Sheffield Wednesday FC – Hillsborough
Complete Away Day Travel Guide
🦉 ABOUT HILLSBOROUGH
Hillsborough is one of English football’s great historic venues, home to Sheffield Wednesday since 1899. With a capacity of 34,835, this imposing ground in the Owlerton district of Sheffield has witnessed over a century of footballing history. The stadium’s iconic North Stand, with its distinctive cantilever roof, dominates the Sheffield skyline and stands as a monument to the club’s proud heritage. Wednesday are one of the oldest professional football clubs in the world, founded in 1867, and their blue and white stripes are amongst the most traditional and recognisable in English football.
The Owls have a glittering history that includes four league championships (1902-03, 1903-04, 1928-29, 1929-30), three FA Cups (1896, 1907, 1935), and one League Cup (1991). Hillsborough has hosted FA Cup semi-finals, international matches, and witnessed some truly memorable moments in football history. The stadium retains its traditional charm whilst offering modern facilities, and visiting supporters invariably comment on the ground’s unique atmosphere and character.
📊 STADIUM SPECIFICATIONS
| Capacity | 34,835 |
| Opened | 1899 (125+ years of history!) |
| Away Section | Leppings Lane Stand (Upper Tier) |
| Away Allocation | 2,500-4,600 seats (can be increased for big fixtures) |
| Record Attendance | 72,841 vs Manchester City (FA Cup, 1934) |
🚗 GETTING TO HILLSBOROUGH
Hillsborough is located approximately 2 miles northwest of Sheffield city centre in the Owlerton area. Sheffield is well connected by rail to all major UK cities, and the city centre is accessible by various means. Choose the option that works best for your away day.
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION MAP
Hillsborough Stadium Address: Hillsborough, Sheffield, S6 1SW
🚂 BY TRAIN – The Recommended Choice
Why Trains Work: Sheffield station is on the Midland Main Line, with excellent national connections, including direct trains to London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, and more. From the station, you can take a tram or taxi to the ground, or enjoy the walk through Sheffield city centre with its fantastic pubs and restaurants.
Journey Times to Sheffield Station:
🔴 London St Pancras: 2 hours (direct)
🟠 Manchester: 50 minutes (direct)
🟡 Birmingham: 1 hour 30 minutes (direct)
🟢 Leeds: 35 minutes (direct)
🔵 Nottingham: 50 minutes (direct)
Getting from Sheffield Station to Hillsborough Stadium
🚋 SUPERTRAM (EASIEST OPTION)
Blue Route to Malin Bridge: From Sheffield Station, take the blue tram route towards Malin Bridge. Get off at Leppings Lane stop (right outside the away end!) or Hillsborough Park. The journey takes about 15 minutes. Trams run every 10 minutes on matchdays.
Cost: Approximately £2.80 single, £4.80 return
Frequency: Every 10 minutes on matchdays
Tip: Get a return ticket to avoid queuing after the match. The tram gets very busy post-match, so consider waiting 20-30 minutes for crowds to disperse.
🚶 WALK (40-45 MINUTES)
An energetic 2-mile walk through Sheffield city centre and up to Hillsborough. Take you through the fantastic pubs and eateries around West Street and Division Street before heading up towards the ground. Great for soaking up atmosphere, but it’s pretty hilly – definitely easier on the way back down!
🚕 TAXI (£8-12)
About £8-12 from Sheffield station to Hillsborough. Takes 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available outside the station. Pre-book for the return journey to avoid post-match queues.
🚗 BY CAR
Postcode for Sat Nav: S6 1SW
Motorway Routes:
From M1 (North or South): Exit at Junction 36, follow A61 towards Sheffield city centre, then signs for Hillsborough/Owlerton
From M62 (East): Exit onto M1 southbound, then Junction 36
From A57 (West): Follow signs through the city centre towards Hillsborough
Parking Options:
🅿️ Official Stadium Car Parks: Limited spaces, arrive early (90+ minutes before kick-off)
Cost: £5-8
Note: These fill up very quickly for big matches
🏙️ City Centre Car Parks: Park & Ride tram to the ground
Options: Q-Park Sheffield (Charles Street), NCP Cambridge Street, Sheffield Station Car Park
Cost: £5-10 for the day
Advantage: Easier exit after match, access to city centre pubs and restaurants
🏘️ Street Parking (Owlerton area): Limited free street parking around Hillsborough
Areas: Streets off Penistone Road North, but check for restrictions
Important: Be respectful of residents – don’t block driveways
💡 Top Parking Tip: The city centre Park & Ride option is genuinely your best bet – park at Sheffield station or nearby, grab food and a pint in the city centre, then take the blue tram straight to the ground. Much easier exit after the match, too!
🎫 AWAY SUPPORTER ALLOCATION
| Your Section | Leppings Lane Stand (Upper Tier) |
| Allocation | Typically 2,500 seats (can be increased to 4,600 for bigger games) |
| View | Elevated position offers good views of the pitch, though you’re pretty high up and distant from the action. |
| Facilities | Traditional concourse with standard food and drink options – the facilities show the stadium’s age, but are functional |
| Atmosphere | Can generate good noise – acoustics carry well from the upper tier |
✅ Away Fan Experience: The Leppings Lane upper tier is a traditional away end with a good, elevated view. The tram stop is literally right outside, which is brilliant for transport. You’re pretty high up, but noise carries well, and you can create a great atmosphere.
🍺 PUBS & FOOD FOR AWAY FANS
Sheffield is a brilliant city for food and drink, with an incredible range of pubs, bars, and restaurants. Most away fans prefer to drink in Sheffield city centre before getting the tram up to Hillsborough – it’s a much better experience than the limited options near the ground.
🍻 RECOMMENDED CITY CENTRE PUBS (Best Option!)
The Devonshire Cat
📍 Location: 49 Wellington Street, S1 4HG (10 min walk from station)
Why Visit: Sheffield’s finest real ale pub with an incredible selection of craft beers. Friendly atmosphere, welcomes away fans, great food too. One of the best pubs in the city.
Away Fans: Very welcome – mixed crowd on matchdays
The Sheffield Tap
📍 Location: Sheffield Railway Station, Platform 1B, S1 2BP
Why Visit: Stunning Victorian building right in the station with excellent real ales and craft beers. Perfect first stop when you arrive! Beautiful Grade II listed interior.
Away Fans: Very popular with away supporters – neutral atmosphere
The Red Deer (Wetherspoons)
📍 Location: 18 Pitt Street, S1 4DD (city centre)
Why Visit: Large Wetherspoons in the city centre, great for big groups, cheap food and drink. Gets very busy on matchdays, but always accommodates away fans.
Away Fans: Welcome – popular away fan meeting point
Kelham Island Tavern
📍 Location: 62 Russell Street, Kelham Island, S3 8RW
Why Visit: Award-winning pub in the trendy Kelham Island area. Fantastic real ales, great atmosphere. Worth the slight detour from the city centre.
Away Fans: Very welcoming – mixed clientele
🏟️ PUBS NEAR HILLSBOROUGH (Limited Options)
The New Barrack Tavern
📍 Location: 601 Penistone Road, S6 2GA (5 min walk from ground)
Why Visit: The closest pub to the ground that admits away fans. Traditional matchday atmosphere.
Away Fans: Generally welcome but can get busy – arrive early
⚠️ Important Note: Many pubs immediately around Hillsborough are home fans only on matchdays. The New Barrack is your main option near the ground, but honestly, you’re much better off enjoying Sheffield city centre’s excellent pubs than taking the tram up.
🍽️ FOOD RECOMMENDATIONS
Bungalows & Bears (Brunch/Breakfast)
📍 Location: 119 Division Street, S1 4AG
Perfect For: A fantastic brunch spot – try the Henderson’s Relish-infused dishes (Sheffield’s answer to Worcestershire sauce!). Great for early kick-offs.
Pietanic (Pies)
📍 Location: 175 Norfolk Street, S1 2JE
Perfect For: Brilliant gourmet pies – the ultimate pre-match fuel. Sheffield speciality!
Street Food Chef
📍 Location: 90 Arundel Street, S1 2NG
Perfect For: Fantastic burgers and loaded fries. Significant portions, reasonable prices.
Mowgli Street Food
📍 Location: 41-43 Leopold Street, S1 2GY
Perfect For: Excellent Indian street food for a different option. Share small plates.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY IN SHEFFIELD
Sheffield has excellent accommodation options for all budgets. The city centre is your best base – close to the nightlife, restaurants, and with easy tram access to Hillsborough.
💰 BUDGET OPTIONS (£50-80)
Travelodge Sheffield Central
📍 Location: 195 Eyre Street, S1 4QZ
Distance: 5 minutes from the city centre, 10 minutes from the station
Why Stay: Great value, clean rooms, perfect central location. Walking distance to everything.
Premier Inn Sheffield City Centre
📍 Location: Angel Street, S3 8LN
Distance: Right in the heart of the city centre
Why Stay: Reliable chain hotel, good breakfast, central location.
💎 MID-RANGE OPTIONS (£80-130)
Leopold Hotel
📍 Location: 2 Leopold Street, S1 2GZ
Distance: City centre location, 8 minutes from the station
Why Stay: Stylish boutique hotel with excellent bar and restaurant. Right in the thick of things.
Mercure Sheffield St Paul’s Hotel
📍 Location: 119 Norfolk Street, S1 2JE
Distance: 5 minutes from the city centre
Why Stay: Former church converted into a hotel – unique architecture, comfortable rooms.
⭐ UPMARKET OPTIONS (£130+)
Brocco On The Park
📍 Location: 92 Brocco Bank, S11 8RS
Distance: 2 miles south of the city centre
Why Stay: Boutique luxury hotel with Michelin Guide restaurant. Beautiful setting, perfect for a memorable weekend.
DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park
📍 Location: Chesterfield Road South, S8 8BW
Distance: 3 miles from the city centre (free parking)
Why Stay: Modern 4-star hotel with leisure facilities, suitable for drivers.
🎭 THINGS TO DO IN SHEFFIELD
Sheffield is a fantastic city that’s been transformed in recent years. Once defined by its steel industry, it’s now a vibrant, green city with excellent culture, nightlife, and outdoor activities. Known as the “Outdoor City,” Sheffield has more trees per person than any other city in Europe!
🏛️ Kelham Island Museum
📍 Location: Alma Street, S3 8RY
What: Brilliant industrial museum telling Sheffield’s steel story. See the mighty River Don Engine in action – one of the most powerful steam engines ever built!
Cost: £6 adults / Free for under 16s
🌳 Peak District National Park
📍 Location: Starts just west of Sheffield
What: Sheffield is the gateway to the Peak District! Stunning countryside, walking trails, and villages. Chatsworth House is 30 minutes away.
Cost: Free access to the countryside
🏰 Millennium Gallery
📍 Location: Arundel Gate, S1 2PP
What: Excellent art gallery featuring a metalwork collection (Sheffield’s heritage!), contemporary art, and touring exhibitions.
Cost: Free entry
🍺 Kelham Island Quarter
📍 Location: Kelham Island area, S3
What: Trendy regenerated area packed with independent breweries, street food, and craft beer pubs. Sheffield’s hippest neighbourhood!
Cost: Free to explore (but you’ll want to sample the beers!)
🏞️ Graves Park & Animal Farm
📍 Location: Hemsworth Road, S8 8LJ
What: Huge park with a free animal farm – perfect if you’re making a family weekend of it. Sheffield’s green spaces are stunning!
Cost: Free
🎵 Sheffield Music Scene
📍 Location: Various venues citywide
What: Sheffield’s music heritage is legendary – Arctic Monkeys, Pulp, Def Leppard, Human League all started here. Check out live music at The Leadmill, Corporation, or O2 Academy.
Cost: Varies by venue
⚽ MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
🏟️ Historic Stadium: Hillsborough is a proper old-school English football ground with character and atmosphere – one of the great historic venues
💙 Passionate Fans: Wednesday supporters are known for their loyalty and noise – Hillsborough can create an intimidating atmosphere, especially under the lights
👥 Great Atmosphere: The famous “Hi Ho Sheffield Wednesday” chant echoes around Hillsborough – it’s an experience
🎵 History: You’re visiting one of football’s great stadiums – Hillsborough has hosted FA Cup semi-finals, internationals, and over 125 years of football history!
🤝 HOW TO BEHAVE
✅ DO: Show your colours proudly • Explore Sheffield city centre’s excellent pubs and culture • Try Henderson’s Relish on your food • Visit Kelham Island • Take the tram – it’s brilliant • Respect the stadium’s history • Enjoy the Peak District if staying over
❌ DON’T: Go to home pubs near the ground • Cause trouble • Be disrespectful – Sheffield Wednesday fans are passionate • Rush away – Sheffield deserves exploring • Miss the city centre – it’s genuinely brilliant
📗 QUICK REFERENCE
| Stadium Postcode | S6 1SW |
| Away Allocation | 2,500-4,600 seats (Leppings Lane upper tier) |
| Nearest Train | Sheffield (2 miles – tram or taxi to ground) |
| Best Transport | Train to Sheffield + blue tram to Leppings Lane stop |
| Parking | £5-8 (limited near ground, city centre Park & Ride recommended) |
| Must Try | Henderson’s Relish, Pietanic pies, craft beer in Kelham Island! |
| Must Visit | Kelham Island Quarter, Peak District, Sheffield Tap, the city centre pubs! |
⚡ TOP TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
📋 BEFORE YOU GO
🚂 Book Travel Early: Sheffield is excellently connected by train – book in advance for best prices
🎫 Digital Tickets: Have tickets ready on your phone and arrive 60-90 minutes before kick-off
🌧️ Check Weather: Hillsborough is exposed and can be cold – bring layers for evening matches!
🚋 GETTING THERE
🚋 Take the Tram: The blue tram from Sheffield station to Leppings Lane is genuinely brilliant – stops right outside the away end!
⏱️ Allow Time: Trams get very busy post-match – consider waiting 20-30 minutes for crowds to clear
🚗 If Driving: City centre Park & Ride is genuinely better than trying to park near Hillsborough
🌆 SHEFFIELD EXPERIENCE
🍺 City Centre Pubs: Sheffield’s pubs are genuinely excellent – The Devonshire Cat and Sheffield Tap are must-visits
🌳 Make a Weekend: With the Peak District on the doorstep and Sheffield’s vibrant cultural scene, this deserves more than just matchday
🎵 Music City: Check out Sheffield’s legendary music venues – you might catch the next Arctic Monkeys!
⚽ MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
🏟️ Historic Venue: You’re visiting one of English football’s great historic grounds – appreciate 125+ years of history
💙 Passionate Support: Wednesday fans are fiercely loyal – expect a proper atmosphere, especially for big games
🎭 Steel City: Sheffield’s football rivalry with United is intense – it’s a proper football city with genuine passion
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Visiting Hillsborough is stepping into football history. This is one of England’s great traditional stadiums, home to one of the oldest clubs in the world, with over 125 years of stories etched into its stands. Sheffield Wednesday’s blue-and-white stripes are iconic, their fans passionate and loyal, and Hillsborough – despite showing its age in places – retains an atmosphere and character that modern stadiums simply can’t replicate. The imposing North Stand, the historic terracing (now seating), and the sheer sense of heritage make this a must-visit ground for any proper football fan.
But what makes this away day special is Sheffield itself. This is a brilliant city that has been transformed from its industrial past into a vibrant cultural hub. The pub scene is outstanding – The Devonshire Cat, Sheffield Tap, and the Kelham Island Quarter rival anywhere in the country for quality ale and atmosphere. The city’s music heritage is legendary, producing artists such as Arctic Monkeys, Pulp, and Def Leppard. And being the gateway to the Peak District means you’ve got stunning countryside on your doorstep if you fancy making a weekend of it.
The logistics work brilliantly too – excellent train connections from all over the country, and the Supertram system makes getting from the city centre to Hillsborough ridiculously easy. The blue tram literally stops right outside the away end at Leppings Lane! Our advice? Get to Sheffield early, enjoy a proper session in the city centre pubs (The Devonshire Cat is outstanding), grab some food – try Pietanic for brilliant pies or anything with Henderson’s Relish, Sheffield’s legendary condiment – then take the tram up to the ground. The journey through Sheffield gives you a real sense of this brilliant Steel City.
Sheffield Wednesday is a proper, traditional football club with a passionate fanbase who’ve stuck by their team through tough times. Under young German manager Danny Röhl, there’s renewed optimism at Hillsborough with an exciting, high-pressing style of football that’s brought hope back to S6. Whether you’re there for a massive derby, a promotion clash, or a regular Championship encounter, Hillsborough delivers atmosphere, history, and proper football. Combined with Sheffield’s excellent food, drink, and cultural scene, this is genuinely one of the best away days in English football. Don’t rush away after the final whistle – Sheffield deserves your time!
📞 USEFUL CONTACTS
🏟️ Sheffield Wednesday FC: 0114 221 2121 | swfc.co.uk
🎫 Ticket Office: 03700 201867
🚋 Sheffield Supertram: 0114 272 8282 | stagecoachbus.com/supertram
🚂 National Rail: 03457 48 49 50 | nationalrail.co.uk
ℹ️ Visit Sheffield: welcometosheffield.co.uk
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📍 Part of the Football Nonsense Championship Away Days Collection
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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.