Preston North End FC – Deepdale Stadium
Complete Away Day Travel Guide
⚪ ABOUT DEEPDALE
Deepdale holds a unique place in football history as the oldest football stadium in the world in continuous use by a single club. Preston North End have called Deepdale home since 1878, and the ground has witnessed countless memorable matches over its remarkable 145+ year history. The stadium was named after Deepdale Farm, which originally occupied the land.
The modern stadium is a completely redeveloped venue with excellent facilities throughout. All four stands are named after club legends – the Sir Tom Finney Stand, Bill Shankly Kop, Alan Kelly Town End Stand, and the Invincibles Pavilion (named after the unbeaten 1888-89 team). Away supporters can enjoy a fantastic match day experience with excellent views, modern concourses, and a passionate atmosphere that makes for a memorable visit.
📋 KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE
| Postcode | PR1 6RU |
| Capacity | 23,404 (all seated) |
| Location | North of city centre, 1.5 miles from Preston Railway Station |
| Main Phone | 0344 856 1964 |
| Website | www.pne.com |
| Nearest Train Station | Preston Railway Station (1.5 miles / 25-30 minute walk) |
🚂 GETTING TO DEEPDALE
Preston is well-connected to the rest of the UK with excellent transport links. The stadium is located approximately 1.5 miles north of the city centre, making it accessible by various means. Choose the option that works best for you.
🗺️ STADIUM LOCATION MAP
Deepdale Stadium Address: Sir Tom Finney Way, Deepdale, Preston, PR1 6RU
🚂 BY TRAIN – The Recommended Choice
Why Trains Work: Preston is a major railway hub with excellent connections to all major UK cities. Direct trains from London, Manchester, Liverpool, Scotland, and more. Walking from the station lets you explore the city centre with its many pubs and restaurants – perfect for a proper away day experience.
Journey Times to Preston Station:
🔴 London: 2.5–3 hours (direct)
🟠 Manchester: 50 minutes
🟡 Liverpool: 45 minutes
🟢 Birmingham: 1.5 hours
🔵 Glasgow: 2.5 hours (direct)
Getting from Preston Station to Deepdale Stadium
Option 1: Walk (Popular Choice) ⭐
- Time: 25-30 minutes to stadium
- Route: Exit station, turn right along Fishergate (main shopping street), continue straight for about a mile until you reach the prison, cross the dual carriageway, turn left into Deepdale Road – stadium will appear on your right
- Perfect opportunity to stop at city centre pubs along the way
- Well-signposted route through the historic city centre
Bus Options
- Local buses run from Preston city centre/bus station to Deepdale area
- Cost: approximately £1.50–£2.50
- Services run regularly throughout the day
- Ask driver for “Deepdale Stadium” or check www.prestonbus.co.uk
Taxi Option
- ~£7–9 from Preston Station
- ~10 minutes to the stadium
- Readily available from the station taxi rank
🚗 BY CAR – Multiple Parking Options
Postcode for Sat Nav: PR1 6RU
From M6 Junction 31: Follow A59 towards Preston. After 1 mile, take second exit at mini roundabout onto Blackpool Road (A5085). Continue for 1.2 miles through four sets of traffic lights, then turn left into Parkside before the lights (signposted Football Ground).
| Parking Location | Cost |
| Bill Shankly Kop Car Park (at stadium) | £12.50–£15 (book in advance) |
| Moorfields School Car Park (matchday) | £3 (proceeds go to school funds) |
| City Centre Car Parks | £3–£6 (15-20 min walk/short bus ride) |
⚡ Pro Tips:
- Arrive 90+ minutes before kick-off to secure parking
- Stadium parking is limited – book in advance via 0344 856 1966
- Street parking available in surrounding residential areas if you arrive early
- City centre parking is a good value alternative with short walk or bus ride
🏨 WHERE TO STAY IN PRESTON
Preston offers a great range of accommodation for all budgets. The city centre is compact and walkable, with most hotels within easy reach of both the railway station and stadium. Staying in the city centre puts you close to restaurants, pubs, and Preston’s attractions.
💷 BUDGET OPTIONS (£40–£75/night)
Travelodge Preston Central
Why it’s good: Budget-friendly, city centre location, 5 minutes from train station, comfortable Dreamer beds
Premier Inn Preston Central
Why it’s good: Reliable quality, excellent breakfast, very central location near shops and pubs
Ibis Preston North
Why it’s good: Modern and clean, compact but comfortable rooms, 24-hour snack service
Ashwood Hotel
Why it’s good: Family-run hotel with personal touch, free parking, 5 minutes walk from train station
🎯 MID-RANGE OPTIONS (£75–£130/night)
Holiday Inn Preston
Why it’s good: Heart of city centre, next to bus station, pet-friendly, on-site restaurant and bar
Delta Hotels by Marriott Preston
Why it’s good: Recently renovated (2023), close to M6, modern facilities, reliable chain quality
Legacy Preston International Hotel
Why it’s good: Contemporary hotel, restaurant and bar on-site, free WiFi, easy access to M6
Winckley Stays (Serviced Apartments)
Why it’s good: Historic Winckley Square location, self-catering, more space than hotels, great for longer stays
👑 PREMIUM OPTIONS (£130+/night)
No.10 Preston (Boutique Aparthotel)
Highlights: Luxury boutique accommodation, modern apartments, five-star service, city centre location
Bartle Hall Hotel
Highlights: Georgian mansion dating from 1600, 16 acres of gardens, award-winning restaurant, elegant rooms
Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel
Highlights: Riverside setting on River Ribble, fine dining, just off M6, 10 minutes to stadium, PNE’s official partner hotel
💡 ACCOMMODATION TIPS
- Book Early: Hotels fill up quickly for big Championship fixtures and local events
- Best Value: Midweek rates are typically cheaper than weekends
- Best Location: City centre hotels are ideal – close to restaurants, pubs, shops, and within walking distance or short taxi ride to Deepdale
- Student City: Preston is a university city, so during term time some hotels may be busier
🎫 GETTING AROUND THE STADIUM
🎫 AWAY SUPPORTER ALLOCATION
| Your Section | Bill Shankly Kop (North Stand) |
| Allocation | Standard: ~3,000 seats / Full end: Up to 6,000 seats (for big fixtures) |
| Views | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent – Single tier, steep incline bringing you close to the action |
| Stand Style | Modern Kop-style end, opened 1998, inspired by Genoa’s Marassi Stadium |
🚪 ENTERING THE STADIUM
Designated Turnstiles: Away supporter turnstiles are located in the Bill Shankly Kop (North Stand)
⏰ Turnstile Opening Times:
- Opens: 90 minutes before kick-off
- Away ticket office opens: 2 hours before kick-off (for ticket collections)
- Recommended arrival: 60 minutes before kick-off
- Why early? Beat the queues, soak up the atmosphere, see team warm-ups, and explore the excellent concourse facilities
✅ WHAT TO BRING & WHAT NOT TO BRING
✅ DO BRING:
- Digital match ticket (can be on phone)
- Comfortable outdoor clothing
- Waterproof jacket (Lancashire weather can change quickly!)
- Your team’s colours (wear with pride!)
- Cash for concourse purchases (though cards are widely accepted)
- Enthusiasm and good spirit – Deepdale is a welcoming ground
❌ DON’T BRING:
- Large bags (limited storage facilities available)
- Cigarettes or vapes (smoking/vaping banned inside stadium)
- Outside food or drink (not permitted)
- Glass bottles or cans
- Anything that could cause trouble or offence
🍽️ PLACES TO EAT & DRINK
Preston has a vibrant food and drink scene with options to suit every taste and budget. The city centre is packed with pubs and restaurants, many welcoming away fans. Note: some venues may require colours to be covered, but most are happy to welcome all supporters, but do check with the door staff.
🍺 PRE-MATCH PUBS
The Sumners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Corner of Watling Street and Deepdale Road (closest to stadium)
Vibe: Traditional pub, both home and away fans welcome, great atmosphere
Why Go: Most popular matchday pub, beer garden, open from 11am on matchdays
The Station (Preston Station) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: Directly opposite Preston Railway Station
Vibe: Perfect first stop when arriving by train, lively atmosphere
Why Go: Live entertainment Friday/Saturday, wide selection of beers and ales
The Twelve Tellers ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: 15 Church Street, city centre (en route to stadium)
Vibe: Traditional Wetherspoons in beautiful historic building
Why Go: Great value food and drinks, all fans welcome
The Old Vic ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Location: City centre
Vibe: Popular city centre pub with character
Why Go: Good beer selection, welcoming atmosphere
Social Clubs Near Stadium
St Gregory’s Catholic Club and Moor Park Sports & Social Club (PR2 3AE) both welcome away supporters. Both offer parking and are within 10 minutes walk of Deepdale.
🍴 CITY CENTRE RESTAURANTS
Aven ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Modern British: Award-winning restaurant • Locally sourced produce • Exceptional quality • Wine pairings available
Perfect for: Special occasions, celebrating a win, outstanding fine dining experience
East Z East ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Indian Cuisine: Contemporary Punjab cuisine • Sleek modern interior • Excellent service • Always busy
Perfect for: Groups wanting quality Indian food in stylish surroundings
Theatre Street Bar & Grill ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Seafood & Grilled Meats: Fresh seafood • Quality steaks • Excellent wine list • Hidden gem down an alley
Perfect for: Something different from typical pub fare, elegant dining
Wagamama Preston ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Asian Cuisine: Reliable chain • Quick service • Ramen, curry, and noodle dishes • Great for families
Perfect for: Quick pre-match meal, familiar quality
Turtle Bay Preston ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Caribbean: Vibrant atmosphere • Jerk chicken, curries • Famous 2-4-1 cocktails • Floor-to-ceiling windows
Perfect for: Groups, cocktails, lively pre-match atmosphere
The Italian Orchard ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Italian Cuisine: Authentic Italian • Family-friendly • Great pasta and pizza • Warm atmosphere
Perfect for: Families, traditional Italian comfort food
🎨 PLACES TO VISIT IN PRESTON
If you’re arriving early or staying overnight, Preston has plenty to explore. This historic Lancashire city combines rich heritage with modern culture, beautiful parks, and unique attractions that make it worth a visit beyond matchday.
🏛️ HARRIS MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Stunning Grade I listed building housing art, history, and culture collections
What You’ll See: Famous oil paintings • Ice Age elk remains • 19th-century Florence Baptistery doors replica • Rotating exhibitions • Foucault pendulum
Details: ✅ Free Entry • ⏱️ 60–90 minutes • 📍 Flag Market, city centre
Why Go: Preston’s cultural jewel. The building itself is magnificent, and the collections span centuries. Currently undergoing major restoration but worth checking if open during your visit.
🌳 AVENHAM & MILLER PARKS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Grade II* listed Victorian parks offering urban oasis in the heart of Preston
What’s Here: Beautiful gardens • Japanese Garden • Natural amphitheatre • Derby Walk with Earl of Derby statue • Riverside paths along the Ribble • Pavilion café
Details: ✅ Free Entry • ⏱️ 30–60 minutes • 📍 5 minutes walk from city centre
Why Go: Perfect escape from city bustle. Green Flag Award winners. Lovely place for a pre-match stroll or post-match reflection.
🚂 RIBBLE STEAM RAILWAY ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: Heritage steam railway at Preston Docks keeping industrial railway history alive
What’s Here: 3-mile riverside track • Museum and visitor centre • Vintage trains • Shop • Preston Dock history
Details: 📍 Preston Docks • ⏱️ 60–90 minutes • 🎫 Modest admission fee
Why Go: Unique attraction perfect for railway enthusiasts and families. Great way to see Preston’s industrial heritage and enjoy a relaxing steam train ride.
⛪ SHRINE CHURCH OF ST WALBURGE’S ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: 19th-century Gothic revival church with England’s tallest parish church spire
What’s Here: Spectacular 309-foot spire • Magnificent interior seating 1,000 • 14 hammer beams with life-size saint carvings • Impressive architecture
Details: 📍 Weston Street, near UCLan • ✅ Free to visit • ⏱️ 20–30 minutes
Why Go: Architectural marvel. The red-tinted spire at sunset is breathtaking. Look up as you walk through Preston – you can’t miss it!
🚴 PRESTON GUILD WHEEL ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: 21-mile circular “Greenway” encircling Preston, linking city to countryside
What’s Here: Mostly off-road sealed paths • Connects parks, heritage sites, riverside routes • Varied landscapes • Suitable for walking, running, or cycling
Details: ✅ Free • ⏱️ 1.5–6 hours depending on how much you tackle • 📍 Multiple access points
Why Go: Perfect for active visitors. Do a section or the whole loop. Great way to see Preston’s green spaces and get some exercise.
🦅 BROCKHOLES NATURE RESERVE ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Attraction: 250-acre wetland nature reserve with extraordinary floating visitor centre
What’s Here: Unique floating buildings on artificial island • Bird watching • Adventure play area • Family activities and events • Walking trails • Café
Details: 📍 Just off M6 Junction 31 • ✅ Free entry (small parking fee) • ⏱️ 2–3 hours
Why Go: Perfect for families and nature lovers. The floating visitor centre is architecturally remarkable, and the reserve offers peaceful wildlife watching despite being next to the M6.
⚡ TOP TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
📋 BEFORE YOU GO
🚂 Book Travel Early: Train tickets, accommodation, and match tickets well in advance for big fixtures
📅 Check Fixtures: Preston can draw big crowds for local derbies (especially Blackpool!), so plan accordingly
🌦️ Weather: Lancashire weather is unpredictable – bring layers and a waterproof jacket
🚌 GETTING THERE
⏱️ Allow Time: Don’t rush – Preston city centre is worth exploring with its shops, pubs, and restaurants
🚂 If Taking the Train: Walking from the station is straightforward and takes you through the heart of Preston. Plenty of pubs en route!
🚗 If Driving: Use postcode PR1 6RU. Arrive 90+ minutes early. Consider city centre parking for better value.
🍺 FOOD & DRINK TIPS
🥧 Try the Famous Butter Pie: A Preston specialty available at Deepdale – potato-filled pie made by local Clayton Park Bakery
🍺 City Centre Welcome: Most pubs welcome all fans, but a few may ask colours to be covered – check before entering
🍔 Inside the Stadium: Good concourse facilities with TVs, food kiosks (try the slow-cooked beef brisket or chicken tikka as well as traditional options), and drinks available
🤝 HOW TO BEHAVE
✅ DO: Show your colours proudly • Be respectful • Enjoy the banter • Appreciate the history – you’re visiting the oldest stadium in world football! • Sample the local food and drink
❌ DON’T: Engage in confrontation • Disrespect the legends (Sir Tom Finney is revered here!) • Expect trouble – Deepdale is a welcoming ground with a good atmosphere
🔗 QUICK REFERENCE
| Stadium Postcode | PR1 6RU |
| Away Allocation | 3,000 seats (up to 6,000 for big games) in Bill Shankly Kop |
| Nearest Train | Preston Railway Station (1.5 miles / 25-30 min walk) |
| Best Transport | Train + walk through city centre (or taxi £7-9) |
| Parking | £12.50–£15 (stadium) or £3 (Moorfields School) or £3–£6 (city centre) |
| Must Try | Famous Preston Butter Pie at the stadium! |
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Visiting Deepdale Stadium is a special experience for any football fan. You’re stepping into history – the oldest continuously used football stadium in the world. From the statue of Sir Tom Finney outside to the stands named after legends like Bill Shankly and Alan Kelly, every corner of Deepdale tells a story. Preston itself is an underrated gem with fantastic food, friendly locals, beautiful parks, and rich heritage.
The city centre’s compact nature makes it perfect for exploring on foot, and the journey from the railway station to the stadium takes you through the heart of Lancashire life. Whether you’re here for the football, the history, or both, you’ll find a warm welcome and a memorable day out.
Come prepared, be respectful of the history, and enjoy your visit to the home of the Invincibles!
⚪🔵 Come On Preston! 🔵⚪
💬 SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Have you visited Deepdale Stadium before? Got tips for other away supporters visiting the oldest football ground in the world? Drop your thoughts in the comments below – we’d love to hear about your experiences at this historic venue.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a regular visitor, your insights help build a community resource for supporters everywhere. Share your favorite pre-match pubs, best places to eat, or any other tips that might help fellow fans!
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.