Fulham FC – Craven Cottage
Complete Away Day Travel Guide
🏛️ ABOUT CRAVEN COTTAGE
Craven Cottage is arguably the most beautiful and characterful football ground in England, nestled on the banks of the River Thames in Fulham, West London. Home to Fulham Football Club since 1896, this stunning 29,600-capacity stadium is surrounded by mature trees and bordered by the Thames Path, creating an utterly unique setting that feels more like a country estate than a London football ground.
The famous Johnny Haynes Stand Pavilion cottage, dating from 1905 and listed Grade II*, is an architectural gem and instantly recognisable landmark. With its riverside location, tree-lined surroundings, and Victorian charm, Craven Cottage offers one of football’s most enchanting experiences.
Fulham – The Cottagers – are London’s oldest established football club still playing professional football, founded in 1879. The club has a proud history including reaching the FA Cup Final in 1975 and the Europa League Final in 2010 under Roy Hodgson. Fulham have been a regular presence in the top flight since the Al-Fayed era began in 1997, with the club developing a reputation for attractive football and an excellent academy that has produced talents like Ryan Sessegnon, Patrick Roberts, and Harvey Elliott.
The distinctive white and black colours have been worn since the club’s formation, and the nickname “The Cottagers” comes from the historic riverside cottage that gives the ground its name. The famous Craven Cottage atmosphere is enhanced by the neutral sections, creating a genuine football family feel rather than tribalism.
Recent redevelopment has modernised much of the stadium whilst maintaining its historic charm. The spectacular new Riverside Stand, which began construction in 2019 and fully opened in May 2025, replaced the old structure with a striking five-tier stand featuring world-class hospitality facilities that perfectly complement the Thames setting.
Despite modernisation, Craven Cottage retains bags of character with its unique riverside location, mature trees, and that gorgeous pavilion cottage. This is one of the most atmospheric and distinctive grounds in world football.
📊 STADIUM SPECIFICATIONS
| Capacity | 29,600 |
| Opened | 1896 |
| Away Section | Putney End |
| Away Allocation | Typically 3,000 seats (can be reduced for smaller allocations) |
| Record Attendance | 49,335 vs Millwall (Division Two, 1938) |
| Nickname | The Cottagers / The Whites |
🚗 GETTING TO CRAVEN COTTAGE
Craven Cottage is beautifully located on the Thames in Fulham, West London, with excellent public transport links. The nearest tube station is Putney Bridge (District Line), just a scenic 10-minute walk along the Thames Path. The riverside location and tree-lined approach make this one of the most pleasant stadium walks in English football.
Craven Cottage Address: Stevenage Road, London, SW6 6HH
✅ BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT – Highly Recommended
Why Tube is Best: Putney Bridge station (District Line) is just a delightful 10-minute riverside walk from Craven Cottage. The Thames Path approach through Bishop’s Park is one of the most scenic stadium walks you’ll ever experience. Forget driving in London traffic – the tube is fast, frequent, and stress-free. Use contactless payment or Oyster card for best fares.
Primary Option: Putney Bridge (District Line)
✅ Distance: 10-minute scenic walk along Thames Path
🚇 Line: District Line (Green)
🔵 Route: Exit station onto Fulham High Street, turn left towards the river, follow Thames Path through Bishop’s Park
🎯 Best Option: Absolutely brilliant – riverside walk through beautiful park, can’t be beaten!
Alternative: Hammersmith (District/Piccadilly Lines)
- Distance: 20-minute walk via Hammersmith Bridge
- More transport options (District & Piccadilly Lines)
- Useful if Putney Bridge is overcrowded
- Cross historic Hammersmith Bridge, walk south along riverside
Journey Times to Putney Bridge:
🔴 Victoria: 20 minutes (District Line direct)
🟠 King’s Cross/St Pancras: 40 minutes (change at Embankment)
🟡 Liverpool Street: 40 minutes (change at Embankment)
🟢 Paddington: 25 minutes (change at Embankment)
🔵 Euston: 35 minutes (change at Embankment)
Taxi/Uber Option
- From Central London: £15-30 depending on traffic and location
- Time: 25-45 minutes (highly variable with traffic)
- Not recommended on matchdays due to congestion
- Black cabs and Uber readily available across London
🚗 BY CAR – Not Recommended
Postcode for Sat Nav: SW6 6HH
⚠️ Important Warning: Driving to Craven Cottage is strongly discouraged. The stadium is in a residential area with extremely limited parking, West London traffic is horrendous on matchdays, and you’ll spend more time stuck in traffic than enjoying the match. There’s no stadium parking for away fans, street parking is resident-only, and nearby car parks fill up quickly and are expensive (£20-30+). Seriously, take the tube – it’s genuinely the better option.
If You Must Drive:
- From M4/West: Exit onto A4 towards Central London, follow signs for Hammersmith, then south to Fulham – but expect heavy traffic and very limited parking!
- From M1/North: A1 to North Circular, join A406 then A4 towards Hammersmith – again, parking is a nightmare
- Parking Options: Bishop’s Park car park (very limited, arrive very early), Q-Park Imperial Wharf (20-minute walk), street parking virtually impossible due to resident zones
- Alternative: Park at a tube station outside Central London (e.g. Ealing Broadway, Richmond) and take the tube in – much less stressful!
🏨 WHERE TO STAY
London offers unlimited accommodation options for all budgets. As one of the world’s great cities, you can choose from budget hostels to luxury five-star hotels. Staying in Fulham gives you a pleasant, riverside West London experience with great restaurants and pubs, while staying in Central London puts you in the heart of the action with easy tube access. Putney, Hammersmith, Earl’s Court, and Kensington are all excellent choices with good transport links to Putney Bridge.
💷 BUDGET OPTIONS (£60-£100/night)
Premier Inn London Putney Bridge
Why it’s good: Literally next to Putney Bridge station, 10-minute walk to stadium, reliable chain, excellent value for London
Travelodge London Fulham
Why it’s good: Budget-friendly, Fulham location, basic but functional, decent transport links
Ibis London Earl’s Court
Why it’s good: Modern budget hotel, Earl’s Court tube nearby (District Line to Putney Bridge), good transport links
YHA London Earl’s Court
Why it’s good: Hostel option, very budget-friendly, clean and safe, perfect for solo travellers or groups
🎯 MID-RANGE OPTIONS (£100-£200/night)
Holiday Inn Express Hammersmith
Why it’s good: Modern facilities, Hammersmith tube nearby (20-minute walk to stadium), breakfast included
The Lodge Hotel Putney
Why it’s good: Boutique hotel in Putney, riverside location, walking distance to stadium, good restaurant
Novotel London West
Why it’s good: Hammersmith location, modern four-star facilities, good transport links, family-friendly
Clayton Hotel Chiswick
Why it’s good: Contemporary hotel, leafy Chiswick location, good transport links, excellent facilities
💎 LUXURY OPTIONS (£200+/night)
The River Café Apartments
Why it’s good: Stunning Thames-side apartments, walking distance to stadium, ultimate luxury West London experience
The Kensington Hotel
Why it’s good: Five-star luxury in leafy Kensington, excellent transport links, beautiful Victorian building
The Ned
Why it’s good: Iconic luxury hotel in the City, incredible facilities, brilliant transport links, unforgettable experience
💡 ACCOMMODATION TIPS
- Book Early: London hotels fill up quickly on matchdays – book well in advance for best prices
- Zone 1-2 is Best: Stay anywhere on the District Line for easy access to Putney Bridge
- Best Areas: Fulham, Putney, Hammersmith, Earl’s Court, South Kensington, Gloucester Road
- Consider Weekends: Many business hotels in Central London offer great weekend rates
- Transport Links: Prioritise hotels near tube stations – London is huge and you’ll use public transport constantly
🍺 WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
The Fulham area is packed with excellent pubs, restaurants, and cafés. From traditional riverside boozers to trendy gastropubs and international cuisine, you’re spoiled for choice. Putney High Street and Fulham Road offer countless options, while the riverside pubs along the Thames provide stunning settings for pre-match drinks. Bear in mind prices are typical West London – expect to pay more than provincial England!
🍺 BEST PUBS & BARS
The Eight Bells
Location: Putney (5-minute walk from station)
Why visit: Lovely riverside pub overlooking Putney Bridge, great atmosphere, perfect pre-match spot with stunning Thames views
The Rocket
Location: Putney High Street
Why visit: Traditional pub with good food, lively atmosphere, popular with both sets of fans, classic matchday boozer
The Duke’s Head
Location: Putney (riverside)
Why visit: Historic riverside pub dating from 1832, fantastic Thames views, large beer garden, excellent food
The White Horse
Location: Parsons Green (10-minute walk or short bus ride)
Why visit: Famous gastropub known as “The Sloaney Pony”, excellent beer selection, outstanding food, lovely atmosphere
The Crabtree Tavern
Location: Fulham (between Hammersmith and Craven Cottage)
Why visit: Beautiful riverside location on the Thames Path, large outdoor area, perfect summer spot, welcoming atmosphere
🍽️ RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS
The River Café
Cuisine: Italian (Michelin-starred)
Why go: Legendary Thames-side restaurant, exceptional Italian food, stunning setting – book well ahead! (Very expensive but worth it for special occasions)
Harwood Arms
Cuisine: Modern British (Michelin-starred)
Why go: Only Michelin-starred pub in London, exceptional food, gastropub atmosphere, needs booking
Megan’s at Putney
Cuisine: Mediterranean/Brunch
Why go: Perfect for pre-match brunch, lovely riverside location, great atmosphere, reasonable prices
The Boathouse
Cuisine: Modern British/Seafood
Why go: Stunning riverside restaurant by Putney Bridge, excellent fish dishes, beautiful views
Lots Road Pub & Dining Room
Cuisine: Modern British Gastropub
Why go: Brilliant gastropub near Chelsea Harbour, excellent food, great atmosphere, good value
⚡ QUICK BITES & CASUAL OPTIONS
- Pret A Manger / Caffè Nero: Multiple locations on Putney High Street for quick coffee and sandwiches
- Pizza Express Putney: Reliable chain pizza near the station
- Nando’s Putney: For peri-peri chicken fans – 5 minutes from Putney Bridge station
- Franco Manca Putney: Excellent sourdough pizzas, very popular, affordable
- Gail’s Bakery: Outstanding artisan bakery on Fulham Road for breakfast/lunch
🎯 THINGS TO DO IN LONDON
You’re in one of the world’s greatest cities! London offers unlimited attractions, from world-class museums and historic landmarks to brilliant markets, theatres, and entertainment. Whether you want culture, shopping, history, or nightlife, London has it all. Most major attractions are free or reasonably priced, and the transport links make everything easily accessible.
🏛️ TOP ATTRACTIONS
Thames Path Walk
Distance from stadium: Literally on the doorstep!
Why visit: Beautiful riverside walk from Putney to Hammersmith, stunning views, perfect pre-match stroll, completely free!
Bishop’s Park
Distance from stadium: Adjacent to Craven Cottage
Why visit: Lovely park right next to the stadium, perfect for picnics, children’s play areas, Thames views
Natural History Museum
Distance from stadium: 20 minutes by tube (South Kensington)
Why visit: World-class museum, dinosaur skeletons, stunning Victorian architecture, completely FREE!
Science Museum
Distance from stadium: 20 minutes by tube (South Kensington)
Why visit: Next door to Natural History Museum, brilliant interactive exhibits, space exploration, FREE entry
Victoria & Albert Museum
Distance from stadium: 20 minutes by tube (South Kensington)
Why visit: World’s greatest decorative arts museum, stunning collections, FREE entry
British Museum
Distance from stadium: 35 minutes by tube (Holborn/Russell Square)
Why visit: One of the world’s greatest museums, Egyptian mummies, Rosetta Stone, global treasures, FREE!
Tower of London
Distance from stadium: 45 minutes by tube (Tower Hill)
Why visit: 1,000 years of history, Crown Jewels, Beefeaters, Tower ravens, iconic fortress (entry fee £33.60)
Westminster & Big Ben
Distance from stadium: 30 minutes by tube (Westminster)
Why visit: Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace all nearby, iconic London landmarks
⚽ FOOTBALL & SPORTS
Stamford Bridge (Chelsea FC)
Distance: 15-minute walk along Fulham Road
Why visit: Chelsea’s historic stadium, museum and stadium tours available (when not playing!)
All England Lawn Tennis Club (Wimbledon)
Distance: 25 minutes by District Line to Wimbledon
Why visit: Tours available of the world’s most famous tennis venue, museum, shop
🎭 ENTERTAINMENT & NIGHTLIFE
- West End Theatres: World-class shows 30-40 minutes by tube – book tickets in advance!
- Covent Garden: Street performers, shops, restaurants, brilliant atmosphere
- Soho: London’s entertainment district, bars, clubs, restaurants, theatres
- South Bank: Thames riverside walk, National Theatre, markets, food stalls, stunning views
- Fulham Broadway: Local shops, cafés, pubs near the stadium
👥 INFORMATION FOR AWAY FANS
Away fans are allocated the Putney End of Craven Cottage, which offers excellent views behind the goal with typically around 3,000 seats available for bigger fixtures (can be reduced to 1,200-1,500 for smaller allocations). The Putney End provides a brilliant atmosphere with good facilities and unobstructed views of the pitch. Craven Cottage is renowned for being one of the friendliest grounds in English football – Fulham fans are generally welcoming to visitors, and the unique riverside setting makes this a special away day regardless of the result.
🎫 AWAY SUPPORTER ALLOCATION
| Your Section | Putney End (behind the goal) |
| Allocation | Typically 3,000 seats (can be reduced to 1,200-1,500 for smaller fixtures) |
| Views | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent – Behind the goal with unobstructed views |
| Facilities | Good concourses, decent food and drink selection, clean facilities |
🚪 ENTERING THE STADIUM
Designated Turnstiles: Away supporter turnstiles in Putney End
⏰ Turnstile Opening Times:
- Opens: 90 minutes before kick-off
- Recommended arrival: 60 minutes before kick-off
- Why early? Enjoy the beautiful Thames Path walk, soak up the unique Craven Cottage atmosphere, grab a pre-match drink in Bishop’s Park beer garden (weather permitting), and explore this stunning riverside location. The setting is magical!
- Important: Tickets are usually mobile/digital only – have your device charged!
✅ WHAT TO BRING & WHAT NOT TO BRING
✅ DO BRING:
- Digital match ticket on charged mobile device (essential!)
- Valid photo ID (may be required for ticket collection or age verification)
- Contactless payment card / Oyster card for tube
- Light jacket or raincoat (London weather is unpredictable!)
- Comfortable walking shoes for riverside stroll
- Camera for stunning riverside photos
- Cash (some local vendors may not take cards)
❌ DO NOT BRING:
- Large bags or backpacks (strict bag size restrictions)
- Glass bottles or cans
- Alcohol (you’ll be refused entry)
- Flares, smoke bombs, or fireworks (illegal and dangerous)
- Offensive banners or flags
- Any items that could be used as weapons
💡 MATCHDAY TIPS FOR AWAY FANS
- ✅ Craven Cottage is one of English football’s most beautiful and unique stadiums – arrive early to appreciate the Thames setting
- ✅ The Thames Path walk from Putney Bridge through Bishop’s Park is genuinely stunning – one of the best stadium approaches in football
- ✅ Fulham fans are renowned for being friendly and welcoming – enjoy the relaxed, family atmosphere
- ✅ Bishop’s Park beer garden (adjacent to stadium) welcomes away fans when weather permits – lovely pre-match spot
- ✅ Public transport is absolutely the way to go – forget driving in West London!
- ✅ The Putney End provides excellent views and good atmosphere – you’ll enjoy the experience
- ✅ Take time to explore Putney’s riverside pubs before the match – The Eight Bells and Duke’s Head are particularly nice
- ✅ Food inside the stadium is decent standard with good variety including hot pies, burgers, and vegetarian options
- ✅ Use the time in London to see the sights – you’re in one of the world’s greatest cities with unlimited attractions!
- ⚠️ Security checks are thorough so don’t bring prohibited items
- ⚠️ The riverside walk can be crowded on matchdays – factor in extra time
- ⚠️ Some pubs near the stadium have Fulham-only policies on matchdays – ask before entering
♿ ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION
Craven Cottage provides facilities for supporters with disabilities, including wheelchair accessible spaces, dedicated parking (must be pre-booked), accessible toilets, and audio commentary. Away fans requiring accessible facilities should contact Fulham’s Disability Liaison Officer when booking tickets.
Contact: Email dlo@fulhamfc.com or call 0203 871 0810 well in advance to arrange suitable facilities.
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION
⛔ DON’T DO THIS!
- ❌ Drive to the match (you’ve been warned – parking is virtually impossible and traffic is horrendous!)
- ❌ Leave getting tickets until last minute (Craven Cottage has limited capacity and popular matches sell out)
- ❌ Miss the Thames Path walk – it’s genuinely one of the most beautiful stadium approaches in football
- ❌ Bring large bags (strict security policies)
- ❌ Arrive at the last minute (you’ll miss the special atmosphere and that gorgeous riverside setting)
- ❌ Ignore pub restrictions (some are home fans only on matchdays)
- ❌ Forget to charge your phone (digital tickets required!)
- ❌ Ignore security checks (very strict)
- ❌ Bring prohibited items (you’ll be refused entry)
🔗 QUICK REFERENCE
| Stadium Postcode | SW6 6HH |
| Away Allocation | Typically 3,000 seats in Putney End (can be reduced) |
| Nearest Tube | Putney Bridge (District Line – 10 min walk) |
| Best Transport | Tube (District Line to Putney Bridge) – don’t drive! |
| Parking | Virtually impossible – seriously, take the tube |
| Must Visit | Thames Path walk, Bishop’s Park, riverside pubs, London attractions! |
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Visiting Craven Cottage is genuinely one of football’s special experiences. This isn’t just another stadium – it’s a 128-year-old riverside jewel nestled on the banks of the Thames, surrounded by mature trees and Victorian charm. The famous Johnny Haynes Stand Pavilion cottage, the Thames Path approach through Bishop’s Park, and the intimate atmosphere create something utterly unique in modern football. No other English ground offers this combination of beauty, history, and character.
The 10-minute walk from Putney Bridge along the Thames Path is genuinely stunning – you’ll walk through a beautiful park with mature trees, riverside views, and a sense of occasion that builds with every step. Arrive early, grab a pint in one of Putney’s lovely riverside pubs (The Eight Bells or Duke’s Head are perfect), then stroll to the ground soaking up the atmosphere. The Putney End gives excellent views, the facilities are good, and Fulham fans are famously friendly and welcoming.
But Craven Cottage is just the start – you’re in London! One of the world’s greatest cities surrounds you, with world-class museums (Natural History Museum, Science Museum, British Museum all FREE!), historic landmarks (Tower of London, Westminster, Buckingham Palace), brilliant markets, theatres, restaurants, and entertainment. The transport links are excellent with the District Line connecting you to Central London in 20-30 minutes.
Our advice? Get to Putney early on matchday. Explore the riverside, have lunch or brunch at Megan’s or The Boathouse, enjoy pre-match drinks at The Duke’s Head’s lovely beer garden, then walk to Craven Cottage along that beautiful Thames Path. After the match, either head into Central London for Saturday night (Victoria or Earl’s Court are just 15-20 minutes away) or stay local and enjoy Fulham’s excellent gastropubs and restaurants. If you’re staying over Sunday, make the most of being in London – visit the museums, walk along South Bank, see the sights.
This is an away day that offers so much more than just 90 minutes of football – it’s a proper London weekend experience at one of the most beautiful grounds in the world.
Have you been to Craven Cottage? Share your away day stories and tips!
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📍 Part of the Football Nonsense Premier League 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.