Wrexham AFC – STōK Racecourse Ground
Complete Away Day Travel Guide
🐉 ABOUT THE RACECOURSE GROUND
The Racecourse Ground (STōK Cae Ras) holds an extraordinary place in football history as the world’s oldest international football stadium, still hosting international matches. Since Wrexham AFC moved here in 1864, the ground has been the spiritual home of Welsh football, hosting Wales’ first home international match in 1877 and more Wales internationals than any other venue.
Under the ownership of Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney since 2021, Wrexham has experienced a remarkable renaissance, with the club’s journey documented in the hit series “Welcome to Wrexham.” The stadium is currently undergoing significant development, with a new Kop stand and improved facilities transforming the ground while maintaining its historic charm. The atmosphere on matchdays is electric, with passionate Red Dragons creating one of football’s most unique experiences.
📋 KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE
| Postcode | LL11 2AH |
| Capacity | 12,600 (expanding to 15,500+) |
| Location | Town centre, 10 minutes walk from the railway station |
| Main Phone | 01978 891864 |
| Website | www.wrexhamafc.co.uk |
| Nearest Train Station | Wrexham General (10-minute walk) |
🚂 GETTING TO THE RACECOURSE GROUND
Wrexham is well-connected with good transport links from across the UK. The stadium’s town centre location makes it easily accessible on foot from the railway station. Choose the option that best suits you.
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION MAP
Racecourse Ground Address: Mold Road, Wrexham, LL11 2AH
🚂 BY TRAIN – The Recommended Choice
Why Trains Work: Wrexham General station is literally next to the stadium – just a 10-minute walk! Direct connections from major cities. It’s a leisurely stroll through the town centre to the stadium, with plenty of pubs and restaurants on the way.
Journey Times to Wrexham General:
🔴 London: 3.5–4 hours (change at Chester or Shrewsbury)
🟠 Manchester: 1.5–2 hours (change at Chester)
🟡 Liverpool: 1–1.5 hours (change at Chester or Bidston)
🟢 Birmingham: 1.5–2 hours
🔵 Chester: 20–30 minutes (direct)
Getting from Wrexham General Station to the Racecourse Ground
Option 1: Walk (Recommended) ⭐
- Time: 10 minutes direct to the stadium
- Route: Exit station onto Station Approach, turn right onto Regent Street, which becomes Mold Road – the stadium is on your right
- Perfect for exploring Wrexham town centre pubs first
- Very straightforward – can’t miss it!
Bus Options
- Local buses from the town centre to the stadium area
- Cost: approximately £1.50–£2
- Services run regularly – Arriva Buses Wales
- Very short journey – walking is usually quicker!
Taxi Option
- ~£5–7 from the station
- ~5 minutes to the stadium
- Readily available from the station rank
🚗 BY CAR – Limited Parking
Postcode for Sat Nav: LL11 2AH
From M53/A55: Follow A483 towards Wrexham. Exit at Junction 5 (A541) signposted ‘Wrexham/Football Stadium’. Take the first exit towards the town centre. The ground is on the left after 0.2 miles.
| Parking Location | Cost |
| Glyndŵr University Car Park | £3 |
| Plas Coch Retail Park | £2 (5 min walk) |
| Town Centre Car Parks | £2–£5 (10-15 min walk) |
⚡ Pro Tips:
- Arrive 90+ minutes before kick-off – parking fills quickly!
- Stadium parking is very limited – use the university or the retail park
- Street parking is available but restricted on matchdays
- Consider park & ride or train if coming from a distance
🏨 WHERE TO STAY IN WREXHAM
Wrexham offers accommodation options for all budgets. The town centre is compact and ideally placed for exploring, with most hotels within walking distance of both the stadium and local attractions. Since the Hollywood takeover, Wrexham has become a tourist destination, so book early for big matches!
💷 BUDGET OPTIONS (£40–£75/night)
Travelodge Wrexham
Why it’s good: Budget-friendly chain, clean rooms, central location, 10 minutes from Chester Airport
Premier Inn Wrexham City Centre
Why it’s good: Reliable quality, great breakfast, walking distance to the train station and the stadium, comfortable beds
Premier Inn Wrexham North (A483)
Why it’s good: Just off the A483, free parking, good value, quiet location outside town
Wynnstay Arms Hotel by Marston’s Inns
Why it’s good: Historic coaching inn, town centre location, traditional pub atmosphere, great value
🎯 MID-RANGE OPTIONS (£75–£130/night)
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Wrexham
Why it’s good: 4-star hotel, leisure club with pool and spa, restaurant and bar, central location
Hotel Wrexham
Why it’s good: Contemporary hotel, Savvy Fox gastropub on-site, near stadium, modern facilities
Rossett Hall Hotel
Why it’s good: Historic country house hotel, beautiful grounds, fine dining, just outside Wrexham
The Lemon Tree Hotel
Why it’s good: Boutique hotel in a stunning Grade II listed building, award-winning restaurant, and in the town centre
👑 PREMIUM OPTIONS (£130+/night)
Wrexham Llyndir Hall BW Signature Collection
Highlights: Luxury country house, beautiful parkland setting, spa facilities, fine dining restaurant
Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa (Chester)
Highlights: 4-star luxury, spa and leisure facilities, 20 minutes from Wrexham, elegant rooms
Chester hotels
Highlights: Historic city 12 miles away, wider choice of luxury options, easy train connection to Wrexham
💡 ACCOMMODATION TIPS
- Book VERY Early: Since the Ryan Reynolds effect, Wrexham is a tourist hotspot – hotels fill up fast!
- Consider Chester: Only 12 miles away, with more hotel options and an easy train connection
- Best Location: Wrexham town centre – everything within walking distance, including the stadium
- Match Weekends: Expect premium prices during home games – book months ahead
🎫 GETTING AROUND THE STADIUM
🎫 AWAY SUPPORTER ALLOCATION
| Your Section | Wrexham Lager Stand (upper tier) |
| Allocation | Standard: ~1,500 seats (can increase for big games) |
| Views | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good – Largely unrestricted views, good acoustics |
| Facilities | Basic but functional – food and drink kiosks on concourse |
🚪 ENTERING THE STADIUM
Designated Turnstiles: Away supporter turnstiles (Gates 1-4) in the Wrexham Lager Stand
⏰ Turnstile Opening Times:
- Opens: 90 minutes before kick-off
- Recommended arrival: 60 minutes before kick-off
- Why early? Soak up the incredible atmosphere of football’s oldest international stadium, grab food and drink, and be part of the Hollywood story!
✅ WHAT TO BRING & WHAT NOT TO BRING
✅ DO BRING:
- Digital match ticket (on phone or printed)
- Comfortable outdoor clothing
- Waterproof jacket (North Wales weather is unpredictable!)
- Your team’s colours (show your support!)
- Camera for the historic stadium and Hollywood atmosphere
- Cash for concourse purchases (cards accepted but cash handy)
❌ DON’T BRING:
- Large bags (limited storage facilities)
- Cigarettes or vapes (smoking/vaping banned)
- Outside food or drink (not permitted)
- Glass bottles or cans
- Note: Alcohol often not available in away end
🍽️ PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
Wrexham has a thriving food and drink scene that’s blossomed alongside the club’s rise. From traditional Welsh pubs to modern gastropubs and international cuisine, there’s something for everyone. The town centre is compact and easy to explore on foot.
🍺 PRE-MATCH PUBS
The Turf ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Corner of ground by Kop End (attached to stadium!)
Vibe: THE Wrexham pub – star of “Welcome to Wrexham” documentary
Why Go: Historic matchday experience, famous owner Wayne Jones, allows away fans in small numbers (arrive early!). Food truck outside on matchdays. A must-visit but gets very busy!
Magic Dragon Brewery Tap ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Charles Street, town centre
Vibe: Local craft brewery with rotating beers, friendly locals
Why Go: Excellent locally brewed ales, warm atmosphere, away fans welcome, occasional live music
The Centenary Club ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Back of Wrexham Lager Stand (Yale Stand)
Vibe: Official club bar, all fans welcome
Why Go: Free entry, Sky Sports, limited food available, convenient for away turnstiles
Plas Coch (Maesgwyn Hall Club) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Plas Coch Retail Park (5 min walk from stadium)
Vibe: Social club, restaurant-style pub with beer garden
Why Go: Away fans welcome, shows matches on TV, food available, parking nearby
The Royal Oak ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Town centre
Vibe: Gastropub with rotating seasonal menu
Why Go: Good food and drink, welcoming atmosphere, proudly Welsh
🍴 CITY CENTRE RESTAURANTS
The Fat Boar ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Modern British: Independent gastropub • Three floors • Fine local produce • Generous terrace • Extensive drinks menu
Perfect for: Pre-match meal, craft beers and cocktails, stylish dining experience
The Bank Wine Bar & Bistro ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wine Bar & Tapas: Locally sourced tapas • Stylish venue • Excellent wine list • Creative cocktails
Perfect for: Sophisticated pre-match dining, couples, wine lovers
The Lemon Tree Restaurant ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Modern British/Mediterranean: Award-winning • Beautiful Grade II listed building • Fine dining • Seasonal menu
Perfect for: Special occasions, celebrating a win (or drowning your sorrows), and outstanding food
Ijazz ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Indian Cuisine: Best Indian Restaurant in Wales 2018 • Stylish modern venue • Innovative recipes • Exceptional service
Perfect for: Curry lovers, groups, high-quality Indian dining
Caniboar ⭐⭐⭐⭐
American BBQ: Smoked meat specialists • American barbecue • Great cocktails • Lively atmosphere
Perfect for: BBQ lovers, groups, casual dining
Jones’s Traditional Fish & Chips ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fish & Chips: Over 100 years old • Best fish & chips in town • Always has a queue • Traditional British
Perfect for: Classic pre-match meal, grab and go, local institution
🎨 PLACES TO VISIT IN WREXHAM
Wrexham is Wales’ newest city (granted city status in 2022) with a rich history and a growing cultural scene. If you’re arriving early or staying overnight, there’s plenty to explore. From historic churches to stunning aqueducts and beautiful country parks, Wrexham offers a perfect blend of heritage and natural beauty.
⛪ ST GILES’ CHURCH ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: One of the Seven Wonders of Wales with a stunning 16th-century tower
What You’ll See: Magnificent Gothic architecture • 135-foot tower • Tomb of Elihu Yale (Yale University founder) • Beautiful interior • Tower tours available
Details: ✅ Free entry • ⏱️ 30–60 minutes • 📍 Town centre • Tower tours: Last Saturday of the month (April-Sept)
Why Go: Architectural marvel dominating Wrexham’s skyline. Climb the tower for stunning views across North Wales. Historical significance with links to America’s Yale University.
🌉 PONTCYSYLLTE AQUEDUCT ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: UNESCO World Heritage Site – longest and highest aqueduct in Britain
What’s Here: Thomas Telford’s engineering masterpiece • Completed 1805 • 11 miles of stunning countryside • Walk across or take a canal boat trip • Spectacular views
Details: ✅ Free to view/walk • 📍 5 miles from Wrexham • ⏱️ 1–2 hours • Boat trips available
Why Go: One of the Seven Wonders of Wales and a true engineering marvel. Breathtaking views and a unique experience walking 126 feet above the River Dee.
🏰 ERDDIG NATIONAL TRUST ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Beautiful 17th-century country house with 1,200 acres of stunning parkland
What’s Here: Grade I listed house • Victorian walled garden • Parterre gardens • Woodland walks • Tea room and restaurant • Unique “upstairs downstairs” history
Details: 📍 3 miles south of Wrexham • ⏱️ 2–4 hours • 🎫 National Trust admission
Why Go: One of Britain’s finest historic houses. Beautiful grounds perfect for walking. The second largest collection in the National Trust. Annual events include the apple festival and Christmas markets.
🎭 TŶ PAWB ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: “Everybody’s House” – vibrant community hub and cultural centre
What’s Here: Art galleries • Theatre space • Food court with 30+ independent vendors • Market • Bar • Live music and performances • Contemporary design
Details: ✅ Free entry • 📍 Town centre • ⏱️ 1–2 hours • Perfect for lunch
Why Go: Heart of modern Wrexham’s cultural renaissance. Fantastic food options, local art, great atmosphere. Perfect spot for pre-match food and drinks.
🔬 XPLORE! SCIENCE DISCOVERY CENTRE ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Interactive science centre with 100+ hands-on exhibits
What’s Here: Interactive exhibits • Live shows • Themed science days • Educational and fun • Perfect for families
Details: 📍 Town centre • ⏱️ 1–2 hours • 🎫 Admission fee • Great for kids
Why Go: Fantastic for families visiting Wrexham. Engaging and educational science exhibits that make learning fun for all ages.
🍺 WREXHAM LAGER BREWERY ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Britain’s oldest lager brewery (since 1882) – famously served on the Titanic!
What’s Here: Historic brewery • Taproom • Museum planned (opening soon) • Tours available • Shop • Part of Reynolds/McElhenney vision
Details: 📍 Next to stadium • ⏱️ 1–2 hours • Check website for tour availability
Why Go: Incredible brewing history. New development plans include a taproom and a museum. Perfect for a pre- or post-match visit. Try the famous lager that “went down with the Titanic!”
⚡ TOP TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
📋 BEFORE YOU GO
🎬 The Hollywood Factor: Wrexham is now a global tourist destination thanks to Reynolds & McElhenney – expect crowds, book EVERYTHING early!
📅 Plan Ahead: Hotels, restaurants, and parking fill up fast. Book months in advance for big matches
🌦️ Welsh Weather: North Wales weather changes quickly – bring waterproofs and layers!
🚌 GETTING THERE
⏱️ Train is Best: Wrexham General literally next to the stadium – easiest ground access in the Championship!
🚶 Perfect Walking City: Everything’s walkable – station to stadium in 10 minutes through the town centre
🚗 If Driving: Parking limited – use the university car park (£3) or the retail park. Arrive 90+ minutes early
⚽ MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
🍺 The Turf: Try to visit THE famous pub from the documentary, but arrive early – it’s tiny and gets packed!
📸 Take Photos: You’re visiting football history – the world’s oldest international stadium. Embrace the moment!
🎭 Soak It In: This is a unique footballing experience – Hollywood glamour meets Welsh working-class tradition
🤝 HOW TO BEHAVE
✅ DO: Respect the history • Enjoy the atmosphere • Be friendly with locals • Take in the Hollywood moment • Try Wrexham Lager • Appreciate the journey from non-league to Championship
❌ DON’T: Treat it like Disney World (it’s still a proper working-class football club!) • Expect to see Ryan Reynolds (he’s usually in Hollywood!) • Be disrespectful to locals – they’ve supported through the hard times
🔗 QUICK REFERENCE
| Stadium Postcode | LL11 2AH |
| Away Allocation | ~1,500 seats (Wrexham Lager Stand upper tier) |
| Nearest Train | Wrexham General (10 min walk) |
| Best Transport | The train station is right next to the ground! |
| Parking | £2–£3 (Glyndŵr University or retail parks) |
| Must Try | Wrexham Lager & visit The Turf pub! |
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Visiting the Racecourse Ground is unlike any other away day in football. You’re not just watching a Championship match – you’re experiencing a phenomenon. From the world’s oldest international stadium to the Hollywood owners who’ve put Wrexham on the global map, this is footballing history meeting modern pop culture.
But beneath the glitz and the documentary cameras, this is still a proper working-class Welsh football club with passionate fans who’ve stuck by their team through relegations, near-bankruptcy, and the long climb back up. The town itself is charming, compact, and genuinely welcoming, with great food, historic attractions, and stunning countryside nearby.
Whether you’re here for the football, the Hollywood story, or the Welsh hospitality, you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime.
🐉❤️ Welcome to Wrexham! ❤️🐉
💬 SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Have you visited the Racecourse Ground before or after the Hollywood takeover? Got tips for other away supporters visiting the world’s oldest international stadium? Drop your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your Wrexham experience!
Whether you’re a first-timer caught up in the Welcome to Wrexham hype or a long-time visitor who remembers the dark days, your insights help build a community resource for supporters everywhere. Did you spot Ryan Reynolds? Get into The Turf? Share your story!
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.