Alexandra Palace — affectionately known as “Ally Pally” — is one of London’s most distinctive event venues. Set high on a hill in North London and surrounded by parkland, it hosts concerts, exhibitions, festivals, fireworks, sporting events and seasonal attractions throughout the year. Its historic layout and semi-outdoor setting mean that entry procedures and bag rules are managed a little differently from modern city-centre arenas.
Getting to Alexandra Palace
Ally Pally is well connected but not directly served by the Underground. Most visitors arrive via National Rail to Alexandra Palace Station, followed by a 10–15 minute uphill walk, or by bus from Wood Green or Finsbury Park. On busy event days, shuttle buses are sometimes added, but queues and walking distances are still common.
Because of the walk, uneven paths and large crowds moving through the park, carrying heavy or bulky bags quickly becomes uncomfortable. Travelling light makes a noticeable difference to your overall experience.
Alexandra Palace bag policy
Bag policies at Alexandra Palace vary slightly depending on the event, but there are some consistent rules you should expect:
- Small bags only: Compact backpacks, handbags and small daypacks are usually permitted, provided they can be easily searched.
- No large bags or suitcases: Travel luggage, large rucksacks and oversized bags are not allowed into event spaces.
- No general luggage storage: Alexandra Palace does not offer a public luggage storage service suitable for large bags or suitcases.
- Security checks at entry: Bag searches are standard, and prohibited items will be refused.
- Event-specific restrictions: Some concerts and festivals enforce stricter limits, including reduced bag sizes or bans on certain items.
Security staff have final discretion, and bags that are too large or difficult to search may prevent entry.
What to bring for a smooth visit
Given the walk to the venue and time spent standing at many events, it’s best to keep things minimal:
- A small cross-body bag or compact backpack containing essentials only.
- Avoid hard-shell bags, large camera bags or bulky backpacks.
- If attending an outdoor or winter event, consider layering clothing rather than carrying extra items.
- Expect to carry your bag for long periods — there is limited seating outside event halls.
Attending Ally Pally while travelling
Alexandra Palace is a popular stop for visitors combining an event with sightseeing elsewhere in London. Many people arrive straight from King’s Cross, St Pancras or their accommodation earlier in the day. Others attend evening shows after checking out of hotels.
Arriving with luggage is not practical. With no official luggage storage at the venue and strict bag limits at entry points, large bags will almost certainly cause delays or be refused.
Storing bags before heading to the venue
A common approach is to store luggage elsewhere in London before travelling to Alexandra Palace. Stasher offers luggage storage across the city, including locations near major stations and transport hubs, allowing you to travel to Ally Pally with just a small personal bag. You can check out the Alexandra Palace luggage storage page here and choose a nearby option that fits your route. Storage is booked online, and some locations may price differently depending on bag size.
Book your luggage storage in London now.
Extra tips for event-goers
- Arrive early — queues can form at security and on the walking routes through the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if walking uphill from the station.
- Check the event page for any stricter bag rules or prohibited items before you travel.
- Plan your return journey in advance, as services can be busy after large events.
Alexandra Palace enforces a small-bag-focused policy with no on-site luggage storage for large items. The walk to the venue, combined with security checks and standing areas, makes travelling light essential. By planning ahead and storing luggage elsewhere, you can enjoy a far more comfortable and stress-free visit to one of London’s most atmospheric venues.
