OVO Hydro

OVO Hydro is one of the most famous indoor arenas in the United Kingdom. It is located in Glasgow. This modern venue, often referred to as Hydro Glasgow or simply The Hydro, hosts large-scale concerts, sporting events and world-class television shows. In terms of popularity, OVO Hydro Glasgow is often compared to Wembley Arena in London.

OVO Hydro is part of the SEC Centre complex and is considered a key part of Glasgow's cultural life.

History of OVO Hydro

OVO Hydro Glasgow has been known since 2013. It has become one of the most recognisable arenas in the UK. Its construction was part of a large-scale project to develop Glasgow Arena and the entire Scottish Event Campus.

The arena was originally called The SSE Hydro, but in 2021, the title sponsor, OVO, changed the name, and the venue was given the modern name OVO Hydro.

The arena was designed by the renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners, and its unique design provides excellent acoustics and visibility from any seat. The concept included a flexible hall layout, allowing the configuration to be changed depending on the type of event. Today, the Hydro Glasgow can accommodate up to 14,300 spectators, a capacity that makes it a competitor to such well-known arenas as Wembley Arena in London and Utilita Arena Birmingham.

From its early years, ovo hydro glasgow has become a venue for major concerts and world-class events. It has hosted artists and bands known to millions of fans around the world, such as Little Mix and Ant & Dec.

The arena has hosted television shows, including Strictly Come Dancing and performances by the famous duo Ant & Dec. Each concert and show demonstrates how well thought-out and versatile the arena's design is, including separate VIP areas, a lounge and sections with enhanced views.

The history of the hydro is closely linked to the cultural life of Glasgow. Thanks to its location near the city centre and convenient transport links, the arena quickly became popular with residents and tourists alike. It not only hosts concerts and sporting events, but also serves as a venue for exhibitions, corporate events and festivals.

Where is OVO Hydro located?

OVO Hydro Glasgow is located in the western part of Glasgow city centre, within the Scottish Event Campus complex, next to the River Clyde. It is conveniently located close to the city centre and places where good food is available.

The venue is next to the SEC exhibition centre, international chain hotels, restaurants and cafés, Exhibition Centre railway station and major transport links. Its proximity to the city centre makes the hydro a popular venue for both locals and tourists.

OVO Hydro Seating Plan

The OVO Hydro Arena plan is designed to provide spectators with maximum comfort and an excellent view from any seat. Depending on the event (concert, show, sporting event), the halls can be arranged in different ways:

• Ground Level. Includes a standing area and the front section of the seating area, as well as the stage.
• Middle Level. Seating sections, including areas with the best views and VIP seats.
• Upper Level. Additional seating sections, often used for large shows.
• VIP Areas and Lounge. A space for guests with more comfortable seats, food and drinks.

Sections are numbered to help you find your way around easily. Sections with lower numbers are closer to the stage, followed by the upper levels and balconies, providing a variety of views from each seat.

How to get to OVO Hydro?

The arena is located in Glasgow on the Scottish Event Campus, making it easy to reach by train, underground, bus, car and even on foot from central areas of the city. Below is a detailed overview of all the possible ways to get to the hydro.

By train

The nearest station to the arena is called Exhibition Centre. It is only a few minutes' walk away. Trains connect OVO Hydro Glasgow with the city's main stations, Glasgow Central and Queen Street Station, as well as other cities in Scotland. This is the fastest and most convenient way to get to major concerts and events, especially when you need direct routes without transfers.

By underground

The Glasgow underground provides additional transport accessibility. The nearest station is Kelvinhall, located approximately 15 minutes walk from the Hydro Glasgow. For tourists and visitors coming to the city centre, the underground is the most convenient and inexpensive option for getting around.

By bus

The area around OVO Hydro is served by several city bus routes that connect the arena to Glasgow city centre, railway stations and major residential areas. Buses run frequently, making bus travel comfortable even on concert days.

By car

OVO Hydro is also easily accessible by car. The arena is located next to the M8 motorway, providing convenient access and exit. There is visitor parking on the SEC complex grounds, but on days when there are major concerts, it is recommended to reserve a space in advance. Paid parking areas are also available for drivers near the arena.

On foot

If you are staying in central Glasgow or in hotels near the Hydro, you can walk to the arena. The walk along the River Clyde waterfront is comfortable and picturesque, and the walking routes are marked with signs that lead directly to the entrance.

OVO Hydro Events

OVO Hydro Glasgow regularly hosts concerts by famous artists and bands. Among them, for example, is Anne Marie. Television shows and performances by the famous duo Ant & Dec have also been held here. Concerts fill the venue to capacity, and VIP areas and lounges allow you to enjoy the event in the most comfortable atmosphere possible. Biffy Clyro have also performed here.

OVO Hydro is not limited to musical events. It hosts sporting events, including boxing matches, kickboxing championships, as well as major corporate events and festivals. Events are not only booked by local organisers, but also by promoters from all over Europe.

On 15 June 2024, WWE held a live event called Clash at the Castle: Scotland at OVO Hydro. This was the company's first event in Scotland since 2002 and the first major televised PPV event in Scotland. On 20 August 2025, a double episode of AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision was held.

The seating plan allows you to choose seats with the best view, and separate VIP sections provide exclusive seating with a lounge area and additional services. Photos and videos from events such as Kings of Leon confirm that Hydro Glasgow provides spectators with comfort and an unforgettable experience.

The band Wolf Alice performed at the OVO Hydro arena in Glasgow on 7 December 2025 as part of their extensive tour of the UK and Ireland.

Information for visitors

For a comfortable visit to OVO Hydro, it is important to familiarize yourself with the schedule, accommodation, dining, and parking options in advance.

Opening hours

The arena opens approximately 1–2 hours before the start of the event. Ticket offices are open on the day of the concert or show, and tickets can also be purchased online in advance. Outside of events, access to the Hydro is restricted.

Hotels near OVO Hydro

There are several convenient hotels located near the arena:

• Radisson RED Glasgow. A modern hotel within walking distance of the arena.
• Crowne Plaza Glasgow. Offers comfortable rooms and services for tourists and business guests.
• Hilton Garden Inn. A popular option for those who want to be close to the city center and the arena.

Restaurants near OVO Hydro

There are many restaurants near OVO Glasgow:

• India Quay. Traditional Indian cuisine opposite Squinty Bridge.
• Clydebuilt Bar and Kitchen. Known for its appetisers, traditional pizzas and signature Clydebuilt burgers.
• The Gannet. Scottish restaurant 0.36 miles from OVO Hydro.
• Steak Lounge and Grill. 0.48 miles from OVO Hydro in the Springfield Quay area.
• Civerinos - Finnieston Pizzeria. 0.49 miles from OVO Hydro at 13 Radnor St, 9.
• Butchershop Steakhouse. 0.52 miles away at 1055 Sauchiehall Street.
• Gael & Grain. Scottish restaurant at 23 Sandyford Pl.
• Elena's Spanish Bar & Restaurant. Spanish restaurant at 90 Old Dumbarton Road.
• Cast Iron Grill Glasgow. Located 0.67 miles from OVO Hydro at 500 Argyle St.

Parking

Parking is available at the Scottish Event Campus. Spaces are limited, so it is recommended to book parking in advance. Paid parking areas are also available near the arena.

Contact and postal code

Address: Exhibition Way, Glasgow G3 8YW, Scotland

Phone: +44 141 248 6000

Email: [email protected]

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

TikTok

YouTube

Frequently asked