Premier League stadium rankings: All 20 from worst to best – so you could shout at us

Welcome to The Athletic’s Premier League stadium rankings, an train in leisure, creating arguments no one can win and questionable arithmetic.

Earlier than we begin, we should always beg for forgiveness. That is an virtually inconceivable job and nonetheless we select classes, weight classes after which mark the groups goes to harass you. It’s a subjective matter and there isn’t a proper reply.

All we ask is that you already know we’ve put far too many hours into all this, tried to make it as honest as attainable, and will not be intentionally making an attempt to upset anybody.

So sit — or stand, in case you favor — perhaps get a type of squeezy stress balls and luxuriate in. Hey, you would possibly even agree with a few of it.

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Coming to this order has been an extended, methodical course of involving a working group that broke the scoring into 4 classes:

• Matchday expertise — together with seat views, neighborhood really feel, accessibility and facilities inside and close to the stadium (40 per cent of the ultimate complete)
• Match ambiance — with consideration for residence and away supporters (25 per cent)
• Transport and site — how simple it’s to get to and from the stadium (20 per cent)
• Aesthetics — corresponding to design, character, environment, historical past and different intangibles (15 per cent)

The panel was requested to submit marks out of 10 for every stadium in every class, which have been then averaged and weighted as above — giving an goal closing rating.

There are complexities to every class. A floor’s ambiance can rely on the type of a workforce, the standing of the opposition and whether or not the floodlights are on.

Equally, your matchday expertise may be influenced by how protected you’re feeling or how swiftly stewards cope with an abusive or racist supporter close by.

As for the aesthetics, stadium architectural historian Simon Inglis stated most grounds “are merely an agglomeration of choices made by totally different administrators over totally different eras in numerous circumstances. I maintain my hand as much as extolling a shambles over a masterplan and like asymmetry and quirky angles to a uniform bowl, however I additionally recognize {that a} uniform bowl will virtually at all times be functionally superior”.

Our working panel and session included Inglis, our personal writers, which features a broad cross-section of match-going supporters, and steerage from the Soccer Supporters’ Affiliation.

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20. Vitality Stadium

Crew: Bournemouth

Capability: 11,307

First used: 1910

The primary stand at what was initially named Dean Court docket carries the Bournemouth crest and under it, a slogan: “Collectively, something is feasible”. Few issues might be extra apt. Fully rebuilt in 2001, the stadium lastly received its fourth stand in 2013 after the membership survived administration. Since then, it has develop into an everyday Premier League characteristic.

Greatest bits: There’s a neatness and conformity to the Vitality Stadium. The compact stands are near the motion and supply uninterrupted views and the entire floor doesn’t attempt to be one thing it isn’t. As a substitute it’s humble, which can clarify its presence on the backside of this listing, however some will even view that as its appeal.

The place it falls brief: There’s little discernible character. The help is welcoming however all the things feels a bit momentary, like the true floor will likely be constructed sooner or later sooner or later. The pictures of previous glories on the facet of every stand are a pleasant characteristic however wrestle to encourage.

What I really like in regards to the place: “It’s a cobbled-together floor and wouldn’t look misplaced within the decrease rungs of the EFL, with the membership’s coaching complicated adjoining to the Ted MacDougall Stand. That a part of the bottom stays a short lived constructing, put up rapidly when Bournemouth have been promoted to the Championship. The stadium is located in a leafy a part of Dorset and close to a dog-walking route that cuts between the bottom and Bournemouth’s compact coaching facility. The appeal of the bottom has contributed to them punching above their weight.” – Jacob Tanswell, soccer author

Verdict: If you’re within the space and a recreation is on (with tickets obtainable), then you need to catch it, however nobody goes to disgrace you if there are different grounds greater in your listing.

19. Kenilworth Street

Crew: Luton City

Capability: 11,050

First used: 1905

Luton’s residence for greater than 100 years was one of many tales of the summer season following the membership’s promotion. Kenilworth Street, which final hosted the highest flight in 1992, is sort of a soccer museum. A working instance of how soccer grounds first established themselves with principally wood, low-roofed, shallow terraces which have since seen seats put in. These stands sit alongside a brand new, momentary Bobbers Stand that allows the bottom to fulfil its Premier League obligations. The Oak Stand entrance by close by homes is now identified globally. The bottom’s days are numbered, with Luton set to construct a brand new purpose-built stadium throughout city.

Greatest bits: There may be nothing just like the cauldron of noise that may be generated in a floor like Kenilworth Street. All the pieces feels so shut. The sound consumes. It could be effectively in need of the stature loved by most Premier League venues, but you gained’t hear an environment prefer it. The stroll into the away finish by neighbouring terraced housing actually is enjoyable, too.

The place it falls brief: There may be restricted legroom, posts galore and a roof that’s more likely to obscure your view. Accessibility was additionally thought-about poor, though enhancements have since been launched as a part of the latest redevelopment.

What I really like in regards to the place: “All its peculiarities and tough edges embody the Luton story and the way far we’ve come. Every stand has a novel character. Draped flags lionise membership greats and protest previous wrongs inflicted on the membership by over-zealous authorities. The re-jigged Bobbers Stand is simply the most recent instance of the membership being dragged kicking and screaming into the following part of contemporary soccer.

“However the person tales and who you go along with (dad and mom, grandparents, companions, kids) are what make it so private. Your first recreation (Preston North Finish). Your worst recreation (Kettering City). Your greatest recreation (Sunderland). They’re the reminiscences. Ultimately, we’ll transfer right into a nice-looking new stadium, which can carry monetary safety and fewer mockery from opposition followers. It would most likely look pretty on TV, but it surely gained’t be residence. Not for a very long time.” – Alex Brodie, content material editor (and Luton fan)

Verdict: Get there and absorb a uncommon ambiance whilst you nonetheless can. Simply don’t anticipate snug environment.

18. Selhurst Park

Crew: Crystal Palace

Capability: 25,486

First used: 1924

One of many venues for the 1948 Summer season Olympics, Selhurst Park is a standard floor that has preserved its character whereas choosing up sufficient updates. The most recent a part of the bottom is the putting Holmesdale Street Stand, accomplished in 1994. You might effectively recognise the stadium as Nelson Street, the fictional residence of AFC Richmond in Ted Lasso. Plans for a £150million ($185m) redevelopment of Selhurst Park are in place, with a lot of the formal limitations now cleared.

Greatest bits: Palace take delight of their residence ambiance. The Holmesdale Fanatics lead by instance with flags and chants all through the 90 minutes. The soul at Selhurst Park is seen among the many greatest within the nation and there’s a neighborhood heat across the place that may be onerous to search out at different golf equipment in London.

The place it falls brief: Parking is a wrestle. There will even be obstructions to your view — particularly within the away finish — and accessibility is poor in locations.

What I really like in regards to the place: “Selhurst Park just isn’t probably the most glamorous stadium, but it surely has character and historical past. Subsequent 12 months will mark its centenary, simply as work to exchange the Predominant Stand is hoped to begin. Mix that with an environment usually hailed because the envy of different Premier League golf equipment and there’s something particular about it. Simply don’t attempt to drive there.” — Matt Woosnam, Crystal Palace correspondent

Verdict: Selhurst Park is certainly a matchday ambiance to savour and a basic floor to soak up, whether or not you wish to see Roy Hodgson or think about Ted Lasso watching on from the dugout.

17. Turf Moor

Crew: Burnley

Capability: 21,744

First used: 1883

Dwelling to Burnley for 140 years and counting, Turf Moor is among the world’s oldest soccer stadiums. Solely Preston’s Deepdale has loved longer unbroken service than Turf Moor and up to date funding has raised the requirements of the amenities after a couple of too a few years of neglect.

Greatest bits: Burnley is a correct soccer city and it feels prefer it. The stadium recurrently averages crowds over 20,000 in a city with a inhabitants of little greater than 90,000, making it one of many best-supported golf equipment per capita in England. There’s the tidier look, new video screens, painted wood seats and a beautiful backdrop of rolling hills. You might even get to catch some motion on the neighbouring Burnley Cricket Membership, which backs onto one of many stands.

The place it falls brief: All locations get chilly, however Turf Moor can really feel significantly chilly. You might or could not get an excellent view of the pitch and two of the stands may do with the identical renovation remedy as their reverse ends.

What I really like in regards to the place: “There’s a appeal to Turf Moor that provides it an genuine old-school soccer really feel. It has character, historical past, custom, compact concourses and now digital promoting boards. The one characteristic that marks it out is the view. Sit within the press field on the prime of the North Stand and admire the outdated mill city and surrounding space. A factor of magnificence you by no means tire of and when the visiting workforce’s correspondent arrives, you’ll be able to assure they are going to level it out. Mix that with ‘Kompanyball’ at its greatest and the ambiance it could generate… high quality.” – Andy Jones, Burnley correspondent

Oliver Kay says: “I can’t perceive the way it’s so low. A practical stadium relatively than a lovely one, but it surely has an old-world appeal, barely extra rugged than Craven Cottage. I think a north-south divide right here. That view from the highest of the Bob Lord Stand of the chimneys and hills past is one thing to savour. And there aren’t many higher away ends.”

Verdict: Take a coat and luxuriate in one in all English soccer’s oldest venues that also carries loads of appeal.

16. The American Specific Stadium

Crew: Brighton & Hove Albion

Capability: 31,876

First used: 2011

Located in Falmer on the outskirts of Brighton, the Amex just isn’t a lot the house of a membership because the signal of its rebirth. Brighton had been homeless for 16 years after the board of administrators voted to promote the membership’s earlier Goldstone Floor residence to builders with out arranging a substitute. The membership fought by the peril and earned Premier League soccer inside six years of shifting to its spectacular, £93million residence.

Greatest bits: Your matchday ticket additionally acts as a voucher free of charge journey. The amenities for supporters embrace padded seats and ample legroom. The design is interesting and there may be even the appeal of depicting white seagulls among the many sea of blue seats. The stadium’s accessibility has been awarded the gold normal centre of excellence by charity and stadium auditors Stage Taking part in Area.

The place it falls brief: It simply doesn’t really feel or look proper to have such small seating areas behind every purpose. That is the place supporters suck the ball into the online, don’t they know? Though transport is free, the distant location of the bottom means there aren’t any actual alternate options when it fails. There are additionally restricted refreshment choices past the membership amenities, which are typically costlier and don’t present shelter from the climate.

What I really like in regards to the place: “The Amex is neat, well-equipped and match for objective. A near-32,000-seater stadium set in a bowl on the japanese outskirts of town. Above all, it symbolises the spirit of the membership and its supporters. Collectively they fought again from two years of floor sharing with Gillingham 75 miles away and 12 years at Withdean, a transformed athletics monitor that was purported to be a short lived residence again within the metropolis earlier than a drawn-out saga for permission to construct the Amex. A facelift after 12 years has given the stadium a recent really feel for the membership’s first season in Europe.” – Andy Naylor, Brighton correspondent

Verdict: Brighton are on to an excellent factor; their stadium sums up completely the place they’ve come from and who they now aspire to be.

15. Craven Cottage

Crew: Fulham

Capability: 24,500

First used: 1896

Craven Cottage’s historical past of internet hosting Fulham dates again greater than 125 years and it represents one of many extra idiosyncratic stadiums in England. It’s named after a cottage constructed by William Craven in 1780, which nonetheless stands in a single nook of the bottom. The ornate frontage of the historic Johnny Haynes Stand — the oldest remaining stand in English skilled soccer — runs alongside the size of the bottom. Now standing reverse it’s the redeveloped Riverside Stand.

Greatest bits: There’s a lot to love and expertise when visiting Craven Cottage. The stroll from Putney Bridge alongside the financial institution of the River Thames is among the most gratifying journeys to an English floor.

The place it falls brief: Tickets will not be low cost. Fulham supporters already really feel like they’ve been requested to bear the brunt of the price of that new Riverside Stand by greater ticket costs.

What I really like in regards to the place: “The stroll to Craven Cottage units it aside. A ceremony of passage. Throughout the bridge, by Bishops Park, alongside the rows of terraced homes after which, one way or the other, a soccer floor hidden behind a listed brick facade hooked up to the cottage itself, tucked away within the nook. There is no such thing as a soccer stadium prefer it, particularly now it combines the modernity of the brand new Riverside Stand with the custom and historical past of the wood seats reverse. But it surely’s the stroll on a sunny day that makes it distinctive. It’s why travelling supporters take pleasure in it and why Fulham followers have fought so onerous to ensure builders may by no means contact it.” — Peter Rutzler, Fulham correspondent

Verdict: There will likely be greater, louder and extra intense locations to go to, however few are as heat and picturesque as Craven Cottage.

14. Goodison Park

Crew: Everton

Capability: 39,414

First used: 1892

Goodison is iconic. No stadium has hosted extra video games of English top-flight soccer. It was the primary purpose-built stadium in England when it opened and the primary to introduce dugouts for managers. Everton have been additionally the primary membership to have a church hooked up to its stadium: the cosy St Luke’s serves tea, toast and memorabilia to match-goers earlier than video games. A brand new stadium on Bramley-Moore Dock is ready to exchange Goodison throughout subsequent season, with the outdated stadium redeveloped for properties and industrial use.

Greatest bits: Goodison Park is soccer classic. It holds in noise to guttural ranges and supplies an expertise far nearer and extra stirring than others. Designed by Archibald Leitch, additionally look out for the criss-cross balustrades that underpin its architectural design and underline the bottom’s enduring appeal.

The place it falls brief: There is no such thing as a avoiding the pillars obstructing your view. It’s the Premier League stadium with the very best proportion of restricted-view seats. There may be little room for supporter amenities different grounds can supply, or a lot legroom.

What I really like in regards to the place: “If absence makes the center develop fonder, then Everton’s imminent farewell to Goodison Park is already intensifying feelings amongst supporters. The Previous Woman could also be a pensioner among the many prime flight’s different trendy tremendous stadia, however it’s a venerable outdated pricey, bursting with historical past, custom and reminiscences to go along with the fraying paint and obstructed views. Wedged into terraced streets on three sides, these matchday smells of chippies, beer and police horse muck are — like the bottom itself — lingering reminders of a bygone age.” — Greg O’Keeffe, soccer author

Oliver Kay says: “By goodness, it has seen higher days. It’s a relic now, a logo of a membership that has regrettably been left behind within the Premier League and its days are numbered. All the pieces in regards to the place — the noise and smells as you stroll down Goodison Street, the peeling paint within the concourses and stairwells, the appalling lack of legroom — looks like stepping again in time. And within the age of homogenised, identikit new stadiums, it’s all the extra interesting for that. Everton have to maneuver on, however it will likely be a tragic, unhappy day after they go away.”

Verdict: The beloved floor won’t be round for for much longer and is price a go to for that motive alone. It is going to be missed as soon as it’s gone.

13. Bramall Lane

Crew: Sheffield United

Capability: 32,050

First used: 1855

Bramall Lane is the oldest soccer stadium on the earth nonetheless internet hosting matches. The 4 stands cling to the perimeters of the pitch and loom over the motion — and that’s regardless of being initially constructed to host cricket. It sits close to town centre, but is a major distance from the Hillsborough residence of rivals Sheffield Wednesday. Steeped in historical past and character, it has its quirks but in addition comes throughout as fairly well-kept. The South Stand’s wood seats have been solely eliminated in 2005.

Greatest bits: There may be few extra intimidating atmospheres in English soccer than the one generated inside Bramall Lane. The noise lingers and swells as if caught below the roof and the authenticity of the place means it looks like little has considerably modified by the years. It’s the stadium that defines what a “tough place to go” appears like and being on the precise facet of that’s at all times extra enjoyable.

The place it falls brief: Being on the alternative facet of that ambiance just isn’t as gratifying and the house help could make issues intimidating for away supporters when the temper turns. Views may be interrupted by pillars and there may be little to get enthusiastic about across the stadium itself. Accessibility throughout the stadium is proscribed and there may be additionally the miserable sight of the stadium’s lodge, which has stood unused since 2020.

What I really like in regards to the place: “In some ways, Bramall Lane is a throwback to the times earlier than dozens of latest stadiums got here alongside wanting precisely just like the one earlier than — aside from the color of the seats. And that’s an excellent factor. On an evening, the ambiance positively fizzes. The dearth of followers in 2020-21 because of the Covid-19 pandemic goes an extended method to explaining why Chris Wilder’s United tanked so horribly of their second Premier League season.” — Richard Sutcliffe, soccer author

Verdict: The type of place the Premier League misses when it’s not there, a chunk of historical past that continues to face the take a look at of time and residential to some of the vociferous atmospheres throughout English soccer.

12. The Metropolis Floor

Crew: Nottingham Forest

Capability: 30,404

First used: 1898

All however the first 14 years of Forest’s existence have been at The Metropolis Floor. The stadium sits on the financial institution of the River Trent and there have been plans since 2019 to redevelop the Peter Taylor Stand. They have been granted planning permission final 12 months, though the stadium’s proximity to the river could complicate issues.

Greatest bits: The stadium is in a gorgeous spot on the coronary heart of Nottingham, with the river a welcome neighbour. Trent Bridge crosses the river and is a hive of exercise on a matchday. Then, inside the bottom, the belting anthem of Mull of Kintyre sung simply earlier than kick-off is an iconic sound in English soccer, taking the whole floor proper again to their English title and European successes of the late Nineteen Seventies. The house ambiance has been rejuvenated in latest seasons.

The place it falls brief: The Metropolis Floor has character however little consolation. The PA system quantity may be erratic and there’s a likelihood you’ll have a put up obstructing your view. It has additionally ranked as one of many extra restricted Premier League grounds for accessibility.

What I really like in regards to the place: “The Metropolis Floor has at all times been particular, however it’s the folks, as a lot because the place, that has made it Forest’s greatest asset lately. Steve Cooper’s fist pumps, the spectacular Forza Garibaldi banners, Brennan Johnson, Ryan Yates and Joe Worrall serving to hearth their membership to success. The deafening, virtually bodily wall of noise helped drive Forest into the Premier League and helped maintain them there. For thus lengthy, it was a museum, a spot of historical past. Now there may be pleasure for the longer term.” — Paul Taylor, Forest correspondent

Verdict: There may be little new and glossy in regards to the place, only a highly effective ambiance and a deeply ingrained historical past.

11. Etihad Stadium

Crew: Manchester Metropolis

Capability: 53,400

First used: 2003

Initially constructed for the 2002 Commonwealth Video games, the Metropolis of Manchester Stadium was transformed right into a purpose-built soccer stadium at a price of £40million. That conversion means it feels rather more like a soccer venue than the London Stadium. In 2003, Manchester Metropolis moved in and, following the membership’s takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group in 2008, the stadium sits in some of the spectacular soccer websites in Europe, with the Etihad Campus simply throughout the street. The stadium design maximises daylight and air flow for the taking part in floor, which is thought to be the most effective in England. Enlargement of the South Stand was accomplished in 2015 and there are plans for additional redevelopment of the stadium over the approaching three years.

Greatest bits: It’s akin to visiting a soccer theme park, with eating places, phases for bands and actions for supporters unfold across the web site. Inside, the stadium carries an aura given Metropolis have set about successful each trophy going. With Jack Grealish, Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne on the pitch, you already know a seat ensures the perfect in motion, alongside all of the amenities and connectivity of a state-of-the-art stadium, which was lso awarded Stage Taking part in Area’s centre of excellence award for accessibility.

The place it falls brief: It’s onerous to not go to the Etihad and take into consideration Maine Street. The membership’s religious residence noticed a continuing rollercoaster and delivered one of many nice atmospheres in English soccer. The Etihad is many issues however could by no means have that closing piece of intangible soul that sits within the outdated stands. Away supporters being housed over three tiers does little to assist the ambiance.

What I really like in regards to the place: “You’d should say the Etihad is among the hardest grounds to go to in top-level European soccer lately. Pep Guardiola’s workforce is a big motive for that, however the followers can generate an environment for the largest video games that appears to present the gamers an additional push. Simply ask Actual Madrid. As for the bodily constructing, it’s one which’s at all times evolving. The curious combination of sky blue and concrete gray will look very trendy as soon as the North Stand redevelopment is concluded and the brand new dwell music venue subsequent door is up and operating.” — Sam Lee, Manchester Metropolis correspondent

Verdict: Unfairly nicknamed ‘Emptyhad’ by rivals, the Etihad will get a tougher rap than it deserves. Given the workforce’s trophy haul and the high-quality fan expertise, everyone knows who’s having the final snigger.

10. London Stadium

Crew: West Ham United

Capability: 62,500

First used: 2016

London’s Olympic Stadium underwent a three-year, £274million renovation after controversially being handed to West Ham. The membership was awarded a 99-year lease and pays an annual hire of £2.5million. The stadium continues to be used for different sports activities. UK Athletics has annual use and Main League Baseball video games have additionally been hosted.

Greatest bits: Set within the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London Stadium has expansive environment and the real really feel of a giant, worldwide venue. There may be loads of house, glorious amenities and an excellent ambiance exterior the stadium on a matchday.

The place it falls brief: The elephant within the room is the variety of elephants you’ll be able to match into the stadium. The pitch feels distant and so does everybody else within the stadium. These are issues you’ll find in any soccer floor that additionally options an athletics monitor. Had Tottenham Hotspur’s bid to take over the positioning been profitable, they’d have knocked the stadium down and rebuilt it. Anybody who attended ‘Tremendous Saturday’ in August 2012, when the British Olympic workforce gained three gold medals contained in the stadium, would vouch for the noise and ambiance that may be created inside, however as onerous as West Ham attempt, the expertise of the London Stadium struggles to match the spectacle.

What I really like in regards to the place: “It would by no means really really feel residence to West Ham supporters attributable to their sturdy connection to the Boleyn Floor, however the electrical ambiance on European nights on the London Stadium is particular. There have been so many memorable moments, from Andriy Yarmolenko’s winner within the last-16 Europa League tie in opposition to Sevilla to Michail Antonio’s purpose within the Europa Convention League semi-final first-leg victory over AZ Alkmaar. These moments make the place come alive.” — Roshane Thomas, West Ham correspondent

Verdict: There are points — it could supply one of many least partaking atmospheres in England’s prime flight – however the facilities, amenities and expertise of visiting a formidable venue partially make up for that.

9. Stamford Bridge

Crew: Chelsea

Capability: 40,173

First used: 1877

Chelsea are one in all just a few golf equipment to play on the identical stadium since they have been fashioned, however there’s something totally unrecognisable from the bottom Chelsea have been taking part in at simply 30 years in the past. Redevelopment of the stands, the elimination of the greyhound racing monitor and the constructing of all method of inns and eating places means the stadium itself is sort of hidden contained in the hodgepodge of buildings that make up Chelsea Village. Increasing the stadium or shifting away have confirmed equally problematic.

Greatest bits: There are few stadiums of the dimensions of Stamford Bridge that make all the things really feel so near the pitch, most likely as a result of it will now be virtually inconceivable to design it alongside the required house and facilities. Nonetheless, that closeness creates an genuine really feel contained in the stadium regardless of its unique west London setting and opulent exterior.

The place it falls brief: There actually is little to get enthusiastic about as you method the bottom. No view. No teasing floodlights. It simply appears such as you’re visiting a lodge procuring complicated. Fairly frankly, a membership with Chelsea’s aspirations wants an even bigger stadium and a future away from Stamford Bridge has been mentioned. That is one other stadium in a primary location the place transport hyperlinks can buckle on a matchday.

What I really like in regards to the place: “As annually goes by, Chelsea’s floor exhibits extra indicators of age and is overtaken in dimension and amenities by new, shinier variations constructed by rivals… however there isn’t a different place Chelsea followers would relatively be. Stamford Bridge is exclusive: the supporters, courtesy of Chelsea Pitch Homeowners, truly personal the freehold to the bottom. The membership can’t transfer websites and maintain the identify Chelsea with out getting sufficient votes from the CPO first.

“A membership mocked for an absence of historical past are nonetheless at their conventional residence. The workforce’s deteriorating type has dampened the ambiance, however a blast of One Step Past by Insanity after a giant win will get folks dancing within the stands like nowhere else.” — Simon Johnson, Chelsea correspondent

Verdict: Given Chelsea’s journey over the previous 30 years, this can be one membership that should transfer whether it is to maximise its future, however Stamford Bridge stays an archetypal cease on any tour.

8. Gtech Neighborhood Stadium

Crew: Brentford

Capability: 17,250

First used: 2020

Having loved the compact residence comforts of Griffin Park and a public home on every nook since 1904, Brentford’s swap to their £71million new residence was fairly the departure. Plans had been within the works for nearly 20 years, however the brand new stadium lastly arrived in time for the outstanding rise to the Premier League.

Greatest bits: The stadium is cleverly designed to suit right into a triangle of land simply off the M4. House and luxury are all right here and it’s compact sufficient for the stands to really feel hooked up to the motion. Transport hyperlinks are good and there’s a neighborhood really feel in regards to the place.

The place it falls brief: The design is enjoyable however unlikely to steer you to go to. The transport hyperlinks are good however you would be forgiven for utilizing a map and compass to search out your approach there on foot or by automotive.

What I really like in regards to the place: “It is among the smallest grounds within the prime two divisions however none of that detracts from its appeal. Brentford’s house is near the Thames and there may be nothing higher than stopping for a drink at one of many riverside pubs earlier than watching Thomas Frank’s facet tackle one of many ‘Huge Six’ on a roasting summer season’s day. Simply ask Manchester United followers.” — Jay Harris, Brentford correspondent

Verdict: A proud residence for Brentford, a mark of how far the membership has come and a cushty and gratifying venue for soccer.

7. Villa Park

Crew: Aston Villa

Capability: 42,530

First used: 1897

It’s removed from the largest floor, but there’s something classically ornate and dependable about Villa Park. Villa’s residence for effectively over a century, within the days earlier than the brand new Wembley Stadium, Villa Park was used for extra FA Cup semi-finals than some other floor. Vital redevelopment of the North Stand is on its approach.

Greatest bits: A correct floor stuffed with custom and character, the Holte Finish particularly. It’s pretty much as good to take a look at from the skin as it’s to expertise from the within, particularly on an excellent day. When Villa Park rocks, the entire of Birmingham shakes.

The place it falls brief: At occasions, Villa’s lengthy and prestigious historical past has weighed heavy and when issues will not be going effectively, Villa Park may be quiet and unassuming. The bottom comes with accessibility points and has areas primed for redevelopment by its house owners.

What I really like in regards to the place: “A packed-out Villa Park, when in full voice, is a particular place to be. The Holte Finish towers over the pitch and creates an exquisite, distinctive ambiance. When it will get going there isn’t a place fairly prefer it and it’s little shock greater than 30,000 persons are on the ready listing for a season ticket. Whereas there are points across the floor with public transport and the North Stand appears a bit dated, its conventional appeal continues to be warming. When cup semi-finals have been held right here, visiting supporters cherished it simply as a lot because the locals.” — Gregg Evans, soccer author

Oliver Kay says: “The tragedy of Villa Park is that they demolished the outdated Trinity Street Stand, which was a factor of magnificence. Of all of the well-known stands misplaced within the rush to modernise in the course of the Nineteen Nineties and 2000s, there have been few extra putting. Thank goodness they preserved the Holte Finish with its imposing red-brick exterior. Is there a extra good-looking stand in English soccer? And the upcoming redevelopment of the North Stand will improve the old-meets-new really feel of a stadium that’s broadly recognised among the many greatest within the Premier League.”

Verdict: Attending to Villa Park for a giant recreation to observe an in-form Villa may be pretty much as good and genuine because it will get.

6. Molineux

Crew: Wolverhampton Wanderers

Capability: 31,750

First used: 1889

Molineux has been residence to Wolves for greater than 130 years. It was the primary stadium constructed to be used by a Soccer League membership and among the many first to have floodlights put in and host European membership video games. Its identify originates from Benjamin Molineux, who bought the land in the course of the 18th century. The fashionable stadium was constructed following Sir Jack Hayward’s takeover of the membership in 1990 after severe monetary points. A brand new two-tier Stan Cullis Stand was opened in 2012.

Greatest bits: No matter Wolves’ points with identification on the pitch, their Molineux residence is really distinctive, with heat, inviting structure. It’s a brief stroll from town centre, the amenities are trendy and the ambiance is raucous. A fast stroll across the floor is well worth the effort, exhibiting off how the stadium is reduce into the land. Hopefully, additionally, you will clock the statue of Wolves legend Billy Wright.

The place it falls brief: The house help may be intimidating and it is probably not the perfect place to stroll round by yourself in your away shirt. It’s one other floor with restricted parking close by, too. There are numerous pubs close by however few permit away supporters inside.

What I really like in regards to the place: “Let’s speak in regards to the statues. The figures of Stan Cullis and Billy Wright, particularly, are among the many greatest footballing tributes you’ll find wherever. Let’s speak in regards to the pre-match music. Hello Ho Silver Lining, clearly, however Kashmir is even higher. When you might have Robert Plant round, why not? Then there’s the situation; a brief stroll from the station and city-centre pubs, not caught out of city on a retail park. It wants sprucing up in locations however so do a couple of cathedrals, which is what Molineux is; a footballing cathedral on the centre of its neighborhood.” — Steve Madeley, Wolves correspondent

Oliver Kay says: “Molineux is a gem, however that wasn’t at all times the case. Once I first went in 1982, it was a dump with an inexplicable 20-yard hole between the pitch and one of many stands. Even to my younger eyes, it was a complete eyesore. However I adore it now. The design is barely eccentric but it surely works, as does the old-gold color scheme. Inside, significantly across the media suite and the manager packing containers, the membership’s proud historical past is rightly flaunted. And it’s a five-minute stroll from town centre. Critically, what’s to not like?”

Verdict: Molineux has an ideal stability of contemporary amenities and an genuine ambiance to rival wherever within the nation.

5. Anfield

Crew: Liverpool

Capability: 61,276

First used: 1884

Other than its first seven years when it was residence to Everton, Anfield has served Liverpool from its perch on the sting of Stanley Park. It has frequently advanced, including tributes to legendary figures and extra lately including further seats. That has seen off the necessity to transfer away from the membership’s much-loved residence. Now Anfield sits excessive above the timber and dominates the view as a lot because it does the lives of town’s red-hearted residents.

Greatest bits: There’s a poignancy find a second to replicate on the floor’s Hillsborough memorial, whereas watching and listening to the whole floor sing You’ll By no means Stroll Alone earlier than kick-off is one in all soccer’s particular experiences. Anfield can take you on a wild journey you could not wish to finish.

The place it falls brief: The stadium has felt in a state of redevelopment for a couple of years and points with the Buckingham Group, which was overseeing the rebuild of the Anfield Street finish, have extended that notion. As soon as accomplished, Anfield will really feel prefer it has been given one other recent lease of life. That can be more likely to make matchday street congestion considerably worse.

What I really like in regards to the place: “I’ll always remember the primary time I walked up these crimson steps and gazed out on the sheer fantastic thing about Anfield. October 27, 1990. Liverpool 2 Chelsea 0. There was no place prefer it as a wide-eyed 12-year-old and it’s nonetheless unsurpassed greater than three many years later. The towering Kop, the noise, the flags and that distinctive capacity to encourage and intimidate gamers in equal measure. Nowhere is able to producing miracles like Anfield. Don’t take my phrase for it, that is what Pep Guardiola thinks: “The motto ‘That is Anfield’ isn’t any advertising and marketing spin.” — James Pearce, Liverpool correspondent

Oliver Kay says: “I get why folks really feel it’s over-mythologised. The ‘well-known European evening’ cliche should sound fairly trite for opposition followers whose solely expertise of Anfield is a run-of-the-mill Premier League recreation on a type of Saturday afternoons when the Kop appears to be nursing a collective hangover. However I don’t assume my ears have ever recovered from the semi-final second legs in opposition to Chelsea in 2005 and Barcelona in 2019. On nights like that, the place appears to tackle a lifetime of its personal. Probably the greatest issues Fenway Sports activities Group did was scrap the earlier house owners’ plans for a brand new stadium.

“From sure vantage factors, it’s virtually unrecognisable, however when the Anfield ambiance is at its most raucous, it’s unmistakable — probably unrivalled.”

Verdict: A bucket-list merchandise for any Liverpool fan and possibly any fan of soccer.

4. Emirates Stadium

Crew: Arsenal

Capability: 60,704

First used: 2006

Changing the long-lasting surrounds of Highbury, the Emirates is now in its 18th season as Arsenal’s residence. It price £390million to construct, which was funded solely by the membership. Arsenal are but to win a league title because it was opened — however are nearer than ever.

Greatest bits: Supporter amenities are glorious. Arsenal’s on-pitch performances have improved the ambiance, too. One factor you do sense strolling as much as the Emirates is its ‘Arsenalisation’. Since 2009, supporters have helped carry membership historical past and soul with murals and imagery. The stadium’s accessibility has additionally been awarded the gold normal centre of excellence by Stage Taking part in Area.

The place it falls brief: At occasions below Arsene Wenger, it felt just like the Emirates hampered Arsenal’s capacity to enhance on the pitch. Perhaps that was unfair, but it surely made for an usually sad stadium to go to. That feeling has eased in latest seasons, not like the price of refreshments. There are London Underground stations close by however that proximity also can trigger main congestion exterior.

What I really like in regards to the place: “Arsenal’s relationship with the Emirates is a humorous one. It would at all times be held up in opposition to Highbury and for its first 15 years, it paled compared. Just lately, nonetheless, the supporters have made it really feel extra like residence. The ambiance has improved because the return of crowds in 2021 and everyone appears to be benefiting. Reminiscences are being created and additions exterior the stadium, together with Wenger’s statue and new paintings, have additionally solidified the connection between the membership and its folks.” – Artwork de Roche, Arsenal correspondent

Verdict: The Emirates has its critics but it surely now delivers the ambiance, amenities, accessibility and product any sports activities fan would anticipate from the Premier League.

3. Previous Trafford

Crew: Manchester United

Capability: 74,031

First used: 1910

The embodiment of Manchester United’s unique Premier League success. The stadium ballooned to its present dimension — the third largest in the UK and 14th in Europe — due partially to their domination of the division. Redevelopments ceased in 2006 and Previous Trafford is in want of renovation merely to return to its earlier requirements.

Greatest bits: The dimensions of the place is mighty and it comes with a particular ambiance. Most views contained in the stadium are glorious and outdoors, United’s wealthy historical past is embraced by statues of Sir Matt Busby, three of their 1968 European Cup winners (Sir Bobby Charlton, George Greatest and Denis Regulation), and a clock and plaque to recollect the victims of the Munich air catastrophe.

The place it falls brief: There are clear points — components look outdated, roofs leak following heavy rain and an absence of economic areas is hitting income. Not all of that could be a supporters’ concern, however it can type United’s opinion on whether or not to renovate or relocate. Surprisingly, there are some areas of restricted view and a lot of the stadium supplies legroom that even these under common top would possibly discover a squeeze.

What I really like in regards to the place: “Redeveloping Previous Trafford is crucial. The final main upgrades have been signed off earlier than the Glazers took management. Regardless of this, the stadium itself stays one in all enormous character and historical past. Showing on the Manchester horizon, its construction is distinctive and putting. As soon as inside, the proximity of the seats to one another and the pitch generates a crackling ambiance.” — Laurie Whitwell, Manchester United correspondent

Oliver Kay says: “Folks have been at all times a bit grudging about Previous Trafford when it was in its pomp within the 2000s. A bit too shiny and excellent for conventional tastes. Stereotypes about daytrippers and company followers in govt packing containers consuming “their prawn sandwiches”, as Roy Keane famously put it. It was at all times an excellent stadium although and it nonetheless is. It was so extensively modernised within the Nineteen Nineties that it didn’t look, really feel or odor as historic as Anfield, Goodison Park or Highbury. But it surely feels historic now. That’s one upside of neglect. The upside of a tough decade on the pitch is a extra uncooked, visceral ambiance than generally portrayed.”

Verdict: Previous Trafford is a temple of English soccer and for so long as it’s standing, it will likely be price a go to.

2. St James’ Park

Crew: Newcastle United

Capability: 52,257

First used: 1892

The long-term residence of Newcastle United, St James’ Park sits on a hill on the centre of town. It’s as if all the things is drawn to the beacon that protrudes the skyline. The bottom is lopsided given the huge redevelopment of two stands in 1998 and it could look architecturally chilly and scientific, but it surely supplies an environment as genuine as any within the Premier League.

Greatest bits: That big-game aura and the actual fact you’ll be able to see the bottom from so many factors within the metropolis establishes its sense of significance. The stadium is equally spectacular inside. It is among the extra respectful welcomes travelling supporters will obtain, particularly in case you return the respect. You are able to do that by visiting three of the statues exterior the stadium that mark the legendary contributions of Alan Shearer, Bobby Robson and Jackie Milburn.

The place it falls brief: Away followers are put in a prime tier as distant as attainable from the motion, which is unfair to those that make the journey and in battle with guidelines that recommend away followers must be pitchside.

What I really like in regards to the place: “I can’t imagine there’s a greater ambiance wherever than St James’ Park proper now: paint-peeling noise, the sensory overload of Wor Flags and, after a lot division, everyone in it collectively. What makes the stadium so particular is its location, slap-bang in the course of town, looming over it, setting the temper and as soon as once more drawing folks in direction of it.” – George Caulkin, senior author (based mostly in Newcastle)

Verdict: The delight in Newcastle runs deep. Therefore a few of our north-east contingent questioning why St James’ Park isn’t prime. It is among the nation’s correct soccer cathedrals and a incredible place to observe a recreation.

1. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Crew: Tottenham Hotspur

Capability: 62,850

First used: 2019

The fundamentals: London’s greatest membership stadium was constructed on the spot of Spurs’ earlier residence for 118 years, White Hart Lane. A £1billion challenge to redevelop the north London web site changed one conventional soccer venue with a shocking, trendy sibling. It was additionally constructed to develop into a London residence for the NFL and features a retractable gridiron.

Greatest bits: The little particulars that time out the geographical relevance to White Hart Lane, corresponding to a white circle on the ground that marks the earlier centre spot. Then there may be the 17,500-capacity South Stand. Regardless of being a bowl, the raking, double-tier stand attracts consideration, creates ambiance and supplies the proper canvas for a supporter mosaic.

The place it falls brief: Fashionable can imply scientific and, at occasions, strolling by the concourses you’d be forgiven for pondering you have been in an airport. Costly stadiums usually result in costly experiences and most Spurs supporters would lead their gripes with the price of their matchday. Transport hyperlinks on matchday can get clogged.

What I really like in regards to the place: “Spurs’ on-pitch performances could not have been the envy of Europe over latest years, however no one may fail to be impressed by their stadium. It elevated the capability from 36,000, gave followers extra spacious concourses, unbelievable pitch views from each place and, famously, pints that magically fill from the underside. It hasn’t been a completely optimistic transition — there was little enchancment to move infrastructure and ticket costs are ludicrous – however there may be little doubt Spurs’ new house is the perfect within the Premier League.” – James Maw, editor and common on The View from the Lane podcast

Verdict: Maybe this can be a victory for contemporary, commercialised soccer over the extra natural qualities of its previous. Nonetheless, sit contained in the stadium and also you quickly realise its draw: an expertise akin to any dwell stadium sport the world over.

(High picture: Getty Photographs; design: Sam Richardson)