Oxford United FC
Kassam Stadium
Complete Away Travel Day Guide
🟡ABOUT THE KASSAM STADIUM
The Kassam Stadium, home to Oxford United since 2001, stands on the outskirts of Oxford in Blackbird Leys, replacing the historic Manor Ground after 76 years. Named after former chairman Firoz Kassam, this modern 12,500-capacity stadium represents Oxford’s transition into the modern era of football. While it lacks the history and character of the old Manor Ground, the Kassam offers excellent facilities and unobstructed views from every seat, though its distinctive three-sided design (missing a stand behind one goal) creates an unusual atmosphere and makes for an exposed experience on windy days.
Oxford United boasts a rich history including an unlikely League Cup triumph in 1986 and reaching the old First Division. Known affectionately as “The U’s,” the club has passionate supporters who have stuck by them through relegations to the Conference and back up to the Championship. The Kassam Stadium’s out-of-town location is perhaps its biggest drawback, affecting the matchday atmosphere around the ground itself, though there are plans to move to a new purpose built stadium in the next few years.
However, Oxford’s historic city centre is only 4 miles away and offers one of England’s most beautiful pre-match destinations with stunning university architecture, excellent pubs, and world-class museums. Make a day of it—the football is just part of what makes Oxford worth visiting.
📋 KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE
| Postcode | OX4 4XP |
| Capacity | 12,500 (all seated) |
| Location | Blackbird Leys, Southeast Oxford (out-of-town) |
| Main Phone | 01865 337533 |
| Website | www.oufc.co.uk |
| Nearest Train Station | Oxford Station (4 miles, 15-20 min taxi/bus) |
🗺️STADIUM LOCATION MAP
The Kassam Stadium is located on Grenoble Road in Blackbird Leys, southeast Oxford. It’s approximately 4 miles from Oxford city centre and the railway station. The map below shows the exact location and how to navigate to the stadium.
📍 Sat Nav Address: Grenoble Road, Oxford, OX4 4XP
🚂GETTING TO THE KASSAM STADIUM
The Kassam Stadium’s out-of-town location makes getting there slightly more complicated than city-centre grounds. Oxford Railway Station is well-connected to major UK cities but sits 4 miles from the stadium, requiring a taxi, bus, or lengthy walk. Road access is straightforward via the M40 and A34, though matchday parking at the stadium is limited. Most away fans opt to drink in the city centre before travelling to the stadium for kick-off.
🚂 BY TRAIN – Most Common Option ⭐
Why Trains Work: Oxford Station has excellent connections to London, Birmingham, the Midlands, and the South Coast. However, the station is 4 miles from the Kassam Stadium, so you’ll need onward transport. Most fans take a taxi or use the Park & Ride bus service. The advantage is you can enjoy Oxford’s historic city centre pubs before heading to the ground.
Journey Times to Oxford Station:
| 🔴 London Paddington: | 1 hour (very frequent direct services) |
| 🟠 Birmingham New Street: | 1 hour 20 minutes (regular direct services) |
| 🟡 Manchester Piccadilly: | 2 hours 30 minutes-3 hours (some direct services) |
| 🟢 Reading: | 25 minutes (very frequent) |
| 🔵 Southampton: | 1 hour 45 minutes-2 hours (change at Reading or Didcot) |
| 🟣 Leeds: | 3 hours 30 minutes-4 hours (change at Birmingham or Reading) |
Getting from Oxford Station to Kassam Stadium
🚌 Bus Option (30-35 minutes total) 💷
The most economical option is using the Park & Ride buses:
- Walk 5 minutes from Oxford Station to Frideswide Square bus stops
- Take the Park & Ride bus to Thornhill Park & Ride (approximately 20 minutes)
- Walk 10 minutes from Thornhill to the Kassam Stadium
Bus Service: 300/400 Red Line buses run frequently (every 10-15 minutes)
Cost: Around £2-4 return for Park & Ride
💡 Top Tip: This option works but takes time—factor in 35 minutes door-to-door.
🚕 Taxi Option (15-20 minutes) ⭐
The quickest and most popular option for away fans:
Cost: £12-18 depending on traffic
Journey Time: 15-20 minutes from Oxford Station
Where to Get Taxis: Main taxi rank outside Oxford Station on Park End Street, or use Uber/Bolt apps
⚠️ Post-Match Warning: Taxis can be scarce immediately after the final whistle. Many fans book return taxis in advance or use ride-hailing apps. Expect higher prices and waiting times post-match.
🚶 Walking Option (Not Recommended)
It’s technically possible to walk from Oxford Station to the Kassam (around 1 hour 15 minutes), but it’s a long, uninspiring route along main roads. Unless you’re extremely early and fancy the exercise, take the bus or a taxi!
⚠️ Important: Oxford’s ring road (A4142) gets congested on matchdays. Allow extra time for taxis and buses 1-2 hours before kick-off and immediately after the final whistle.
🚗 BY CAR & PARKING
Driving Directions to Oxford/Kassam Stadium
From London/Southeast: M40 northbound to Junction 8, then follow signs for A40/Eastern Bypass and A4142 towards Cowley. Follow stadium signs.
From Birmingham/North: M40 southbound to Junction 8, then as above
From Bristol/West: M4 eastbound, then A34 northbound to Oxford. Follow ring road and signs for Kassam Stadium.
From Southampton/South: A34 northbound to Oxford ring road, then signs for stadium
Parking Options Near Kassam Stadium
Official Stadium Parking
Capacity: Limited spaces, often requires pre-booking
Cost: £10-15 (pre-booking usually required)
Location: On-site at the stadium on Grenoble Road
💡 Tip: Stadium parking sells out quickly—book through the club in advance or arrive very early!
Thornhill Park & Ride (Recommended) ⭐
Location: 300 Red, Oxford OX3 9PS (10-minute walk from stadium)
Cost: £2-4 for all-day parking
Capacity: Large car park with frequent buses to the city centre
Why It’s Good: Cheap, secure, and gets you out quickly post-match. You’re also close enough to walk to the stadium (10-15 minutes).
Oxford Retail Park
The nearby Oxford Retail Park (Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Currys) has parking, but check carefully as some car parks prohibit matchday parking or have time restrictions. Don’t risk getting ticketed!
Street Parking
Very limited residential street parking exists around Blackbird Leys near the stadium. Be respectful of residents and check signage carefully. Spaces are competitive, and you’ll need to arrive early.
⚠️ Traffic Warning: Oxford’s ring road (A4142/A34) can be heavily congested on matchdays, especially 1-2 hours before kick-off and immediately after the final whistle. Allow plenty of extra time and consider arriving early to explore Oxford city centre first.
🏨WHERE TO STAY IN OXFORD
Oxford offers accommodation for all budgets, though it can be expensive as a historic university city. Staying in the city centre gives you access to Oxford’s stunning architecture, museums, and nightlife, though you’ll be 4 miles from the Kassam Stadium. Most visitors prefer staying in Oxford city centre to make the most of the city experience.
City Centre Hotels (4 miles from stadium)
The Randolph Hotel by Graduate Hotels
Oxford’s most iconic luxury hotel, stunning Victorian architecture right in the city centre. Four/five-star quality but expensive (£200+).
Leonardo Hotel Oxford (formerly Jurys Inn)
Modern mid-range hotel near the city centre, comfortable rooms with good facilities. £100-150 per night.
Premier Inn Oxford City Centre
Reliable budget-friendly chain near the train station. £60-100 per night depending on the date.
Vanbrugh House Hotel
Boutique Victorian townhouse hotel in North Oxford, elegant and characterful. £120-180 per night.
Old Parsonage Hotel
Historic boutique hotel dating from 1660, incredibly atmospheric and central. Luxury pricing (£200+).
💷 Budget-Friendly Options
Travelodge Oxford Abingdon Road
Budget chain hotel around 3 miles from the stadium near the city centre. £45-75 per night.
Courtyard by Marriott Oxford South
Often has competitive rates, located south of the city near the stadium area. £80-130 per night.
Premier Inn Oxford
Multiple locations around Oxford including one near Cowley (closer to the stadium). £50-90 per night.
YHA Oxford
Backpacker-style hostel in the city centre if you don’t mind shared facilities. Excellent value at £25-45 per night.
Alternative Accommodation
Airbnb/Apartments: Oxford has numerous apartments and rooms available, often good value for groups or longer stays.
Nearby Towns: Consider Abingdon (6 miles), Didcot (12 miles with direct trains to Oxford), or Witney (12 miles) for cheaper accommodation with easy access.
💡 Insider Tip: Oxford hotels can be very expensive during university term time (October-June) and in peak summer. Book well in advance for best rates. Staying Sunday night after a Saturday match is often cheaper than Saturday night.
🍺PUBS, BARS & FOOD NEAR KASSAM STADIUM
This is where the Kassam Stadium’s out-of-town location becomes a challenge. There are very limited pubs and restaurants within walking distance of the stadium—it’s situated in a retail park area with minimal matchday atmosphere. Most away fans choose to drink and eat in Oxford city centre (4 miles away) before traveling to the ground by taxi or bus.
🍺 City Centre Pubs (4 miles from stadium – 15-20 min taxi) ⭐
The Eagle & Child (St Giles’ Street)
Historic pub where J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis (The Inklings) used to meet. Traditional atmosphere with excellent ales. A must-visit for literary fans!
The Turf Tavern (Bath Place)
Hidden gem tucked down a narrow alley off Holywell Street. One of Oxford’s oldest and most atmospheric pubs with a great selection of beers. Very popular, so arrive early on matchdays.
The Bear Inn (Alfred Street)
Oxford’s oldest pub, dating from 1242! Tiny and full of character with a famous collection of tie snippets on the walls.
The White Horse (Blackwell’s, Broad Street)
Relaxed pub attached to Blackwell’s bookshop, good atmosphere and decent food.
The Mitre (High Street)
Large Wetherspoons in the city centre. Reliable, cheap, and always busy on matchdays with mixed crowds.
The King’s Arms (Holywell Street)
Traditional student pub near the Bodleian Library, lively atmosphere and good selection of ales.
🍺 Pubs Near the Stadium
The Priory Inn (Church Road, Littlemore)
About 1.5 miles from the stadium, this traditional pub welcomes away fans on matchdays. Worth the detour if you want somewhere closer to the ground.
The Marsh Harrier (Grenoble Road)
Large family-friendly pub around 10 minutes’ walk from the stadium near Tesco. Mixed crowd of home and away fans.
💡 Insider Tip: Very few away fans drink near the stadium due to limited options. The standard approach is to arrive in Oxford city centre early (2-3 hours before kick-off), enjoy the pubs and atmosphere there, then get a taxi or bus to the ground 45-60 minutes before kick-off.
🍕 Food Options
City Centre (Recommended):
The Folly Restaurant
Modern British floating restaurant on a boat in the River Thames. Stunning riverside setting, booking essential.
Atomic Burger (Cowley Road)
Cult burger joint with ’50s American diner theme. Huge portions and quirky atmosphere.
Kazbar (Cowley Road)
Excellent Spanish tapas with lively atmosphere. Popular with pre-match crowds.
Turtle Bay (George Street)
Caribbean food and rum cocktails, consistently good quality.
Magdalen Arms (Iffley Road)
Quality gastropub between the city and stadium with locally sourced British food.
The Covered Market
Historic indoor market with various food stalls—excellent for breakfast or lunch. A real Oxford institution.
Quick Bites:
Hassan’s (Cowley Road): Oxford institution for late-night kebabs and falafel wraps. Always busy!
Mission Burrito (St Michael’s Street): Fast Mexican food with huge portions, good value.
Near Stadium:
Oxford Retail Park (5 min walk): Chain restaurants including McDonald’s, KFC, Nando’s, Frankie & Benny’s. Convenient but uninspiring.
Tesco Extra: Large supermarket next to the retail park if you need snacks or supplies.
🎯THINGS TO DO IN OXFORD
Oxford is one of England’s most beautiful and historic cities, home to the world’s oldest English-speaking university. There’s far more to see than you can possibly fit into a matchday visit—consider staying overnight to explore properly. The city’s stunning college architecture, world-class museums (many free!), and beautiful riverside walks make it well worth the trip regardless of the football result.
🎓 University Colleges & Historic Buildings
Christ Church College
Oxford’s most famous college, featuring the Great Hall (inspiration for Harry Potter’s Hogwarts dining hall) and stunning Tom Quad. Entry around £8-15. Book ahead!
Bodleian Library
One of the oldest libraries in Europe with breathtaking architecture. Tours available of Duke Humfrey’s Library (£10-15, book ahead). The Radcliffe Camera reading room is Oxford’s most photographed building.
Magdalen College (pronounced “Maudlin”)
Beautiful college with extensive grounds including a deer park. Excellent for peaceful walks.
All Souls College
No undergraduates, just fellows. Stunning architecture and usually quieter than other colleges.
Bridge of Sighs (Hertford College)
Oxford’s famous enclosed bridge connecting two college buildings. Great photo spot!
💡 Top Tip: Many college exteriors can be admired for free—you don’t have to pay to appreciate Oxford’s architecture! Just wander through the historic centre.
🏛️ Museums (Mostly FREE!)
Ashmolean Museum (FREE)
World-class art and archaeology museum covering everything from Egyptian mummies to modern art. Excellent cafe too.
Oxford University Museum of Natural History (FREE)
Stunning Victorian Gothic building housing dinosaur skeletons and natural history exhibits. The Pitt Rivers Museum (anthropology) is attached—don’t miss it!
Museum of Oxford (FREE)
City history museum covering Oxford’s 1,000+ years of history.
Pitt Rivers Museum (FREE)
Extraordinary anthropology museum filled with artifacts from around the world, displayed in Victorian cabinets.
🌳 Outdoor Activities & Walks
Punting on the River
Quintessential Oxford experience. Hire a punt from Magdalen Bridge or Cherwell Boathouse (£20-30/hour) or take a chauffeured tour. Beautiful in good weather!
Port Meadow
Vast open common land with grazing cattle and horses. Stunning at sunset, perfect for walks. Completely free!
Christ Church Meadow
Beautiful riverside walks behind Christ Church College, free access and very peaceful.
Oxford Botanic Garden
Britain’s oldest botanic garden (1621), beautiful and tranquil. £6.50 entry.
Carfax Tower
Climb 99 steps for panoramic views over Oxford city centre. £3.50 entry.
🛍️ Shopping & Markets
The Covered Market
Historic indoor market since 1774 with food stalls, butchers, delis, and quirky independent shops. A real Oxford gem.
Westgate Shopping Centre
Modern shopping centre with rooftop terrace offering excellent views over the city.
Blackwell’s Bookshop (Broad Street)
World-famous bookshop with an enormous underground Norrington Room. A book lover’s paradise!
Oxford High Street
Mix of historic shops and modern chains in stunning historic buildings.
🏰 Historic Sites
Oxford Castle & Prison
Climb the Saxon tower, explore Victorian prison cells. Very interactive and family-friendly. £13-15 entry.
Carfax Tower
Historic tower offering 360-degree views of Oxford. Climb 99 steps!
Oxford’s City Walls & Gates
Walk sections of the medieval city walls and see historic gates.
💡 Insider Tip: Many of Oxford’s best attractions are FREE—the college exteriors, riverside walks, Port Meadow, Ashmolean Museum, Natural History Museum, and more. You can have an incredible day exploring one of England’s most beautiful cities without spending much!
👥AWAY FAN INFORMATION
📍 Away Section Location & Facilities
Section: South Stand
Allocation: 1,200 seats for regular matches, can be increased to 2,400 for bigger fixtures
View: Good sightlines throughout with no obstructions. You’re reasonably close to the pitch with decent views from all areas.
Facilities: Functional modern concourse with standard food kiosks, drinks, and clean toilet facilities. Nothing spectacular but perfectly adequate. Can get busy before kick-off and at half-time.
💡 Note: The Kassam Stadium is three-sided (missing a stand behind one goal), which can make for an exposed experience in bad weather. The open end lets wind and rain through, so dress appropriately!
🎟️ Ticket Prices & Booking
Ticket prices for away fans typically range from £25-30 for adults in the Championship, with concession rates for seniors, students, and young adults usually £15-20.
How to Buy: Tickets are sold through your own club’s ticket office. Oxford United allocate tickets to visiting clubs based on expected demand.
🎵 Atmosphere
The Kassam Stadium atmosphere varies significantly. The relatively small 12,500 capacity and three-sided design mean it can feel quiet compared to traditional grounds. However, when both sets of fans are vocal, the acoustics can be decent. Oxford’s fanbase is generally friendly towards away supporters, though local derbies (Swindon, Reading, Wycombe) see increased intensity and passion.
💡TOP AWAY DAY TIPS
- 🏛️ Make a Day of It: Oxford’s historic city is the real attraction—arrive early and explore!
- 🚂 Take The Train: Oxford Station has excellent connections, though you’ll need a taxi/bus to the stadium
- 🍺 City Centre First: Drink in Oxford’s historic pubs before heading to the ground
- 🎨 Free Museums: The Ashmolean and Natural History Museum are world-class and free!
- 🚗 Park Smart: Use Thornhill Park & Ride (cheap, easy, and close to the stadium)
- 📚 Visit Blackwell’s: Even non-readers will appreciate the enormous underground Norrington Room
- ☔ Dress for Weather: The three-sided stadium can be very exposed—bring layers!
🎓 OXFORD EXPERIENCE
📖 Literary Heritage: Visit The Eagle & Child where Tolkien and C.S. Lewis discussed Middle-earth and Narnia
🎬 Harry Potter Filming: Christ Church College’s Great Hall inspired Hogwarts—visit if you’re a fan!
🚣 Quintessential Punting: Try punting on the River Cherwell for a classic Oxford experience
🏛️ Dreaming Spires: Climb Carfax Tower or the University Church tower for stunning city views
⚽ MATCHDAY EXPERIENCE
🏟️ Three-Sided Ground: Unique stadium design creates interesting atmosphere but exposed to elements
🍺 Limited Nearby Options: Very few pubs/restaurants near the stadium—base yourself in the city centre
🚕 Book Return Taxis: Post-match taxis can be scarce—book ahead or use ride-hailing apps
🎫 Small Ground: Intimate atmosphere with just 12,500 capacity—feels different from bigger stadiums
🤝 HOW TO BEHAVE
✅ DO:
- Explore Oxford’s stunning architecture
- Visit the historic university colleges
- Enjoy the literary heritage
- Try traditional Oxford pubs
- Be respectful in the city centre
- Allow plenty of travel time to the stadium
❌ DON’T:
- Expect a buzzing matchday atmosphere near the stadium
- Rely on walking from the station
- Underestimate Oxford’s traffic congestion
- Miss the city centre completely
- Forget weatherproof clothing
🔗QUICK REFERENCE
| Stadium Postcode | OX4 4XP |
| Away Allocation | 1,200-2,400 seats in South Stand |
| Nearest Train | Oxford Station (4 miles, 15-20 min taxi) |
| Best Transport | Train to Oxford, taxi/bus to stadium (or Park & Ride if driving) |
| Parking | £10-15 stadium (pre-book) or £2-4 Thornhill Park & Ride |
| Must Visit | Oxford colleges, Bodleian Library, Ashmolean Museum, Covered Market |
💭 FINAL THOUGHTS
Oxford United’s away day is a tale of two very different experiences. The Kassam Stadium itself is functional but uninspiring—a small, three-sided modern ground stuck in an out-of-town retail park with minimal atmosphere around it. The lack of nearby pubs and the exposed stadium design mean it’s not winning any awards for matchday experience. However, Oxford city centre is one of England’s most beautiful and historic cities, and that transforms this into an excellent away day opportunity.
The key is to embrace Oxford’s incredible heritage rather than expecting a traditional football ground atmosphere. Arrive early, explore the stunning university colleges, world-class museums, and historic pubs where literary legends once gathered. The city itself justifies the trip regardless of the football. Yes, you’ll need to factor in taxi or bus costs to get from the city centre to the stadium, and yes, the ground itself is nothing special—but few away days let you walk through 900 years of academic history while discussing Tolkien over a pint in the same pub where The Lord of the Rings was debated.
Treat this as a city break with football attached rather than pure football pilgrimage, and you’ll have a memorable weekend. Take the train, explore historic Oxford, enjoy world-class culture, then head to the Kassam for the match. The city more than compensates for the stadium’s shortcomings!
🟡🔵 Come On You U’s! 🔵🟡
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.