🏟️ ABOUT THE NEW YORK STADIUM
The New York Stadium represents Rotherham United’s triumphant return home after years of displacement. Built on the site of the former Guest and Chrimes Foundry in an area historically known as “New York” (hence the name), this modern 12,021-capacity stadium opened in July 2012, bringing The Millers back to Rotherham after five years exiled at Sheffield’s Don Valley Stadium.
The club’s story is one of remarkable resilience – after enjoying 101 years at their beloved Millmoor (1907-2008), they were forced to leave following a dispute with the ground’s owner, leading to temporary relocation to the oversized Don Valley whilst this purpose-built stadium was constructed.
Built at a cost of £25 million and designed by S+P Architects, the stadium was officially opened by Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, on 12th March 2012. The first competitive match saw Rotherham defeat Burton Albion 3-0 on 18th August 2012, with Daniel Nardiello scoring the historic first competitive goal.
The stadium takes its name from the “New York” area where it sits – curiously, the Guest and Chrimes foundry that previously occupied the site once manufactured fire hydrants specifically for New York City! In November 2014, local engineering company AESSEAL purchased naming rights in what chairman Tony Stewart described as the club’s biggest-ever sponsorship deal, making it the AESSEAL New York Stadium.
The stadium features four joined-up stands of slightly differing heights creating an enclosed bowl, with distinctive continental-style floodlights giving it a unique identity. The West Stand serves as the main stand containing The 1925 Club (corporate hospitality suite named after the club’s formation year from the merger of Rotherham County and Rotherham Town).
The North Stand (KCM Recycling Stand), nicknamed the “New Tivoli” after Millmoor’s famous Tivoli End, holds 2,000 home fans behind one goal with “RUFC” lettering across the seats. Away fans occupy the Mears South Stand at the opposite end.
The stadium was designed with foundations allowing future expansion to 20,000 capacity in two phases (first to 16,000, then 20,000), though as of 2026 no expansion plans are active. Beyond football, the New York Stadium also functions as South Yorkshire’s biggest conference centre with capacity for up to 700 people.
The modern facilities and excellent acoustics make this a significantly superior matchday experience compared to the temporary Don Valley years, finally giving Rotherham United a proper home once again!
📊 STADIUM SPECIFICATIONS
| Capacity | 12,021 (all seated) |
| Opened | 2012 |
| Away Section | Mears South Stand (behind the goal) |
| Away Allocation | Typically 2,500 (smaller followings in Ben Bennett Stand section) |
| Record Attendance | 12,021 (sold out multiple times) |
🚗 GETTING TO THE NEW YORK STADIUM
The New York Stadium enjoys an OUTSTANDING location just five minutes walk from Rotherham town centre and railway station – one of the most conveniently situated grounds in the EFL! This proximity to both the town centre and station means excellent pre-match pub and food options, easy public transport access, and straightforward navigation. The stadium sits on Don Street just off the A630, easily visible from the train station.
For drivers, it’s located just off Junction 33 of the M1 motorway with well-signposted routes into Rotherham. The combination of walkable town centre location and major motorway access makes this genuinely accessible however you’re travelling!
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION MAP
New York Stadium Address: Don Street, Rotherham, S60 1AH
🚂 BY TRAIN – Just 5 Minutes Walk!
Rotherham Central Station is just a 5-minute walk from the New York Stadium – genuinely one of THE best station-to-ground walks in English football! The station connects to Sheffield’s mainlines, providing excellent access from across the country.
You can literally SEE the stadium from the station, making navigation effortless. The short walk passes through the town centre along the riverside, offering plenty of pubs and food options. This convenience makes train travel the recommended option for visiting fans!
Walking Directions from Rotherham Central (5 mins): Exit the station and turn RIGHT onto Central Road. Continue along this road by the river edge, passing the Magistrates Court. When you reach the Main Street T-junction, turn LEFT onto Main Street. Then take an IMMEDIATE RIGHT onto Don Street. Follow this road around, and you’ll see the stadium on your right. Genuinely couldn’t be easier – you can see the stadium from the station!
Reaching Rotherham Central Station:
🟢 Via Sheffield (20 minutes):
• Sheffield Station: 20 minutes (frequent Northern services)
• From Sheffield you connect to national network
🟢 Reaching Sheffield:
• London St Pancras: 2 hours (East Midlands Railway direct)
• Manchester Piccadilly: 50 mins (TransPennine Express direct)
• Leeds: 45 mins (Northern direct)
• Birmingham New Street: 1h 30m (CrossCountry direct)
• Doncaster: 25 mins (frequent services then connect to Rotherham)
💡 Top Tip: The 5-minute walk from Rotherham Central is brilliant – you literally see the stadium from the station! Stop at The Rhinoceros (Wetherspoons) right by the station for pre-match drinks – it’s famous for £1.99 pints and mixed home/away atmosphere. The walk passes through town centre giving you plenty of pub and food options. This is genuinely one of the easiest and most convenient away days by train in the entire Football League!
🔗 Plan Your Journey: nationalrail.co.uk | northernrailway.co.uk
🚗 BY CAR – Good Town Centre Options
Driving to the New York Stadium is straightforward via Junction 33 on the M1. The stadium sits just off the A630 with clear signposting from all approaches. There’s NO parking at the stadium for supporters, but several convenient town centre car parks within 5-10 minutes walk. Some away fans report finding free street parking near the old Millmoor ground (approximately 15 minutes walk). Arrive early for the best options!
Driving Directions:
- From M1 (Junction 33): Exit at Junction 33 and follow signs towards Rotherham Town Centre. The ground is well-signposted and just a short distance from the motorway. You should see the stadium as you approach the town centre.
- From Sheffield (A630): Follow A630 towards Rotherham. The stadium sits just off this road as you approach the town centre.
- From Doncaster (A630): Follow A630 towards Rotherham town centre, stadium visible on approach.
- Postcode for Sat-Nav: S60 1AH
Parking Options:
- NO Stadium Parking: Car parking at the stadium is for permit holders only. Do not attempt to park at the ground.
- Sheffield Road Pay & Display: Town-centre location, short walk to the ground, pay on arrival.
- Forge Island Car Park (S60 1EJ): Large car park 0.4 miles from ground, approximately 7 minutes walk. Rotherham United recommend this option for away fans. Good capacity.
- Town Centre NCP Multi-Storey: Next to Interchange Bus Station. £2.80 for four hours. Approximately 5-10 minutes’ walk to the stadium.
- Council Pay & Display Car Parks: Various locations across the town centre, typically £2 for 4 hours. Within walking distance.
- Open Air Matchday Car Park: Corner of Main Street with A630 dual carriageway, £2. Pass this if following M1 directions above.
- Free Street Parking (Millmoor Area): Some away fans report finding free street parking around the old Millmoor ground area. Approximately 15 minutes walk to away turnstiles. Arrive early as spaces are limited!
- Scrap Merchants Car Park: Some fans report free parking “100 yards around corner” near Scrap Merchants, 5-minute walk to the stadium. Worth exploring if other options are full!
✅ STRATEGY: Forge Island car park (S60 1EJ) is Rotherham United’s official recommendation for away fans – large capacity, 7-minute walk, good option. Town centre pay-and-display parking offers alternatives. For free parking, try the Millmoor area (a 15-minute walk) or the reported free spots near scrap merchants, but arrive 90+ minutes early, as these fill quickly. The town centre location means you’re never far from parking, but expect to walk 5-15 minutes!
💡 Top Tip: The stadium’s town centre location is brilliant – you’re never far from parking! Forge Island (S60 1EJ) is the safest bet if you want guaranteed space. If you’re willing to hunt, the Millmoor area offers free street parking (15 mins walk). The M1 Junction 33 access is excellent making this very driveable from across the country. Allow extra time on matchdays, as traffic in the town centre builds up!
🍺 PUBS & DRINKS NEAR NEW YORK STADIUM
✅ EXCELLENT NEWS: Rotherham’s town centre location means LOADS of pub options within 5-10 minutes walk! The Rhinoceros (Wetherspoons) right by the station is famous for £1.99 pints and a mixed atmosphere. The Bridge Inn is the traditional away fans’ pub. Three Wetherspoons in town (The Rhinoceros, The Bluecoat, and one more). Generally very welcoming atmosphere – Rotherham fans report it’s not a “get out of our pub” club. Many pubs mix home and away fans happily, though covering colours advised in some venues.
🍺 The Away Fans’ Favourites
🍺 The Rhinoceros (Wetherspoons)
Bridgegate, right near Rotherham Central Station. THE famous away fans’ pub! Legendary £1.99 pints reported by multiple away fans. Mixed home-and-away atmosphere described as “fantastic”. Large interior. Gets very busy on matchdays but copes well with crowds. Perfect first stop when arriving by train. Many fans stop here until 2:40 pm, then walk to the ground. Budget-friendly, great atmosphere, incredibly popular with away fans!
Distance: Right by station (5 mins to ground) | Price: £ (£1.99 pints!) | Atmosphere: Mixed, fantastic
🍺 The Bridge Inn
Close to Rotherham Railway Station (turn right out of station, pub across road on left). The main traditional pub for away fans. Welcomes visiting supporters. Good atmosphere. Popular choice. Convenient location between the station and the ground.
Distance: Near station | Price: ££ | Atmosphere: Away-friendly
🍺 Town Centre Options
🍺 The Bluecoat (Wetherspoons)
The Crofts, Rotherham S60 2DJ. Another Wetherspoons option. Rotherham United officially recommend this pub. Has a more homey feel than The Rhinoceros, but still welcomes away fans. Budget-friendly Wetherspoons prices. Town centre location.
Distance: Town centre | Price: £ | Atmosphere: More home-focused but welcomes all
🍺 The New York Tavern
Just off Main Street on Westgate. Friendly towards away fans. Sells delicious beer. Good atmosphere. Named after the area where the stadium sits!
Distance: Town centre | Price: ££
🍺 Cutlers Arms
Just off Main Street on Westgate (same road as New York Tavern). Friendly towards away fans. Good beer selection. Traditional pub atmosphere.
Distance: Town centre | Price: ££
🍺 The High House
People described as “nice and friendly”. Pub described as “very good” by visitors. Recommended by away fans.
Distance: Walking distance | Price: ££
🍺 Important Notes
• Some pubs require colours to be covered – check or ask on arrival
• Some pubs don’t allow children – ask if visiting with family
• Generally Rotherham has welcoming atmosphere – not an aggressive “get out” mentality
• Three Wetherspoons in town providing budget options
• Town centre location means loads of choices within 5-10 minutes walk!
⚽ Away Fan’s Tip: The Rhinoceros (Wetherspoons) by the station is THE one – £1.99 pints and fantastic mixed atmosphere make it legendary among away fans! The Bridge Inn is the traditional away pub. Three Wetherspoons total in town provide budget options. Rotherham is genuinely friendly – as one guide says, it’s a “small-time club” without the aggressive pub segregation of bigger clubs. The town centre location is brilliant for pub-hopping. Just cover colours in some venues to be safe!
🍽️ WHERE TO EAT IN ROTHERHAM
Rotherham town centre’s proximity to the stadium (5-10 minutes walk) means excellent food options! The town offers everything from traditional pubs and chain restaurants to independent eateries. Stadium food is “no thrills” traditional football fare (burgers, hot dogs, pies) but reasonably priced at around £4 for a cheeseburger. However, with town centre so close, most fans eat before or after in Rotherham’s numerous restaurants and takeaways.
🥧 At the Stadium
New York Stadium Concourses
Traditional football ground food. Pukka Pies range: Chicken Balti, Meat & Potato, Steak & Kidney, Cheese & Onion (all £3.40). Sausage Rolls (£2.90). Hot Dogs (£4). Cheeseburgers (£4). Pasties available. Hot and cold drinks. Food described as “no thrills” but “reasonably priced” and “good quality”. Two refreshment kiosks on away concourse. NOTE: Some fans report they “ran out of burgers” so had pies instead – arrive early if you want specific items!
💰 Price: £2.90-4 per item | ⭐ Why Visit: Cheap traditional football food, Pukka Pies range
🍽️ Town Centre (5-10 mins walk)
Wide Variety of Options
Unlike most newer grounds, New York Stadium’s town centre location means LOADS of eating options! Rotherham town centre has: chain restaurants (various high-street names), independent eateries, takeaways, curry houses, fish and chip shops, Italian restaurants, traditional pubs serving food, and cafés. Something for every taste and budget within easy walking distance!
💰 Price: £5-20 per person depending on choice | ⭐ Why Visit: Massive choice close to ground!
🍺 Pub Food
Wetherspoons & Local Pubs
The Rhinoceros, The Bluecoat, and the third Wetherspoons all serve full Wetherspoons menus at budget prices. Other local pubs serve traditional pub food. Perfect for combining drinks and food before the match. Wetherspoons meals typically £5-9, other pubs £8-15.
💰 Price: £5-15 per person | ⭐ Why Visit: Budget-friendly, combine with pre-match drinks
☕ Walker Café (Clifton Park Museum)
Museum Café
If visiting Clifton Park/Museum before or after match, the Walker Café offers light lunches, slices of cake, refreshing drinks. Nice setting within museum grounds. Relaxed atmosphere.
💰 Price: £5-10 per person | ⭐ Why Visit: Perfect if combining match with Clifton Park visit
⚽ Away Fan’s Tip: The stadium food is cheap and decent (£3.40 pies, £4 burgers) but with town centre 5-10 minutes walk, you’ve got loads of options! Wetherspoons for budget pub meals. Town centre for chain restaurants or independents. The proximity to town is a massive advantage – you’re not stuck with just stadium food like at out-of-town grounds. Most away fans eat in town then walk to ground!
🏨 WHERE TO STAY IN ROTHERHAM
Rotherham offers decent accommodation options from budget chains to mid-range hotels. The town’s position between Sheffield (20 mins by train) and Doncaster (25 mins) means you could also stay in either city for more hotel options and nightlife, making it easy to make day trips to Rotherham for the match. Sheffield in particular offers far more accommodation and entertainment options whilst remaining very accessible.
💷 Budget Options (£40-70 per night)
Travelodge Rotherham Central
Very new Travelodge. Quiet location. Very comfortable bed. Room well designed with plenty of power and data sockets. Immaculately clean. Very handy central location for Rotherham. Guests praise the quality for a Travelodge. Modern facilities. Walking distance to stadium and town centre.
Location: Rotherham town centre | Book: travelodge.co.uk
💷💷 Mid-Range Options (£60-100 per night)
Holiday Inn Rotherham-Sheffield M1, Jct.33
Just off M1 motorway. Less than 10 minutes’ drive from both Rotherham and Sheffield city centres. Leisure club with pool, steam room, sauna, hot tub, well-equipped gym. On-site restaurant. Children stay free. Good facilities. Convenient for stadium. International chain reliability. Popular matchday choice.
Location: M1 J33 (between Rotherham & Sheffield)
Carlton Park Hotel Rotherham
Heart of Rotherham. Close proximity to top attractions including Clifton Park Museum, Rotherham Minster, and New York Stadium. Good facilities. Town centre location. Recommended by tourism sites. Convenient for matchday.
Location: Rotherham town centre
Best Western Consort Hotel
Comfortable accommodation. Good facilities. Reliable Best Western quality. Convenient location. Family-friendly.
Location: Rotherham area
Restover Lodge Hotel
Easy access to M1 and M18 motorways. Easy access to Rotherham, Sheffield or Doncaster. Set between Bramley and Hellaby. Restaurant on-site. Good motorway access for driving fans.
Location: Between Bramley/Hellaby (M1/M18 access)
💷💷💷 Higher-End Options (£80-150 per night)
The George Wright Boutique Hotel
4-star hotel. Rotherham city centre location. Within easy walking distance of Rotherham Minster, Mecca Bingo, and AESSEAL New York Stadium. Very good user ratings. Range of modern amenities. Restaurant, bar, garden. Free Wi-Fi. Terrace. Parking facilities. Higher standard accommodation.
Location: Rotherham city centre (walking distance to stadium!)
🏙️ Alternative: Stay in Sheffield (20 mins train)
Sheffield City Centre
20 minutes to Rotherham Central by train. MASSIVE choice of hotels, restaurants, nightlife. Far superior entertainment options compared to Rotherham. Hilton Sheffield, Sheffield Metropolitan Hotel, Doubletree by Hilton Sheffield (at Bramall Lane Stadium), numerous chains and independents. Makes for a brilliant weekend break, combining a match with city exploration. Excellent transport links. See the Sheffield clubs travel guide for more info.
Distance: 20 mins by train from Rotherham Central
⚽ Booking Tip: New Travelodge in Rotherham town centre gets excellent reviews and offers budget convenience. The Holiday Inn near M1 J33 offers mid-range comfort and leisure facilities. The George Wright Boutique Hotel is within walking distance of the stadium for higher-end stays. HOWEVER – seriously consider staying in Sheffield (20 mins train) for far better nightlife, restaurants, and hotel choice whilst keeping Rotherham easily accessible for matchday. Sheffield makes this a proper weekend away rather than just a match!
🎯 THINGS TO DO AROUND ROTHERHAM
Rotherham offers excellent attractions perfect for families making a weekend of the match! Clifton Park is Yorkshire’s largest free play area with splash park, museum, and funfair. Magna Science Adventure Centre in the former Templeborough Steelworks is genuinely spectacular. Rotherham’s position means Sheffield (20 mins) and its attractions are easily accessible. The town has rich industrial heritage alongside modern family-friendly attractions.
🌳 Clifton Park
47-acre park with YORKSHIRE’S LARGEST FREE PLAY AREA! Splash park with motion-triggered and dancing spray jets, a paddling pool, and a play stream. Fun Park with roller coasters, water rides (Indian Canoe Water Ride), bumper cars, arcade games. 18-hole mini golf course with water features. Miniature railway. Large sandpit. Sports courts. Skate park. Beautiful gardens. Perfect family day out! Annual fireworks display and Rotherham Show. Free entry to park (charges for some activities like Fun Park rides). Absolutely brilliant for families – genuinely one of best free parks in Yorkshire!
Distance: Rotherham (short distance from town) | Cost: Free entry (charges for Fun Park/mini golf)
🏛️ Clifton Park Museum
Within Clifton Park. 18th-century Clifton House opened as museum 1893. Fascinating natural and cultural history of Rotherham Borough. Interactive exhibits including children’s range kitchen. Nelson the Lion (real lion!) guarding entrance to secret tunnelled tree. Retro toys displays. Historical period clothing for children to dress up in. Shows how the Walker family used to live. Archaeological finds including prehistoric items. Rockingham Pottery exhibition. Walker Café for light lunch/cake. Gift shop. Archives section with vast database. FREE ADMISSION! Allow 1-2 hours. Excellent museum!
Distance: Clifton Park, Rotherham | Cost: FREE
⚙️ Magna Science Adventure Centre
SPECTACULAR! Built within former Templeborough Steelworks – absolutely stunning setting. Hands-on, feet-in, full-on science adventure! Four pavilions themed around elements: Earth, Air, Fire, Water – linked by suspended walkways, stairs, tunnels. Over 100 exciting hands-on exhibits. Outside: Sci-Tek outdoor adventure playground (defy gravity, explore limits of science), Aqua-Tek outdoor water play areas (sprayed, squirted, misted, drenched!). Family science workshops throughout year. Zip wire. Special events. Mind-blowing voyage of discovery! One of UK’s best science attractions. Perfect for families. Allow 3-4 hours minimum. Genuinely outstanding – this alone justifies weekend trip to Rotherham!
Distance: Templeborough, Rotherham (S60 1FD) | Cost: Admission charges (check website) | Website: visitmagna.co.uk
⛪ Rotherham Minster
Beautiful church. Very friendly community. Architecture and windows show real craftsmanship. Beautiful carvings and stained glass windows. Well worth a visit. Always have a lovely welcome. Can sit quietly and take in surroundings. Dog friendly! Sound baths held (deeply relaxing). Located in town centre. Free to visit. Allow 30-60 mins.
Distance: Rotherham town centre | Cost: Free (donations welcome)
🏰 Wentworth Woodhouse
Magnificent stately home. One of Europe’s largest private houses! Gardens and grounds. Historic significance. Operated by Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust securing long-term future. Beautiful architecture. Perfect for history enthusiasts. Allow 2-3 hours. Booking recommended.
Distance: Near Rotherham | Cost: Admission charges | Website: Check for opening times
Day Trip: Sheffield (20 minutes by train)
Sheffield – Major City
20 minutes from Rotherham Central! Meadowhall Shopping Centre (one of UK’s largest), Winter Gardens, Millennium Gallery, Kelham Island Museum, Sheffield Industrial Museums Trust, Peace Gardens, excellent restaurants, bars, nightlife. Bramall Lane (Sheffield United) and Hillsborough (Sheffield Wednesday) stadium tours possible. Makes a brilliant Saturday night destination after the Rotherham match or a Sunday exploration. Peak District National Park easily accessible from Sheffield too!
⚽ ESSENTIAL AWAY FAN TIPS
🏟️ The Away End: Mears South Stand behind the goal. Typically 2,500 allocation. Excellent acoustics for atmosphere! Superb unobstructed views. Modern facilities. Fairly steep rake providing good sightlines. Two refreshment kiosks.
🚂 Outstanding Train Access: Rotherham Central just 5 MINUTES WALK – one of THE best station-to-ground walks in English football! Can SEE stadium from station!
🍺 The Rhinoceros (Wetherspoons): Legendary £1.99 pints! Right by station. Mixed home/away, fantastic atmosphere. THE away fans’ pub!
🏙️ Town Centre Location: 5-10 mins walk means loads of pubs and restaurants! Unusual for modern stadium – massive advantage!
👨👩👧👦 Family Weekend: Combine match with Magna Science Adventure Centre (spectacular!) and Clifton Park (Yorkshire’s largest free play area!). Perfect family weekend!
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
The New York Stadium offers one of the BEST away day experiences in League One! This modern 12,021-capacity stadium opened in 2012, finally bringing Rotherham United home after five years exiled at Sheffield’s Don Valley Stadium.
The location is absolutely outstanding – just FIVE MINUTES WALK from Rotherham Central Station (you can literally see the stadium from the station!) and 5-10 minutes from town centre. This proximity to both transport and amenities is exceptionally rare for modern stadiums and represents a massive advantage over out-of-town grounds.
The away end (Mears South Stand) typically holds 2,500 fans behind the goal, offering superb unobstructed views, excellent acoustics for atmosphere, and modern facilities. The stadium’s excellent acoustics make it easy to create noise even with modest numbers.
The Rhinoceros (Wetherspoons), right by the station, is legendary among away fans for £1.99 pints and a fantastic mixed atmosphere – genuinely one of football’s great pre-match pubs! Three Wetherspoons total in town, plus numerous other pubs, mean outstanding drinking options. Rotherham fans are welcoming without the aggressive pub segregation of bigger clubs.
For families, this is BRILLIANT: combine the match with Magna Science Adventure Centre (a spectacular science museum in a former steelworks) and Clifton Park (Yorkshire’s largest free play area with a splash park and funfair).
Sheffield’s 20 minutes away by train for Saturday night entertainment. The combination of outstanding location, excellent train access, welcoming atmosphere, modern facilities, and superb family attractions makes Rotherham United one of League One’s finest away days!
❤️ Come On You Millers! ⚪
📞 USEFUL CONTACTS
🏟️ Rotherham United FC: 0844 414 0733 | themillers.co.uk
🎫 Ticket Office: 0844 414 0733 | office@rotherhamunited.net
🚂 National Rail: 03457 48 49 50 | nationalrail.co.uk
🏟️ Stadium Venue: aessealnewyorkstadium.com
ℹ️ Visit Rotherham: rotherham.gov.uk
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❤️ Part of the Football Nonsense League One Away Days Collection
For more away day guides, visit footballnonsense.co.uk
John Herman is a Leeds-based, would-be football writer and founder of Football Nonsense. Blending fan passion with sharp opinion, he tackles the game’s biggest debates—from the terraces to the boardroom—with honesty, humour, and heart.