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AWAY THE LADS

Ground Guide To All League One Clubs...! And More...!

In conjunction with the superb www.footballgroundguide.co.uk for the information, use of some photographs and their expertise, County 4 Life takes you on a journey around Coca-Cola League One to give you an indepth lowdown on all the football grounds visited by County in the 2008-09 season. 

Happy clicking...!

Brighton And Hove Albion - Withdean Stadium.....Bristol Rovers - Memorial Ground.....Carlisle United - Brunton Park.....Cheltenham Town - Whaddon Road.....Colchester United - The Colchester Community Stadium.....Crewe Alexandra - Gresty Road.....Hartlepool United - Victoria Park.....Hereford United - Edgar Street.....Huddersfield Town - The Galpharm Stadium.....Leeds United - Elland Road.....Leicester City - The Walkers Stadium.....Leyton Orient - Brisbane Road......Millwall - The New Den.....Milton Keynes Dons - stadium:mk.....Northampton Town - Sixfields.....Oldham Athletic - Boundary Park.....Peterborough United - London Road.....Scunthorpe United - Glanford Park.....Southend United - Roots Hall.....Swindon Town - The County Ground.....Tranmere Rovers - Prenton Park.....Walsall - The Bescot Stadium.....Yeovil Town - Huish Park 

Address - Withdean Stadium, Tongdean Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 5JD

Telephone - 01273-695 400

Web - www.seagulls.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site -  www.northstandchat.com

Overall - Proof that football in an athletics stadium simply doesn't work. Little or no atmosphere, miles away from the pitch. Seriously one of football's worst stadia. The picture flatters this stadium.

The Withdean Stadium - When Brighton's historic Goldstone Ground closed in 1997, it left the club in a period of disarray, ground sharing at Gillingham until they eventually returned to the South Coast in 1999 at The Withdean. At first glance, it's obvious that it's far from a football stadium, and for a club with Brighton's history - FA Cup Finalists in 1983 remember - it's a real sad site. A mish-mash of ugly uncovered stands and multi-coloured seating.

Although this is only a few miles from downtown Brighton, it's the rural setting what makes this ground seem a million miles away from the tight white tee-shirt wearing locals. Three sides of the stadium are basic looking temporary stands, which are also uncovered and are certainly open to the elements. Only the north stand (the athletics finishing straight) can be labelled as permanent. This is also the only side that is covered.

The athletics track that surrounds the pitch means that supporters don't have the same intimacy like its peers. Popular in Europe, maybe, but not over here, in my personal opinion the quicker Brighton And Hove Albion FC move from these headquarters the better.

County will be housed in the West Stand behind the goal. One person lebelled this stand as more reminiscent of the British Open than a League One game. Has a capacity of approx 900 seats and is set possibly the furthest back from the pitch, with the pesky track and a semi circular grassy patch between yourself and the goal.

Getting There - As was mentioned before, The Withdean is located about two miles from Brighton town centre, just off the A23 London Road. As there is no parking within a one mile exclusion zone around the ground, the excellent Park And Ride scheme is a much much better option.

The nearest railway station is Preston Park, which is about a healthy ten minute walk. The station is served by Victoria - that's London, not Manchester...! and also from Kings Cross and London Bridge (cheaper alternatives if memory serves my correct). After walking down to the bottom of the hill after coming out of the station, turn left along the A23 and the stadium is just further up. Like Wycombe and Chester, there is a footy bus that takes you back into Brighton after the game.

Our Last Visit Here - Was a win. Resident Hall Of Shamer Aaron Wilbraham's late goal gave County three points in October 2003...! 

Address - Memorial Stadium, Filton Avenue, Horfield, Bristol. BS7 0BF

Telephone - 01179 096648

Web - www.bristolrovers.co.uk

County 4 Life Unofficial Website -

Overall - Doesn't feel nor look like a football ground. A hotpotch of various sports stadia bolted together.In need of repair. Fast

Memorial Stadium - The club moved to this stadium in 1996 and two years later bought the ground from then owners Bristol RUFC. Although 'The Mem' has seen some changes since Rovers took over, but the general feel about the ground is that its still largely a rugger ground. The new stadium is on schedule for completion and with this in mind, they will move to share with Cheltenham Town's Whaddon Road ground in 2009-10.

On one side lies the DAS Stand, which looks like a cricket pavilion, but still looks very smart, especially under floodlights. A row of hospitaility boxes can be found across the top, with an area of terracing below.

At one end of the DAS is a small covered terrace and is largely used as a family stand and on the other end is the small Guinness Stand and is a covered temporary seating. On the other side lies the Uplands Stand, taller than the DAS, but similar in length, straddling the half way line. The stand has a covered seating towards the rear and terracing to the front, of which is given to away fans.

Completing the ground is the unusual looking Becks (South) Stand. This was originally erected as a temporary stand to fill the empty end, but now looks like a stand more akin to the Badminton Horse Trails. This has a nickname as 'The Tent' by the locals.

As was mentioned before away fans are houses in the open terrace on one side of the Uplands. This area is open to the element so expect to get wet if it rains. Equally as annoying is that it's hard for fans to generate any noise. Although upto 1,100 fans can be housed here. There will be seats available if the weatherr looks dodgy.

I have noted that whilst there are no real known problems in the area of The Mem, the locals are more away tolerant than away friendly.

Getting There - Exit M5 J16 (Signposted Fitton), and join the A38 (South) towards City Centre. The ground is about five miles down the A38. You will pass a large BAe works and further on, you will pass The Royal George and Duke Of York pubs. At the next set of lights, the ground is about 100m down on your left.

There will be a fair choice of street parking and at the back of The Wellington pub.

The nearest railway station is Filton Abbey Wood, which is approx 1.5m from the ground. More often than not you'll arrive at Bristol Parkway which is 2m away.

Last Time Here - After the pitch debacle that ended in a postponement, County travelled to Brizzol in March 2007 and came away with nothing. A 2-1 defeat damaged our play-off hopes although Michael Rose did score straight from a corner.

Address - Brunton Park, Warwick Road, Carlisle, Cumbria, CA1 1LL

Telephone - 01228 554 141

Web - www.carlisleunited.co.uk

Overall - From an area where the English / Scotch border literally dissects the town, it seems mildly appropriate that Carlisle United's home is also split in two. Nevertheless, still a unique footballing home from one of English (!?!) football's outposts. 

Brunton Park - "The Cumberland Building Society (East) Stand" on one side of the pitch can be the only stand that can be described as 'new'.

It's a fully covered smart all-seater stand, has the now obligatory club initials neatly placed in the seating and towers above the rest of the ground, which in all honesty, is a little tired.

What is unusual about this stand is that one end of the stand looks 'off centre', overlapping the end of the pitch compared to the other end which runs parallel with the six yard box at t'other end. This was because the club were planning to move the ground a few yards north on completion of the new stand, but alas funds ran out. 

Opposite is the real olde worlde 'Main Stand' (pictured), which not only has a terraced paddock at the front but is only covered towards the rear, which is a real throw-back through the years. The roof's centre section is raised towards the middle and the seats look like they could do with a refurb.

"The Warwick Road End", which, you'll be surprised, is named after the thoroughfare that runs behind it - what a shocker - fancy that! is a covered terrace that has a very peculiar looking roof, yet is synonymous to Carlisle United F.C. In those halcyon days when The Cumbrians were in the top flight, the trio of triangles were said to be universally recognised.

Completing the stadium tour is "The Petterill End" (aka The Waterworks End), this is a medium-ish sized open terrace, which during some building work was closed for some time, in fact in my last visit here it was closed, which was a shame as it gives a much better viewpoint of the game and with it being situated behind the goal, it also gives you that very traditional away day feel.

This area holds upto 1,700 visiting fans, but it is open to the elements. If numbers require it, the Petterill End of the Cumberland is used. This gives you a superb view with no restrictive views yet with the gradiant of the seating, the further back you decide to plonk your arse, the further you are away from the action. 

The segregation between away and home is little more than a piece of fabric, so the close proximity between fans creates a some good banter but can turn nasty as times, but overall the people of Carlisle are very friendly...if you can understand them...! 

Getting There - By car it's really easy to find. Leave the M6 at junction 43 and take the A49 towards Carlisle, after about a mile the ground is on your right. Street parking is preferable, but you can park in the club grounds for a couple of squid.

If you are going by train, again, it shouldn't be a problem, as the ground is situated approx a mile from Carlisle Citadel Station. Upon exiting the station at the main entrance, walk the short distance around The Crescent until you reach Warwick Road. You will be able to see the older Main Stand and the 'universally recognised' triangles after a 10-15 minute walk.

Our Last Time Here - Northern Section of The Johnstone Paints Trophy, Quarter Final. Carlisle 0 County 3 (Proudlock, McNeil and Elding) 13 November 2007. Put to bed memories of the 6-0 the season before...!  

Address - Whaddon Road Stadium, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 5NA

Telephone - 01242 573 558

Web - www.ctfc.com

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Websites -

Overall - With a picturesque Cotswold backdrop, Whaddon Road is a comfortable day out with hearty atmosphere and a friendly welcome.

Whaddon Road - Compared to those grounds that have come out of non-league, Whaddon Road - who'll have the (mis)fortune be the latest ground to house the gyspies from Bristol Rovers in 2009-10 - is a very smart, intimate ground and certainly puts grounds like at Barnet and Macclesfield to shame. At one end is the newest addition to the stadium - the 1,100 seater 'Carlsberg Stand'. It opened in December 2005 and is now given to away fans. What is strange about this stand is somehow one end of the stand has more rows than the other. The covered, all seated 'In2Print Stand' is along one side of the pitch with 'The Stagecoach Main Stand' (pictured) running along the other touchline.

This is seated to the rear and has standing at the front, what lets this stand down is that it doesn't run all the way to each corner, leaving thumping great big gaps towards each corner flag. I hope that the club are hoping to renovate this stand as it's a real poor relative to the others. Completing the stadium is the covered 'Cheltenham And Gloucester Terrace', which is frequented by the home hardcore.

County will be housed in the new Carlsberg Stand, where the facilities are excellent and the legroom is plentiful. Really what you should expect from a new stand. Just over 1,100 noisy Hatters can be housed here and if demand requires it, part of the In2Print stand can accommodate away fans too.

Getting There - From the north leave the M5 J10 and take the A4019 towards Cheltenham. Keep straight on through the traffic lights until you come to a large roundabout (or a "gyratory" if you are listening to a SatNav) - and turn left at McDonalds. Keep going over a double mini-roundabout and then turn right into Swindon Lane. Go over the level crossing, straight over another jiiraatoree passing the racecourse on your left. Turn right into Albert Road and left into Prestbury Road and the ground is signposted from there.

From the south, leave the M5 J11 and turn right into Cheltenham. Go across the first roundabout. GCHQ is on your left. Turn left at the next roundabout into Princess Elizabeth Way. Go straight over the next roundabout. keep along this road until you see the aforementioned large roundabout (McDonalds), go straight on and continue over the double mini-roundabout, then follow as the north directions.

Phew, there. Easy?

Our Last Visit Here - A barnstorming 3-3 draw in April 2006. Goals from Mark Robinson (pen), Keith Briggs and Liam Dickinson gave County a vital point...!

Address - Weston Homes Community Stadium, United Way, Cuckoo Farm, Colchester, Essex. CO4 5HE

Telephone - 01206 755 100

Web - www.cu-fc.com

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - The new kid on the League One block, Colchester United have themselves a superb stadium, which, if goes to plan, will be the focus of the community, not just the Colchester fans.

The Weston Homes Community Stadium - After seventy-one glorious years at Layer Road, Colchester United have moved to a smart out of town stadium. The new WHCS cost approx £14m, the most of which was footed by the council, and CUFC will act as tenants.

The stadium is very well presented, but as with many of its peers, is nothing really special. the ground comprises of four separate stands (a la Chester). the Main Stand on the side of the pitch stands a little taller than the other three, which are the same height. All stands are single covered all-seater stands.

The mainstand has a row of Executive boxes areas running across the top, whilst the other stands are pretty non-descript. The away end will be the The South Stand, behind one goal. As with a lot of new grounds, each stand has a perspex panel to allow more light to the pitch.

Getting There - From the North and M11 - Come off the M11 at J8 (Stansted Airport) and follow the A120 towards Braintree and Colchester. The A120 then joins the A12 after passing the stadium on your right. Leave the A12 at J29, at the roundabout at the end of the sliproad, take the A12 (London and Colchester Business Park). Take the first left into Severalls Industrial Estate and left again into the business park. At the next roundabout turn into The Crescent and right into Severalls Lane. Then into Axial Way and then United Way.

There will be 600 car parking spaces at the ground, but cost £10...! There is also extensive resident only schemes, so you may need to park away from the ground and walk in.  

Last Time Here - (Well Layer Road) - Colchester 3 County 2 - 10th Aug 2004. United raced into a 3-0 lead but were pegged back by Lee Cartwright (Where is he now...?) and Luke 'The Legend' Beckett.

Address - The Alexandra Stadium, Gresty Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 6EB

Telephone - 01270 213 014

Web - www.crewealex.net

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - Was a tiny traditional football ground, but since the erection of the focal main stand Gresty Road has been transformed into a tremendous stadium, also a very good day out with easy access.

Alexandra Stadium (Gresty Road) - Since the 1999 opening of the £6m Air Products Stand (replacing the former Railtrack Stand) it changed the overall look of The Alex's home (pictured). This monsterous stand is a single tier cantilever stand that seats about 7,000 and certainly became the focus of the town. The Alex used to have a small and homely setting, now it's certainly showed what a little bit of ambition can achieve. Also, it's erection (tee hee) has helped away fans too, the ground can now be seen for miles away and from the train station, so it gives those with a lesser knowledge of the area a little assistance.

The three remaining stands still show the Gresty of old and are similar height. All covered and all seated. The 'Advance Personnel Stand' at the Gresty Road end replaced the former terrace and holds approx 900. Opposite is the 'Charles Audi Stand'. This is another enclosed seating area but is smaller and has a few executive boxes to the rear. In all honesty this is a poor relative to the other 'end' as it is hardly used. Competing the tour is the 'Blue Bell BMW Stand, which is situation along the side of the pitch. This has a very unusual television gantry on its roof, like a Portakabin had been bolted into the roof. 

County will be housed here. The whole of this stand is always given to travelling fans but with Crewe being County's main local derby, who knows, but the usually sparcely used Charles Audi stand may be given too.

Overall Crewe away is a very relaxed and very friendly day out. A large away contingent certainly boosts the ground's atmosphere as Crewe is largely a second team for bigger clubs like Man U and Liverpool, with very few hardcore Alex fans.

Getting There - Leave the M6 at J16 and take the A5020 towards Crewe, this road leads straight into Crewe. At the roundabout junction with the A534 Nantwich Road, turn left. Gresty Road is down past the railway station on the left. Just before the large island, Away supporters are directed onto a industrial estate. It will take you ten minutes max to walk to Gresty Road from there.

From Crewe Station it is literally a minute walk. From the main entrance turn left and in 10 yards a glance to your left you will see the thunderous Air Products Stand.

Our Last Trip Here - In March 2003, the suspiciously offside Rodney Jack scored the only goal for Crewe...! 

Address - Victoria Park, Clarence Road, Hartlepool, Cleveland, TS24 8BZ

Telephone - 01429 863007

Web - www.hartlepoolunited.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - As lower division football stadia go, it's modern, close to the action and generally a very warm atmosphere with a very pleasing away-tolerant policy.

Victoria Park - The Pools home since 1908 was often labelled as one of the most downtrodden, old-fashioned football homes for many years, that was until the mid 90's when the powers that be sanctioned the construction of two new stands. 'The Cyril Knowles Stand' (pictured) is the newer of the two, and consists of a single tier, all-seater stand and the other 'The Cameron's Brewery Stand', has covered seating to the rear, with standing at the front.

This stand has some horrid looking orange / green patchwork seating and overall doesn't reach the full length of the pitch. On the other end lies The Expamet Town End - a covered terrace, whilst 'The Rink End' is a covered all seater stand which will house 1,000 away fans. Acoustics are good from this stand, and even a few fans can make themselves heard.

Visitors to the town of the Monkey Hangers are advised to wrap up well, even in the summer months, as the wind whipping in from the North Sea can be icy.

Getting There - From the A689 towards Hartlepool. Follow towards the town centre. Follow town centre signs for two roundabouts. Go straight on after two sets of lights, passing Hartlepool College on your right. Next left takes you to the stadium. Street parking.

Hartlepool station is about a ten minute walk to the ground. At the end of the approach road, turn right and head up Church Street towards the large church (No Shit Sherlock...!). At the end of this road is a bridge and junction with the A689. Go straight across this junction and the ground is in front of you on the left.

Our Last Trip Here - wad a 1-1 draw in October 2006. Adam Griffin opened the scoring for County. Matty Robson replied for Pools.

Address - Hereford United Football Club, Edgar Street, Hereford, Herefordshire, HR4 9JU

Telephone -01432 276 666

Web - www.herefordunited.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site - Bulls Banter

Overall - Sheer jubilation, a bared midriff and kids running on the pitch in flares are synonymous to Hereford United's home as Ronnie Radford took a step into football folklore when he scored that goal. However, Edgar Street has still maintained its charm, if not progressed fully despite their elevation into League One.

Edgar Street - When The Bulls were first in the league, this was regarded as one of the small and homely stadia, but when they dropped out of the league they were catapulted to having one of the largest and with a capacity of almost 9,000, this ground will always be smaller compared to its contemporaries, but always will be brimming with atmosphere and history.

There is seating on either side of the pitch, with standing at either end, making this a very traditional footy ground. On one side there is the 'Floors 2 Go Stand' (Formerly The Len Weston Stand), which is an odd looking covered two tier affair. The upper tier is seated and overhangs the terracing below therefore the sightlines on the terracing are truly woeful, but due to the roof, even a small number of fans can make some noise. Opposite is the 'Merton Meadow Stand', and can only be described as a raised single tier. All seated and mainly used as a family stand.

The home end, 'The Merton Meadow Terrace' is a classic looking, partly covered stand. This stand arcs round the back of the goal. Opposite is the 'Blackfriars End' which is again partly covered, again is semi circular in shape, and is only used when the travelling crowd is larger. 

The pitch here was reputed to have been bigger than the old Wembley, and there were plans to relocate in the future as Edgar Street will possibly become like some of the other traditional homes of football, a housing estate or an Asda. Bulls fans will find it hard to leave Edgar Street.

The trip to Hereford should be a relaxed occasion, however recently there have been some incidents around the ground involving locals and visiting fans, so please exercise caution.

Getting there - from the north take the M5 until J8, and then exit onto the M50. At J2, take the A40 and then the A49 to Hereford. At the roundabout, take the Grayfriars Bridge / Victoria Street road, At Steels Garage, keep left and into Edgar Street.

Hereford Station should be just a ten minute walk to the ground, but because it's close to the town centre, you can get lost easily without decent instruction. I was once told that you cannot miss the stadium when you come off the station, but you certainly can. Come out of the station, and bare left towards Safeway and follow the pedestrian walkway onto Commercial Road. Go left where you'll past the Merton Hotel on your right and a Wetherspoons on your left. At this point there is a smallish, derelict graveyard, if you're brave enough to walk through here, and you keep virtually in a straight line along Coningsby Street you will find Blackfriars Street and you are there. If it's a night game or for the less brave, At Wetherspoons - turn right at the top of the road at the lights (against the direction of the traffic) into Blueschool Street, keep walking along until you come to a set of traffic lights and a multi-storey car park opposite and to the right (Widemarsh Street). Cross over and bare slightly right and cut up a walkway between car park and Garrick House Council Offices. You come to a car park, head right and walk out of the car park. Turn left and there is the ground, on your right...get that? Or just jump in a taxi. Might be easier otherwise you may end up in Devon.

Our Last Visit Here - was another win in what has become one of County's happier hunting grounds. Liam Dickinson's second half penner on 1st March 2008 made it three straight wins at Edgar Street.

Address - Galpharm Stadium, Huddersfield, HD1 6PX

Telephone - 0870 444 4677

Web - www.htafc.com

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website - http://www.terrier-bytes.com/

Overall - Award winning for its design, The Galpharm Stadium, Huddersfield is a true gem amongst its more un-original new stadia counterparts, and yet still harbours a special non-threatening atmosphere within its instantly recognisable domed walls.

The Galpharm Stadium - After the club said farewell to the rather downtrodden Leeds Road site, Huddersfield's new state-of-the-art stadium was originally opened as a three stand effort in 1995, with the fourth opening a year later. 

Now some may suggest that this new generation of stadia are nothing but a souless, atmosphere-less (is that a word?) wreck, and while you can say that about The Reebok and St Mary's, this certainly bucks that trend as is personally one of my favourite away games. 

As you can see, each stand is semi-circular in design instead of the more uniform rectangular, and is further enhanced with large white steep tubing really setting the ground off from its peers.

It does look more like the new ride at Alton Towers, but still houses possibly the most atmospheric ground in the Football League.

The only disappointment is that the corners still remain open. The Fantastic Media Stand at one end and the main stand (sponsored by some gambling site no doubt) are two tiered, whilst the other two are large single tiered efforts, including The Pink Link Stand which will house away fans. The view from here is excellent with no obstructing pillars and with superb facilities, they really do look after you in 'Udders.

Getting There - The stadium is just off the A62 Leeds Road. It can be accessed from J25 off the M62, and then by following the signs from Huddersfield (A62), and eventually you will come to the stadium on your left.

If approaching from the south, then leave the M1 J38 and then take the A637 towards the A642 into Huddersfield. As you approach the town centre, try to keep in the right hand lane as you'll need to turn right into Leeds Road (A62). The Stadium is a short distance down this road.

For those who like to let the train take the strain, will be happy to know that the ground is certainly walkable from the station. After coming out of the station, turn left past The George Hotel, Go straight over the crossroads into Northumberland Street and walk down past the market, cross over Leeds Road. Turn right down Gasworks Street. If you haven't seen the ground from here, then straight over at the crossroads will lead you up a slight hill to the ground.

Our Last Visit Here - Was the opening game of the 2008-09 season, after going one down, Tommy Rowe levelled on half time to draft a point...!

Address - Elland Road Stadium, Leeds, LS11 0ES

Telephone - 01133 676000

Web - www.leedsunited.com

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - A truly magnificent footballing arena. Oozing with history and atmosphere. Simply too good for League One.  

Elland Road - This fine sporting arena is largely dominated by the monumental East Stand (pictured) on one side of the pitch. This picture DOES NOT do it justice, it's massive, and it's worth bearing in mind that although it's twice the size of the other three stands - and stand alone dwarfs some of League One's capacities - this stand alone holds 17,000.

The East Stand is a two tier effort which has a larger lower tier with a smaller upper. In between the two tiers are executive boxes. Even the corners of Elland Road are filled with seating, but the downside is that the other stands are, in all fairness a little tired and old in comparison, but still are the envy of any lower division team.

The newly renamed John Charles (West) Stand has a few supporting pillars towards the rear. Away fans will be housed in the South East corner of The South Stand (yellow seats in picture). Upto 1,800 fans can be accommodated here. More if numbers require it. The only problem is that there are some seats in the top tier of the cheese wedge which can be described as 'restricted views'. 

Apart from the obvious visit of Manchester United and other bigger teams, Leeds away is a fairly enjoyable day. However, if you are large in numbers, please exercise caution around the ground and in the adjacent car parks.

A negative aspect of Elland Road is that while the ground is vast, and the club steeped in a proud history, the facilities are particularly basic, and doubled with inadequate legroom and the sometimes over-exuberant stewards, I advise you to behave and watch your p's and q's. Any acts of Green Street-ism is certainly greeted with heavy-handedness. 

Getting There - Elland Road is, on the whole, very well signposted all around Leeds and the surrounding area and is situated right by the M621, so directions shouldn't give too many problems. From the North follow the A58 or the A61 into the City Centre. Then follow signs for the M621. Join the M621 and leave at the junction with the A643. This then will lead you to Elland Road.

From the south, take the M1 until the junction to the M621. You will pass the ground on your left. The next exit from the motorway will lead left onto the A6110 ring road. Take the next left onto Elland Road.

Although Leeds is easy to get to from Manchester, it's not really advisable as the journey from Station to Stadium will be at least half an hour walk. If you are to take the train, then best catch a taxi or one of the shuttle buses that run from outside the station. Despite the 'name' that accompanies Leeds United, this offers a very good way to get to the ground and although frequented by 90% home fans, you are safe on here - unless your a Man U fan. It costs £2.50 return and offers a better alternative to hailing a taxi at the station rank. 

Our Last Trip Here - Would you be surprised to hear that the last County visit to Leeds was in 1924? Oh, and Leeds won 4-0. Where you there?

Address - The Walkers Stadium, Filbert Way, Leicester, Leics, LE2 7FL

Telephone - 0870 040 6000

Web - www.lcfc.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - A rare breed of new football stadia with atmosphere. Truly and awesome sight inside but particular bland outside.

The Walkers Stadium - Within spitting distance from their old Filbert Street home, Leicester City FC moved to their new home in August 2002, and at a cost of £35m it really is a ground fit to grace any level of football, and we truly are blessed to visit such a magificent arena on equal terms.

The roof stays the same height all the way round, and has a transparent strip just under the roof, allowing for more sunlight to enter the pitch. On the roof there is a collage of former players along with the stadium's sponsors. A very good view of the action and superb facilities, but what lets it down is the basic looking scoreboard.

Anyone who had the chance to visit the old Filbert Street will vouch that the atmosphere inside the stadium was second to none, and I have to admit that the same atmosphere seems to be been transferred here. Whilst the ground lacks individualism - the same shape, the now obligatory wording within the seating - it does have a little bit of charm and magic when the Derbys and Southamptons of this world play in identi-kit stadia.

County will be housed in the North East corner, where, if needed, upto 3,000 away fans can be accommodated. The view of the action is good (although you are set well back from the pitch)

Getting There - M1 J21, of if you are coming from the Midlands, follow the M69 until the end of the motorway (when the M1 meets at J21) Take the A5460 towards Leicester city centre and continue until you pass under a railway bridge. Carry on for another 200y or so and turn right at the lights into Upperton Road (signposted Royal Infirmary), and then right again into Filbert Street. The new stadium is visible just behind the old Filbert Street site.

The train station is walkable, but could be a trek of about 25 minutes, also there is often a hefty police presence at the station, and there have been times when you are held back and then all escorted to the ground.

Our Last Visit Here - Our last visit to Leicester City was way back in 1925, we lost 4-0 for the record...! 

Address - The Matchroom (Brisbane Road) Stadium, Brisbane Road, Leyton, London, E10 5NF

Telephone - 0871 310 1881

Web - www.leytonorient.com 

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - Unique with apartment blocks in each corner, Brisbane Road is still a traditional football ground despite the money that has been spent on it in recent times.

Brisbane Road - Was once known as the East London Urinal, but Brisbane Road has seen a lot of money thrown at it in recent years. Most notibly with the construction of three new stands.

Most of the money has been spent thanks to selling some of the land to property developments, which has now seen the ground have an apartment block in every corner, certainly giving the present day Brisbane Road a unique look.

At one end of the ground is the single tiered South Stand, which has a capacity of approx 1,300, this was opened in 1999 and replaced the former open terrace. The old Main (East) Stand has been reduced in length, but still is a fair size. This partly covered stand is now all seater has those pesky pillars and the roof doesn't quite cover all the seats. On the roof is the famous gable which has 'Leyton Orient' proudly emblazed across it, showing that despite the forward motivation the club has shown with the building work, the club still remained proud of its heritage.

On the opposite side lies the new West Stand which was opened in time for the 2005-06 season. This is a very smart looking all-seater stand that houses upto 2,900 fans but has a strange vertical bland building behind that looks like an office block (pictured)

At the North end of the stadium is their newest addition to the stadium. The appropriately named 'North Stand' was opened at the start of the 2007-08 season and replaced the drab former terracing. The simple single tiered effort is a mirror image of the South Stand and can house 1,300.

County will be housed in the South Stand end of the Main Stand, there are a couple of pillars restricting your view, but overall a very good view of the action.

Getting Here - It is inevitable whilst approaching London that you'll have to cope with the M25, and you should use this to get to the M11 (unless you come through Cambridge in which case you will be already on the M11) Take the southbound carriageway for approx 6m and take the right fork signposted North Circular.

At the bottom of the fly-over where the roads merge, move to the left hand lane and turn left at the roundabout on to the A104. After about a mile take thr right exit off the roundabout (Lamb's Cafe) and half a mile on turn left into Leyton Green Road, and left again into a short slip road past the bus garage and left into Leyton High Road. You'll be able to see Leyton Leisure Lagoon. Continue until you see the floodlights...!

The nearest tube station to Brisbane Road is Leyton which is about 800m walk away. This can be found on the Central Line. Come out of the station and turn right into Leyton High Road. Cross over and you will come to Coronation Gardens on your left and from here you'll be able to see the floodlights. Take next left into Buckingham Gardens and there is the ground.

Our Last Visit Here - November 2005, Remember getting there at 4.40pm? A 2-2 draw with Rob Clare and Jermaine Easter grabbing The Hatters' goals...!

Address - The New Den, Zampa Road, London, SE16 3LN

Telephone - 0207 232 1222

Web - www.millwallfc.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site -

Overall - A starkly contrasting and dramatic improvement from the dark days of Millwall FC. This is a smart, one of the old-school new grounds with four separate stands and also bubbling with atmosphere.

The New Den - I, for one have been 'blessed' with having a personal look at both the old Den and this, and I know where I'd rather be. The old God-forbidden cesspit is now thankfully gone and now Millwall have this purpose-built stadium that will take some beating. Four separate stands, equal in height and are all fairly large double decker efforts.

One thing that lets this ground down is that the corners are open (apart from the TV screen in one corner) and therefore can be a very chilly experience if you dare to see through the bad old days of Millwall FC and come and visit the all new all-singing all-dancing arena, the setting of Sky TV's 'Dream Team'.

Visitors will be located at one end of the North Stand (usually the upper tier only). Amazingly, although this ground looks smallish, there are spaces for anything upto 4,000 away fans in this section alone, making the New Den look a little bit like The Tardis.

Although a trip to Millwall isn't as threatening as it used to be, it still has a cold atmosphere with a large police presence often counter-productive. Of course, the local Millwall headcase will still be frequenting this new home, but it's nowhere near as bad as it used to be, but please, if you are to take anything from this review, then please exercise caution around the surrounding streets and whatever you do, please do not show club colours.

Getting There - There are a number of routes you can take but the most straightforward (if not the shorest) is to follow the A2 into London fron J2 of the M25. The A2 actually passes the ground. One you pass New Cross Gate tube station, the ground is a further mile on. The only awkward bit is that about half way between the tube station and the ground the road forks into two, as long as you keep right following signs to City / Westminster you'll be fine. Street parking is allowed in the small estate on your left just past the ground, although once again, please don not display colours in this estate. One major minus poin is that although the ground is large, there are no real car parks around the ground.

There are two tube stations that are both about a 15mins walk to the ground. Surrey Quays is one and also the aforementioned New Cross Gate. Both can be found on the East London Line.

However, it;s possibly easier to go by train. Bermondsey Station is only a few minutes walk to the ground. There is a direct walkway specially built for away fans that takes you through to the away end and also directs to back to the station after the game. This will then minimise the need to police to escort the fans back to the station.

Our Last Trip Here - Was a 3-0 drubbing for The Hatters in March 2002, Dion Dublin, Stuart Nethercott and Paul Ifill scored The Lions' goals.

Address - Milton Keynes Dons, stadium:mk, V6 Grafton Street, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 1SA

Telephone - 01908 607 090

Web - www.mkdons.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site - http://moocamp.com/index.php

Overall - Soulless, Americanised tripe. Typical out of town bowl effort. League Two's answer to The Emirates but with far fewer fans.

stadium:mk - At the cost of approx £50m, and after four years at the Jekyll and Hyde National Hockey Stadium, The much maligned Milton Keynes Dons have built what is largely an identi-kit stadium - designed by the same company who has the new Wembley in their portfolio - yeah, it looks very smart and neat, but devoid of any match atmosphere, built solely for the corporate Prawn Sandwich brigade.

stadium:mk - which in all honesty is a naff name for starters, opened in July 2007 and looks and feels like any other out of town new stadium. At first glance, it could be Derby or Darlington, but the very fact that it is the (rather cruelly in my honest opinion) much maligned Milton Keynes Dons, the opening of stadium:mk will have the more traditionalistic football fan literally spitting feathers.

What sets this stadium off is its roof, which sits up high above the playing area and has a large strategic gap in between the back of the stand and the roof, this according to my mate Alan Titchmarsh is to allow more natural light to reach the pitch, which is below ground level. The bowl design has two tiers (currently only the bottom tier is finished) all the way round, with very comfortable padded seating and really superb facilities and views. Three sides of which are planned to have a larger lower tier and a smaller upper.

The 'Wessiide' bucks the trend a little, with the upper tier being replaced by a directors / hospitality / executive / press area, and what is unusual is that you'll be able to see the pitch from the concourse area which is a very good vantage point for those cold and blustery midweek December games or when you are 5-0 down and you hear a beer calling your name. Some of the boxes also double up as hotel rooms for when the Dons don't have a game. "Scoring off the pitch, today, Sir? - oooh suits you, Sir" 

All seats fold fully onto the backrest, and also have superb unobstructed views, which when you try to emphasise a positive spin, will possibly bring you the finest spectator footballing arena in League Two.

However, a question on my lips is just how the usually sparcely attended Dons games will fill 22,000 seats remains to be seen.

Originally, Pete 'Mr MK' Winkleman wanted a Basketball arena attached and an all seater all-singing-all-dancing sports complex, and the area has got the go ahead for a huge Marks and Sparks, JJB, a gym and three fast food joints (MK Don-alds anyone?!?) but as Winkleman also earmarked its opening at Christmas 2005, what we get will always be just a shadow of what his rather ambitious vision was.

Getting There - stadium:mk is located at Denbigh North. Just off the A5, somewhere inbetween downtown MK and Bletchley. For those familar with MK's mad 'New Yoik' style grid system; the stadium is on V6 Grafton Street, on the junction with H9 Groveway. 

Leave the M1 J14 and head towards central MK. At the first roundabout take the third exit H6 Portway, follow this round, going straight over the next 9 (N.I.N.E.) roundabouts through the city centre and passing MK's old home at The Hockey Stadium  At the next roundabout, take left onto the A5. Continue along the A5 until the next junction, get in the right hand lane and take the fourth turning - stadium:mk is right in front of you.

The nearest station to the stadium is Bletchley, which is approximately 2m (that's miles not metres) from stadium:mk. There is a taxi rank outside, a bus station to the city centre otherwise you can embark on the 20-25 minute mooch. Turn left out of the station and walk down the main street, turn left along this road and go under the railway bridge. At the roundabout bare left along Saxon Street. passing The Park pub on your right. carry on down Saxon Street going across another roundabout (Enigma Tavern and Burger King) You will reach a double roundabout, which you need to go straight over, following the signs for central Milton Keynes and the A5. As you approach the junction with the A5, the stadium is on your left.

If the rumoured Rail to Ground shuttle link is up and running in time for County's first game here, this will indeed be a life saver for those of you who love letting the train take the strain but don't like too long a transfer. Not all grounds are like Crewe you know...! 

Our Last Trip Here - 27th October 2007 - We were on the back of four straight league defeats. Dons were clear top. The result? 2-0 County. Anthony Elding and Anthony Pilkington...Ave It.!

Address - Sixfields Stadium, Northampton, NN5 5QA

Telephone - 0870 822 1997

Web - www.ntfc.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site

Overall - Badly designed out of town effort. Great surroundings and great atmosphere. But then there's that hill...!

Sixfields - After moving from their old County Ground stadium, Northampton Town should have given a little more tought to their new home at Sixfields.

Yes, it's neat, yes it's tidy. Is it ambious for a town with a massive potential and catchment zone? No...! Sixfields boasts three small covered single tiered stands (like Chester), and another larger single tiered effort on ther West Side with a capacity of 4,000.

Now, at Wycombe, there is also a huge hill, and there are times when people do go on to watch the game for free, but that's nature. Here the hill is man made, ensuring that freeloading pikies can see the game (practically three quarters of the pitch) for nowt.

Thankfully, after several years of lost income it looks like the club have succcessfully bid to buy a 150 year lease on the plot of land, ensuring that further developments are to be made to foil the freeloaders on the hill, and the club hope to raise the capacity to 15,000.

Away fans will be located in The South End of the stadium in the Paul Cox Panel and Paint Stand. Only 850 supporters can be accommodated here although if demand requires it, a section of the Alwyn Hargrave Stand can become available.

Getting There - From the South - leave the M1 at J15a and take the A43 towards Northampton and you'll get the ground on your right.

From the North, M1, J16 and take the A45 towards Northampton and you will come to the ground on your right.

The ground is well signposted around the area. Theer is a fair sized car park located at the ground which will cost approx £2. Please arrive early as spaces do go very quickly.

Our Last Trip Here - Was on Easter Bank Holiday Monday in 2006. a 2-0 defeat with Scott McGleish and Martin Smith grabbing the goals...! 

Address - Boundary Park, Oldham, Lancashire, OL1 2PA

Telephone - 0871 226 2235

Web - www.oldhamathletic.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - Amazing this stadium was hosting Premier League football not so long ago. An old skool stadium but needs re-mixing. Fast. aka Ice Station Zulu.

Boundary Park - At one end lies the new(ish) Rochdale Road End, a good all seater stand with the best view of the pitch at BP. This is a shared stand with segregation round down the middle. On the opposite side is the Chadderton Road End (Chaddy End - pictured), this is much smaller in size but again, to its credit, is all seated and covered. A clear indication of the Oldham of old is here as some supporting pillars running across the front which will no doubt impede your view.

On one side is the double decker Main Stand. This straddles the half way line with strange looking defunct standing areas toward each corner flag. Looks good when full, yet gives you a sense of 'Life On Mars' when empty - seats are more like benches in the upper tier, but what I do like is that players enter the pitch via some steps - a unique touch. Completing the set is the somewhat tired and in desperate-need-of-bulldozing Broadway Stand. EDIT - It's gone. Rubble. The TV gantry is all that's left...!

Oldham Athletic's home is on the whole quite a tired ground in need of much more than a lick of paint. However, there is no question you are at a football home. Four bold floodlights - with obligitory flickering lights, close to the action, even at the back of each stand and more importantly, also steeped in history.

However, it is cold, and even in the heights of summer you'll have to wrap up well, as those of you who are not geographiclly aware, or those who think Grimsby and Torquay is a local derby - (Matthew...!) Oldham is situated on the edge of The Pennines so those gaps in the stadium (more now with the absence of the Broadway Stand) are used to blowing a howitzer of an icy gust.

As was mentioned before, County will be housed in the Broadway Stand-end of the Rochdale Road Stand behind the goal. Normal allocation is 2,700 although if numbers require it, the whole of the RRS will be allocated. With a superb view and decent facilties, 'Oldham Away' is a decent day out with a plethora of drinking establishments for you to choose from.

Getting There - Leave the M62 J20 and take the A627 (M) towards Oldham. Take the 2nd exit off the A627(M) and follow signs for Royton. At the top of the slip road you will find a large roundabout with a Maccie Dees, KFC and all the other healthy eating joints lol, turn left onto the A663 towards Royton. You will be able to see Boundary Park on your right. If you want the club's main entrance, then at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto A627 Chadderton Way. After about 300m take the first left into Boundary Park Road.

There are three stations that you can use to get to BP, but if you must use the train - I wouldn't - we suggest Oldham Werneth, as the other two (Mills Hill and Oldham Mumps are a healthy 45 minutes walk, but Werneth (a fifteen minute walk and served from Manchester Victoria on the Rochdale - Oldham loop) is a much better alternative. Exit the station and turn right onto Featherstall Road and walk for about 800m through one set of lights and a small roundabout at Tesco's until you come to a large roundabout. Turn left in Chadderton Way (cross over at the underpass as Chaddy Way is a dual carriageway) and follow for another three quarters of a mile until you come to Boundary Park Road (by the B&Q).

Our Last Trip Here - After getting completely battered, County came away with a slightly flattering 3-1 defeat on 24 January 2009. Danny Whitaker, Lee Hughes and Chris Taylor nailed County's coffin with the goals, as Oli Johnson scored his first goal for County.

Address - London Road Stadium, London Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE2 2AL

Telephone - 01733 563 947

Web - www.theposh.com

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site - www.londonroad.net

Overall - A traditional footballing home but with a twenty-first century feel. Fresh, vibrant, modern. Still brimming with a passionate football atmosphere. One of my personal favourites. 

London Road - The ultra-impressive 'South Stand' (pictured) dominates London Road and seats 5,000 fans, and replaced the aged and scruffy open terrace in 1996. This sets off the ground off nicely and certainly is now the focal part of the 'new' London Road. This is a two-tiered affair, covered, all seated, and has 'THE' into the top tier seats and 'POSH' neatly patterned into the seats on the larger lower tier. On the opposite side, stadium planners must have stayed up all night to think of a name for this stand - yeah, you guessed it, 'The Main Stand' is also a two tiered covered all-seater stand. Both ends are covered terracing that were given a lick of paint recently when they were given white roofs in an effort to brighten up their otherwise dull appearance.

However, bright they may be, they do have the old style supporting pillars which will be a pain in the arse if you miss a goal, but there is a gap at the back of these terraces, which makes for a altogether chillier Posh experience. Get them filled in, for Pete's sake!

County fans will get the 'Moyes Terrace' (formerly known as the 'Reynopoly Terrace') behind one goal. Upto 4,000 can be accommodated here, plus another 800 seats in the 'Main Stand'. The amount of seats vary depending on the team they are playing. As was mentioned before, the terracing does that those annoying pillars but doesn't dampen the atmosphere, fairly friendly with some half decent banter between fans. For a pre-match pint, Ebeneezers on Grove Street is certainly welcome to travelling fans although Wembley 1992 is bound to be mentioned, and those friendly little scamps at Posh may even play a video of the event, just to remind us what happened that day...! Oh Joy! 

Current owner Darragh MacAnthony has stated he isn't interested in developing the London Road base, and plans to move to a new location. Which will not please hardcore Poshies, who could do without another souless out-of-town Lego-land thingie...!

Getting There - Very straight forward from all directions, follow signs into Whittlesey (A605) which will lead you to London Road. The new stand is visible from some distance, so keep a look out. If you are travelling from the South, leave the A1 at the junction of the A15. Take the A15 towards Peterborough, you will eventually come to the ground on your right.

Peterborough Station is ideally placed on Bourges Boulevard, about 1m from the ground and the ground is well signposted around town. Take a right out of the station and follow the main road, passing Asda on your right. The the traffic lights (Woolworth's), turn right, go over the bridge and you'll be able to see the floodlights. Overall, it'll be a 20 minute mooch from Station to ground. Just a word of caution, as home fans also take the train, just keep a little schtum especially after a win, it can get a little aggressive around the ground, cars and pedestrians trying to catch their train sometimes don't mix.

Our Last Trip Here - was a victorious one. Tommy Rowe's goal just before the hour was enough to give County a precious 1-0 win on 12 April 2008.

Address - Glanford Park, Doncaster Road, Scunthorpe, North East Lincolnshire, DN15 8TD

Telephone - 0871 221 1899

Web - www.scunthorpe-united.co.uk 

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - Back in 1988, they set a marker towards those new identi-kit stadia we have nowadays, so they have a lot to be apologetic for. Sorry, but this stadium is nothing but a soul-less out of townbag of washing.  

Glanford Park - Anyone else think that "Glanford Park" is more accustomed to period drama than football? But when The Iron moved here in August 1988 from The Old Show Ground, those who had the misfortune of being present at the old stadium would agree that Scunthorpe deciding to take the then unorthodox step to move to a new setting was indeed, at the time, a very good one.

It's just a tad unfortunate that the very first new stadium to be built since WWII had little or no architectual expertise attached to it. Designed by a school-boy. Four identical box style stands, equal height. Totally enclosed but with little or no individualism to Scunny.

Home end terracing, with the other three all seaters, but with supporting pillars. A good thing about Glanford Park are that the boring North, South, East and West Stands have been replaced by Grove Wharf, Scunthorpe Telegraph, Study United and AMS Stands...!

1,650 away fans will be housed in the AMS (South) Stand. Traditional away day setting behind the goal and a very good view if you manage to park your buttocks on a seat without looking at a pillar.

Getting There - Glanford Park is on the outskirts of Scunthorpe, making it very easy to find off the motorway. Leave the M180 at J3 and take the M181 for Scunthorpe. At the end, you will see the ground on your right. Turn right at the 1st roundabout onto the A18 and right again into the large club car park.

It's a tad unfortunate that Scunthorpe station is over two miles from the ground, but those who do use the beautiful British Railway system are warned that Police will be in full operation around the station on match days and will be offering free transportation to the local nick for those who will be looking for trouble. There is often a shuttle bus to the ground and often is offered for the return journey.

If you don't take the shuttle bus, then a taxi is the easiest method, but as always we are obliged to give walking directions too. so here goes. Turn left out of the station and head towards the crossroads facing the church. Turn right into Oswald Road, goign past a set of lights and The Honest Lawyer and Blue Bell pubs. At the next set of lights turn left in Doncaster Road (there are a number of fast food joints here). Glanford Park is on your left but it's a trek point five, believe me! I have been also advised that bus numbers 7 and 8 Yellow Line buses from Doncaster Road (Atlantis Chippy) will take you to the ground for about a squid.

Our Last Trip Here - November 1990, our promotion season. We battered them at home but earlier that season we were trounced 3-0 here...!

Address - Roots Hall Stadium, Victoria Avenue, Southend On Sea, Essex, SS2 6NQ

Telephone - 01702 304050

Web - www.southendunited.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site -

Overall - As a typical tiny lower league ground, this one is one of my personal favourites and will be mightily upset when it eventually does disappear and turn into expensive housing.

Roots Hall - At one end of the ground is the new (ish) South Stand. This replaced the former open terrace and has greatly improved the overall look of the ground by a country mile.

It's a small double decker style, with the upper tier hanging over the lower. On the roof there is a small clock, dedicated to former player and chairman Frank Walton, and take away the supporting pillars, is a decent stand which generates lots of noise. There are a couple of apartment blocks that overlook the stand, some of which can see the game for nowt.

Away fans are located in the traditional home end - The North Stand, which is a covered seating area behind the other goal. This, and the West stand are designed like they've incorporated an old aircraft hangar, as both roofs have strange 'barrel' shapes above. The west stand joins the North Stand so the corner is filled with seating.

The East Stand is another unspectacular single tiered effort with executive boxes towards the rear, but overall, this traditional football venue just oozes history and as this was one of the first non-northern ground I visited, I like Roots Hall and I won't be the only one who'll be sad to see the demise of Roots Hall if the club continue with their planning permission for a new 22,000 seater home at Fossett's Farm, on ground close to their present home. There were talks that they'd be in place for the 08-09 season, with a public enquiry in place, but for now, Roots Hall still remains a very decent traditional home.

As was mentioned earlier, away fans will be house in the North Stand, which is now all-seater after being a former terrace. Like most terraces, the seats have been bolted onto the terrace, leaving the legroom much to be desired. Upto 2,000 fans can be accommodated in The North Stand and although the pillars will impede your view somewhat, at least the stand is covered and overall a few fans can make some noise.

I'm not anticipating many County fans to make the lengthy trip to Roots unless it's a very important game, but those who do attend are made very welcome by the locals and overall will be a very enjoyable day / night out, especially if you make a weekend of it.

Getting There - Darn, it's the M25 again. Come off at J29 and follow the 127 towards Southend. Continue towards the town centre, the the lights near to the Bell Pub. At the next roundabout, turn right (3rd turning) continuing on the A127. The ground is on the right just after the next set of lights.

Please bare in mind that in the sunnier months the whole of the pearly kings and queens of Eez Landon head down the A127, so please allow an extra half and hour or so if the temperatures are anything more than average.

The closest staation to Roots Hall is Prittlewell, which is about a five minute walk. It's served from London Liverpool Street. As you exit the station, turn right and when you come to the crossroads with traffic lights, on your right in the 'Fish House'. Pass this and turn right. 100 yards on and the ground is tucked away on your right.

If you happen to end up at Southend Central (via Fenchurch Street, London), you're about a 20-25min walk to Roots Hall. The main bus station is close, so this may be a better option, rather than embarking on the walk.

Our Last Trip Here - ...was back in the early 1990's...! Southend 2 County 0 it finished in March 1990.

Address - County Ground, County Road, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 2ED

Telephone - 0870 443 1969

Web - www.swindontownfc.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website -

Overall - A wonderful arena, too good for League One. Have fun with the magic roundabout though...!

The County Ground - At one end of the ground is The Stratton Bank Stand, a former terrace with rows of seats bolted onto it. For a stadium like Swindon, this stand is strangely uncovered and therefore hardly used. Opposite in the small, but highly atmospheric Town End, with some supporting pillars and even one leg of a floodlight pylon is part of the stand...! The two sides of the ground are monstrous in comparison; both two tiered covered stands, the newest being the Nationwide Stand (pictured), a very attractive stand with no supporting pillars and on the opposite side, the older Arkells Stand. With the two stands being higher than the others, it can get a little cold at times inside the ground, so therefore you'll be very thankful for the windshields at either end.

Away fans are located in the Arkells Stand, and have a good view from the side of the pitch. Upto 1,200 fans can be housed in this away section, and although you seem miles away from the action, you are covered. There is a decent view over the rolling Marlborough hills on one side and to the other, the towerblocks of the God forsaken Hamlet of Park North, where even the dogs go round in twos...! 

Teams with a larger allocation will be also given the open Stratton Bank where a further 2,100 can be allocated. Superb in a heat-wave, but over the festive period this could be a nightmare.

Overall, despite the OTT Old Bill, Swindon away is a very relaxed day out. In my opinion, well worth the trip.  

Getting There - Swindon's town planners must have been on drugs when they sanctioned the design of 'The Magic Roundabout'. It's a large traffic island but surrounded by five mini-roundabouts. The County Ground is on the edge on this and unless you know an alternative route, you'll have to conquer this in one way shape or form. Best to blindfold yourself and just go for it.

From the North A419 / M5 - this must be the easiest route. Follow Crickdale Road down the hill, It becomes Cirencester Way half way down. At Transfer bridge roundabout turn left at the first and then straight over the second. The County ground is on the left. If you survive the magic roundabout, then street parking is your best bet. We managed to get a nice place behind the Burger King on the Magic Roundabout or on County Road there is a football parking section.

The ground is certainly walkable from the train station but will take you about 15mins. Leave the station, cross the road and proceed up the road between the Great Western and Queen's Tap pubs. At the end, turn left along Manchester Road, through traffic lights as far as you can go. At the junction turn right. The County Ground is approx 300m on your left.

Our Last Trip Here - Ended in defeat. Goals from Aaron Brown and Christian Roberts enabled The Robins to muster up a 2-0 win over County in August 2006.  

Address - Prenton Park, Prenton Road West, Tranmere, Birkenhead, Wirral, Cheshire, CH42 9PY

Telephone - 0870 460 3333

Web - www.tranmererovers.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site -

Overall - In my personal opinion, you will be hard pressed to find a stadium in League One which will be bettered for atmosphere and closeness to the action. Definitely one of my favourite haunts.

Prenton Park - As the club moved heaven and earth to complete the renovation of three stands during 1994-95, they turned Prenton Park into a fortress and created one of the greatest lower division stadiums. Only the main stand remains intact, and boy can you notice...!

This is in itself a fair sized all seater, and opened in 1968, and has those pesky supporting pillars, but now the ground is dominated by The Kop Stand at one end of the pitch. This stand has a capacity of 5,500 and completely dwarfs the rest of the stadium. This used to be shared, with the obligatory 'steward split' down the middle. This offered a superb chance for some banter between fans, but now is 100% home, which pleased the fans after a recent survey.

Nowadays County will now be housed in the smaller (2,500 seats), but more intimate 'Cowshed Stand'. This is a single tiered effort and has an optical illusion as it looks as its on a slope as there are more rows to one side that the other. Alongside the Borough Road side of the ground is 'The John King Stand' named after their legendary former boss. A small covered stand that runs the entire length of the pitch. 

I have often found Tranmere to be one of those away days where there seemed to be more police than fans - I really don't know what they are expecting - I know it's loosely Manchester Vs Liverpool, but have you tried to say that to those in attendance? Although with a bit more local bragging rights up for grabs this time around, it will no doubt recreate that rivalry we 'enjoyed' last time Tranmere and County were regularly locking horns.

Getting There - So, where is 'Tranmere'? I have to admit growing up I hadn't a clue until someone told me there was a third team in Merseyside. Now the borders have changed, Tranmere for us is another Cheshire Derby and therefore the directions shouldn't be too problematic. So here goes...!

From the M56 / M6 join the M53 and leave at J4 and take the B5151 Mount Road from the fourth exit of the roundabout (the ground is signposted from here). After about two and a half miles when Mount Road becomes Storeton Road, turn right into Prenton Road West and the ground will be visible on the right.

OR

An easier route is to leave M53 at J3 and take the A552 Woodchurch Road towards Birkenhead. You will pass a Sainsbury's and as you reach the Half Way House pub, turn right at the lights and onto the B5151 Mount Road. Take the first left for the ground.

There is car parking at the ground (bottle neck expected) otherwise its street parking, but look out for match day resident's only parking, otherwise you may get a nasty package through through the post. (Matthew...!) 

The closest railway station is Rock Ferry, served by the excellent Wirral Line from Liverpool Crime Street, and will be walkable to the ground (about 20mins). Upon leaving Rock Ferry Station, turn right and walk up the road until you reach a roundabout. Turn right and walk straight up until you get to The Sportsman pub. Turn left down Everest Road and walk straight down to the bottom where it will bring you out at The Cowshed turnstiles. Sorted.

Our Last Trip Here - It has been twenty-two years since we won here, so when we arrived on Tuesday 27 January 2009, there was still no chance of a winner. Goals from Gareth Edds and an Ian Moore penner put them home and dry before Michael Raynes' injury time header.  

Address - The Banks' Stadium (Bescot Stadium), Bescot Crescent, Walsall, West Midlands, WS1 4SA

Telephone - 0870 442 0442

Web - www.saddlers.co.uk

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Site -

Overall - Known as one of the M6's focal points, The Bescot is one of the division's tidier grounds, even if it is a little cramped inside. The new stand is the start of hopefully a 'new' Bescot when they eventually rid themselves of those supporting pillars.

The Banks' Stadium (Bescot Stadium) - As another football ground loses its identity as a corporate sponsorship deal with Marstons Brewery ended in Walsall's ground being renamed 'The Banks' Stadium, it still remains a clean and very enjoyable old school new ground. If that makes sense.

The Saddlers moved to The Bescot Stadium, just off the M6 in 1990 when they vacated the old and tired Fellows Park and after opening the Floors 2 Go Purple Stand in 2003, they finally are going close to getting that stadium to match their ambitions. Before the F2GP Stand was opened, it was another rectangle tin with little or no character, at least the smart new stand breaks the mould by increasing the height of the stand.

Rather than labelling the stands North, West, East and South, the former HL Fellows Stand has now been renamed the Txt 64446 Health Stand.

The rest of the stadium is totally enclosed with three of the stands roughly the same height, giving it a 'box-like' feel. These stands are hardly big (about 20 rows) and the corners are filled, albeit with advertisning hoardings. Above the "Homeserve (Williams Sharp) stand there is a small electronic scoreboard. What is disappointing is whilst the new stand is pillar-less (if that's a word...!) the three others have those pesky blighters, but as this stadium is rarely full, its not really a major problem.

County will be located in the Homeserve (William Sharp) stand at one end of the ground, where 2,000 can be housed. The good news is thanks to the roof, even a few fans can make a noise.

Overall a very friendly day out, but beware of the police who can be a little excessive.

Getting There - As was mentioned before the ground can be clearly seen on the banks of the M6 just north of the RAC Control Centre. Unfortunately, town planners failed to provide a slip-road here and this with a traffic jam madness most match days, can become a bit of a ball-ache.

From the M6 South - leave at J7 and take the A34 towards Walsall. At the end of the dual carriageway, turn left at The Bell Inn into Walstead Road (signposted Bescot Stadium). Continue down this road for approx 2m, passing The Tiger pub on your left, you will come to the Bescot on your right.

From M6 North - leave M6 J9 and take the A461 towards Walsall, bear right onto the A4148 (Wallowes Lane) and turn right at the 2nd set of traffic lights. You will see the ground on your left.

For those who like to get the choo-choo are advised that Bescot Stadium does have its own station (altogether now - 'ooooh') and is situated behind the away end and only a few minutes walk from le stade. Trains run there on a local line from Birmingham New Street and take about twenty minutes. There is a regular service on Saturdays, and despite the crowds, you shouldn't have too many problems getting out with the locals after the game.

Our Last Trip Here - At the start of the 2006-07 season, County lost 2-0 at The Bescot, with Martin Butler and Ian Roper. August 8th 2006...! 

Address - Huish Park, Lufton Way, Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 8YF

Telephone - 01935 473 662

Web - www.ytfc.net

County 4 Life Adopted Unofficial Website - www.ciderspace.co.uk/index.htm

Overall - A notorious venue of giant-killing in the past, Huish Park is steadily improving into one of the finest smaller stadiums in the south of England.

Huish Park - As a non-league outfit Yeovil Town were synonymous to Giant-Killing, with their famous Barnet-esque slope, but with the move to Huish Park in 1990, the slope has gone, but the team have continued their meteroic rise.

Generally the ground is a tidy looking effort, in a very picturesque setting on the outskirts of the town. Both sides of the stadium are similar in look and height. Both cantilevered, bith covered single tiered stands that are all-seated. The only difference is that The AgustaWestland Community Stand has a few executive boxes running across the box of it. The Cowlin Stand, its twin, has a simple scorebaord and a TV gantry.

At one end is the Carlsberg Terrace. A medium sized covered terracing for home fans and completing the set is the Copse Terrace, which is given to visiting fans. One bad element is that the away terracing is smaller and also uncovered.

Away fans will be situated in the Copse Road End, as was mentioned before. This is uncovered so pray for a summer month when the fixtures are out. Upto 1,700 fans can be housed here, which I find a little strange as at first glance, the area only looks like it will cater for a few hundred. If numbers require it, a few additional seats can be given in the AgustaWestland Community Stand. Will be a much better bet, especially if its raining.

Normally, Yeovil Town away is a thoroughly enjoyable place to visit, with very little problems or tension in or around the ground. On the whole a very vocal crowd and the now obligatory drummer will beat for England.

Getting There - Huish is located on the very outskirts and is signposted from the A303. Leave the A303 at The Cartgate Roundabout and take the A3088 towards Yeovil. Follow the road round for 4m until you reach a roundabout with the Westfield Airfield directly in front of you. Turn left here and continue crossing a number of roundabouts. As you pass the entrance to Adsa, take the next left for the ground, which can be clearly seen from the road.

Yeovil is served by two railway stations; Yeovil Junction is about 2-3m outside the town and Pen Mill Junction is about a mile from the town centre. Both are unfortunately on the opposite side to the ground. From both stations its advisable to take a taxi of if you arrive at Yeovil Junction, you can then catch the Hopper Minibus to the bus station in the centre.

Our Last Trip Here - One of the rare occasions where this season will be the first time the two teams meet...!