the view from most sections for a standard seated show. If no 3D view is available for a section, you will still see its position on the map.

The best seats for what you want

To be close to the artist

The standing floor, when there is one. It is a very large floor, so arriving at doors time makes a real difference if you want to be near the front. Note that under-16s are not allowed in the standing area, according to the arena.

To see the whole show

Level 1, facing the stage. The lower tier is close to the floor, and its height gives a clear view of the stage, screens and lighting. Thanks to the low roof, Level 3 is closer to the stage than the upper tier of many older arenas, but it is still the highest part of the bowl: there are 3 steps per row, and the handrails are not continuous.

For the best sound

Stay in line with the stage. On the floor, the middle of the hall, a little in front of the sound desk, is usually the most balanced spot. In the tiers, face-on blocks are generally better than those at the extreme sides of the stage.

For more comfort

Co-op Live sells premium upgrades for many events, including the Co-op Backstage Club and hospitality packages, bought with your ticket or later in the Co-op Live app. Availability changes from one event to another.

With children

A seat in the tiers rather than on the floor. Anyone aged 14 or under must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over, and under-16s are not admitted to the standing area. Wristbands for young visitors are available on event days from the fan services points on Level 1 (opposite block 112) and Level 3 (behind block 323).

Seats to think twice about

• The blocks closest to the stage on each side in an end-stage configuration: the angle can hide part of the screens or set.
• The back of the standing floor if you are not tall: the floor is flat and very wide.
• The top rows of Level 3 if you are uncomfortable with height or stairs.

Accessible seating

Wheelchair-accessible platforms and accessible seating are available on every level:

• Level 0: a step-free accessible platform, reached directly through Entrance B, the dedicated accessible entrance. General access to the floor, however, involves 4 steps with a handrail, and seated floor blocks D1 and D2 are reached by 3 steps, then 2 steps per row.
• Level 1: wheelchair platforms in blocks 102AP to 114AP (except 108AP), marked with the wheelchair symbol on the seat map. Mobility seats on Level 1 require 2 steps.
• Level 3: platforms 307AP and 314AP, depending on the event layout.

All concourses are step-free, with four public lifts. Mobility aids, including wheelchairs and canes, are not allowed on the standing floor (folding and straight walking sticks are permitted in the venue). Accessible tickets and free companion tickets are booked through Ticketmaster, in the same transaction; proof of eligibility may be requested. If you cannot book online, the arena has an accessibility request form, and you can email access@cooplive.com.

Our tips for the floor

• Queuing: the arena does not allow fans to queue before 9am on the day and does not issue numbered wristbands. Facilities are limited before doors open: bring water and suitable clothing.
• Tickets: entry is with the Co-op Live app, where your Ticketmaster tickets appear with a barcode no later than five days before the event. Screenshots are not accepted.
• Bags: only one small bag, no larger than A4, is allowed per person.

Once you have your seat, read our guides to getting to Co-op Live, parking and where to eat nearby. After the show, share your experience and write a review.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best seats at Co-op Live?

To see the whole show, Level 1 facing the stage. For proximity and atmosphere, the standing floor when there is one. The layout depends on each show, so check the Ticketmaster seat map when booking.

Can I see the view from my seat before buying at Co-op Live?

Yes. The arena's interactive 3D seat map, powered by Ticketmaster, shows the view from most sections for a standard seated show.

How many people does Co-op Live hold?

According to public sources, up to around 23,500 with a standing floor, and around 20,500 for a fully seated show. Capacity varies by event.

Where are the accessible platforms at Co-op Live?

On every level: on Level 0 via Entrance B, in blocks 102AP to 114AP on Level 1, and, depending on the event, 307AP and 314AP on Level 3.