Bristol City FC – Ashton Gate Stadium
Complete Away Day Travel Guide
🔴 ABOUT ASHTON GATE STADIUM
Ashton Gate Stadium has been the home of Bristol City Football Club since 1904, making it one of English football’s historic venues. Located in the Ashton area of Bristol, just south of the city centre, the stadium has undergone significant modernisation in recent years while maintaining its character and history. The ground has witnessed over 120 years of football, from Third Division struggles to promotion pushes, and remains at the heart of Bristol’s sporting identity.
Under Steve Lansdown’s ownership since 1996, Bristol City have transformed both on and off the pitch. The stadium has been completely redeveloped with three new stands opened since 2016, creating a modern 27,000-capacity venue while retaining the historic Dolman Stand. Ashton Gate also hosts the Bristol Bears rugby club and major concerts, making it an actual multi-purpose venue. The atmosphere on matchdays is passionate, with the Robins faithful creating a genuine West Country footballing experience that visiting supporters consistently praise.
📋 KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE
| Postcode | BS3 2EJ |
| Capacity | 27,000 (all seated) |
| Location | Ashton, 1.5 miles south of the city centre |
| Main Phone | 0117 963 0600 |
| Website | www.bcfc.co.uk |
| Nearest Train Station | Bristol Temple Meads (2 miles / 10 min by bus or taxi) |
🚂 GETTING TO ASHTON GATE STADIUM
Bristol is well-connected to the rest of the UK, with excellent transport links. The city is served by Bristol Temple Meads station with direct trains from London, Birmingham, Manchester, and beyond. Ashton Gate is about 2 miles from the station and easily accessible by bus, taxi, or a pleasant 30-minute walk. The stadium’s location just south of the city centre makes it easily accessible by various means.
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION MAP
Ashton Gate Stadium Address: Ashton Road, Bristol, BS3 2EJ
🚂 BY TRAIN – The Recommended Choice
Why Trains Work: Bristol Temple Meads is a major railway hub with excellent connections from across the UK. Direct trains from London (1h 45m), Birmingham (1h 30m), and many other cities. From the station, it’s a short bus ride, taxi journey, or pleasant 30-minute walk through Bristol to the stadium. Perfect for exploring the city centre pubs and restaurants before the match.
Journey Times to Bristol Temple Meads:
🔴 London Paddington: 1 hour 45 minutes (direct)
🟠 Birmingham New Street: 1 hour 30 minutes (direct)
🟡 Manchester: 3 hours (change at Birmingham)
🟢 Cardiff: 45 minutes (direct)
🔵 Exeter: 1 hour (direct)
Getting from Temple Meads Station to Ashton Gate Stadium
Option 1: Walk (30 minutes) ⭐
- Time: 30 minutes direct to the stadium
- Route: Exit station, head west along Redcliffe Way, cross to Coronation Road, continue to Ashton Road – stadium on your left
- Scenic walk along the Floating Harbour
- Perfect for exploring Bristol’s waterfront
- Pass plenty of pubs and restaurants en route
Bus Options
- Service 24: From Temple Meads to Ashton Gate (most direct)
- Services 1, 2, 3: Also serve the stadium area
- Cost: approximately £2-£4
- Journey time: 15-20 minutes
- First Bus operates most services
- Buses run frequently throughout the day
Taxi Option
- ~£8-12 from Temple Meads
- ~10 minutes to the stadium
- Readily available from the station rank or use Uber
- Quickest option if you have luggage
🚗 BY CAR – Good Parking Available
Postcode for Sat Nav: BS3 2EJ
From M5 Junction 18: Follow signs for City Centre/A4. Take A4 Portway towards the City Centre. After 3 miles, turn left onto Ashton Road. The stadium is on your right.
| Parking Location | Cost |
| Ashton Gate Car Parks (official) | £8-£10 (pre-book recommended) |
| BS3 Stadium Car Park | £10 (300 meters from the stadium) |
| Tobacco Factory Car Park | £5 (10-minute walk) |
| Street Parking (residential areas) | Free (arrive early, limited spaces) |
⚡ Pro Tips:
- Arrive 90+ minutes before kick-off for best parking availability
- Pre-book official stadium parking online to guarantee a space
- Street parking is available on the surrounding streets, but it gets busy
- Consider parking in the city centre and taking a bus (saves time post-match)
- Post-match traffic can be congested – be patient leaving
🏨 WHERE TO STAY IN BRISTOL
Bristol is a vibrant, creative city with excellent accommodation options for all budgets. From boutique hotels to budget chains, historic inns to modern aparthotels, there’s something for everyone. Staying in the city centre puts you close to shops, restaurants, nightlife, and within easy reach of Ashton Gate. Bristol’s compact centre makes it perfect for exploring on foot, and its cultural scene rivals that of anywhere in the UK outside London.
💷 BUDGET OPTIONS (£50-£85/night)
Travelodge Bristol Central
Why it’s good: Budget chain, very central location, walking distance to Temple Meads, clean and functional
Premier Inn Bristol City Centre
Why it’s good: Reliable quality, excellent breakfast included, Lewins Mead location, close to shops and restaurants
Ibis Bristol Centre
Why it’s good: Modern budget hotel, Harbourside location, 24-hour bar, good transport links
YHA Bristol
Why it’s good: Hostel option, excellent value, Harbourside location, clean facilities, great for solo travellers
🎯 MID-RANGE OPTIONS (£85-£150/night)
Future Inn Bristol
Why it’s good: Harbourside location, modern facilities, free parking, walking distance to the city centre and the stadium
Hotel du Vin Bristol
Why it’s good: Boutique hotel in converted sugar refinery, city centre location, excellent bistro, wine-focused
Mercure Bristol Holland House
Why it’s good: City centre location, modern hotel, leisure facilities, good restaurant
The Bristol Hotel
Why it’s good: Historic city centre hotel, Prince Street location, character building, welcoming atmosphere
👑 PREMIUM OPTIONS (£150+/night)
The Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa
Highlights: 5-star luxury on the harbourside, rooftop terrace, spa facilities, stunning views, award-winning dining
Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel
Highlights: Historic building in College Green, luxury rooms, leisure facilities, central location
Clifton Grand Hotel
Highlights: Boutique hotel in prestigious Clifton Village, Georgian elegance, peaceful location, short journey to the city centre
Number 38 Clifton
Highlights: Luxury boutique hotel, individually designed rooms, Clifton location, exceptional service
💡 ACCOMMODATION TIPS
- Book Early: Bristol is a popular city break destination – hotels fill quickly on weekends and matchdays
- Best Location: City centre near Harbourside – walking distance to Temple Meads, restaurants, and an easy bus to the stadium
- Clifton Village: Upmarket area north of the centre, beautiful Georgian architecture, more expensive but prestigious
- Harbourside: Vibrant waterfront area with restaurants and bars, excellent location for exploring
- Midweek Deals: Prices are typically lower Monday-Thursday
🎫 GETTING AROUND THE STADIUM
🎫 AWAY SUPPORTER ALLOCATION
| Your Section | Atyeo Stand (South Stand) |
| Allocation | Standard: ~2,000 seats / Can be extended to 4,000+ for big fixtures |
| Views | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent – Modern stand behind the goal, great atmosphere, unrestricted views |
| Facilities | Modern concourses, excellent food and drink selection, and clean facilities |
🚪 ENTERING THE STADIUM
Designated Turnstiles: Away supporter turnstiles in the Atyeo Stand (South Stand)
⏰ Turnstile Opening Times:
- Opens: 90 minutes before kick-off
- Recommended arrival: 60 minutes before kick-off
- Why early? Enjoy the modern concourse facilities, grab food and drink, and soak up the atmosphere. The walk along the Floating Harbour from the city is also beautiful!
✅ WHAT TO BRING & WHAT NOT TO BRING
✅ DO BRING:
- Digital match ticket (mobile or printed)
- Comfortable outdoor clothing
- Waterproof jacket (Bristol weather can be changeable!)
- Your team’s colours (wear with pride!)
- Cash/cards for concourse purchases (contactless accepted)
- Good walking shoes if coming from Temple Meads
❌ DON’T BRING:
- Large bags (bag restrictions in place)
- Cigarettes or vapes (smoking/vaping banned inside stadium)
- Outside food or drink (not permitted)
- Glass bottles, cans, or alcohol
- Anything that could cause trouble
🍽️ PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
Bristol has one of the UK’s most exciting food and drink scenes outside London. From traditional pubs to Michelin-starred restaurants, street food markets to craft beer bars, the city is a foodie paradise. The Harbourside area, Clifton Village, and the city centre are packed with excellent options. Bristol’s independent spirit means you’ll find unique venues and creative cooking at every turn.
🍺 PRE-MATCH PUBS
The Famous Royal Navy Volunteer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: King Street, Old City
Vibe: Historic pub dating from 1665, real ales, traditional atmosphere
Why Go: Oldest pub in Bristol, incredible history, great beer selection, away fans welcome
The Apple ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Welsh Back, Harbourside
Vibe: Floating pub on a barge, cider specialist, unique Bristol experience
Why Go: Iconic Bristol venue, impressive cider selection, waterfront location, quirky atmosphere
The Grain Barge ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Mardyke Wharf, Harbourside
Vibe: Floating pub and brewery on converted barge
Why Go: Bristol Beer Factory tap, great food, stunning harbourside views
The Three Tuns ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: St George’s Road (near stadium)
Vibe: Friendly local pub, traditional atmosphere
Why Go: Close to Ashton Gate, away fans accepted, good beer, matchday favourite
Wetherspoons – The Commercial Rooms ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Corn Street, city centre
Vibe: Wetherspoons in a stunning historic building
Why Go: Great value, impressive architecture, all fans welcome, multiple screens
🍴 BRISTOL RESTAURANTS
Paco Tapas ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spanish Tapas: Michelin Bib Gourmand • Authentic Spanish cuisine • Excellent wines • Always busy
Perfect for: Foodies, authentic tapas, celebrating a win, book ahead essential
Pieminister ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
British Pies: Bristol institution • Gourmet pies • Sustainable ingredients • Multiple locations
Perfect for: Quick pre-match meal, British comfort food, excellent value
Cargo Cantina ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mexican: Harbourside location • Burritos and tacos • Craft beers • Lively atmosphere
Perfect for: Groups, casual dining, Mexican food fans, harbourside views
Bravas ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spanish Tapas: Small plates • Sharing style • Great cocktails • Harbourside setting
Perfect for: Groups, tapas lovers, waterfront dining
Burger Joint ⭐⭐⭐⭐
American Burgers: Gourmet burgers • Great fries • Multiple locations • Quick service
Perfect for: Quick pre-match meal, burger lovers, good value
St. Nicholas Market ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Street Food Market: Covered market • 20+ food stalls • Global cuisines • Historic setting
Perfect for: Food lovers, trying multiple cuisines, breakfast/lunch, a unique Bristol experience
🎨 PLACES TO VISIT IN BRISTOL
Bristol is one of England’s most vibrant and creative cities. From Banksy’s street art to historic ships, suspension bridges to underground music venues, Bristol pulses with energy and culture. The city’s independent spirit, maritime heritage, and creative scene make it endlessly fascinating. Whether you’re into history, art, music, or just soaking up atmosphere, Bristol delivers an unforgettable experience.
🌉 CLIFTON SUSPENSION BRIDGE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Iconic Victorian suspension bridge spanning the Avon Gorge – Bristol’s most famous landmark
What You’ll See: Stunning 19th-century engineering • 412 feet above the River Avon • Spectacular gorge views • Visitor centre with history • Beautiful Clifton Village nearby
Details: 📍 Clifton (20 mins by bus from centre) • ✅ Free to view • ⏱️ 1-2 hours
Why Go: Bristol’s most iconic sight. Spectacular views. Incredible feat of Victorian engineering by Brunel. Must-see for first-time visitors.
🚢 SS GREAT BRITAIN ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Brunel’s revolutionary iron steamship – the world’s first great ocean liner
What’s Here: Fully restored ship • Go below decks • Victorian dock museum • Interactive exhibits • Brunel’s engineering genius • Ship tours.
Details: 📍 Harbourside (15 min walk from centre) • ⏱️ 2-3 hours • 🎫 Admission fee (worth it!)
Why Go: Extraordinary piece of maritime history. Brilliantly presented. Step back to the Victorian era. One of Bristol’s finest attractions.
🎨 BANKSY STREET ART TRAIL ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: World-famous street art by Bristol’s most famous son
What’s Here: Multiple Banksy works around the city • Famous “Mild Mild West” • “Girl with Pierced Eardrum” • “Well Hung Lover” • Self-guided tour
Details: 📍 Various locations across city • ✅ Free • ⏱️ 2-4 hours for full trail
Why Go: See the world’s most famous street artist’s work in his hometown. Free outdoor gallery. Unique Bristol experience. Great for photos.
⛵ BRISTOL HARBOURSIDE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Historic floating harbour transformed into a waterfront leisure destination
What’s Here: Waterfront cafes and restaurants • Museums • Galleries • Boat trips • Sunday markets • Beautiful walks • Vibrant atmosphere
Details: 📍 City centre • ✅ Free to explore • ⏱️ 1-3 hours
Why Go: Heart of modern Bristol. Perfect for wandering, eating, and drinking. Beautiful setting. Great atmosphere day and night.
🏰 BRISTOL MUSEUM & ART GALLERY ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Large museum with diverse collections from ancient Egypt to modern art
What’s Here: Egyptian mummies • Natural history • Fine art • Local Bristol history • Dinosaur fossils • Geology collections
Details: 📍 Queens Road, near university • ✅ Free entry • ⏱️ 1-2 hours
Why Go: Excellent free museum. Diverse collections. Beautiful Edwardian building. Perfect rainy day activity.
🛍️ CLIFTON VILLAGE ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Upmarket Georgian village on the edge of Bristol with beautiful architecture
What’s Here: Georgian terraces • Independent shops • Cafes and restaurants • The Mall shopping area • Beautiful Victorian park • Near Suspension Bridge
Details: 📍 2 miles from city centre • ✅ Free to explore • ⏱️ 2-3 hours
Why Go: Bristol’s most prestigious area. Beautiful architecture. Great shopping and dining. Combine with the Suspension Bridge visit.
⚡ TOP TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
📋 BEFORE YOU GO
🎫 Book Early: Trains, hotels, and match tickets well in advance – Bristol is a popular destination
🎨 Explore Bristol: The city has amazing culture, food, and nightlife – make a weekend of it
🌦️ Weather: Bristol weather can be changeable – bring layers and waterproofs
🚌 GETTING THERE
🚂 Train is Great: Temple Meads has excellent connections. Walking or taking the bus to the stadium is straightforward
🚶 Enjoy the Walk: The 30-minute walk from Temple Meads along the harbour is beautiful
🚗 If Driving: Pre-book parking or arrive 90+ minutes early. Consider parking in the city centre and taking the bus
🎭 BRISTOL EXPERIENCE
🍺 Cider Culture: Bristol loves cider – try local varieties at pubs like The Apple
🎵 Music City: Bristol has a legendary music heritage – trip-hop, drum & bass, and more
🌉 Suspension Bridge: Don’t leave without seeing Bristol’s iconic landmark
⚽ MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
🏟️ Modern Stadium: Ashton Gate has been beautifully redeveloped – three new stands make it one of the Championship’s best
👥 Atmosphere: Bristol City fans are passionate – expect a loud, intense atmosphere
🍔 Concourse Quality: Excellent food and drink selection – modern facilities throughout
🤝 HOW TO BEHAVE
✅ DO: Show your colours proudly • Be respectful • Explore Bristol’s amazing attractions • Try the local cider • Enjoy the Harbourside • Visit the Suspension Bridge
❌ DON’T: Engage in confrontation • Miss out on Bristol’s culture • Rush away – explore the city! • Forget waterproofs • Miss the walk along the harbour
🔗 QUICK REFERENCE
| Stadium Postcode | BS3 2EJ |
| Away Allocation | ~2,000 seats (up to 4,000+) in Atyeo Stand |
| Nearest Train | Bristol Temple Meads (2 miles / 10 min by bus) |
| Best Transport | Train to Temple Meads + bus/taxi/30 min walk |
| Parking | £8-£10 (pre-book stadium or nearby car parks) |
| Must Visit | Clifton Suspension Bridge, SS Great Britain, Harbourside! |
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Visiting Ashton Gate is one of the Championship’s great away days. The stadium has been transformed in recent years into a modern 27,000-capacity venue that rivals any in the division, with three striking new stands complementing the historic Dolman Stand. Bristol City fans are passionate and create a genuine West Country footballing atmosphere that makes for an intimidating but enjoyable matchday experience.
But Ashton Gate is just the beginning of your Bristol adventure. This is one of England’s most exciting cities – from Brunel’s iconic Suspension Bridge to Banksy’s street art, from the historic SS Great Britain to the vibrant Harbourside, Bristol pulses with creativity and energy. The food scene rivals London’s best, the music heritage is legendary, and the independent spirit is infectious. Whether you’re here for football, culture, food, or nightlife, Bristol delivers an unforgettable experience.
Take the train to Temple Meads, walk through the beautiful harbourside, enjoy the modern stadium, and explore one of England’s most creative cities!
🔴⚪ Come On You Reds! ⚪🔴
💬 SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Have you visited Ashton Gate Stadium before? Got tips for other away supporters visiting one of Bristol’s great sporting venues? Drop your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your Bristol experience!
Whether it’s your first trip to Ashton Gate or you’re a regular visitor, your insights help build a community resource for supporters everywhere. Please share your favourite Bristol pubs, restaurants, attractions, or any other tips that might help fellow fans make the most of their away day in this fantastic city!
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.