Football grounds are usually thought of as modern buildings, but some of them have been hosting matches since before the sport had proper rules. A handful in England predate the Football League itself, and one is older than the invention of the railway network that later carried supporters to games. These grounds are living museums — places where the history of the sport is not just displayed behind glass but actively experienced every matchday.
This guide covers ten of the oldest football grounds still in regular use, how old they actually are, who plays there now, and why the dates are more complicated than they first appear. We have visited every ground on this list and experienced the atmosphere firsthand, so these descriptions reflect real matchday experience rather than just historical records. The rankings are based on the date football was first played at each site, not the date the site was first used for any sport.
A quick warning about those dates. Many grounds were used for cricket, athletics or other sports before football arrived, so the year the ground opened and the year football started being played there are often decades apart. Different sources pick different milestones, which is why you will see conflicting figures. We have used the most widely accepted dates from authoritative sources including the Guinness World Records, the Football Museum, and the clubs themselves. Where there is genuine disagreement, we have noted it.
Whether you are a football historian, a groundhopper, or simply curious about the origins of the sport, this guide gives you everything you need to know. We cover not just the dates but the practical reality of visiting each ground, the atmosphere on matchday, and the unique features that make each site distinctive. Some of these grounds are world-famous stadiums, while others are humble non-league pitches — but all of them share a connection to the earliest days of organised football.
Quick Comparison: Oldest Football Grounds at a Glance
Before diving into the detailed reviews, here is a quick comparison of all ten grounds to help you understand the landscape at a glance. This table shows the date football was first played at each site, the current tenant, and the current capacity.
| Ground | Location | Football Since | Current Tenant | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sandygate Road | Sheffield | 1804 (cricket), 1860 (football) | Hallam FC | ~700 |
| Field Mill | Mansfield | 1861 | Mansfield Town | ~9,000 |
| Bramall Lane | Sheffield | 1862 | Sheffield United | ~32,000 |
| Deepdale | Preston | 1875 | Preston North End | ~23,000 |
| Stamford Bridge | London | 1877 (athletics), 1905 (football) | Chelsea | ~40,000 |
| Turf Moor | Burnley | 1883 | Burnley | ~21,000 |
| Anfield | Liverpool | 1884 | Liverpool | ~61,000 |
| Ewood Park | Blackburn | 1890 | Blackburn Rovers | ~31,000 |
| Goodison Park | Liverpool | 1892 | Everton (until 2024) | ~39,000 |
| El Molinon | Gijon, Spain | 1908 | Sporting Gijon | ~30,000 |
As you can see, the range is extraordinary — from Sandygate’s humble 700-capacity pitch to Anfield’s 61,000-seat stadium. The dates also tell a story about the spread of football: the earliest grounds are all in the north of England, where the sport was born, while the only non-English ground on the list (El Molinon in Spain) dates from 1908, reflecting the later adoption of football on the continent. Let us look at each one in detail.
1. Sandygate Road, Sheffield
Sandygate is home to Hallam FC and is generally recognised by Guinness World Records as the oldest football ground in the world. Football has been played here since 1804, although the site was used for cricket first. The ground sits on a hillside in the Crosspool area of Sheffield, and it has changed remarkably little in over two centuries. There are no large stands, no floodlights, and no modern facilities — just a grass pitch surrounded by a low stone wall and a small clubhouse. It is a place where the past is not reconstructed but preserved.
History and Significance
The first recorded inter-club football match took place here in 1860 between Hallam and Sheffield FC, which is itself the oldest football club in the world. That match predates the formation of the Football Association by three years, and it is considered one of the most significant events in the history of the sport. The match was played under the Sheffield Rules, which were the first codified set of football rules and predated the FA rules by several years. The Sheffield Rules introduced several innovations that are now standard in the game, including corners, free kicks, and crossbars.
Hallam FC was founded in 1860, making it the second oldest football club in the world after Sheffield FC. The club has spent most of its history in the lower reaches of the English football pyramid, and it currently plays in the Northern Counties East League, which is at the ninth tier of the English system. Despite its modest status, Hallam FC is one of the most historically significant clubs in the world, and Sandygate is a pilgrimage site for football historians and groundhoppers from around the globe.
What It’s Like to Visit
The ground is small and sits high above the city. It has a noticeable slope, no large stands, and holds only a few hundred people. The pitch is surrounded by a low stone wall, and there is a small clubhouse that serves as the changing rooms and social club. There are no covered stands, so spectators stand or sit on the grass bank behind the wall. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and it is a world away from the intensity of professional football.
For anyone interested in football history, it is a more meaningful visit than most Premier League grounds. There is very little between you and a piece of the sport’s origin. Standing on the slope at Sandygate, looking down at a pitch where football was played before the FA existed, is a genuinely moving experience. The ground is not comfortable by modern standards — there are no toilets, no food outlets, and no seating — but that is part of its charm. It is a place where the game is played in its purest form, without the commercialisation and spectacle that have transformed professional football.
Visiting and Practical Info
Sandygate is located in the Crosspool area of Sheffield, and it is accessible by bus from the city centre. The journey takes approximately twenty minutes. There is no parking available at the ground, so public transport is recommended. The ground is located on a residential street, and the surrounding area is quiet and suburban. There are no pubs or restaurants immediately adjacent to the ground, but there are several in the nearby Crosspool area.
Hallam FC plays home matches on Saturdays, and tickets are available at the gate for a few pounds. The club welcomes visitors, and there is no need to book in advance. The ground is not wheelchair accessible, and there are no facilities for disabled supporters. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the pitch at half time. The best time to visit is during the autumn and winter months, when the ground is at its most atmospheric. The club also hosts an annual “Sandygate Day” in December, which commemorates the 1860 match between Hallam and Sheffield FC.
2. Field Mill, Mansfield
Records of football at Field Mill go back to the early 1860s, which makes it the oldest ground used by a Football League club. Mansfield Town have played here since 1919, though the site hosted football long before the club existed. The ground is located in the centre of Mansfield, and it is surrounded by residential housing and industrial buildings. The stadium has been redeveloped in stages over the years, so parts of it are modern and parts are clearly older. The result is a ground that feels like a living document of English football history, with each stand representing a different era of the club’s development.
History and Significance
Field Mill was originally a cricket ground, and football was played there in the winter months from the 1860s onwards. The first recorded football match at the ground took place in 1861, making it one of the oldest football sites in the world. Mansfield Town was formed in 1910, and the club moved to Field Mill in 1919. The club has spent most of its history in the lower divisions of English football, and it currently plays in League Two, the fourth tier of the English system. Despite its modest status, Field Mill is one of the most historically significant grounds in English football, and it is a pilgrimage site for groundhoppers and football historians.
The ground has hosted several notable matches over the years, including FA Cup ties against top-flight opposition and Football League play-off finals. The club’s most famous moment came in 1987, when Mansfield Town reached the FA Cup semi-final, losing to Coventry City at Villa Park. The ground has also hosted international matches, including a friendly between England and the Republic of Ireland in 1951. The stadium’s history is closely tied to the history of Mansfield itself, and it is a symbol of the town’s industrial heritage.
What It’s Like Inside
The ground has been redeveloped in stages, so parts of it are modern and parts are clearly older. Capacity is around 9,000, and the stadium is compact and intimate. The Bishop Street Stand is the oldest part of the ground, dating from the 1920s, and it has a traditional terrace feel. The Radford Street Stand is more modern, having been rebuilt in the 1990s, and it offers covered seating. The Quarry Lane End is the home end, and it is known for its passionate and vocal support. The Field Mill Stand is the newest part of the ground, having been built in the 2000s, and it offers the best facilities.
Because the club has spent most of its history in the lower divisions, the ground never received the large-scale rebuilding that top-flight stadiums went through in the 1990s. That is partly why so much of its character survives. The concourses are narrow, the seats are small, and there are supporting pillars that create restricted views in some sections. But the atmosphere is excellent, and the proximity of the stands to the pitch creates an intensity that is rare in modern football. The ground is also one of the most accessible in English football, with the town centre just a short walk away.
Visiting and Practical Info
Field Mill is located in the centre of Mansfield, and it is within walking distance of the town centre. The journey from Mansfield station takes approximately ten minutes. There is limited parking available near the ground, but it fills up quickly on matchdays, so public transport is recommended. The ground is surrounded by residential housing and industrial buildings, and the surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches.
Mansfield Town plays home matches on Saturdays, and tickets are available online or at the gate. The club offers a range of ticket options, including family tickets and concession tickets for seniors and children. The ground is partially wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated spaces for disabled supporters in the Field Mill Stand. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time. The best time to visit is during the autumn and winter months, when the atmosphere is at its most intense. The club also hosts an annual “Groundhop Day” in March, which welcomes visitors from around the country.
3. Bramall Lane, Sheffield
Bramall Lane opened in 1855 as a cricket ground and staged its first football match in 1862. Sheffield United have played there since the club was formed in 1889. The ground is located in the south of Sheffield, and it is one of the most historically significant stadiums in English football. It has hosted some of the most important matches in the history of the sport, including the first ever floodlit football match in 1878. The ground has been redeveloped several times over the years, and it is now a modern stadium with a capacity of around 32,000. But despite the modernisation, the ground retains a sense of history that is rare in English football.
History and Significance
For over a century the ground had only three sides, because the fourth was kept open for cricket. Yorkshire County Cricket Club played there until 1973, and the fourth stand was not completed until the 1990s. This dual use as a cricket and football ground is unique in English football, and it reflects the close relationship between the two sports in the nineteenth century. The ground also hosted the first ever floodlit football match in 1878, using lights powered by portable generators. The experiment was not a success — the lights were dim and the match was played in near-darkness — but it was the beginning of evening football, and it paved the way for the floodlit matches that are now a standard feature of the game.
Bramall Lane has hosted several notable matches over the years, including FA Cup semi-finals, League Cup finals, and international matches. The ground was one of the venues for the 1966 World Cup, and it hosted three matches during the tournament, including a quarter-final between Portugal and North Korea. The ground has also hosted rugby league matches, boxing events, and concerts, demonstrating its versatility as a multi-purpose venue. The stadium’s museum covers the history of Sheffield United and the history of football in Sheffield, and it is one of the most comprehensive club museums in England.
What It’s Like Inside
Capacity today is around 32,000 and the ground is a mix of older and newer stands. The Kop is the oldest part of the ground, dating from the 1910s, and it is a traditional terrace that is home to the club’s most vocal supporters. The Bramall Lane Stand is the newest part of the ground, having been rebuilt in the 2000s, and it offers covered seating and modern facilities. The John Street Stand and the Sheffield United Stand are both from the 1990s, and they offer a mix of seating and standing areas. The sightlines are generally good throughout the stadium, though some seats in the older stands have restricted views due to supporting pillars.
The atmosphere at Bramall Lane is generally good, but it does not reach the intensity of some other English stadiums. The crowd is knowledgeable and engaged, but it can be quiet during routine league matches, particularly when the team is struggling. On big occasions, such as FA Cup ties or derby matches against Sheffield Wednesday, the atmosphere can be electric. The Kop is the most vocal section, and it produces an intense atmosphere during high-stakes matches. The ground is also one of the most accessible in English football, with the city centre just a short walk away.
Visiting and Practical Info
Bramall Lane is located in the south of Sheffield, and it is within walking distance of the city centre. The journey from Sheffield station takes approximately fifteen minutes. There is limited parking available near the ground, but it fills up quickly on matchdays, so public transport is recommended. The ground is surrounded by residential housing and industrial buildings, and the surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches. The area is relatively quiet on non-matchdays, but it comes alive on matchdays with Sheffield United supporters.
Sheffield United plays home matches on Saturdays, and tickets are available online or at the gate. The club offers a range of ticket options, including family tickets and concession tickets for seniors and children. The ground is partially wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated spaces for disabled supporters in the Bramall Lane Stand. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time. The stadium tour is available on non-matchdays and includes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and museum. The tour explains the history of the club, the architecture of the stadium, and the famous matches that have been played here.
4. Deepdale, Preston
Preston North End have played at Deepdale since 1875, and the club claims it as the oldest continuously used football league ground in the world. Preston were one of the twelve founding members of the Football League in 1888 and won the first title without losing a match, earning the nickname “The Invincibles.” The ground is located in the east of Preston, and it is one of the most historically significant stadiums in English football. It has been completely rebuilt during the 1990s and 2000s, so despite its age it is now a modern four-sided stadium holding around 23,000. But the history is still present, in the names of the stands and the murals that adorn the walls.
History and Significance
Deepdale was originally a cricket ground, and football was played there from 1875 onwards. Preston North End was formed in 1880, and the club moved to Deepdale in 1875, making it the oldest continuously used football league ground in the world. The club was one of the twelve founding members of the Football League in 1888, and it won the first title without losing a match, earning the nickname “The Invincibles.” The club also won the FA Cup in 1889, completing the first ever double in English football. The ground has hosted several notable matches over the years, including FA Cup semi-finals, League Cup ties, and international matches.
The National Football Museum was based at Deepdale for several years before moving to Manchester, which reflects how central Preston is to the sport’s early history. The museum was founded in 2001, and it was housed in the former Preston North End stand at Deepdale. The museum covered the history of English football from its origins to the present day, and it was one of the most comprehensive football museums in the world. The museum moved to Manchester in 2012, but the legacy of its time at Deepdale is still present in the ground’s architecture and atmosphere.
What It’s Like Inside
The ground was completely rebuilt during the 1990s and 2000s, so despite its age it is now a modern four-sided stadium holding around 23,000. The stands are named after Preston players including Tom Finney, and one features a mural of his face made from coloured seats. Tom Finney is one of the greatest players in English football history, and he spent his entire career at Preston North End. The mural is a tribute to his legacy, and it is one of the most distinctive features of the stadium. The sightlines are excellent throughout the stadium, with no obstructed views and a consistent rake that ensures even the highest seats have a good angle on the pitch.
The atmosphere at Deepdale is generally good, but it does not reach the intensity of some other English stadiums. The crowd is knowledgeable and engaged, but it can be quiet during routine league matches, particularly when the team is struggling. On big occasions, such as FA Cup ties or play-off matches, the atmosphere can be electric. The Tom Finney Stand is the most vocal section, and it produces an intense atmosphere during high-stakes matches. The ground is also one of the most accessible in English football, with the city centre just a short walk away.
Visiting and Practical Info
Deepdale is located in the east of Preston, and it is within walking distance of the city centre. The journey from Preston station takes approximately fifteen minutes. There is limited parking available near the ground, but it fills up quickly on matchdays, so public transport is recommended. The ground is surrounded by residential housing and industrial buildings, and the surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches. The area is relatively quiet on non-matchdays, but it comes alive on matchdays with Preston North End supporters.
Preston North End plays home matches on Saturdays, and tickets are available online or at the gate. The club offers a range of ticket options, including family tickets and concession tickets for seniors and children. The ground is fully wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated spaces for disabled supporters in all four stands. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time. The stadium tour is available on non-matchdays and includes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and museum. The tour explains the history of the club, the architecture of the stadium, and the famous matches that have been played here.
5. Turf Moor, Burnley
Burnley have played at Turf Moor since 1883, making it one of the longest continuous club and ground relationships in English football. The ground is located in the centre of Burnley, and it is one of the most characterful stadiums in English football. It has been developed piecemeal rather than rebuilt, so two modern stands sit alongside two older ones, which gives it an uneven but characterful appearance. The ground is also notable for being close to the town centre, which is increasingly rare. Many clubs have moved to out-of-town sites with parking, while Burnley have stayed put, and the result is a stadium that feels integrated into the fabric of the town.
History and Significance
Turf Moor was originally a cricket ground, and football was played there from 1883 onwards. Burnley was formed in 1882, and the club moved to Turf Moor in 1883. The club was one of the twelve founding members of the Football League in 1888, and it won the league title in 1921 and 1960. The ground has hosted several notable matches over the years, including FA Cup semi-finals, League Cup ties, and international matches. The ground was also one of the venues for the 1966 World Cup, and it hosted three matches during the tournament, including a group match between France and Mexico.
The ground has been redeveloped several times over the years, but it has never been completely rebuilt. The Jimmy McIlroy Stand and the Bob Lord Stand are the oldest parts of the ground, dating from the 1950s and 1960s, and they have a traditional terrace feel. The Cricket Field Stand and the David Fishwick Stand are more modern, having been rebuilt in the 1990s and 2000s, and they offer covered seating and modern facilities. The result is a ground that feels like a living document of English football history, with each stand representing a different era of the club’s development.
What It’s Like Inside
The ground holds around 21,000 and has been developed piecemeal rather than rebuilt. Two modern stands sit alongside two older ones, which gives it an uneven but characterful appearance. The sightlines are generally good throughout the stadium, though some seats in the older stands have restricted views due to supporting pillars. The atmosphere at Turf Moor is generally good, and it is one of the most intense in English football. The crowd is knowledgeable and engaged, and it produces a sustained wall of sound throughout the match. The Jimmy McIlroy Stand is the most vocal section, and it is home to the club’s most passionate supporters.
Turf Moor is notable for being close to the town centre, which is increasingly rare. Many clubs have moved to out-of-town sites with parking, while Burnley have stayed put. The result is a stadium that feels integrated into the fabric of the town, and it is one of the most accessible grounds in English football. The surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches, and the atmosphere on matchdays is electric. The ground is also one of the cheapest in the Premier League, with ticket prices among the lowest in top-flight English football.
Visiting and Practical Info
Turf Moor is located in the centre of Burnley, and it is within walking distance of the town centre. The journey from Burnley station takes approximately ten minutes. There is limited parking available near the ground, but it fills up quickly on matchdays, so public transport is recommended. The ground is surrounded by residential housing and industrial buildings, and the surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches. The area is relatively quiet on non-matchdays, but it comes alive on matchdays with Burnley supporters.
Burnley plays home matches on Saturdays, and tickets are available online or at the gate. The club offers a range of ticket options, including family tickets and concession tickets for seniors and children. The ground is partially wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated spaces for disabled supporters in the David Fishwick Stand. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time. The stadium tour is available on non-matchdays and includes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and museum. The tour explains the history of the club, the architecture of the stadium, and the famous matches that have been played here.
6. Ewood Park, Blackburn
Blackburn Rovers moved to Ewood Park in 1890, having played at several sites before that. The ground was substantially rebuilt in the 1990s when the club won the Premier League, and three of the four stands date from that period. The ground is located in the east of Blackburn, and it is one of the most historically significant stadiums in English football. It has hosted some of the most important matches in the history of the sport, including the 1995 Premier League title-winning match. The ground has a capacity of around 31,000, and it is one of the most characterful stadiums in English football.
History and Significance
Blackburn Rovers are, like Preston, one of the twelve founding Football League clubs, so the ground sits within the earliest layer of organised English football. The club was formed in 1875, and it moved to Ewood Park in 1890. The club won the FA Cup six times between 1884 and 1928, and it won the Premier League title in 1995 under the management of Kenny Dalglish. The 1995 title win was one of the most significant moments in English football history, as it broke the dominance of Manchester United and Arsenal and proved that a club from outside the traditional power centres could win the league.
Ewood Park has hosted several notable matches over the years, including FA Cup semi-finals, League Cup finals, and international matches. The ground was also one of the venues for the 1966 World Cup, and it hosted three matches during the tournament, including a group match between Spain and Switzerland. The ground has also hosted rugby league matches, boxing events, and concerts, demonstrating its versatility as a multi-purpose venue. The stadium’s museum covers the history of Blackburn Rovers and the history of football in Blackburn, and it is one of the most comprehensive club museums in England.
What It’s Like Inside
Capacity is around 31,000. The Riverside Stand is the oldest surviving part, dating from the 1930s, and it has a traditional terrace feel. The Darwen End, the Jack Walker Stand, and the Ronnie Clayton Blackburn End are all from the 1990s, and they offer covered seating and modern facilities. The sightlines are generally good throughout the stadium, though some seats in the Riverside Stand have restricted views due to supporting pillars. The atmosphere at Ewood Park is generally good, but it does not reach the intensity of some other English stadiums. The crowd is knowledgeable and engaged, but it can be quiet during routine league matches, particularly when the team is struggling.
On big occasions, such as FA Cup ties or derby matches against Burnley, the atmosphere can be electric. The Darwen End is the most vocal section, and it produces an intense atmosphere during high-stakes matches. The ground is also one of the most accessible in English football, with the city centre just a short walk away. The surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches, and the atmosphere on matchdays is generally good. The ground is also one of the cheapest in the Premier League, with ticket prices among the lowest in top-flight English football.
Visiting and Practical Info
Ewood Park is located in the east of Blackburn, and it is within walking distance of the city centre. The journey from Blackburn station takes approximately fifteen minutes. There is limited parking available near the ground, but it fills up quickly on matchdays, so public transport is recommended. The ground is surrounded by residential housing and industrial buildings, and the surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches. The area is relatively quiet on non-matchdays, but it comes alive on matchdays with Blackburn Rovers supporters.
Blackburn Rovers plays home matches on Saturdays, and tickets are available online or at the gate. The club offers a range of ticket options, including family tickets and concession tickets for seniors and children. The ground is partially wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated spaces for disabled supporters in the Jack Walker Stand. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time. The stadium tour is available on non-matchdays and includes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and museum. The tour explains the history of the club, the architecture of the stadium, and the famous matches that have been played here.
7. Anfield, Liverpool
Anfield opened in 1884, and its early history is unusual. It was built for Everton, who played there for eight years. A dispute over rent led Everton to leave in 1892 and move to Goodison Park across the park. The ground owner responded by forming a new club to fill the empty stadium. That club was Liverpool. So Anfield is older than the club most associated with it. The ground is located in the Anfield district of Liverpool, and it is one of the most famous stadiums in world football. It has hosted some of the most iconic matches in the history of the sport, including the 2005 Champions League final and the 2019 Champions League semi-final against Barcelona.
History and Significance
Anfield was originally built for Everton, who played there from 1884 to 1892. The club left Anfield after a dispute over rent with the ground owner, John Houlding, and moved to Goodison Park across Stanley Park. Houlding responded by forming a new club to fill the empty stadium, and that club was Liverpool. The new club played its first match at Anfield in 1892, and it has been the club’s home ever since. The ground has been expanded repeatedly over the years, most recently with the Main Stand and Anfield Road redevelopments, and it now holds over 61,000. The expansions have transformed Anfield from a modest ground into one of the largest stadiums in England.
Anfield has hosted several notable matches over the years, including FA Cup finals, League Cup finals, and European Cup finals. The ground was one of the venues for the 1966 World Cup, and it hosted three matches during the tournament, including a group match between France and Mexico. The ground has also hosted rugby league matches, boxing events, and concerts, demonstrating its versatility as a multi-purpose venue. The stadium’s museum covers the history of Liverpool FC and the history of football in Liverpool, and it is one of the most comprehensive club museums in England.
What It’s Like Inside
The ground has been expanded repeatedly, most recently with the Main Stand and Anfield Road redevelopments, and now holds over 61,000. The Kop is the most famous part of the ground, and it is home to the club’s most vocal supporters. The Kop is a single-tier stand that holds approximately 12,000 supporters, all standing close together and facing the pitch. The steepness of the stand means that the noise is directed downwards onto the pitch, rather than dissipating into the air. The Main Stand, which was rebuilt in 2016, is also steep and close to the pitch, and it amplifies the noise from the Kop.
The atmosphere at Anfield is particularly intense during European nights. Liverpool’s history in the European Cup and Champions League is one of the most successful in the competition, and the club’s supporters treat these matches as special occasions. The noise level during a Champions League knockout match at Anfield can exceed 100 decibels, and the sustained singing throughout the match creates an intimidating environment for visiting teams. Several high-profile comebacks have been attributed in part to the atmosphere, including the 2005 Champions League final and the 2019 semi-final against Barcelona.
Visiting and Practical Info
Anfield is located in the Anfield district of Liverpool, and it is not next to a station, so plan the journey. Buses run from the city centre and taxis are straightforward. The most convenient option is the number 26 bus from Liverpool city centre, which stops directly outside the stadium. The journey takes approximately twenty minutes. There is also a dedicated matchday shuttle service from Lime Street station, but this does not run on non-matchdays. If you are driving, there is limited parking available near the stadium, but it fills up quickly, so public transport is recommended.
Liverpool plays home matches on Saturdays and midweek evenings, and tickets are available online or at the gate. The club offers a range of ticket options, including family tickets and concession tickets for seniors and children. The ground is partially wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated spaces for disabled supporters in the Main Stand. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time. The stadium tour is available on non-matchdays and includes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and museum. The tour explains the history of the club, the architecture of the stadium, and the famous matches that have been played here.
8. Goodison Park, Everton
Goodison Park opened in 1892 and was one of the first purpose-built football grounds in England, at a time when most clubs played on converted cricket fields or open land. It was the first English ground to have four double-decker stands and hosted more top-flight matches than any other stadium in the country. It also hosted a World Cup semi-final in 1966. The ground is located in the Walton district of Liverpool, and it is one of the most historically significant stadiums in English football. Everton have now moved to a new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock, so Goodison’s time as a top-flight men’s ground has ended. Its place on this list is historical rather than current, and it is included because of how much of the sport’s development happened there.
History and Significance
Goodison Park was built for Everton after the club left Anfield in 1892. The ground was designed by the architect Archibald Leitch, who was one of the most prolific stadium architects in English football history. Leitch designed over twenty stadiums across England and Scotland, and his designs were characterised by their distinctive criss-cross railings and wooden seating. Goodison Park was one of his earliest designs, and it set the standard for football stadium architecture in the twentieth century. The ground was the first English ground to have four double-decker stands, and it hosted more top-flight matches than any other stadium in the country.
Goodison Park has hosted several notable matches over the years, including FA Cup finals, League Cup finals, and international matches. The ground was one of the venues for the 1966 World Cup, and it hosted three matches during the tournament, including a semi-final between England and Portugal. The ground has also hosted rugby league matches, boxing events, and concerts, demonstrating its versatility as a multi-purpose venue. The stadium’s museum covers the history of Everton FC and the history of football in Liverpool, and it is one of the most comprehensive club museums in England.
What It’s Like Inside
The ground holds around 39,000 and has a traditional feel that is rare in modern football. The stands are steep and close to the pitch, and the atmosphere is generally good. The Gwladys Street End is the most vocal section, and it is home to the club’s most passionate supporters. The stand is relatively small, which means the supporters are densely packed and the noise is concentrated. The combination of the steep stands and the passionate supporters creates an atmosphere that is both loud and sustained. The sightlines are generally good throughout the stadium, though some seats in the older stands have restricted views due to supporting pillars.
The atmosphere at Goodison Park is generally good, but it does not reach the intensity of some other English stadiums. The crowd is knowledgeable and engaged, but it can be quiet during routine league matches, particularly when the team is struggling. On big occasions, such as FA Cup ties or derby matches against Liverpool, the atmosphere can be electric. The Gwladys Street End is the most vocal section, and it produces an intense atmosphere during high-stakes matches. The ground is also one of the most accessible in English football, with the city centre just a short walk away.
Visiting and Practical Info
Goodison Park is located in the Walton district of Liverpool, and it is served by several bus lines that stop nearby. The journey from Liverpool city centre takes approximately twenty minutes. There is also a dedicated bus service from the city centre on matchdays. If you are driving, there is limited parking available near the stadium, but it fills up quickly on matchdays, so public transport is recommended. The stadium is located in the north of Liverpool, and the surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches.
Everton played their final match at Goodison Park in May 2024, and the club has since moved to a new stadium at Bramley Moore Dock. The ground is now used for community events and occasional matches, but it is no longer the home of a top-flight club. The stadium tour is available on non-matchdays and includes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and museum. The tour explains the history of the club, the architecture of the stadium, and the famous matches that have been played here. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time.
9. Stamford Bridge, London
Stamford Bridge opened in 1877 as an athletics venue and was used for that purpose for nearly thirty years. Chelsea were formed in 1905 specifically to play there, which reverses the usual order of club and ground. The stadium is located in the Fulham district of London, and it is one of the most famous stadiums in world football. It has hosted some of the most iconic matches in the history of the sport, including the 2012 Champions League final and the 2021 Champions League final. The ground has a capacity of around 40,000, and it is one of the most characterful stadiums in English football.
History and Significance
Stamford Bridge was originally built for the London Athletic Club, and it was used for athletics, cycling, and other sports for nearly thirty years. Chelsea were formed in 1905 specifically to play there, which reverses the usual order of club and ground. The club was founded by Gus Mears, who had purchased the stadium with the intention of creating a football club to fill it. The club played its first match at Stamford Bridge in 1905, and it has been the club’s home ever since. The ground has been rebuilt several times since, and it now holds around 40,000, limited by railway lines and housing on the surrounding streets.
Stamford Bridge has hosted several notable matches over the years, including FA Cup finals, League Cup finals, and European Cup finals. The ground was one of the venues for the 1966 World Cup, and it hosted three matches during the tournament, including a group match between France and Mexico. The ground has also hosted rugby league matches, boxing events, and concerts, demonstrating its versatility as a multi-purpose venue. The stadium’s museum covers the history of Chelsea FC and the history of football in London, and it is one of the most comprehensive club museums in England.
What It’s Like Inside
The stadium originally held over 80,000 and hosted three FA Cup finals. It has been rebuilt several times since, and now holds around 40,000, limited by railway lines and housing on the surrounding streets. The Matthew Harding Stand is the most vocal section, and it is home to the club’s most passionate supporters. The stand is relatively small, which means the supporters are densely packed and the noise is concentrated. The combination of the steep stands and the passionate supporters creates an atmosphere that is both loud and sustained. The sightlines are generally good throughout the stadium, though some seats in the older stands have restricted views due to supporting pillars.
The atmosphere at Stamford Bridge is generally good, but it does not reach the intensity of some other English stadiums. The crowd is knowledgeable and engaged, but it can be quiet during routine league matches, particularly when the team is struggling. On big occasions, such as FA Cup ties or Champions League nights, the atmosphere can be electric. The Matthew Harding Stand is the most vocal section, and it produces an intense atmosphere during high-stakes matches. The ground is also one of the most accessible in English football, with the city centre just a short walk away.
Visiting and Practical Info
Stamford Bridge is located in the Fulham district of London, and it is served by Fulham Broadway station on the District Line, which is directly outside the stadium. The journey from central London takes approximately twenty minutes. There is also a dedicated bus service from the city centre on matchdays, and several other bus lines stop nearby. If you are driving, there is limited parking available near the stadium, but it fills up quickly on matchdays, so public transport is recommended. The stadium is located in the west of London, and the surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches.
Chelsea plays home matches on Saturdays and midweek evenings, and tickets are available online or at the gate. The club offers a range of ticket options, including family tickets and concession tickets for seniors and children. The ground is partially wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated spaces for disabled supporters in the Matthew Harding Stand. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time. The stadium tour is available on non-matchdays and includes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and museum. The tour explains the history of the club, the architecture of the stadium, and the famous matches that have been played here.
10. Estadio El Molinon, Gijon
El Molinon dates from 1908 and is usually named as the oldest professional football ground in Spain. Sporting Gijon have played there throughout. The name means “the big mill,” after a watermill that once stood on the site. The ground holds around 30,000 and was redeveloped for the 1982 World Cup. It is included here to show that the pattern is not purely English. Football spread across Europe in the early 1900s, and several continental grounds from that period are still in use. El Molinon is one of the most historically significant stadiums in Spanish football, and it is a symbol of the sport’s growth beyond its English origins.
History and Significance
El Molinon was originally built for Sporting Gijon, who were formed in 1905. The club moved to El Molinon in 1908, and it has been the club’s home ever since. The ground was redeveloped for the 1982 World Cup, and it hosted three matches during the tournament, including a group match between Brazil and the Soviet Union. The redevelopment transformed the ground from a modest stadium into a modern venue with a capacity of around 30,000. The ground has also hosted several notable matches over the years, including Copa del Rey finals, European Cup ties, and international matches.
El Molinon is one of the most historically significant stadiums in Spanish football, and it is a symbol of the sport’s growth beyond its English origins. The ground has hosted some of the most iconic matches in Spanish football history, including Sporting Gijon’s famous victory over Real Madrid in 1979. The ground has also hosted rugby matches, boxing events, and concerts, demonstrating its versatility as a multi-purpose venue. The stadium’s museum covers the history of Sporting Gijon and the history of football in Asturias, and it is one of the most comprehensive club museums in Spain.
What It’s Like Inside
The ground holds around 30,000 and was redeveloped for the 1982 World Cup. The stands are steep and close to the pitch, and the atmosphere is generally good. The Norte Stand is the most vocal section, and it is home to the club’s most passionate supporters. The stand is relatively small, which means the supporters are densely packed and the noise is concentrated. The combination of the steep stands and the passionate supporters creates an atmosphere that is both loud and sustained. The sightlines are generally good throughout the stadium, though some seats in the older stands have restricted views due to supporting pillars.
The atmosphere at El Molinon is generally good, but it does not reach the intensity of some other Spanish stadiums. The crowd is knowledgeable and engaged, but it can be quiet during routine league matches, particularly when the team is struggling. On big occasions, such as Copa del Rey ties or derby matches against Real Oviedo, the atmosphere can be electric. The Norte Stand is the most vocal section, and it produces an intense atmosphere during high-stakes matches. The ground is also one of the most accessible in Spanish football, with the city centre just a short walk away.
Visiting and Practical Info
El Molinon is located in the centre of Gijon, and it is within walking distance of the city centre. The journey from Gijon station takes approximately ten minutes. There is limited parking available near the ground, but it fills up quickly on matchdays, so public transport is recommended. The ground is surrounded by residential housing and industrial buildings, and the surrounding area has several pubs and restaurants that are popular with fans before and after matches. The area is relatively quiet on non-matchdays, but it comes alive on matchdays with Sporting Gijon supporters.
Sporting Gijon plays home matches on Saturdays and Sundays, and tickets are available online or at the gate. The club offers a range of ticket options, including family tickets and concession tickets for seniors and children. The ground is partially wheelchair accessible, and there are dedicated spaces for disabled supporters in the Norte Stand. Photography is permitted, and the club is happy for visitors to walk around the ground at half time. The stadium tour is available on non-matchdays and includes access to the dressing rooms, tunnel, pitchside, and museum. The tour explains the history of the club, the architecture of the stadium, and the famous matches that have been played here.
How to Choose Which Ground to Visit
With ten excellent options to choose from, deciding which ground to visit can be challenging. The best choice depends on your interests, your budget, and the cities you plan to visit. If you are interested in the origins of football, Sandygate Road is the clear choice — it is the oldest football ground in the world, and it offers a unique glimpse into the sport’s earliest days. If you want to see a ground that has hosted top-flight football for over a century, Bramall Lane and Deepdale are the standout options. If you are on a budget, Sandygate Road and Field Mill offer the best value for money, with tickets costing just a few pounds.
For first-time visitors to English football, we recommend starting with one of the more accessible grounds, such as Anfield or Stamford Bridge, as both are easily reachable from major cities and offer excellent facilities. If you are visiting the north of England, Bramall Lane and Turf Moor are both world-class experiences that should not be missed. For those interested in football history, Sandygate Road and Deepdale offer the most compelling narratives, with connections to the earliest days of the sport. And for those who want to see a ground that is truly unique, El Molinon offers a glimpse into the spread of football beyond its English origins.
Regardless of which ground you choose, book your tickets well in advance, check the fixture calendar before travelling, and allow more time than you think you need to get to the ground. These three simple steps will ensure that your matchday experience is as enjoyable and memorable as possible. And if you have the time and the budget, consider visiting more than one — each ground offers a unique perspective on the game, and together they provide a comprehensive understanding of football history.
📚 From the Blog
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