The name and exclusive mockup images of the upcoming 15,000 sq.ft esports arena in Sunderland have been revealed. 

The multi-use British Arena – first announced last summer as the Gaming and Esports Arena – will be able to host live music events, comedy nights, private bookings, broadcasts, games industry, esports events, sports events, premier match day experiences, conferences and lots more.

The arena aligns with the North East Mayor Kim McGuinness’ commitment to growing the creative industries, and falls within the Creative Mayoral Development Zone partnership between the Mayor and Sunderland City Council, which aims to accelerate housing and commercial development and attract private and public investment with a particular focus on fuelling creative sector growth.

Construction of the British Arena is well underway, as interest grows ahead of its planned opening in summer 2026, with a fly-through video and mockup images of the arena interior, exterior, cafe, social space and arcade area giving a sneak peek into what to expect.

The arena will be equipped with a 200-seat and 400-standing main stage theatre, boasting a 17m LED screen, full 5G capability, broadcast, content and editing studios, retail and hospitality, performance rooms and an expansive 550 sq.m secure outdoor activation space, with a private 2,000 sq.m car park.

There’s also a lounge and bar space which has capacity for 350 standing guests, including an arcade zone.

A new dedicated British Arena website has also launched. 

The news comes after the British Esports Federation – the national gaming federation behind the arena – celebrated its 10th anniversary on 21 March. 

The venue will compliment the existing National Esports Performance Campus facilities and The Place accommodation located in Sunniside. The British Arena is opposite the Stadium of Light, the home of Premier League football team Sunderland AFC.

British Esports has worked closely with Sunderland City Council to drive digital skills, career pathways and economic growth in the North East in recent years. Its senior leadership team also have significant experience managing events and venues, having operated premium hospitality at Wembley Stadium.

Many local businesses and global brands have already expressed interest in getting involved with the new arena, which presents a unique opportunity for a suitable naming partner to benefit from vast exposure through premium fan experiences, fan zones and intimate private activation spaces.

In addition, the British Arena is set to host global-reaching esports events and activities, such as practice matches for teams ahead of the major Esports World Cup and Esports Nations Cup. 

The inaugural International Defence Esports Games finals for military gaming teams will also take place at the British Arena from 9 – 11 October 2026.

Dave Martin, British Esports Senior Vice President, commented: “There’s been a real rise in excitement as the British Arena takes shape and the world can see its development is underway. 

“We’ve been meeting all kinds of people and businesses who want to get involved and we’re hugely optimistic about the potential of this venue. 

“With building works progressing nicely, we have a few design concept images to share, which help bring the arena to life to help potential partners understand what it’s all about. Several exciting conversations are underway in what is arguably the biggest thing we’ve done to date. We can’t wait to share more with you.”

The arena will sit at the heart of the transforming Sheepfolds area, which is part of Riverside Sunderland, a development that is held up as one of the UK’s most ambitious regeneration projects. 

Peter McIntyre, Executive Director of Economy & Place at Sunderland City Council, said: “The arena will be a fantastic addition to Sheepfolds, which is transforming thanks to developments like the Stables and the new Housing Innovation & Construction Skills Academy, and with much more to come.  

“Sunderland is an exciting place for people to live, work and play, and – with this new addition – the future looks even brighter.”

Businesses interested in getting involved with the British Arena or becoming a naming rights partner can contact British Esports here.