Stoke City FC – bet365 Stadium
Complete Away Day Guide for Visiting Supporters
🔴 ABOUT THE BET365 STADIUM
The bet365 Stadium (formerly the Britannia Stadium) is an imposing all-seater football stadium in Stoke-on-Trent, perched on a hill that makes it visible from miles away, especially stunning when lit up at night. Home to Stoke City FC since 1997, it replaced the historic Victoria Ground and brought the Potters into the modern era. With a capacity of 30,089 following recent expansions, the stadium is a testament to the club’s proud history and ambitions.
The stadium features four modern stands with excellent facilities throughout. Unlike many new builds, the bet365 Stadium retains character with its open corners and distinctive hilltop location. Sir Stanley Matthews’ ashes were buried beneath the centre circle in 2000, adding a touch of reverence to this footballing venue. The stadium has also hosted music concerts by legends like Bon Jovi, Elton John, and Rod Stewart, and in 2024, state-of-the-art LED floodlights were installed, creating spectacular light shows on match nights.
📍 KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE
| Postcode | ST4 4EG |
| Capacity | 30,089 (all seated) |
| Location | Hilltop location, 2 miles from the town centre |
| Main Phone | 0871 663 2008 |
| Website | www.stokecityfc.com |
| Nearest Train Station | Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station (2 miles away) |
🚂 GETTING TO THE BET365 STADIUM
Getting to the bet365 Stadium is straightforward from anywhere in the UK. The stadium sits prominently on a hillside just off the A50, making it easy to spot and reach. Multiple transport options are available to suit your preferences.
✈️ BY TRAIN – The Recommended Option
Why Trains Work Best: Stoke-on-Trent station is on the West Coast Main Line with excellent connections. Direct services from major cities, plus shuttle buses or taxis to the stadium, make this the hassle-free choice for away fans.
Journey Times to Stoke-on-Trent Station:
🔴 London: 1.5–2 hours (direct services available)
🟠 Manchester: 45 minutes–1 hour
🟡 Birmingham: 45 minutes
🟢 Liverpool: 1 hour–1.5 hours
🔵 Leeds: 2 hours (via Manchester or Crewe)
Getting from Stoke-on-Trent Station to the bet365 Stadium
Option 1: Shuttle Bus (Recommended) ⭐
- Location: Departs from Glebe Street (5-minute walk from the station)
- Cost: £3 for adults / £2 for children (return ticket)
- Frequency: Regular services on matchdays
- After the Match, Buses return to the station from behind the East Stand
- How to Find: Turn right out of the station, down Station Road to the lights, turn right onto Leek Road, cross the dual carriageway to Glebe Street
Option 2: Taxi
- ~£8–12 from the station to the stadium
- ~10 minutes journey time
- Taxi rank available at Platform 1 or the main entrance
- Good option for groups sharing the cost
Option 3: Walk (For the Fit!)
- 2 miles distance to stadium
- 40 minutes walking time
- Uphill climb to the stadium on the approach
- Only recommended for those feeling fit and arriving early
⚠️ Police Escort Note: On some matchdays, police meet away supporters at the railway station and escort them to Staffordshire University or a nearby pub for refreshments before busing to the stadium. This is standard procedure for certain fixtures and helps ensure a safe matchday experience.
🚗 BY CAR – Well Signposted
Postcode for Sat Nav: ST4 4EG
From M6 Junction 15: Take the second exit at the first roundabout onto the A500, exit at the second slip road, keep right for the A50, and at the roundabout, take the second exit (right) onto the A50. Take the first exit and head to the traffic lights. The stadium is visible and well signposted.
Car Parking Options & Costs:
| Location | Cost | Details |
| South Car Park | £5–6 | First-come, first-served |
| Powerleague Complex | £5 | Pay on arrival |
| Hem Heath Cricket Club | £5 | Pay on arrival |
| Longton Rugby Club | £5 | Pay on arrival, 20 mins walk |
⚡ Pro Tips:
- Arrive 90 minutes before kick-off to secure parking
- Official stadium car parks (North, West 1 & West 2) are for permit holders only
- Surrounding business car parks offer good alternatives and can’t be pre-booked
- Limited street parking is available nearby, but it fills very quickly
- Coach parking available – contact the club in advance
🏨 WHERE TO STAY IN STOKE-ON-TRENT
Stoke-on-Trent offers a good range of accommodation from budget chains to boutique hotels. The city centre (Hanley) provides the best base with shops, restaurants, and bars, though hotels near the stadium offer convenience. Most options provide free parking, which is a bonus.
💷 BUDGET OPTIONS (£40–70/night)
Travelodge Stoke-on-Trent
Why it’s good: Reliable budget chain, clean rooms, central Hanley location near shops and restaurants
Premier Inn Stoke-on-Trent (Hanley)
Why it’s good: Great value for money, comfortable beds, city centre location, on-site restaurant
Weathervane Hotel by Greene King
Why it’s good: Budget-friendly, free parking, pub restaurant on-site, good transport links
Holiday Inn Stoke-on-Trent M6 Jct.15
Why it’s good: Convenient motorway location, free parking, leisure facilities, good breakfast
🎯 MID-RANGE OPTIONS (£70–120/night)
Holiday Inn Express Stoke-on-Trent
Why it’s good: Modern hotel, excellent breakfast included, near Trentham Gardens, free parking
Hilton Garden Inn Stoke-on-Trent
Why it’s good: Contemporary hotel, fitness centre, restaurant and bar, near Trentham Gardens
DoubleTree by Hilton Stoke-on-Trent
Why it’s good: Stylish rooms, warm cookie on arrival, Josiah’s Brasserie restaurant, leisure facilities
Holiday Inn Near Stadium
Why it’s good: Just minutes from the bet365 Stadium, a Harvester restaurant next door, and a convenient location
👑 PREMIUM OPTIONS (£120+/night)
The Upper House
Highlights: Boutique hotel, individually designed rooms, excellent restaurant, stylish bar
Best Western Stoke-on-Trent Moat House
Highlights: Spa facilities, swimming pool, casino, fitness centre, quality dining
Alton Towers Hotel (Alternative)
Highlights: 25 minutes away, themed rooms, waterpark access, family entertainment (great for overnight stays)
💡 ACCOMMODATION TIPS
- Book Early: Big matches fill up hotels quickly, especially budget options
- Best Value: Midweek rates are typically cheaper than weekends
- Best Location: Hanley (city centre) for nightlife and restaurants, or near the stadium for convenience
- Parking: Most hotels in Stoke offer free parking – a significant bonus if driving
🎫 GETTING AROUND THE STADIUM
🎫 AWAY SUPPORTER ALLOCATION
| Your Section | Caldwell Construction South Stand (South-East corner) |
| Allocation | Typically 2,800 seats (can increase to 10% for cup matches) |
| Views | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good – decent views of the pitch, safe standing rails installed |
| Facilities | Reasonable concourse, good food & drink selection, contactless payment |
✅ Positive: Safe standing rails installed in 2024 mean you can stand throughout the match without hassle from stewards. The Boothen Quarter fan zone behind the South Stand offers food, drink, and music before and after the game.
🚪 ENTERING THE STADIUM
Designated Turnstiles: Away supporter turnstiles in the South-East corner (Caldwell Construction Stand)
⏰ Turnstile Opening Times:
- Opens: 90 minutes before kick-off
- Food & drink served: Until half-time
- Recommended arrival: 60 minutes before kick-off to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere
- Pre-match entertainment starts one hour before kick-off with features on the big screen
✅ WHAT TO BRING & WHAT NOT TO BRING
✅ DO BRING:
- Digital match ticket on your phone
- Waterproof jacket (Staffordshire weather can be changeable!)
- Layers – the hilltop location can be breezy
- Your team’s colours – wear them with pride!
- Cash and card (contactless accepted throughout)
❌ DON’T BRING:
- Large bags (limited storage available)
- Cigarettes or vapes (banned inside stadium)
- Outside food/drink (not permitted)
- Anything that could be considered offensive or dangerous
🍽️ PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
🍺 PRE-MATCH PUBS NEAR BET365 STADIUM
⚠️ Important Note: The immediate stadium area has limited pub options. Most away fans prefer to drink in the town centre or at officially designated venues. Some pubs require colours to be covered.
The Terrace Inn ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: 185 Leek Road, Stoke-on-Trent ST4 2BW (between town centre and stadium)
Vibe: Official designated away fans pub, welcoming atmosphere
Why Go: Accepts away fans, good selection of drinks, convenient location
Holiday Inn & Harvester (Near Stadium) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Next to the stadium complex
Vibe: Hotel bar and restaurant, family-friendly
Why Go: Welcomes away fans in small numbers, convenient, and food is available
Powerleague Complex Bar ⭐⭐⭐
Location: Dennis Viollet Avenue, ST4 4TN (5 minutes from the stadium)
Vibe: Sports bar attached to 5-a-side centre
Why Go: Permits away supporters, family-friendly, parking available
Longton Rugby Club ⭐⭐⭐
Location: 20 minutes walk south of the stadium
Vibe: Rugby club with two bars, welcoming atmosphere
Why Go: Accepts away fans, reasonable prices, friendly environment
🍴 CITY CENTRE RESTAURANTS (HANLEY)
Lunar at World of Wedgwood ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fine Dining: Michelin Guide listed • Modern British • 2 AA Rosettes • Stunning venue
Perfect for: Special occasions or when you want something truly memorable (book ahead)
Portofino Restaurant ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Italian Cuisine: Classic Italian dishes • Family-run • Warm atmosphere • Excellent value
Perfect for: Pre-match meal with friends or family, reliable Italian cooking
La Bella Napoli ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Italian Cuisine: Opposite Regent Theatre • Traditional Italian • Family-owned • Pre-theatre meals
Perfect for: Central location in Hanley, authentic Italian experience
The Masons Arms ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub Food: Traditional British pub • Classic dishes • Friendly atmosphere • Great ales
Perfect for: Authentic pub experience, hearty meals, good value
The Orange Tree Bar and Grill ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Modern British: Georgian building • Contemporary extension • Steak specialists • Stylish venue
Perfect for: Quality steaks, special occasions, modern British cuisine
🎨 PLACES TO VISIT IN STOKE-ON-TRENT
Stoke-on-Trent, known as “The Potteries,” is the World Capital of Ceramics and was awarded World Craft City status in 2024. If you’re arriving early or staying overnight, there’s plenty to explore in this fascinating city with its unique industrial heritage and contemporary attractions.
🏺 THE POTTERIES MUSEUM & ART GALLERY ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Home to the world’s most extraordinary collection of Staffordshire ceramics and the famous Staffordshire Hoard
What You’ll See: Anglo-Saxon Staffordshire Hoard (worth £3+ million) • Stunning Spitfire Gallery with RW388 Spitfire • Ceramics from Wedgwood, Clarice Cliff, and more • Local history galleries • Natural science displays
Details: ✅ Free Entry • ⏱️ 2–3 hours • 📍 Bethesda Street, Hanley (city centre)
Why Go: A must-visit for understanding Stoke’s heritage. The Staffordshire Hoard is the largest Anglo-Saxon treasure ever found, and the Spitfire honours local hero Reginald Mitchell, who designed the iconic aircraft. There is a Café and gift shop on-site.
🏭 GLADSTONE POTTERY MUSEUM ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: The only complete Victorian pottery factory in existence – VisitEngland’s Small Visitor Attraction of the Year 2020
What’s Here: Original coal-burning bottle ovens • Live demonstrations • Tile Gallery • “Flushed with Pride” toilet gallery • Hands-on pottery experiences • Victorian workshops
Details: 📍 Uttoxeter Road, Longton • ⏱️ 2–3 hours • 🎫 Admission charge • Café on-site
Why Go: A fascinating insight into the pottery industry that made Stoke world-famous. See how bone china was made in Victorian times and try your hand at pottery decoration. Kids love the interactive exhibits!
🏺 WORLD OF WEDGWOOD ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: The home of iconic Wedgwood pottery with factory tours, V&A collection, and fine dining
What’s Here: Factory tours showing pottery being made • V&A Wedgwood Collection • Hands-on pottery experiences • Lunar restaurant • Factory shop • Beautiful grounds and woodland walks
Details: 📍 Barlaston (15 minutes from city centre) • ⏱️ 2–4 hours • 🎫 Various ticket options
Why Go: See world-famous Wedgwood pottery being made using traditional methods. The V&A collection is spectacular, and the Lunar restaurant offers exceptional fine dining. Perfect for pottery enthusiasts or anyone wanting a unique experience.
🌳 TRENTHAM GARDENS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Stunning 725-acre estate with gardens designed by Capability Brown, a shopping village, and wildlife
What’s Here: Beautiful Italian Gardens • Mile-long lake with beavers and water voles • Trentham Shopping Village • Monkey Forest • Adventure Mini Golf • Waterworld aqua park next door
Details: 📍 Stone Road, Trentham (10 minutes from city centre) • ⏱️ 2–4 hours • 🎫 Entry fees apply (gardens)
Why Go: A gorgeous escape into nature with something for everyone. The gardens are beautiful year-round, and the shopping village offers great outlet deals. Perfect for families or couples wanting a relaxing day out.
⚡ TOP TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
📋 BEFORE YOU GO
✈️ Book Early: Book trains and accommodation well in advance for big matches – options fill up quickly
📅 Plan Your Day: Stoke has excellent attractions – arrive early to explore the Potteries Museum or World of Wedgwood
🎫 Ticket Details: Have digital ticket ready on phone, turnstiles open 90 minutes before kick-off
🚌 GETTING THERE
⏱️ Allow Time: The stadium is 2 miles from the station – use shuttle buses (£3 return) or taxi (£8–12)
🚂 If taking the Train: Find Glebe Street for shuttle buses – turn right from the station, down Station Road, right at the lights onto Leek Road
🚗 If Driving: Use postcode ST4 4EG, arrive 90+ minutes early, stadium car parks are for permit holders only
🤝 HOW TO BEHAVE
✅ DO: Wear your colours proudly • Use safe standing area • Enjoy the pre-match atmosphere • Be respectful • Embrace the passionate Stoke atmosphere
❌ DON’T: Provoke confrontation • Expect trouble (Stoke is generally welcoming) • Display colours in some town pubs (ask first)
⚠️ Note: Some pubs near the stadium require colours to be covered – The Terrace Inn is the main designated away fans pub
🔗 QUICK REFERENCE
| Stadium Postcode | ST4 4EG |
| Away Allocation | Up to 2,800 seats (South-East corner) |
| Nearest Train | Stoke-on-Trent Railway Station (2 miles away) |
| Best Transport | Train + shuttle bus (£3 return) from Glebe Street |
| Parking | £5–6 (surrounding businesses, first-come, first-served) |
| Away Fans Pub | The Terrace Inn (185 Leek Road) |
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Visiting the bet365 Stadium is a memorable experience. The imposing hilltop location makes it one of England’s most distinctive football venues, especially spectacular under the floodlights. Stoke-on-Trent itself is a fascinating city with rich industrial heritage – the world capital of ceramics with outstanding museums and attractions that showcase its unique pottery heritage.
The journey is straightforward with excellent rail connections, and while the stadium area is quieter than some grounds, the city centre offers plenty of pre-match options. The Stoke fans are passionate and proud of their Potteries heritage, creating an authentic matchday atmosphere. With safe standing now installed in the away end, you can stand and support your team throughout.
Plan ahead, explore the city’s ceramic heritage, and enjoy a proper away day in the heart of the Potteries.
🔴⚪ Potters Pride ⚪🔴
💬 SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Have you visited the Bet365 Stadium before? Got tips for other away supporters about getting there, where to eat, or what to see? Drop your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your experiences at this iconic hilltop ground.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a regular away-day traveller, your insights help build a community resource for supporters everywhere. Share your Potteries stories!
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.
Some really helpful information and tips to allow a good day out