Parking at The O2 Belfast (ex-SSE Arena) - prices and exit times

You can park right next to the arena. The catch is the exit: the venue itself says that after a busy event it takes about an hour to get out of the car parks, because the roads around Queen's Quay simply cannot take the traffic.

The car parks

The O2 Belfast and the W5 science centre share around 1,500 spaces spread over three car parks, plus an overflow:

• the front car park, facing the arena;
• the rear car park;
• the Riverside car park, along the Lagan;
• an overflow car park on the busiest nights.

Every space is first come, first served. The venue's parking page describes no pre-booking for event nights, so on a sold-out show arrive early or plan on the overflow.

Prices and how to pay

The car parks are ticketless: cameras read your number plate on the way in. Pay before you leave at a pay station, or tap a bank card or phone at the exit barrier. Rates on the venue site in October 2026:

• up to 1 hour: £1.90
• up to 3 hours: £5.70
• up to 4 hours: £7.60
• up to 5 hours: £9.50

A typical gig, arriving an hour before doors, lands in the 4 to 5 hour band, so expect around £8 to £10. Tap at the barrier rather than queue at the machine; it saves a few minutes on the way out.

Beating the queue out

Three ways round it:

• Park, then eat. Arrive early, eat in the Pavilion, and you are already in place. Our where to eat near The O2 Belfast guide lists what is open.
• Wait it out. Have a drink after the show and let the car park drain.
• Park in town and walk. City Hall is 20 to 30 minutes on foot over the Lagan, or take the Glider G2. Details in getting to The O2 Belfast.

Coach operators must contact the car park office before arrival to arrange a space.

Disabled parking and drop-off

There are 60 designated disabled bays in the main car park, also first come, first served. Blue Badge holders must display the badge throughout their stay. Drop-off for disabled visitors is at the roadside by the South VIP Entrance, beside the box office; the venue asks that you drop off quickly and keep off double yellow lines. The turning circle in front of the arena is closed to all vehicles during events. Taxis set down at the side of the road by the water's edge.

The VIP/access door is the venue's recommended entrance for anyone with access needs: quieter, with lifts to every level. For seating options, see best seats at The O2 Belfast.

Electric cars

The Abercorn car park has four 22kW charging points. Bring your own cable; tariffs are set by the charging operator, Weev.

Frequently asked questions

How much is parking at the SSE Arena Belfast?

It is charged by the hour: £1.90 for up to one hour, £7.60 for up to four, £9.50 for up to five (venue rates, October 2026). Pay at a machine or tap a card at the exit barrier.

Can you pre-book parking at the SSE Arena?

The venue's parking page does not describe event pre-booking. Spaces, including disabled bays, are first come, first served.

How long does it take to leave the car park after a concert?

The venue says to expect about an hour after busy events. Walking into town and parking there is the way round it.

Is there disabled parking at The O2 Belfast?

Yes, 60 disabled bays in the main car park, first come, first served. Blue Badges must be displayed, and drop-off is at the South VIP Entrance.