sunderland afc stadium tour

Sunderland Stadium Tour – Stadium of Light

Stadium of Light is the home of Sunderland AFC in the North East of England.  Here are a few reasons to visit the Stadium of Light:

• You’re a Sunderland AFC Fan
• 15th Largest Stadium in the UK
• Unique Stadium Built on an Old Mining Pit
• Meet a Sunderland AFC Historian
• See the Dressing Rooms and Pitch Side

Hotels in Sunderland are excellent value if you decide to stay overnight.

Stadium of Light – Location

Good news, the Stadium of Light has an excellent location just a 10-15 minute walk from the city center.  If for some reason you don’t wish to walk you can take the Tyne and Wear Metro to either St Peter’s or Stadium of Light stations.

Murray Gates

An iconic place to take your photo is in front of the Murray Gates but who is Murray?  Bob Murray was the chairman of Sunderland when they moved to the Stadium of Light in 1997.  Before that, Sunderland played at Roker Park which could not be modernized due to its location within a housing estate.  There are 2 interesting phrases on the Murray Gates.  Firstly, ‘Haway the Lads’ which is local slang for ‘Come on Boys’.  Secondly, it says ‘Into the Light’ which refers to miners returning to the surface after being down the pit.  The new stadium is built on a former mining pit.

Why is it called the Stadium of Light?  Because the stadium is built on top of a former mining pit known as Wearmouth Colliery.  The mining industry in the UK came to a close just as Sunderland AFC were looking for a new stadium so the Stadium of Light was born.  It’s named to represent the former miners returning to the surface and into the light.  Finally, there’s a huge Davy lamp on display outside the stadium to honor the former miners in the area.  Did you know the Davy lamp was invented in Sunderland?

The original pit wheel from Wearmouth Colliery is on display in front of the stadium.  If you read the plaque it explains the history of the colliery and explains this is here to remember the mining industry.

Bob Stokoe Statue

Bob Stokoe was Sunderland manager when they won the FA Cup in 1973.  Before that he won the FA Cup as a player for local rivals, Newcastle United .  The statue in front of the stadium features Bob Stokoe running onto the pitch to celebrate Sunderland winning at Wembley.  Take note of his clothes as you’ll find the originals in the Sunderland AFC museum.

Stadium Tour Meeting Point

In between the 2 sets of Murray Gates is the Stadium of Light main reception.  This is where the stadium tour begins.  Be sure to arrive a little early so you can view the memorabilia on display.  As a matter of fact, there’s a lot of merchandise from the 1973 FA Cup final on display.  In the final, Sunderland beat Billy Bremner’s Leeds United in the final at Wembley .  Additionally, there’s a huge 19th century football painting on display.  You won’t find anything similar on any other football stadium tour in the UK.

Sunderland Stadium Tour Guide

I was lucky enough to have Ken Dinning as my stadium tour guide.  Ken is certainly a tour guide with a lot of knowledge about the club.  I’m sure Ken can answer any question you have about Sunderland AFC, the Stadium of Light or the former mining industry in the area.  By the way, pitch side in front of the Sunderland logo stand is a good place to take a photo.

Stadium of Light Facts

With a capacity of 49,000 seats the Stadium of Light is the 15th largest stadium in the UK.  It doesn’t look so big because it’s built into the ground like the Red Star Belgrade stadium .  Opened in 1997, club legend Niall Quinn scored the first goal here.  Of course, Sunderland AFC play here but the England national team have also played here.  Additionally, music concerts take place at the Stadium of Light with Oasis and Take That having performed here.  Lastly, as I mentioned earlier the stadium is built on a former coal mining pit.

VIP Section

When I visited, Sunderland were in League one.  What this means is that if you watch a match you can enjoy first class facilities at an excellent price!  On the stadium tour you’ll visit the suites and bars available on a hospitality package.

Sit in the comfy padded seats and enjoy the best views of the pitch from the VIP area.

Quinn’s Sports Bar

For me, Quinn’s Sports Bar was the best part of the tour but why?  I would describe Quinn’s Sports Bar as a museum to Roker Park.  Roker Park was of course the former Sunderland stadium.  When they moved a lot of history was lost.  But what the Quinn’s Sports Bar does is preserve the history of Roker Park.  In here you’ll find the original goal posts as well as several other artifacts.  Lastly, this bar is named after Niall Quinn who has been player, manager and chairman of Sunderland AFC.

Pieces of Roker Park

Things looked very different inside a football stadium before the electronic scoreboard was invented.  In Quinn’s Bar original numbers from the old scoreboards are on display.

Sunderland AFC Legend Players Staircase

How well do you know the Sunderland players?  Lifelong fans will take a trip down memory lane on the players staircase.  Who is Sunderland’s most capped player?  Find out at the bottom of the staircase.

Home Team Dressing Rooms

Sunderland have an impressive home team dressing room.  What’s more, the stadium tour guide will light it up red for you.  Perfect for making photos with your favorite players shirt.  The homeliness of this room is a world away from the away team dressing rooms!

Away Team Dressing Rooms

The away team dressing rooms are small, cold, uninspiring and with little facilities.  Welcome to the Stadium of Light.

Players Tunnel

As you walk through the players tunnel there’s a significant message.  ‘Follow in the footsteps of great men and fire up our city’.  This refers to the coal industry which was in Sunderland.  As a matter of fact, look closely as the message is written on a picture of coal.

Pitch Side and Dugout

Sit in the car seats of the Sunderland dugout and pose for photos.  In addition, stand pitch side and take photos with the stadium itself as a backdrop.

Flash Interview Boards

After the match you may see the players making interviews on TV.  You’ll pass the advertisement boards in the players tunnel.  Feel free to make a little video of yourself performing an interview.

Another top photo spot at the Stadium of Light is the Press Room.  You’re welcome to sit in the managers chair and pose for photos.

Enjoy your Stadium of Light Stadium Tour

Enjoy the Stadium of Light stadium tour, it is in fact one of the best in the country.  There’s a lot of history in this part of England and this modern stadium presents it well.  Not only this but the tours are excellent value for money.  Check the official site to book your tour online or contact them for a private tour.

Visiting the North of England?  Check out St James’ Park in nearby Newcastle.  Did you know there is also a Stadium of Light in Lisbon ?

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The Stadium Of Light: Sunderland AFC

By Mrs Logic (Stadium of Light, Sunderland) [ CC BY 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

With the eighth largest capacity of any football stadium in England, The Stadium Of Light has been Sunderland’s home since they left the much loved Roker Park in 1997. The stadium hasn’t just been used for Sunderland matches, though; it’s also been the location of England international games and numerous concerts.

As for the Black Cats themselves, they have a number of noteworthy achievements to mention. They have won the top-flight league six times, although the most recent was in 1936, so it’s not much for their fans to get excited about. They won the FA Cup in 1937 and 1973 and after their promotion back to the Premier League in 2007 they went on to become the 31st richest club in the world.

The Stadium Of Light Photos

The Stadium Of Light Seating Plan and Where to Sit

As much as they hate to admit it, there are similarities between Newcastle’s stadium and Sunderland’s home ground. Much like St. James’ Park The Stadium of Light is single-tiered on two sides and double-tiered on the other two.

The ground is in a square bowl shape and away supporters are housed in the upper section of The North Stand. The West Stand plays home to the Premier Concourse, the area for the VIP seats and executive boxes. The East Stand seats have the Sunderland emblem on them, whilst The North Stand’s seats feature the slogan ‘Ha’way The Lads’.

Sunderland Ticket Prices

On the one hand Sunderland’s ticket pricing is quite easy to understand, with matches split into different categories and then priced accordingly. On the other hand, the club doesn’t give away much information about the prices for junior fans or concessions.

Here we’ll give you the most expensive and the cheapest adult prices in each category as they’re the only ones we can tell you with any degree of certainty.

League Games

• Category A – £32 – £40
• Category B – £27 – £35
• Category C – £25 – £30

How To Get Sunderland Tickets

Tickets are available through the club’s official website or the telephone ticketing line. You might also see people offering tickets near to the ground on the day of the match but they should be avoided. Chances are they may not be real tickets and, even if they are, it will probably go against the club’s ticketing terms and conditions if you buy a ticket from an unofficial location.

Where to Buy

• Ticket Compare

Getting To The Stadium Of Light

Sunderland, like Newcastle and Middlesborough, is out on the coast in the North-East of the country, so it’s not exactly simple to get to. It’s hardly in the middle of nowhere, though, and the Stadium itself is in a nice position in relation to the city.

Train – Sunderland Railway Station is around 10 to 15 minutes walk from the stadium and it’s reachable by most of the main stations in the country. If you’d rather not walk from the station then you can get the Metro to the ground. Both St. Peter’s and The Stadium Of Light stations are close to the ground.

Bus – Buses 2, 3, 4, 12, 13, 15 and 16 all call within a few minutes of the ground. If you’re based in or around the city’s outer limits then know that all main routes in the Wearside region call at the main Sunderland bus station, Park Lane Interchange.

Car – If you’re looking to drive to The Stadium Of Light then you’ll be taking the A19 and the A1. For more specific directions you might want to use the stadium’s post code, SR5 1SU.

By Air – Newcastle Airport is the closest airport to Sunderland. There is a Metro station there that links to Sunderland, with the journey time taking just under an hour.

Taxi – A taxi journey from the train station to the ground will take between 5 and 10 minutes, depending on the traffic, and will cost around the same amount.

Parking Near The Stadium Of Light

The club operates a park and ride scheme, which is worth your consideration, and there is also a park and walk scheme that might be something you fancy. There is also some limited parking at the ground itself but you’ll need to get a parking permit in advance for that. There are restrictions on the parking around the stadium and if you head to the club’s website you’ll find a list of roads you won’t be able to park in.

• See Available Parking Near The Stadium Of Light

Useful Resources

• Parking - Just Park

The Stadium Of Light Hotels

Sunderland is a large, sprawling city, so the hotel options you have available to you are numerous. Here are some specific selections, though, if you want some ideas:

Best Western Roker Hotel - £40+

Grand Hotel Sunderland - £35+

Magnum Hotel Sunderland - £45+

Pubs and bars near the stadium of light.

Sunderland offers an excellent nightlife, loads of places to have a good drink and a top atmosphere. There are heaps of locations you can have a pre-match pint, but here’s a neat selection if you’re not sure where to start:

The Peacock

Ttonic bar & kitchen.

The Stadium Of Light boasts a family friendly atmosphere and all of the facilities that you might expect from a ground of its stature. Though the prices of food and drinks are a little on the expensive side, there are at least plenty of places to buy them on the concourses around the ground. You’ll also find a number of betting kiosks in the stadium, too, should you want to have a gamble on the outcome of the match.

• Programme: £3
• Cup of tea: £2.3

Hospitality

There are the sort of hospitality packages at The Stadium Of Light that you’d expect from a top-level club, which Sunderland used to be. If you’re looking for a more informal, relaxed environment, for example, then Quinn’s Sports Bar might tickle your fancy, for example. You can wear your Sunderland top whilst you have a home-cooked dish of the day, enjoy a cash bar and then take your padded seat in The Carling Stand.

If you want something a little more formal from your match-going hospitality experience then you might want to consider the Business Lounge. You’ll have to wear a jacket and a top with a collar, but in return you’ll be welcomed with a drinks reception, tapas canapés and a pre-match buffet. You’ll also be given a tour of the dressing room before the match, tea, coffee and cakes at half-time and refreshments and savoury snacks at full-time.

One of the top-level hospitality experiences you can have at The Stadium Of Light can be found in the Review Brasserie. You’ll get a behind the scenes tour, a guest appearance from a former Sunderland player or two and you’ll also get to witness the man of the match presentation. You’ll also get a three-course meal, private bar facilities and a padded seat on the halfway line.

Private Hire

The sheer volume of lounges and bars at The Stadium Of Light mean that the private hire options at the club are virtually endless. Quinn’s Bar, the Black Cats Bar and Magic Moments Bar are all ideal locations for smaller, more informal gatherings like birthdays and Christenings. Meanwhile the Business Lounge, the James Herriot Suite and the Carling Lounge offer alternative locations for more robust gatherings.

There are also 54 executive boxes available at the ground and these are ideal for presentations, interviews and breakout meetings from larger presentations. The Montgomerie Suite is ideal for just such large-scale events, from corporate presentations through to conferences or award ceremonies.

As well as fun, formal events like proms, The Stadium Of Light is also registered to host weddings and civil ceremonies. Whether you want to follow more traditional wedding-day protocols or you’re keen to have a personal ceremony, the staff at the stadium will help you out with everything you want. If you are a big Sunderland fan then what better way is there to celebrate your big day than at the club’s home ground.

Stadium Tours & Museum

Like most of the top grounds, you can do tours of The Stadium Of Light throughout the year. The tours last just over an hour and take in the corporate facilities at the club, the director’s box, the dressing rooms and the tunnel out to pitch side. There you’ll be able to sit in the dugout and get some photos taken before heading to the press box for another photo opportunity.

Tours take place regularly but sell out fast, and cost £10 for adults or £5 for under-16s of over-65 year olds. The club also runs specialist Legend Tours where you’ll be guided around the stadium by an ex-player associated with the club. These cost £35 for adults and £18 for everyone else.

About Sunderland

Sunderland achieved their first FA Cup win with a 3-1 victory over Preston North End in 1937. They then stayed in the country’s top-flight division for 68 seasons in a row. They then picked up their second FA Cup in 1973 when they beat Leeds United 1-0. Their main rival is Newcastle United and the two club’s contest the Tyne-Wear derby and have done since 1898.

In recent years Sunderland have created numerous affiliations with several different African clubs. Ghana’s Asante Kotoko, Egyptian side El-Ittihad El-Iskandary and South African team Bidvest Wits are amongst those clubs. Sunderland also have a commercial partnership with the Major League Soccer team DC United, based in Washington DC.

Sunderland have never been the type of club to splash the cash around in the transfer market. The most expensive player the club has ever sold is Darren Bent, who they got £24 million for from Aston Villa in 2011. They received £16 million from Liverpool for Jordan Henderson in the same year.

The Stadium Of Light History

During their history Sunderland have played in seven different stadiums. The longest amount of time they’ve spent in one place was at Roker Park, the club’s ground from 1898 until they moved to The Stadium Of Light in 1997. The Stadium Of Light, or SoL as it’s known for short, was officially opened by Prince Andrew, The Duke Of York.

When the ground opened it had a capacity of 42,000 that was increased to around 49,000 in the year 2000. The stadium features a Davy lamp monument outside of it, a reminder of the Monkwearmouth Colliery that it was built on top of. The name of the ground is also a tip of the cap towards Sunderland’s mining past. Benfica, the Portuguese club, is called Estadio da Luz, which, when translated, means The Stadium Of Light. This is purely coincidental.

Future Developments

The Stadium Of Light was originally designed to allow expansion to up to 64,000 seats. In 2007 plans were put forward and accepted to expand the capacity to 56,000 but they ended up being shelved when the side was relegated. Though there are no major plans for redevelopment at the moment, there is the possibility that they made add another 7200 seats to the South Stand in the near future, but as it stands they will have to make do with the 49,000 they already have.

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Stadium of Light

Club: Sunderland AFC | Opening: 1997 | Capacity: 49,000 seats

History and description

The Stadium of Light was built in the mid 1990s as a replacement for Sunderland’s old Roker Park , which lacked the possibilities for further expansion and modernisation.

The Stadium of Light was built at a site a few hundred metres away from Roker Park and initially had a capacity of 42,000 seats.

The stadium officially opened on the 31st of July with a friendly match between Sunderland and Ajax (0-0)

The Stadium of Light was further expanded in 2002 to a capacity of 49,000 seats. The stadium’s design allows for further expansions to a maximum capacity of 66,000 seats, though no plans for such expansion exist at the moment.

How to get to the Stadium of Light

The Stadium of Light stands on the north bank of the River Wear. Sunderland’s city centre, located on the south bank, is just a 15-minute walk away, as is Sunderland’s main railway station.

One can also arrive at the stadium by metro . Both the metro stations St. Peter’s and Stadium of Light are within short walking distance of the ground. After the match northbound (Newcastle) going supporters are required to board at Stadium of Light station, whereas southbound supporters need to board at St. Peters.

Furthermore, buses 2, 3, 4, 12, 13, 15 and 16 all stop within walking distance of the stadium.

Address: Stadium of Light, Sunderland, SR5 1SU

Eat, drink, and sleep near the Stadium of Light

The Stadium of Light is located in a typical British urban area, and while there are a few places around to get a drink or something to eat, e.g. at North Bridge St., you can just as well do this in Sunderland’s city centre. which is a short walk away.

There are not many hotels in Sunderland, and none in the immediate vicinity of the stadium. In the city centre Mowbray Guest House seems a very good alternative. Theoretically at walking distance, but also close to the metro.

Alternatively, you can also pick one of the hotels on the North Sea coast, from where it is a 20 to 30-minute walk to the stadium. The Best Western Tavistock Roker Hotel and Roker Lodge are two options. The Balmoral & Terrace Guest Houses gets excellent reviews, but require at least a three-night stay.

For all hotels near the Stadium of Light click here . Of course, if you do not care about regional rivalries, you can also stay in nearby Newcastle and catch a metro to the stadium. You can find the options in Newcastle’s city centre here .

Sunderland Tickets

Tickets for Sunderland games can be purchased online , by phone + 44 (0) 871 911 1973, or in person at the Stadium of Light ticket office.

Tickets are also available at the ticket office before kick-off. Sunderland typically only sell out the Tyne-Wear derby and possibly one or two other high-profile matches per season.

Tickets fall into three pricing categories. Tickets for category C matches, the cheapest, range from £25.00 for a seat behind the goal or in the corners to £30.00 for a central seat at one of the long sides. Tickets for category A matches, the most expensive, range between £32.00 and £40.00.

You can find a stadium plan here . For more information call the ticket office at +44 (0) 871 911 1973.

Stadium of Light tours

Sunderland offer guided stadium tours round the stadium that include a visit to the players’ lounge, dressing room, players’ tunnel, and dugouts. The tours last just over 60 minutes.

Tours run roughly once a month and more often during the summer holidays. For exact dates, availability, and bookings check the Sunderland website or call the Tours Hotline +44 (0) 191 551 5055.

The tour costs £10.00.

Photos of the Stadium of Light

Relevant Internet links

Safc.com – Official website of Sunderland AFC. Visitsunderland.com – Tourist information for the Sunderland area. Nexus.org.uk – Journey planner and Sunderland area public transport information.

Sunderland v Blackpool me and pals made a weekend of it beautiful stadium 30 mins walk from city center fans friendly and our bets won we had a class meal pubs even a party for a family day out

Great stadium and atmosphere,my Dad enjoyed his last visit before he died a life long support.

Great stadium and atmosphere. Good family zone. Excellent price range depending on what you want. On the downside seats need replacing (faded) and away fans housed in the top tier out of the way.

I have a season ticket there. Good stadium but I have one or two flaws. The concourses are terrible, you order a plain beef burger and they give you a ham burger with cheese and mayo! Also, the toilets are rotten. There are cigarettes everywhere, even in the family zone and premier concourse! Good atmosphere though, and we always stay behind our team. When we won 2-1 vs Newcastle, the supporters never stopped cheering and singing even when the geordies eaqualised. I would rate it 5.25 out of 10.

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Stadium of Light - Sunderland Stadium Guide

Home » England » Stadium of Light

By Football Tripper Last Updated: September 9, 2021

Table of Contents

Stadium facts.

• Sunderland A.F.C.
• Seating Plan
• Stadium Tours
• Ticket Information

Airports and Flying

The Stadium of Light is the home ground of Sunderland Association Football Club. With enough seats for 49,000 it boasts the fifth largest capacity of any stadium in England.

The ground’s name was chosen as a tribute to the regions proud industrial and mining heritage.

Sunderland Stadium Guide

Stadium of light history.

As was the case for a lot football teams in England after the publication of the Taylor Report in 1990, Sunderland were required to convert their stadium into an all-seater. This was in direct response to the tragic events of the “Hillsborough Disaster”, which saw the tragic death of 96 fans during an FA Cup semi-final match between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest .

At the time Sunderland were playing their home matches at Roker Park which first opened way back in 1897. Designed in a different era, the conversion to all-seating greatly reduced the capacity of the ground, and thus in order to make up for the matchday revenue shortfall, the ground would need to be expanded.

However due to Roker Park’s residential location, this would be impossible and thus Sunderland Chairman Bob Murray began to scout locations for a new stadium as early as 1991.

Eventually the Black Cats identified a location on the north bank of the River Wear, and the designers of the Amsterdam Arena , Ballast Wiltshier, were hired to draw up concept plans.

Initially proposed as a venue for Euro 96 , planning permission was only granted in November 1995, and thus participation in the tournament was evidently too ambitious.

As was the proposed 49,000 capacity design, which was scaled back during construction, although this was later achieved in 2000 when the north stand was renovated.

Rather fittingly Ajax were invited to play the inaugural friendly match on the 30th July 1997, and ten years later to celebrate a decade at the Stadium of Light, the club held a friendly against Juventus on 6th August 2007.

View of Stadium of Light

Sunderland A.F.C. Info

Stadium of light seating plan.

Below is a seating plan of Sunderland's Stadium of Light:

Stand Photos

The stadium of light is comprised of the following four sections: The Stronbow Stand (North), The East Stand, The Fanily Stand (South) and the West Stand.

Click the thumbnails above to enlarge an image of each stand and to read a more detailed description of each part of the Stadium.

Matchday Experience

Stadium of light away end.

Away fans are housed within the upper sections of seating within the North Stand similar to the away section at St James Park.

The standard allocation of tickets appears to be around 3,000 although it can be extended by up to three times as much – 9,000 for Cup matches.

Sat within the second and third tier, some of the seats suffer from restricted views due to the position of the roof. In most cases you can see the pitch however it can feel as if you’re watching the game through a letterbox!

The atmosphere is usually great on matchdays with the concourse offering well-priced snacks and drinks.

The Mackems are some of the friendliest fans in the country and it often rates as one of the top away days in English football.

Best Pubs near ground

Two popular matchday hangs out are The Victory Pub and The New Democratic Club which are on North Bridge Street just before you approach (and cross) Wearmouth Bridge.

Be warned though that they both get pretty rammed with fans from both Sunderland and the visiting set of supporters.

There is also The Wheatsheaf, Terminus, The Deaf Centre and Colliery Tavern.

Another option is the Albion pub which is five minutes off Roker avenue on a road called Victor Street, and failing this Harbour View on the seafront is an understated place where you can have a few drinks whilst overlooking the River Wear.

Food - Places to eat

Just south of the River Wear on the Sunderland metro line is a heavily commercialised area which has a number of dining options within.

There is the likes of Nando’s, Subway and McDonalds in addition to several coffee shops and supermarkets.

Inside and around the Stadium of Light itself there are the usual options such as pies, fish & chips and sausage rolls which thanks to the northern location, are all reasonably priced.

Sunderland Club Shop

Sunderland AFC operate three stores throughout the city in addition to their own official online store . The main club shop is at The Stadium of Light itself.

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Saturday: 9.00 am – 6.00 pm
• Sunday: 10.00 am – 4.00 pm
• Matchdays: Before kick-off and for 1 hour after full time whistle.

Can you take a stadium Tour?

Tours of the Stadium of light are available throughout the year excluding matchdays and can be booked by phoning the tours hotline on 0871 911 1224.

The following prices are currently in effect:

• Adults: £10.00
• Children (Under 16s) and Seniors (Over 65s): £5.00
• Family Ticket (2x adults, 2x children): £25.00

How to buy Sunderland Tickets

If you’ve tried to buy football tickets before from official websites you’re probably more than aware that most clubs price tickets within three price brands.

This is also the case at Sunderland with the below adult prices.

Ticket Prices:

• Category A: £32.00 – £40.00
• Category B: £27.00 – £35.00
• Category C: £25.00 – £40.00

Under 16s and concessions range between £10.00 – £15.00 depending on the profile of the match and you can book tickets either online, by phoning the hotline (0871 911 1973) or in person at the box office which is open similar times to the club store.

How to get to Stadium of Light

Where is stadium of light.

Stadium of Light sits less than 1 mile north of Sunderland’s city centre just across the River Wear Bridge. It can be walked to in just under 20 minutes.

Stadium of Light’s address for satnav is as follows:

• Sunderland SR5 1SU

When it comes to parking there is a limited amount available at the ground, and instead you’re advised to look elsewhere such as the nearby metro station or nearer the city centre which requires you to cross the Wearmouth Bridge.

Another option which is the free Park and Ride Scheme operating from Sunderland Enterprise Park just off of the A1231.

With buses running every 5 minutes for 90 minutes before and until everyone has gone home after kick off, this might be the best option for those not planning to make a weekend of it.

Train - Public Transport

The Stadium of light is highly walkable from Sunderland’s train station at 15 minutes or so but if you want to, you can get to the stadium by using the metro line and getting off at either the Stadium of Light or St Peters station with the latter actually being nearer.

After the game has finished please note that each station will only go in one direction with the stadium of light going Northbound towards Newcastle and St Peters South back to the city centre.

https://www.safcstore.com

Sunderland lacks its own airport which means the nearest is 23 miles away at Newcastle with a drive time a fraction under 40 minutes.

You can also jump on the Metro transit system which will take you there in just under an hour.

Hotels Near Stadium of Light

There is now a hotel at the stadium itself as well as a Travel Lodge and newly opened Premier Inn in the city centre (Thanks Joe Trait). There is also the Barclay Hotel which is across the Wearmouth Bridge.

Besides this, you’re faced with either heading east along the A183 to Sunderland Marina, or heading south to Sunderland city centre where there is the likes of Burton House and The Norfolk Hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who plays at stadium of light.

English side Sunderland play their home matches at Stadium of Light.

What is the capacity of Stadium of Light?

As of 2024 Stadium of Light has an official seating capacity of 49,000 for Football matches.

When was Stadium of Light opened?

Stadium of Light officially opened in 1997 and is home to Sunderland

What is the postcode for Stadium of Light?

The postcode for Stadium of Light is SR5 1SU.

Are there any Covid restrictions at the stadium?

Covid Restrictions may be in place when you visit Stadium of Light in 2024. Please visit the official website of Sunderland for full information on changes due to the Coronavirus.

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Stadium Of Light

Capacity: 49,000 (all seated) Address: Stadium Of Light, Sunderland, SR5 1SU Telephone: 0371 911 1200 Fax: 0191 551 5123 Ticket Office: 0371 911 1973 StadiumTours: 0371 911 1200 Pitch Size: 105 x 68 metres Pitch Type: Grass Club Nickname: The Black Cats Year Ground Opened: 1997 Undersoil Heating: Yes Shirt Sponsors: Spread Ex Sports Kit Manufacturer: Nike Home Kit: Red and White Away Kit: Pink and Purple Third Kit: Luminous-Yellow and Navy

What Is The Stadium Of Light Like?

Outside the stadium, there is a statue of former FA Cup-winning manager Bob Stokoe, as well as some reminders of the former Wearmouth Colliery, on the site on which the stadium was built. Behind the West Stand, there is a large red wheel, an emblem of the lifts that used to take the miners down to the mines. Also outside one corner of the stadium is a large miners’ lamp. If you feel a little mischievous, then ask the nearest Sunderland fan whether it is a Geordie Lamp. Don’t worry you won’t get any physical abuse, just a long lecture that the lamp is, in fact, a Davy lamp!

In December 2018 the club renamed the South Stand, the Roker Stand, in tribute to their old ground, following a vote by fans.

What is it like for visiting fans?

Away fans are now housed in the Upper Tier of the Carling North Stand at one end of the stadium, where around 3,000 fans can be housed for league games. For cup games then up to 9,000 visiting supporters can be accommodated in this tier if demand requires it). The away turnstiles, which are electronic, are numbered 69-72 and open 90 minutes before kick-off. Although the facilities are fine in this area, you do have to climb a large number of flights of stairs to reach this top tier. It almost feels as if this area has been ‘tucked in’ under the stadium roof, as it comes down over this section. It means that if you are sitting towards the back of the tier, then although you can see the pitch, you get a limited view of the majority of the rest of the stadium, giving the feeling of being a bit cut off from it all. On the food front, then the club offers; Fish & Chips (£5.50) and various Pies (£3.50) including the Chicken Balti Pie, Cornish Pasties (£3) and Jumbo Sausage Rolls (£3).

When people ask me which grounds are ‘the best’ to visit, then Sunderland inevitably comes out as one of my top five recommendations. On its day the place can be rocking, the PA system deafening (especially when the classical piece ‘Dance Of The Knights’ from Prokofiev’s ‘Romeo & Juliet’ is played before the players come onto the pitch at the start of the game and the Futurehead’s ‘Beginning of the Twist’, as the teams come out of the tunnel) and the Sunderland supporters exceptionally friendly (I was even given a Sunderland shirt by one supporter!). But bear in mind you are not allowed to swear inside the stadium, so if you persist you may find yourself being ejected from the ground!

Pubs for away fans

• The Wheatsheaf – 207 Roker Avenue, SR6 0BN
• The Cambridge – 88 Fulwell Road, SR6 0BJ
• Colliery Tavern – 12 Southwick Road, SR5 1EQ
• The Albion – Victor Street, SR6 0EN
• The Avenue – 26 Zetland Square, SR6 0EQ
• Harbour View – 1 Benedict Road, SR6 0NX
• The Wosley – Millem Terrace, SR6 0ES
• The William Jameson – 30-32 Fawcett Street, SR1 1RH

Sticky Korean chicken and chips at Sunderland ( @SunderlandAFC ) 💷 £5 pic.twitter.com/PQido4MMEJ — Footy Scran (@FootyScran) February 14, 2023

Pulled pork and beef with chips, stuffing and gravy at Sunderland (outside @SunderlandAFC ) 💷 £3.80 pic.twitter.com/DAPbrmoTRf — Footy Scran (@FootyScran) April 24, 2022

Latest developments

Kevin Davis informs me; ‘The club have secured planning permission to add another 7,200 seats to the Roker (South) Stand, which would take the capacity to 55,000. The club have not yet confirmed when (if ever) they will go ahead with this. If the club then proceeds after this to add another tier to the East Stand then the final capacity would be around 64,000.’

In February 2023, Sunderland announced new stadium and Academy of Light plans as part of the clubs energy efficient drive.

The club also announced in March 2024 that Safe Standing will be introduced at the stadium for the 2024/25 season. Safe Standing rails will be installed across blocks U14 and U37 from row 23 and blocks U38 and U39 from row 24 in the Roker End.

Younger football fans – as in sub 30-years-old – will probably associate Sunderland with their current ground, The Stadium of Light, and nothing else. The prior generation, however, will always know the Black Cats as playing their home matches at Roker Park; for just short of a century Sunderland called that ground home and it holds plenty of club history be it the record attendance or the Sunderland stadium that first tasted European football. Still, there are a fair few other grounds that have been used by the club over the years – particularly in the early years. Sunderland have also played at Newcastle Road and Abbs Field where they spent two years each.

Before that, Horatio Street, Groves Field and Blue House Field all hosted games for around a year apiece whilst a ground called ‘The Cedars’ is known to have been a Sunderland stadium at some point but with details largely unknown.

Directions and Car Parking

Exit the A1 at Junction 62, the Durham/Sunderland exit and take the A690 towards Sunderland. After about eight miles, you will reach a roundabout, at which turn left onto the A19, signposted for the Tyne Tunnel. Stay in the left hand lane and take the second slip road towards Sunderland (signposted Stadium Of Light, A1231 Sunderland). This takes you onto a bridge crossing over the River Wear. Turn right onto the A1231 following the signs for Sunderland. Go straight over four roundabouts into Sunderland.

Then go through two sets of traffic lights (keeping in the left hand lane at the second set, going straight on towards Roker rather than the city centre) and you will see the Stadium car park on your right, about a mile after the traffic lights. However there is only limited parking at the ground itself and there is a residents only parking scheme in operation on streets close to the stadium (especially on the estate behind the North Stand). So please check for any warning signs on lamp posts before parking, or you may end up with a hefty parking ticket for your trouble.

Instead you can park at the Stadium of Light Metro Station (cost £1) or alternatively, you can park in the city centre and walk to the ground (about 10-15 minutes). The traffic for a couple of miles around the ground was solid when I went so allow plenty of time for your journey.

There is also a ‘Park & Ride’ scheme in operation on matchdays, free for both home and away supporters. This is situated at Sunderland Enterprise Park, which is well signposted just off the A1231. Buses run every five minutes, for 90 minutes before kick off and continue after the game until everyone has gone. There is also the option of renting a private driveway near the Stadium of Light via YourParkingSpace.co.uk .

Post Code for SAT NAV: SR5 1SU

By train and metro.

Sunderland Railway Station is located just under one mile away from the Stadium of Light and takes around 15-20 minutes to walk. Paul Duck informs me; ‘You will exit the station opposite Greggs. Turn right out of the station heading up towards a JJB Sports store and walk through the gap between JJB and a nail bar to the right of JJB. Keep walking straight ahead and within 100m you will see the Stadium Of Light rising up in front of you over the Wearmouth Bridge’. Simply cross the bridge, and turn left into Millennium Way, opposite the now closed Wheatsheaf pub. The away turnstiles are located on the side of the ground which is straight ahead.

Ashley Smith adds; “The Metro stations called the ‘Stadium of Light’ and ‘St. Peters’ both serve the stadium. The metro provides regular and rapid transport from both Newcastle and the South of Sunderland. Both stations are only a few minutes walk from the stadium, although away supporters should alight at St Peters Station as that is closer to their entrance. This provides an alternative to the regular rail services. Please note though that after the game the Stadium of Light metro station only operates Northbound (i.e. towards Newcastle) and St Peters metro station only operates Southbound (i.e. towards Sunderland centre). Michael Freanch a visiting Birmingham City fan informs me; ‘If you are going into Newcastle after the match then then it may be an idea to walk walk into the centre of Sunderland (10-15 minutes walk) and get metro from there. You will get a seat and also avoid the large crowds at the Stadium of Light station’.

The nearest airport is Newcastle which is located 24 miles away. However the journey is pretty straightforward as both the Stadium Of Light and Newcastle Airport are both served by the Metro transit system. There are frequent departures to Sunderland and the journey time is just under an hour.

Ticket Prices

For more information on ticket prices for Sunderland matches, visit the official Sunderland website for more information.

Buy Sunderland Match Tickets From StubHub

StubHub is the official ticketing marketplace partner of Everton FC. This allows season ticket holders to sell tickets for individual matches where they are unable to attend. As they are being sold by supporters, prices tend to be normally more reasonable than going through a ticketing agency. Please note these tickets are for Home or Neutral supporters only. Check out their current availability of Sunderland FC Tickets .

Programme and Fanzines

Red & White Review Official Programme £3 A Love Supreme Fanzine £2.50 Sex & Chocolate Fanzine £1.50

Local Rivals

Sunderland vs Newcastle rivalry: All football fans know about this derby despite the two teams being separated by an entire league right now. There aren’t a wealth of teams in the North East and these two are just 12 miles apart. There is, however, a non-footballing element to the dislike between Geordies and Mackems; that rivalry can be traced back to the English Civil War. Violent outbreaks are not uncommon in this fixture.

Sunderland vs Middlesbrough rivalry: The Tees-Wear derby does bring a little bit of fireworks to matchday with the clubs both located in the North East of  England. Sunderland, however, are much closer to Newcastle and that means their fans care much less about this derby – although winning is still nice!

Disabled facilities

For details of disabled facilities and club contact at the ground please visit the relevant page on the  Level Playing Field website .

Stadium Of Light Tours

The Club offer daily tours of the stadium, except on matchdays.

These cost £10 for adults and £5 for concessions. A family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) is also available at £25. For tour times and availability ring the tour hotline on 0871 911 1224.

Record and Average Attendance

Record Attendance

At The Stadium Of Light: 48,353 v Liverpool Premier League, 13th April 2002.

At Roker Park: 75,118 v Derby County FA Cup 6th Round Replay, 8th March 1933.

Average Attendance 2023-2024: 40,412 (Championship) 2022-2023: 38,631 (Championship) 2021-2022: 30,847 (Championship) 2020-2021: 0 (Covid) (League One) 2019-2020: 30,118 (League One)

Map showing the location of the Stadium Of Light, Railway, Metro Stations & pubs

Club website links

Official web site:  www.safc.com, unofficial web sites:.

Ready To Go Supporters Club – Heart Of England Branch  Into The Light Forum A Love Supreme Fanzine We Are Wearside

Stadium of Light Sunderland Feedback

If anything is incorrect or you have something to add, please e-mail me at: [email protected] and I’ll update the guide.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to:

Owen Pavey for providing the ground layout diagram

Haydn Gleed for providing the YouTube video of the Stadium of Light.

The Stadium of Light Tour video was produced by SuplasVegas and made publicly available for distribution via YouTube.

Chris Harding (Chelsea) 24th May 2009

Sunderland v chelsea premier league sunday, may 24th, 2009, 4pm chris harding (chelsea fan).

It was my second trip up to Sunderland following the infamous 1985 Milk Cup quater finals and I was really looking forward to it. It was last day of the season and as a thanks for our support, Chelsea laid on a free train from London, the 4hr journey weren't too bad and as you enter Sunderland you get great views of the North Eastern coast. 

As we arrived we soon got ushered into the town centre where their are a few pubs and bars to drink in and after a lovely refreshing beer we made our way to the stadium.The stadium is very easy to find, just follow the huge crowds and as you go over the bridge we saw the highly impressive Stadium of Light. We got ourselves a burger outside and headed for the away end that was the nearest stand (if your coming from the bridge). Everything was very reasonable and as there was free travel it was turning into a very cheap day out. 

Inside the ground it was really impressive with three large stands and very unique, one of my favourites in the premiership and the away end provides a very good view. We took the full 3,000 allocation and the atmosphere was electric from both teams at the start as Sunderland were looking to survive relegation and their biggest rivals potentially going down they raised the roof. The news from Villa Park that Newcastle were losing, went down a treat from both supports as the loudest cheer of the game was that Newcastle were going down. 

The game itself was very good also as Chelsea dominated and as the game came to a close our quality showed when Anelka, looking for his golden boot, smashed a glorious shot into the top corner. As the final whistle went we applauded the Chelsea boys who gave a great effort all season and a few of our fans got taken away for encroaching on the pitch.

Outside the ground on the way back to the station was quality as well, as the sunderland fans revelled in their big rivals going down but were also very friendly with know trouble what so ever. Overall then a great day out capped by a classic Chelsea win and made it one of the best aways of the season and I for one can't wait for Sunderland next year.

James Weeks (West Ham United) 12th January 2013

Sunderland v west ham united premier league saturday, january 12th, 2013, 3pm james weeks (west ham fan).

1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):  

Well, being an exiled Iron and living bang on the Cornwall Devon border, completing the grounds like Newcastle, Middlesbrough and Sunderland in the 92 early on was key for me, meaning that I could casually visit them and not have to fret and worry about not doing them. I also quite liked the look of the Stadium of Light, a big, modern ground usually my type but this enticed me to go.

2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking? 

Leaving from our overnight stay in Derby we arrived in Sunderland at around 12:15pm and found parking quite easily. We parked in a metro-link car park of which parking cost an incredibly and nearly unbelievable £1 for a whole day, this was also a 15 minute stroll to the ground which made it even better. As we turned into Sunderland the ground was easily visible from early stages.

3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly? 

With neither of us drinking the only place we visited was a McDonalds in which we met a few other hammers but also came across a few rough looking Sunderland fans, apart from those 2 or 3 the fans seemed a friendly bunch and didn't bother or threaten us in anyway. Getting into ground involves a slight walk up a staircase that has two concourses, one for food and one mostly for drink, we went up to the food section.

4. What were your thoughts on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground? 

I wasn't too keen on the away end, it felt as with we were being locked away in the top of the ground which wouldn't help with the atmosphere at all, as for the rest of the ground, I was reasonably impressed. It was very state of the art and would look good if it was full all the time. The ground is like a bowl so there are no individual stands about, if it was me I'd put the away fans back behind the goal.

5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc.. 

Well, the less said the better. We never got going and got completely thrashed (3-0) and deservedly so, an awful performance which made the atmosphere quite poor, although we never really stopped singing (during Sunderlands celebrations for the 3rd we started going mental) it was hard to make a decent atmosphere because of the fact we were were up 'in the Gods'. The stewards were not of my liking either. We always stand at every away game and nothing is ever said, every single fan stands without fail and no problems were caused, until the stewards came round and told us all to sit, which obviously didnt go down to well. I know theyre only doing what they are told, but when there are no problems, and then starting an argument with 2,000  inebriated and annoyed Cockneys definitely wasn't going to end well as they gave up shortly after.

6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game: 

Easy walk back to the car amongst thousands of Sunderland fans who surprisingly were not overly cocky or joyous in defeat. Got back in the car and a short wait while the traffic cleared before we set off back to Derby for the second overnight stay.

7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out: 

The ground was nice but the city wasn't, great, plus and awful game. But would I do it all over again? Of course I would! Come on you Irons!

Glynn Sharkey (Neutral) 24th August 2014

Sunderland v manchester united premier league sunday, august 24th, 2014, 4pm glynn sharkey (neutral).

I went to Gateshead v Grimsby the day before and was stopping overnight at my mate's in the North East which is one of my favourite parts of the country. Sunderland is a lovely town, I've always rated the place and have great memories of when Grimsby used to play at Roker Park. In my opinion The Stadium of Light has more character than most of the new builds, the fans are second to none, and Sunderland is a cracking drinking town. I met Neil at 10pm in the Centurian at Newcastle station. The last Metro to Seaburn saw us pub crawling to his, kebab in hand.

Roker seafront early doors to clear my throbbing head just confirmed my opinion of the beauty of the coast there. I really sometimes think that people don't appreciate what they have on their doorstep. My mobile roused me from my seafront bench slumber and got me back to Neil's where his better half had prepared us a smoked salmon and champagne breakfast. Trust me, the bubbles do go to your head. Then it was a walk into town and first stop the Blue Bell followed by a taxi towards the ground. A few boozers later saw us queuing up to get in.

I remember Roker Park when Roker Park was Roker Park, The Stadium of Light is just as good if not better for atmosphere. It's been open for years but still has a new feeling, clean, tidy and a little bit partisan. Our seats in the the West Stand Premier Concourse, and the views over the city from the windows behind being second to none.

The atmosphere was cracking as to be expected. I saw less than 1800 at a game the day before compared to a more or less sold out game this day which is as far apart as it gets. Everything was premier league.. atmosphere, toilets, the staff. They were all top notch, all brilliant but the quality of the football didn't seem any better from the previous day's non league. A few thousand Manchester fans seemed very quiet and a draw was a fair result

Ten minute walk into Town and Wetherspoons with Yate's across the road gave us a swift pint or two, before my train took me back to Newcastle, less than 4 hours after full time I was home, feet up with a single malt.

This rounded off a brilliant weekend away after watching non league footy the day before, I remember coming here all those years ago to watch Grimsby and you don't realise what you have lost until it's gone.

James Mullaney (West Bromwich Albion) 22nd February 2015

Sunderland v west bromwich albion premier league saturday, february 21st, 2015, 3pm james mullaney (west bromwich albion).

I visited the Stadium of Light as a West Brom supporter, on the 21st Feb 2015. I had visited previously, but that was years ago, when the away end was in the South Stand.

Getting to the stadium is easy as long as you can follow the signs, that start to appear just outside of Sunderland itself. However parking is in short supply  around the stadium itself. Many of the back roads and estates have official club signs on them, warning to respect residential parking, so not doing so could lead you to a hefty fine. I ended up parking at the Metro/Train Station, next to the large Tescos, and less than five minutes from the ground. It cost £1- great value. The only catch is traffic is pretty gridlocked in the area after the game, but unless you are local, I'd expect a long trip home anyway.

The Stadium of Light is a fantastic stadium, with great facilities and a good look. Away fans are housed in the Upper Tier of the North Stand. This means that it is quite a climb up a number of flights of stairs to actually reach the tier. But to make the journey to the top entertaining, the Club have added red statements on the walls, relating to the current height of your climb. For example, at 36ft you will see "36ft- The height that Chris Waddle's penalty reached in 1990." It's a small touch, but it is guaranteed to make you smile.

The Upper Tier features a refreshments concourse, with food/drink on sale, and male and female toilets accessible. Prices are what you'd expect at a top flight ground. I bought a balti pie which was very average, but I've had worse. What makes it for me though are the TV Screens. Past and present year matches are shown, as well as a live feed of the current game, with Soccer Saturday also shown. Fantastic.

The stairs to your seat are quite steep, but there are hand rails to help you. There are 20 rows, 5 of which are usually empty due to safety (these are the front rows). There is an okay amount of legroom. You are given a good view of the pitch, despite your height. However as other reviews state, the further you go back, the less of the stadium you see. I was on Row 18, and saw most of the stadium, but could not see the big screen.

Overall, I'd say that the Stadium of Light has one of the best away ends I have been in. I felt at home, and the people are generally nice. Would definitely recommend as a stadium to visit.

Result: Sunderland 0 West Bromwich Albion 0 Attendance: 40,943

Cara Smith (Aston Villa) 14th March 2015

Aston villa v sunderland premier league saturday, 14th march 2015, 3pm cara smith (aston villa fan).

Why you were looking forward to going to visiting the Stadium of Light?

This was to be my first Premier League away game – others that I had previously gone to were just been pre-season games.

How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?

The journey up from the Midlands was straightforward, with no problems. We decided to park at the Sunderland Enterprise 'Park and Ride' where we saw a sign for 'Match Day Parking'.  A steward signalled us to follow him and told us where to park. When we got out of our car, we asked two Sunderland fans how it worked as we wasn't sure if we had to pay. They told us that it was actually free, which was really good. They also showed us where to get the bus to the stadium and where to catch it after the match had ended. We chatted with them on the way and they seemed friendly enough.

What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?

As explained above those home fans were friendly and when we got on the bus, we seemed to be the only two Villa fans on there – however we didn't feel intimidated at all. Another Sunderland fan suggested that we visit the Colliery Tavern as we got off the bus and we decided to go there for a drink. The pub was small inside but they had a marquee and a little bar out that back, which helped getting served. There was a good mix of home and away fans.

What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?

Very modern compared to Villa Park. We were seated three rows from the very back of the North Stand, which was very high up. It was generally a good view of the game although couldn't see the screens on the opposite end.

Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc.. 

Didn't get any food or drink at the ground. But the game was good from the Villa point of view. Both teams had been struggling before this fixture and Sunderland again didn't play all to well, with Villa running out 4-0 winners. We got the 3 points but nothing kicked off outside afterwards.

Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:

The buses back to the car park are located behind the North Stand – come out the ground and head towards the main road you'll more than likely see a queue of people already waiting. We didn't have to wait long and we were back at the car park in good time.

Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:

Great experience for my first away game. Thanks Sunderland!

Steve Ellis (Exeter City) 25th August 2015

Sunderland v exeter city league cup 2nd round tuesday 25th august 2015, 7.45pm steve ellis (exeter city fan).

Why were you looking forward to visiting the Stadium of Light?

Being a supporter of a League Two club this was certainly a game and ground not to be missed, especially with 57 places between the two clubs at the time. Also as ever there was the belief that an upset could be on the cards.

How easy was your journey and finding the ground?

The journey to the ground was straightforward. As always I travelled up on the supporters coach, leaving Exeter at 10.30am and arriving in Sunderland just after 6pm. The coach dropped us off on a small road just behind the North Stand.

What did you do before the game, pub, chippy….home fans friendly?

On arriving we took a 5 minute walk. Going past the away entrance, around the stadium and Davy lamp, then crossing over the main road to the Colliers Tavern. This is a small but busy pub with a beer garden. Drinks seemed a to be priced averagely starting at around £3.40. Home fans I encountered were friendly.

What you thought on seeing the Stadium of Light, first impressions of away end and then rest of stadium?

The Stadium of Light is very modern. The away fans turnstile is separate due to the visitors being in the top tier of the stand. Once through the gate there is about nine sets of stairs to climb before eventually reaching the main concourse. A lift is available for disabled supporters, who are in one given a corner section of the away end. It is quite steep but there is plenty of leg room, also with no supporting pillars the view is superb. Behind the away stand is a bar which shows Sky Sports at half time and also has a live feed of the match, whilst the game inside is being played.

The Stadium of Light

Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, refreshments etc.

The game was a classic cup tie with both teams up for it, going in at half time locked at 3-3. The Black Cats eventually went on to win 6-3. The atmosphere was not great as the only noise seemed to be coming from the away section, the only time you can hear the home fans is when they score. The stewards were fantastic. Refreshments were averagely priced, alcoholic beverages priced at £3.50, pies starting at £3. The toilets were also clean.

Comments on getting away from the ground after the game. 

Getting away afterwards, the coaches were waiting behind the North Stand where they dropped us off. As you'd expect, traffic is slow when leaving the ground but once back on the motorway it was easy going. We got back to Exeter at around 6am

Attendance: 14,360 (including 495 Exeter fans)

Mark Coome (Tottenham Hotspur) 13th September 2015

Sunderland v tottenham hotspur premier league sunday 13th september 2015, 1.30pm mark coome (tottenham hotspur fan).

Why were you looking forward to visiting the Stadium of Light? 

I had never been to the Stadium of Light and also Spurs away tickets are hard to come by. I dropped lucky on my application this time, so I had no hesitation in going.

I travelled up from where I live in Scunthorpe giving myself plenty of time. The trip was via the M181, M18, A1 and A19 and was hassle free on a lovely sunny day. The scenery as I progressed north was lovely, including some sea views. Journey time was 2 hours 10 minutes to cover the 140 miles. I parked in a spot made known to me by a fellow Scunthorpe Spur. I ended up parking, for free, on some waste land at the junction of Thomas Street and Alexandra Avenue. From the parking space it was a 10-15 minute walk to the ground. I cut through Wayfarer Road and then followed a footpath down by the river Wear. When near the ground, I climbed a grassy bank with a defined footpath already worn into it.

I headed to a nearby McDonalds, situated near a Tesco Extra. It was very pleasant sitting outside in the sunshine. The home fans all seemed friendly and there was no hint of any animosity and club colours were being openly worn.

Very nice ground. Liked the statues around the outside. The statues dedicated to the fans were a nice touch and of course the iconic pose of Bob Stokoe running across the Wembley turf in 1973 stirred memories.

Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..

The two teams who had yet to win and badly need to get off and running. Generally it was a poor affair. Defoe should have scored for them when through on goal, but amazingly he hit the post. Spurs were very slow in the build up and we only looked likely to score when Townsend and Lamela came on. Finally after 83 minutes a slick move involving Mason, Kane and Lamela saw Mason finish in style. Unfortunately Pantilimon took him out as he scored and he left the match on a stretcher. There was a late scare when Rodwell hit the bar. Both sets of fans were quiet, unusually for a Spurs away following. Sunderland fans almost seemed resigned to defeat once we scored and many had left by the final whistle. Catering was as you'd expect in the newer stadiums and the staff were very polite and friendly. I did like the slogans on the walls as you climbed the steps to the away end such as "Nine small steps for man…One normal step for Peter Crouch."

Getting away was very slow back to the A19 and traffic was heavy all the way back down the A19 and A1. This probably had something to do with the fact that the Great North Run was being held at the same time.

Lovely drive up there, fabulous weather and easy parking. Cracking stadium with a friendly atmosphere and a very welcome three points.

Mark Jamieson (West Ham United) 3rd October 2015

Sunderland v west ham united premier league saturday 3rd octonber 2015, 3pm mark jamieson (west ham united fan).

West Ham were unbeaten away from home so far this season. Plus I have been to the Stadium of Light several times before and have always enjoyed the trip. However so far I had never seen us win in Sunderland, so I was crossing my fingers for a good result.

We got the train into Sunderland Station and it was a simple 10 minute walk to the stadium. Some people were getting the Metro to St Peters Station but it took around about the same time.

Went to the local Wetherspoon's Pub (The William Jameson) just around the corner from the train station. Great range of beers and reasonably priced food. Home and away supporters mixed with quite a friendly atmosphere. Even went back there after the match to watch the Rugby World Cup. There is also a Burger King and a Subway near the train station and burger vans located on the way to the ground.

On first seeing the ground the Stadium of Light is a very impressive and modern stadium. The away section turnstiles are located around the far side of the stadium and it is quite a long climb up several flights of stairs to the upper tier concourse so you may need to take a couple breaks on the way up! You also pass the kiosks selling alcohol on the way up the stairs. I didn't try any but it seemed reasonably priced for a football ground (at £3.40 a pint).

Overall, the facilities were excellent. There were rarely any queues for food and drink and there was a well-staffed betting desk and clean toilets. I highly recommend you try the Steak and Ale and Chicken Balti pies (£3.50 each) as they are some of the best around. The stewards were overall very friendly and helped you find your seat. Away fans can produce an amazing atmosphere inside the ground and if you are as lucky as me to be sat on the very front row, the view of the stadium is wonderful. The game was a very entertaining 2-2 draw in the end and as Wet Ham were 2-0 down after 20 minutes we went away very happy to have stolen a point.

There are large crowds heading back towards the city centre after the match and police were not letting people use St Peters Metro Station so crowds were moving slowly and traffic was stood still for long periods of time. I also wore my teams colours walking out after the match and did not get any trouble from the Sunderland supporters.

In conclusion, Sunderland is a very enjoyable and good value for money day out and I would recommend it to anyone. Home fans are friendly and welcoming and the stadium is one that every football fan must visit.

Scott Bowman (West Ham United) 3rd October 2015

Sunderland v west ham united premier league saturday 3rd october 2015, 3pm scott bowman (west ham united fan).

Why were you looking forward to visiting the Stadium of Light in Sunderland?    

The Stadium of Light was the last of the big north-eastern clubs I needed to visit and another ground to tick off the list.

How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?    

I was picked up by a mate at 6:30am for a fairly comfortable drive up north. We didn't really hit traffic and got up there by 11:30am

What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?    

After linking up with some Mackem's friends of my mate we headed to the stadium sharing a bit of banter and looking forward to the game. We headed to the Colliery Tavern which had a marquee outside so supporters could avoid going in to the fairly busy pub. Plenty of West Ham and Sunderland around with absolutely no issues. Drink prices were great as I remember getting three pints and a coke for less than a tenner, which was an absolute bargain!

What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Stadium of Light?    

Outside one part of the stadium was a fan-zone, which I have to say I'm not a fan of. It takes away from the authentic football experience and seems manufactured and plastic. The ground itself looks more or less of the new identikit grounds that clubs move into and they lack character and imagination. However inside they do add a bit of character with famous quote from various football personalities as you're walking up the stairs or walking to the concourse, which I thought was a nice touch. At pitch side, despite being placed into the gods, the view I had was great with a full view of the pitch and of course the goals!

Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..    

Not the best I have to say from either side. West Ham were flat, which was probably due to high expectation considering our results on the road so far this season and conceding two goals in the first half. Sunderland fans were probably in a state of bewilderment at leading a game and I think the goal at the stroke of half time kicked the stuffing out if them. The second half was more or less West Ham and after Payet's equaliser, I really did think we were in control and thought we were going to go on and win the game.

After the match we went straight back to the Colliery Tavern, this side inside and got speaking to some locals while waiting for our friends. Very friendly all round and I can't speak highly enough of the Sunderland fans. That said, after a night out with them, the journey home the next day was one of the hardest 5/6 hours I've ever had to endure, with several unscheduled stop offs!

Good day out, friendly fans, decent banter and if you're staying over you have Newcastle just 15 miles up the road. I'll definitely be back.

Rob Lawler (Liverpool) 30th December 2015

Sunderland v liverpool premier league wednesday 30th december 2015, 7.45pm rob lawler (liverpool fan).

Why were you looking forward to visiting the Stadium of Light?    

I had never even been to the North East before and wanted to go to either Newcastle or Sunderland. My friend got me a ticket to this game and offered to drive, therefore I had no hesitation in going.

We drove up, leaving Liverpool at 2pm.  The drive via Yorkshire was a bit perilous as there was torrential rain which limited our visibility. We saw a bad crash on the way into Sunderland with some driver of a fiat Punto attempting to nip in ahead of a jeep driver before a junction. We parked in a ropey car park by the bus/metro station and walked into town.

We went to a Wetherspoons called the Lampton Worm which I am informed is a local legend of a serpent/dragon. The pub was full of home supporters but all seemed to tolerate a lot of Liverpool fans in their pub. We then walked up a road similar to Hardman Street in Liverpool, a steep road with a church on one side side and a few bars and eateries on the other side.

I must admit that the Stadium of Light is very impressive looking. Walking over the Wear Bridge it dominates the skyline and is an impressive sight all lit up at night. Had a quick walk round the stadium and was impressed with the size of the ground and the space surrounding it. It is not a flat pack ground like most of the modern stadiums and has a bit of character. The away end was good and the view is impressive, even though I was on the back row.

The crowd were a bit quiet, probably due to the fact that the club are in a relegation battle and Sam Allardyce is not known for attractive football. The stewards were helpful as you have to enter the stadium via two large pillars and they were approachable enough to help us to our seats.

Was fairly easy to get away as there are many ways to head back into town , most home fans headed back to the local pubs or to the metro. Easy to get back into town and to where our car was parked.

A good day out even if it was a long drive. Glad I have ticked off the Stadium of Light and would definitely return should they stay up. I had heard some worrying reports from other Liverpool fans about heavy handed policing but there was no sign of this on my trip. The game was a drab affair with Liverpool limping to a 1-0 win but I was glad that I had made the trek up to the North East to see what the stadium was like. I almost visited the Stadium of Light a year ago when Bruce Springsteen was in concert here, but the price of the tickets were sky high. Glad I came for a football match instead.

Sam Butler (Bournemouth) 23rd January 2016

Sunderland v bournemouth premier league saturday 23rd january 2016, 3pm sam butler (bournemouth fan).

Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Stadium of Light?    

I was looking forward to visiting the Stadium of Light as I had never been there before. However I was not looking forward to the long coach journey that I was facing to get to and from the game.

I travelled with my Father and a friend on one of the club supporters coaches to the game. We left Bournemouth at 5am and arrived at the Stadium of Light at just after 1pm. The journey was relatively easy as there wasn't much traffic about. We had a couple of comfort stops en route. The coach dropped us off right outside the ground which was good.

We noticed a cafe near to the ground and headed there for something to eat. The food was nice but relatively pricey. There were no problems between the home and away fans outside the stadium and we had a wander around the club shop with our colours showing. 

The Stadium of Light looked very good from the outside. The away end was good but you seem so far away from the pitch. Depending on how far up you sit you can't see the stadium screen at the opposite end, as the roof slopes down blocking your view which is a bit annoying..

The game was relatively entertaining. Bournemouth started well dominating the opening period and deservedly going ahead on 13 minutes. However Sunderland came back into the game late in the half, getting an equaliser in time added on. Bournemouth should have won the match when Grabban missed a sitter just before the end. Overall the 1-1 draw was probably the right result. The Bournemouth fans produced a good atmosphere but I couldn't really hear much from the Sunderland supporters until they scored. The stewards were kind and helpful.

There was a bit of traffic getting away from the ground but it wasn't unexpected. We arrived home at 1am.

 It was a good day out shame that Bournemouth didn't win seeing as it was a big game would've made it worth spending the best part of 16 hours on the coach for.

Tim Williams (Doing the 92) 23rd January 2016

Sunderland v bournemouth premier league saturday 23rd january 2016, 3pm tim williams (doing the 92).

Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Stadium of Light?    

Sunderland was my final ground of the 92. I've been going to lots of League 1 and League 2 grounds over the last few seasons and had been saving a big one for last. I was also interested to see Bournemouth with their reputation for playing attractive football.

I left London on the 8.00am train to Newcastle. As this was my last ground I persuaded my wife to join me on the trip and convinced her that a weekend in Newcastle would be fun. Couldn't get her to the game though. The Metro from Newcastle to the Stadium of Light was very quick and easy and the ground is easy to see from the station.

Before the game I had a walk around the outside of the stadium and looked at the surroundings – the relics of the mining era in these parts was a good reminder of the past. The fan zone created a good pre match atmosphere and everything was very friendly. The visiting supporters had travelled miles to get here and were well received by the home fans.

What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Stadium of Light?    

The Stadium of Light looks impressive as you approach it. It is up on a hill so is clearly visible. Inside it is very spacious; the concourses are large and easily accommodate refreshment outlets as well as large groups of people watching live football on the many screens dotted about. Unless I'm following my team – Nottingham Forest – I tend to sit or stand with the home supporters when I visit a ground. So I had a seat in the Main Stand and the view, as you'd expect from a new ground, was very good. The stadium didn't really fill up until the last few minutes before kick off but by the time the teams emerged it was an impressive sight.

Bournemouth lived up to their reputation and were excellent. They really should have been 3 or 4 goals up by half time. Sunderland were woeful and their supporters were not at all impressed. Bournemouth took the lead early on and their supporters – high up behind the goal – created most of the noise. Sunderland got an equaliser that was totally against the run of play just before half time. I was hoping to hear the famous Roker Roar but it was more a Stadium of Light murmur and it would have been good if the home supporters had got behind their team more. In the end a draw was harsh on the visitors and Sunderland look like they will have to battle to stay in the Premier League.

Getting away from the ground was easy. A quick walk to the Metro and I was back in Newcastle by 5.45pm

Good day out and a great weekend in Newcastle. Sunderland is well worth the trip and, even though their football isn't great, I hope they stay in the top league. This part of the country has had a tough time economically so staying in the Premier League gives the town a decent profile. Newcastle is also worth a trip; there's a lot to do – the Baltic Contemporary Art gallery, a walk along the Tyne to look at the many bridges and lots of places to eat and drink. Definitely worthwhile and if Gateshead ever get into the league I'd certainly make another trip up.

Steve Roper (West Bromwich Albion) 2nd April 2016

Sunderland v west bromwich albion premier league saturday 2nd april 2016, 3pm steve roper (west bromwich albion fan).

Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Stadium of Light?

It had been several years since I last went to Sunderland to see Albion; in those days it was at the former ground of Roker Park. As a groundhopper I wanted to add the Stadium of Light to my list, and took advantage of the Albion's offer of free coach travel to the game.

The coaches were parked more or less outside the ground on car parks or on access roads. It was literally a two minute walk from the coach to the stadium.

I had a walk around the ground to take a few photographs and to look at the surrounding area. We had hot food from one of the catering vans. There was also a fanzone where both sets of supporters were mixing freely.

What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Stadium of Light?

The Stadium of Light looks impressive when approaching from the A19. The main entrance to the ground also looked good, and we had the usual photos taken outside. Once inside I was amazed at how big it looked. It was like the Tardis, looked much bigger from inside than out. Away fans are housed 'out of the way' in the upper tier of the stand. This stand I thought was very steep, and a few older supporters had problems walking up and down the steps.

The game was a totally one sided affair. Sunderland absolutely pounded our goal, and we didn't manage a single shot on target. But for all their hard work it finished up a goalless draw. Because the away fans are in the upper tier of the stand I feel this is detrimental to the atmosphere of the game. There is little in the way of banter between the two sets of supporters, because the acoustics of the stand mean all you can hear is your own fans. The staff at the ground, including the stewards, are the friendliest I've come across in the Premier league. Hot food inside the ground included steak and ale pies, and also a vegetarian option (which was ideal for me).

It was a two minute walk back to the coach. However, it took quite a long time for the coaches to get out onto the main road. Then it took another long wait through the congestion to get back to the A19. I think if I ever drove to the ground I would park well away from it, or even on the city centre side of the river.

I've always had a soft spot for Sunderland. The fans are some of the friendliest I know and I hate to see them fighting against relegation. Even though the ground is modern the surrounding area still has a traditional working class feel to it, and that's what I liked most. It was a four hours each way journey, and the Albion fans seemed happy enough. One point is better than none. I was home in time for Match of the Day, and to watch Sunderland outplaying us again.

Andy (Leicester City) 10th April 2016

Sunderland v leicester city premier league sunday 10th april 2016, 1.30pm andy (leicester city fan).

I had been to the old Roker Park but never to the Stadium of Light so I was looking forward to seeing the new ground. In addition with Leicester only needing only four more wins to win the title the excitement levels were insane.

I stayed in Newcastle for the weekend with a mate. So we caught the Metro from Newcastle Central to the Stadium of Light. The journey took about 30 minutes.

Sunderland have a fanzone at the stadium which was pretty decent. Both sets of fans mixed freely with no hint of trouble. Most Sunderland fans I met were really happy for Leicester and the position we are in.

To get to the seats of the away section you have to climb about 10 flights of stairs which is not so great, but once to our seats the view of the pitch was fine. Although the roof of the stand slants down obstructing our view of the scoreboards.

Leicester fans were very loud as usual and the home support was fairly mute as to be honest Sunderland were poor and we won 2-0. Post match we stayed in the stand for at least 30 minutes singing and the stewards and police were fine and friendly with this.

As we stayed behind for 30 minutes most of the post match crowd had gone. Me and my mate got back onto the Metro within 10 minutes and back to Newcastle.

Fantastic day out. The Stadium of Light is certainly a ground worth visiting.

Will Donaghue (Chelsea) 7th May 2016

Sunderland v chelsea premier league saturday 7th may 2016, 3pm will donaghue (chelsea fan).

I always enjoy a visit to the Stadium of Light. It's a nice stadium. Of course this game meant nothing for us as we had nothing to fight for, being that we were in mid-table. But with Sunderland fighting to stay in the Premier League, it could turn out to be an interesting game.

The journey was easy as the motorway was very quiet for a change which was strange! We used the Park and Ride car parking which was very easy to use before and after the game.

We went straight to the ground after we got off the bus and picked up a match programme on the way. The home fans seemed friendly and we didn't encounter any trouble.

Seeing the ground from the away section is pretty impressive. The visitors seats quite high and to get to it, you have to climb a tall flight of stairs but we rewarded with a good view of the pitch.

Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc.

It was a poor performance from Chelsea. The score was 3-2 to Sunderland. Diego Costa and Nemanja Matic got our goals but it wasn't enough from a poor performance. The stewards told us to sit down which was annoying as the other fans at the back of tier were allowed to stand and we weren't because we were at the front of the tier. But it could have been for safety reasons. Didn't try the pies but the toilets were ok I guess.

Getting away from the stadium after the game was simple and easy. We got in the queue for the Park and Ride bus and we only waited 10 to 15 minutes for the next bus and we were back at the car park in 15 minutes or so.

Despite the result and the poor performance from Chelsea, we had a great day out. I hope Sunderland stay up so we can visit the Stadium of Light again next season.

James Walker (Neutral) 12th September 2016

Sunderland v everton premier league monday 12th september 2016, 8pm james walker (neutral fan).

I was looking forward to the game as it was yet another ground for me to tick off the list (number 67 of the 92) and the added bonus of going to a game without caring what the score was.

I travelled up with my mate who is an Everton disabled Season Ticket holder, meaning our tickets came with a parking pass for the Green Car Park (which is located right next to the fanzone). The journey from Hertfordshire to the Stadium of Light took us four and a half hours straight up the A1 from Hertfordshire.

We went to have a look in the fanzone upon arrival, with both home and away fans being allowed in on production of a valid season/match ticket. Inside there's a few food/drink huts and a stage for live music, as well as some different games (including the power-measuring shot game and caged 5-a-aisde football). Following this we went round to the club shop for programmes (£3 each) and badges (£2.49 each) before crossing over the bridge by the fanzone to find a pub, called the Wheatsheaf, which we popped into for a bit.

The Stadium of Light looks impressive from the outside, and is just as impressive inside too. The away supporters are located on Level 3 of the Carling Stand, and it is a lot of stairs! However there is a lift round the side for disabled supporters and carers, so we got up to the correct floor in a matter of moments! From there it's a quick walk down a lovely corridor to the main concourse. The stadium is a two-tiered bowl with a third tier coming from the away end to the stand on our right, and makes the stadium look even more impressive! There is a big scoreboard on the opposite stand to the away fans. However I must say that this is a ground that I don't advise for disabled supporters, the top half of the section is fine but the bottom half is a cage that makes it near-enough impossible to see the goal down that end! Luckily we were the only ones in there so we were able to move closer to the front in order to get a much better view.

The first half was a dull cagey affair with both sides only having one real chance, but the second was completely different! Lukaku scored a 11 minute hat trick to send the away support in to party mode as Everton saw the game through to complete a comfortable away win, and in fairness, didn't exactly have to work too hard for it!

As we were in the car park we weren't allowed to depart for up to 30 minutes after the final whistle we went round to the front to see the players depart, collect signatures and get photos, which we managed very easily. We eventually left and got back to our hotel in 40 minutes.

Overall this was a fantastic night out and a superb game to attend! If Sunderland do end up dropping down to the Championship League then I will return next season when following QPR, but that will be one for the future. Until then, I will make do with playing them at Stevenage next week in the EFL Cup third round!

Final Score:

Attendance: 42,406

Nick (Tottenham Hotspur) 31st January 2017

Sunderland v tottenham hotspur premier league tuesday 31st january 2017, 7.45pm nick (tottenham hotspur fan).

Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Stadium of Light?

I had never been to the Stadium of Light in Sunderland and had heard good things about it so decided to take this opportunity to visit.

We travelled on a train chartered by Tottenham. It was direct from London all the way up to Sunderland Central with just one stop at Stevenage. Good value at just £20. The railway station was just a ten minute walk to the Stadium of Light.

We arrived around 5:30pm so spent a little while in a pub close to the stadium. Friendly locals and a good atmosphere. We headed to the ground and grabbed a burger from one of the many outlets before going in. There was also a fan zone outside the ground with live music.We didn't go in but it looked good.

View From the Away Section

The Stadium of Light looked great as we approached. Found the away end and climbed the stairs up to the bar. All good! All the away seats are in the upper tier but the view was fantastic.

The stewards were very friendly and helpful. The game was a disappointing (0-0)  but the atmosphere was good. I could see this place could be jumping if the locals were winning.

The Away Seating

No problems getting away. Straight back to the station and headed home.

A long way to go on a Tuesday night but the Stadium of Light is highly recommended, having now been.

Stephen Geddes (Southampton) 11th February 2017

Sunderland v southampton premier league saturday 11th february 2017, 3pm stephen geddes (southampton fan).

This was my second visit to the Stadium of Light. It's a very impressive and nice ground. I was also looking to the game as well, as away games are normally a good day out.

I went on one of the Supporters Coaches. We left Southampton at 6am. The journey was a long one and then we met quite a lot of traffic as we reached Sunderland. The coach parked up virtually right outside the away end.

Walked around the ground. I didn't see any pubs unfortunately so I went in the fanzone section where they had a few activities going on, such as a mini football pitch and live music etc… The home fans seemed friendly.

The Stadium of Light is a very impressive ground. It was a good view from the away section, but very high up though. We were advised that we could sit anywhere we liked which was a nice pleasant surprise.

The Sunderland stewards were both friendly and helpful. I spent a good couple of minutes talking to a steward on my way in. Telling me about he used to live/work in Southampton. Always a good atmosphere at the Stadium of Light. The game was enjoyable too ( From a Southampton point of view anyway ) as we won 4-0.

The traffic was pretty horrendous. It took 40 minutes just to get out of the City. And about seven hours to get back to Southampton.

The Stadium of Light is a top quality ground and when your team wins 4-0 there, as we did, then it is even better!. So despite the 700 mile round trip it was we'll worth going to and we won 4-0 as we'll. I would strongly recommend fellow football fans to visit it.

Eric Spreng (Southampton) 11th February 2017

Sunderland v southampton premier league saturday 11th february 2017, 3pm eric spreng (southampton fan).

Living in Scotland I do not get the opportunity to go to too many Southampton games and also I had never been to the Stadium of Light in Sunderland.

Finding the ground was very straightforward. We travelled down on the Friday and spent the weekend in Newcastle. On the Saturday we took the metro from Newcastle Central to the Stadium of Light station. The ground is only a short walk from there.

We went straight to the Colliery Tavern right beside the ground. We were warmly received there (the lady behind the bar seemed to know as much about Dunfermline where I live as I do!). We mingled and chatted with both Black Cat and Saints fans and watched the Arsenal v Hull game on the television, all in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.

I thought that the Stadium of Light was very impressive, both from the outside and from the inside. It is larger than the average ground and the away fans are housed in the upper tier behind the goal. You are a little bit away from the action but it was a magnificent view of the pitch, and also of the big screen at the far end.

It was a damp, cold day, and the pie and bovril before the game were very welcome and went down well! The game I thoroughly enjoyed, not least of all because Southampton won 4-0! The Sunderland fans were fairly quiet, perhaps not surprisingly given the score, but the Saints fans were in good voice, especially towards the end of the match after two late goals. No problems with the stewards, who seemed to know what they were doing, although one of our tickets refused to work on the 'reader' and a supervisor had to be called to let us in with his master key!

We walked back to the Stadium of Light station after the match and got on a train back to Newcastle more or less straight away. The train took about 25 minutes and we were back in the pub in Newcastle just after 5.30pm in time to watch more football (and rugby) on the television.

The Stadium of Light was a great day out in every way, although obviously helped by the result. Next stop Wembley Stadium for the Football League Cup Final!

Felix McHugh (Neutral) 15th April 2017

Sunderland v west ham united premier league saturday 15th april 2017, 3pm felix mchugh (neutral fan).

My friend, a West Ham follower, got me a ticket. I very rarely watch top division football so this promised to be a treat.

Travelling up from Sheffield was easy. The Stadium of Light is surprisingly poorly-signposted in Sunderland itself, but it's a big stadium so once you've spotted it, it is then impossible to miss.

We mingled together in the Fan Zone, which was brilliant. Supporters of both sides having something to eat and drink and a total absence of any kind of unpleasantness that spoiled the League 1 encounter I saw at Port Vale the previous day!

The Stadium of Light is a big, imposing ground. I was with the West Ham fans in the away section and I thought I was going to need an oxygen mask by the time we reached our seats! I have never sat so high up to see a game before. Brilliant view, though.

It was a pretty entertaining game. Sunderland fought back twice for a 2-2 draw which, in the end, will not help them stay up, but they showed plenty of spirit even though some of their players appeared not to like each other much. West Ham were probably the better side but both sides' defences were ropy. A West Ham player was sent off near the end but Sunderland failed to take advantage.

No problem. We went for a drive up the coast and were surprised to find that Sunderland has a nice beach which looks like a grand place to spend a sunny evening.

I enjoyed it very much. Decent football, good atmosphere and a nice ground.

Paul Sheppard (AFC Bournemouth) 29th April 2017

Sunderland v afc bournemouth premier league saturday 29th april 2017, 3pm  paul sheppard (afc bournemouth fan).

Given that Sunderland looked certain to be relegated I thought this might be the last time for a while that I would get to the Stadium of Light. I was also confident of a point or three given the poor run Sunderland were on.

I stayed at a Bed and Breakfast on Mowbray Road so walked the 20 minutes from there. Took me just over two hours to drive from where I live near Manchester.

I had gone on my own so just walked from the B&B having bought a sandwich with me. Last season I went to Liberty Browns with my friend and that was fine.

The Stadium of Light. looks very impressive from the outside but the away seating is too high and far away from the pitch for my liking. I wasn't even 100% sure it was King who had scored our goal as you are so far from the other end of the ground.

Hmmm not great: probably the poorest game I saw all season. Sunderland looked like a team destined for the Championship League and that was confirmed when Josh King hit the winner for Bournemouth near the end: the climax to a good move that was not representative of the game as a whole.

I was walking so this was very straightforward for me. Last season we had a couple of drinks in The Colliery pub just over the road from the ground: You could drink outside, where they even had a small bar set up and that was a memorable and unique experience.

I enjoyed the day overall at the Stadium of Light; decent weather, three points: the game was very poor though and although I was sad to see Sunderland relegated the football they produced under Moyes was not of Premier League standard and won't be missed from an aesthetic point of view.

Shaun (Leeds United) 19th August 2017

Sunderland v leeds united football championship league saturday 19th august 2017, 5.30pm shaun ( leeds united fan), matthew bowling (bolton wanderers) 31st october 2017, sunderland v bolton wanderers football championship league tuesday 31st october 2017, 7.45pm matthew bowling ( bolton wanderers fan), adam humphries (reading) 2nd december 2017, sunderland v reading championship league saturday 2nd december 2017, 3pm adam humphries ( reading fan), mike norman (brentford) 17th february 2018, sunderland v brentford championship league saturday 17th february 2018, 3pm mike norman ( brentford fan), graeme whitton (neutral) 17th november 2018, sunderland v wycombe league 1 saturday 17th november 2018, 3pm graeme whitton (neutral).

I was in the area and wanted to visit a ground I'd not previously been to.

How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking

The trip on the Metro from Newcastle was a nightmare due to previous hold ups but, hopefully, that's not a regular occurrence and the trip itself should be fairly straightforward. Finding the stadium from the Stadium of Light Metro Station is very easy. I wasn't driving but there seemed to be plenty of parking at the stadium though it seemed to me that the road layout was quite complex and they could do with more designated pedestrian crossings.

Due to hold ups on the Metro we only had time to find the ground, grab a quick bite to eat and get to our seats. We passed one pub, The Colliery Tavern, which looked to be extremely busy and, as it was full of Sunderland fans, probably isn't one for away fans

It is an i mpressive stadium. It was easy to find our seats and we enjoyed great sightlines.

The atmosphere was good to start with but, within a fairly short time, seemed to become quite subdued. I didn't sample any of the food but was able to get to the catering stand and get served with a cold drink within the half time interval.

A s imple reverse walk back to the Stadium of Light Metro. I noticed that traffic in the area seemed pretty congested.

Overall, it was a good day out. The game itself finished in a 1-1 draw and, for me, Wycombe thoroughly merited their point.

Yaz Shah (Bristol Rovers) 15th December 2018

Sunderland v bristol rovers league 1 saturday 15th december 2018, 3pm yaz shah (bristol rovers), harry (bradford city) 26th december 2018, sunderland v bradford city league one wednesday 26th december 2018, 3pm harry ( bradford city), graham andrew (plymouth argyle) 2nd march 2019, sunderland v plymouth argyle league one saturday 2nd march 2019, 3pm graham andrew (plymouth argyle), james (coventry city) 13th april 2019, sunderland v coventry league one saturday 13th april 2019, 3pm james (coventry city), steve bolland (coventry city) 13th april 2019, sunderland v coventry league one saturday 13th april 2019, 3pm steve bolland (coventry city), barry (portsmouth) 27th april 2019, sunderland v portsmouth league one saturday 27th april 2019, 3pm barry (portsmouth).

A vital game for both teams and with a sold-out away allocation it was sure to be a good atmosphere.

A long car journey from Portsmouth but a 5am departure evaded any traffic build-ups and we arrived in Sunderland at 10.30am. It was easy to park in the Roker Beach seafront area near our booked accommodation.

A good pub crawl taking in the Harbour View, Albion and Wheatsheaf pubs. All away friendly and good banter with the locals. Had a stottie (local name for a large bread roll) on the way to the ground so was an enjoyable time pre-match.

I have been to Stadium of Light on a previous occasion but the away fans were located in a different part of the ground on this occasion so we had some difficulty in locating the correct turnstiles.

It was a tense game but a good atmosphere, though there were some problems when a smoke bomb was thrown from the away section onto home supporters below. The away section is too far from the pitch and should not be located above home supporters. The game ended 1-1.

No problem getting away from the ground as stayed in Sunderland on the Saturday evening.

A good day out in a place with similarities to Portsmouth as both sets of supporters are loyal and like a matchday drink in the pubs.

Luke Mcintosh (Oxford United) 3rd August 2019

Sunderland v oxford united league one saturday 3rd august 2019, 3pm luke mcintosh (oxford united), peter williams (mk dons) 28th september 2019, sunderland v mk dons league 1 saturday 28th september 2019, 3pm peter williams (mk dons), david sindall (tranmere rovers) 22nd october 2019, sunderland v tranmere rovers league 1 tuesday 22nd october 2019, 7.45pm david sindall (tranmere rovers).

I have never visited the Stadium of Light, and doubt that we will be in the same division as Sunderland next season.

The ground was easy to find. I parked in the nearby Metro Station car park (easy to get in, slow to get away from). Only about five minutes from the stadium.

Tried the pub at the away end but it was crap. Walked down to the Harbour Hotel, much better but they don’t do food midweek. I ended up eating at the Roker Chippy, which was okay but not the best. All the fans were really friendly, no tension, lots of friendly chat before and after the game.

A proper stadium. One of the best I’ve been to. However, the climb up to the away end was never-ending. Lightened by the use of quotes on the wall but if anybody has mobility impairments give yourself plenty of time. The home fans were very quiet.

We lost to 5 stuffy goals! Despite this, the Super White Army were loud and proud. Sunderland fans were very quiet. Plenty in there too, over 23,000. Maybe they were overawed by the ease of their win.

Like I say, the Metro Station car park took a long time to get out of. Headed into the city centre then out to the A1. It took a while. The Sunderland fans very happy to chat with us. ‘Best fans – worst team’ was a frequent comment.

A great day out spoilt by our performance. The Sunderland fans, stewards and locals were faultless.

Kris Burnett (Blackpool) 14th December 2019

Sunderland v blackpool league 1 saturday 14th december 2019, 3pm kris burnett (blackpool).

Tony Davidson from Bolton liveing near derby street 22nd September 2021

Game attended, competition, kick off time, team supported, why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself, comment on getting away from the ground after the game, summary of overall thoughts of the day out.

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Sunderland Pre-Season Tour 2024: Destination, Fixtures and More

Here is everything you need to know about Sunderland’s upcoming pre-season tour in 2024.

The Black Cats are back on their travels this summer as preparations have already begun for the 2024/25 season.

After a promising start to the current campaign, Sunderland’s season has petered out. Both Tony Mowbray and Michael Beale have been given the boot with the Stadium of Light currently hosting Mike Dodds in the dugout until the summer.

Multiple permanent managers have been linked to the Sunderland post with their upcoming pre-season likely to be the new boss’ first outing for the Black Cats. 

Now that the summer is closing in yet again, we examine everything you need to know about Sunderland’s pre-season tour in 2024.

Where is Sunderland’s 2024 pre-season tour taking place?

Sunderland announced that they would be going to Alicante, Spain last month in the summer. 

The club have experienced pre-season preparations in the Iberian nation before, travelling to Spain in 2002 under Peter Reid.

MORE SUNDERLAND STORIES

When will sunderland’s 2024 pre-season tour begin.

As of 04/04/24 – Sunderland will set off to Costa Blanca on July 15 and will spend one week in Spain. Two ties are set to take place during this time.

As of 04/04/24 , no fixtures have been announced have been announced for the tour. The club have confirmed that they are planning on playing on July 20 and July 21 during their time by the Mediterranean.

These dates are subject to change with opposition set to be announced in due course.

Sunderland is offering an official supporter package for the trip. Starting at £569 per person, fans can enjoy a minimum three-night stay in Spain in a four-star or higher hotel with stadium transfers included.  The package also includes two match tickets and access to exclusive events with the first team and staff .

To book or for more information click here .

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Commercial Break: Sunderland have started reading the room

As suspected, hummel’s iconic bumblebee logo is to return to the red and white stripes – but what else does SAFC have in store? 

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Friday’s announcement from Sunderland AFC finally confirmed one of the worst-kept secrets in football: Danish sportswear brand Hummel is to return as the club’s official kit supplier in a new multi-year deal — and the news has been almost universally welcomed by the fanbase.

Not everybody is excited by kit launches and the like, but the switch also points towards a wider picture that is very encouraging indeed – like certain other aspects of how the club is being ran, retail issues such as kit availability have been a sore point for some time, and the sense is that appropriate steps are now starting to be taken.

As with the planned ground improvements already announced by SAFC, it appears as if decisions are being made that will improve supporter satisfaction and the match day experience in the coming years. Maximising commercial revenues is of vital importance, and if the Stadium of Light is looking its best and the fans are able to spend their money in the club shop further income will be made from events and sponsorship opportunities.

With this in mind, it was interesting to note the ‘Summer Sessions’ announced for the coming months. The SoL has rebuilt its reputation as a first class concert venue in recent years and whilst it is a bit of a shame that ‘only’ one major gig has been scheduled for this year the club has made a couple of canny moves to piggyback existing arrangements and tag on a couple of additional shows.

There were strong rumours doing the rounds that overtures were being made towards Taylor Swift – a show of ambition that could yet pay dividends down the line anyway. As it is, Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band will be touching down as part of a world tour in late May and remain a global act; the show will no doubt be huge for the local economy and profile of the city whilst also keeping SAFC at the forefront of promoter’s minds.

The bonus to that is the temporary walls that are normally erected around the east side of the ground ahead of concerts appear set to remain afterwards, allowing smaller shows to be put on within the green car park. A 90s Live event featuring a retro lineup is due to take place, with other sessions due to be revealed in due course. There is already a Scouting for Girls gig confirmed for inside also, and that seems to be making use of the temporary stage that will be built up for the University of Sunderland’s 2024 summer graduation ceremonies.

The West Stand seating areas on sale for that are along the same lines of a similar show that was previously hosted in 2022, ‘An Evening of Queen’ starring performers from the West End musical ‘We Will Rock You’ – these acts might not appeal to the same fans but is makes perfect sense to put on a wide range and tap into as much of the music market as possible. It is good business acumen and helps an asset such as the ground bring funds in during the off season.

It is understandable that in recent months some serious questions have been asked about the direction the Sunderland hierarchy has been taking, or appearing to from the outside at least, and whilst the ‘to do’ list is still quite long now might be the time to show a bit of patience. If we are to assume that new kit deals and concerts are the result of David Bruce, we can perhaps start to feel confident that now he has had time to get his feet under the table more developments are on the way. Bruce, previously the MLS’ Chief Marketing Officer prior to his appointment as Chief Brand and Commercial Officer earlier in the season, possesses a CV that would indicate he has the tools needed to expand and improve commercial activity. What makes him uniquely qualified however is that he will also remember the first Hummel era for example first hand – and therefore ‘gets’ what supporters might want.

It does not feel to me as if things are being done on a whim. The ‘A Way of Life’ motif for the 2024-25 season card marketing when it was launched a few weeks back featured images of supporters wearing reproduction tops, including a white Umbro design first seen in the late 1970s that is currently for sale via the club shop. The real easter egg though was the inclusion of the cult classic yellow and black Hummel third top from 1993-94 that was regrettably never made available for purchase. It has become highly sought after over the years and as part of the ‘legacy’ thread that launched the new kit deal, it will now get a belated official retail release.

Such links take a bit of forward thinking and require different departments to work together. The teasing of the returning ‘Technical Kit Partner’ has relied upon smart planning, presumably involving the same internal design team that has done some excellent work before such as the ‘Til The End’ campaign, which relied on some guerrilla marketing and incorporated a nostalgic video right up my own street. It was quickly followed up on social media with clues of a possible collaboration with Vaux (or is that just wishful thinking?) and then the first sight of the reimagined 1992 FA Cup final tracksuit tops at West Bromwich Albion. At a club like ours, history and heritage are central to the fan psyche and so these old school references will always hit the target to some extent.

Just getting permission for the players to wear the Hummel stuff whilst still in an agreement with Just Sport Group/Nike will have taken some doing and it was interesting to note that the main press release for the replacement contract made positive reference to the outgoing suppliers – with the club often being accused of being ‘amateurish’ with regards certain dealings in the past, their keenness now not to burn any bridges is encouraging.

It has been clear for a good while that supporters want an improved retail setup. Whilst the staff in the shop are never anything but excellent in my experience, stories of poor stock availability and other frustrations are common. The current and what will hopefully be long term push to recognise and tackle these issues means we already know however that a new merchandise partner is to be announced shortly and will be looking to address the problems.

Such arrangements will presumably take time to agree and implement, hence the earlier suggestion that this is the time for more patience (Sunderland supporters are used to that anyway). Fears from some that the owners are happy to ‘run us into the ground’ are hopefully beginning the prove wide of the mark and whilst more is needed to be done of course and we are only just seeing the start of the desperately needed off field upgrades, the signs are at least there now that the collective voice of the red and white army has been heard.

We’ll all have our own wish lists regarding what happens next, with ticketing likely to be a high priority. Again, the staff on the ground at Black Cat House are invariably spot on, but they are hampered seemingly by outdated systems and other restrictions. A drive to work alongside more local caterers and suppliers meanwhile would be one of my own dreams if possible and who knows, with Vaux getting a nod in recent posts, they may already be about to join the Maxim Brewery on the list of partnerships. Maxim’s popular Samson beer is already on tap in the concourses and whilst this is not the time to go into the history of Sunderland brewing and the current brand splits, it can only be good thing if appropriate Wearside or regional firms that turn out good gear are incorporated.

We all know that it is the football that will ultimately decide the fate of our teams, but with real glory extremely hard to achieve it is important that other areas of the club and how it works within our community are handled correctly. If the management are switched on, they can maximise the nostalgic tendencies and local pride of many fans whilst also moving things forward too. It was right that in the League One days the focus was on the playing squad but now, with results levelling off, the gripes about service and infrastructure are certainly worthy of more attention.

Make the Stadium of Light cleaner, safer and able to recreate the Roker Roar days seen during Hummel’s last involvement, capitalise on commercial opportunities and arguably most importantly of all, continue this trend of meeting fan expectations off the pitch and we will be set. The recent announcements are promising, and all I need to worry about for the time being is finding the money to pay for these new strips.

Editorial: The Chevrons (and some good form on the pitch) are returning to Sunderland!

Fan letters: “sunderland might’ve struck gold with a different system”, after banishing any lingering worries, can sunderland now throw off the shackles, loading comments..., sign up for the newsletter sign up for the roker report daily roundup newsletter, thanks for signing up.

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A Moscow Free Walking Tour of the Iconic Red Square

Updated March 10th, 2020

This post might contain affiliate links. That means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, if you buy through my site. I appreciate your support of my site.

No visit to Moscow, Russia is complete unless you take a walk around the famous Red Square and see the iconic sights of the city. One of the best ways to see all the famous landmarks in Moscow and learn a little something about them too is on a free Moscow walking tour through the Red Square.

Continue reading for a sneak peek at what you will see on your free tour in Moscow and for tips on both the tour and visiting the sights. Make sure to save some time during your trip to go inside of the magnificent buildings because you will not be going in the buildings during the tour.

The State Historical Museum

The Moscow free walking tour begins at the Marshal Zhukov monument in front of the State Historical Museum . You can’t miss this massive red building. The museum’s interior is almost as spectacular as the artifacts you can see within. Read my post dedicated to the museum here to find out more on what you can see and tips for visiting. Admission is free with the Moscow City Pass .

The Kremlin

Behind the walls of the Kremlin lie the working offices of Russian’s government and president. When visiting the Kremlin you can see the Armory Chamber, Cathedral Square, the Patriach’s Palace and many more cathedrals. You definitely want to buy tickets ahead of time so you avoid the long-lines. You can get free admission with the Moscow City Pass . It’s also worth it to take a guided tour if you don’t speak Russian so you have more of an understanding of what you are seeing.

St. Basil’s Cathedral

If asked to conquer up an image of Moscow, St. Basil’s Cathedral might just be the most likely image you picture. The cathedral has a museum that you can visit at a later time. You can buy tickets at the ticket kiosk outside the cathedral or receive free admission with the Moscow City Pass .

Moskva River

Next up on the tour is the Moskva River which runs through the center of Moscow. A cruise on the Moskva River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

GUM Shopping Mall

Who would think a mall would be one of Moscow’s most well-known attractions? GUM shopping mall across from the Kremlin makes up one of the four sides of the Red Square. The stores might be a bit too pricey for shopping, but the gorgeous interior is worth a visit. If that doesn’t convince you, the mall has some of the best ice cream! GUM is the only building you go inside during the free walking tour. There are pay bathrooms you can use while you have a few minutes of free time.

Kazan Cathedral

Located on the northeast corner of the Red Square, the Kazan Cathedral is another impressive dome-shaped building in Moscow that is also an active place of worship. Entering the cathedral is allowed, but remember to be respectful if people are worshipping.

Bolshoi Theater

Contrary to the previous buildings, the Bolshoi Theater isn’t along one of the four sides of the Red Square. Located a few minutes away, the theater is one of the best theaters in the world. Make sure to come back for a guided tour of the inside or make reservations far ahead of time to attend a ballet or opera.

Alexander Gardens

The tour ends near the Alexander Gardens , a free public park located along the western Kremlin walls. The garden’s green lawns, sculptures and water fountains offer a nice place to take a stroll or relax a bit after some busy sightseeing.

You can visit all these sites on your own, but the best part of doing the Moscow free tour is that you learn more information and have the potential to meet new people!

During my tour I started to talk to a woman from Malaysia and she invited me to join her and her friends for a Russian meal afterwards. It’s these little impromptu meetings and opportunities that I love most about traveling and add more to the sightseeing experience. While I was a little hesitant about going to the tour myself I told myself it would be a great opportunity to possibly meet new people. I love when things work out like that!

If you have already seen the iconic sights of the Red Square and are looking for other things to do in Moscow check out my What to Do in Moscow post that gives more off-the beaten track things to do in Moscow!

Moscow Free Walking Tour Visiting Information

Moscow Free Walking Tours

How to Get There

The Moscow Free Walking Tour begins at the Marshal Zhukov monument in front of the State Historical Museum (a large red building). The website shows a map with the exact meeting point.

To get to the red square area you can take the blue 3 metro line to the Ploshchad Revolyutsii stop, or the green 2 line to the Teatralnaya station or the red 1 line to the Okhotny Ryad station. For more on how to use the metro read my Moscow Metro Guide .

Tours every day at 10:30am – 1pm in English

If you need a toilet before the start of the tour the Okhotny Ryad and GUM shopping malls are both close to the start of the tour. You will need to pay to use the toilets. There is a quick break mid-way through the tour at the GUM shopping mall where you can use the toilet if needed.

During the mid-way break in the tour you can buy some ice cream at the GUM shopping mall. There aren’t many other options or time for anything else. After the tour there are a lot of restaurants in the area. There are a couple of Varenichnaya №1 locations nearby if you would like some authentic Russian food. Their speciality is Russian dumplings. Another classic choice nearby is Grand Cafe Dr. Jhivago. While you can try traditional Russian foods like borscht and Olivier Salad, you may need a reservation. GUM has several restaurants, including a couple of buffets upstairs.

Recommendations

While I would start off your visit to Moscow with a tour of the Red Square, make sure to come back to each place to tour the inside. If you are visiting several sights consider buying the Moscow City Pass  to save money on admissions.

Other Tour Options

Another company  Moscow Free Tour  does a similar free walking tour in the Red Square. Check the site for the details on the starting point and times. If you prefer a private paid tour with a hotel pick-up and a visit to St. Basil’s Cathedral included check out this tour . For a private paid tour with a hotel pick-up and a visit to the Kremlin included you may want to take this tour or this one . Even if you don’t typically take tours, I would recommend taking tours as much as possible in Moscow. Many people do not speak English and most information is not in English either.

Where to Stay in Moscow

Find somewhere to stay in Moscow near the Red Square so you are convenient to all the sights!

More About Russia

• Moscow Things to Do:  Unique Things to Do ,   Spartak Stadium
• Moscow Markets:  Izmailovsky Market ,   Danilovsky Market
• Moscow Museums:  Moscow City Museum ,  Victory Museum ,  Museum of the Patriotic War in 1812 ,  State Historical Museum ,
• Moscow Life:  Malls ,  Christmas in Moscow ,  Metro ,  Learning Spanish ,  My Russian Apartment ,   What is Life Really Like in Russia ,  FiFa World Cup ,  Russian Winters , and more posts about  life abroad in Russia .
• St Petersburg:  City Guide ,  The Hermitage Museum ,  Kayaking the Rivers & Canals ,   Peterhof Palace

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The Kremlin looks rather imposing. It would be great to explore the history in Moscow.

There is a lot of history in Moscow to explore!

What a handy guide to get the most of Moscow’s red square! I’ve always wanted to try a walking tour and this looks like the perfect place to start!

I really enjoy walking tours, I think they are a great way to get to know a new place!

You have highlighted all the main sights around and in the Red Square indeed! I have visited Moscow in winter and the atmosphere was magical…even though it was cold 🙂 I’m looking forward to visiting in summer too!

Yes, there is a magical feel during the winter. I have to say I prefer the warmer, brighter summers though 🙂

Follow My Anchor

I am planning to go to Moscow and St. Petersburg this year so reading this was very helpful. I would love to do the walking tour! What time of year did you do it? I am planning to go in August as I really can’t stand the cold 😀 Do you think August might be a good time to visit Moscow? Thank you so much for your information!

I did the walking tour in September. July and August are the best times to visit Moscow in my opinion, so you are going at a great time! I lived in Moscow for a year so I have a lot of posts about Moscow and a couple for St. Petersburg too. Please check out my other posts as you are planning your trip and feel free to send any questions my way!

I’m a huge fan of taking free walking tours whenever my husband and I travel. We learn more about the history from the local’s perspective. Your walking tour in Moscow looks fun. The St. Basil’s Cathedral is beautiful and would love to see it. Thanks for sharing the must-see places in Moscow!

I’m a big fan of free walking tours too! I completely agree that you get a good perspective and introduction to the history of the city.

I would love to take the walking tour to get a good coverage of the area! The tip about paying for the bathrooms is great. That’s something I didn’t realize when I went to Europe for the first time from the US.

I always find it annoying paying for bathrooms in Europe!

I visited Moscow in June this year for the World Cup and I loved it. St. Basil’s Cathedral was the highlight for me, it’s such an impressive piece of architecture. I would’ve liked to visit more of Russia but maybe next time!

I really enjoyed Moscow during the World Cup too. The city was much livelier than usual!

I have been to St. Petersburg but never to Moscow. I think that these kind of tours are very useful to gather many information but I second your suggestion to visit the palaces inside as they have stunning interior decor and art treasures.

Yes, I think both going on tours and getting an overview and touring the inside of places are good to do.

Shreya Saha

St. Basil’s cathedral is definitely a beautiful place to visit. I would also love to stroll by the Alexander gardens and maybe spend some time in the shopping mall call mom maybe visit the theater, also I would love to visit Kremlin and the State Historical Museum. That’s a great list you have managed to provide here.

Never been to Russia, but the country’s history and culture has always fascinated me. Great list of things to do in Moscow’s Red Square. Kremlin is definitely on top of my list!

Russia does have a fascinating history and culture!

The architecture here always looks so beautiful. I would love to go to Russia. Some helpful tips here that would really help me navigate a future trip. I love the Russian ballet so a trip to the theater would be a must for me.

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Louisville City FC

Just another www.loucity.com Sites site

Here’s what’s new at Lynn Family Stadium in 2022

From fan-friendly activations to expanded food and beverage options, Lynn Family Stadium — home of Louisville City FC and Racing Louisville FC — will offer plenty of new features for the 2022 season.

LouCity opens its USL Championship campaign at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, hosting Atlanta United 2. Racing gets going the following Friday, March 18, in NWSL Challenge Cup play with KC Current visiting for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff.

Stadium gates will open one hour before the opening whistle to all games unless otherwise noted. Ticket holders are encouraged to visit LouCity.com/match-center or RacingLouFC.com/match-center in advance for the clubs’ respective “Know Before You Go” guides.

Here’s what to look out for at Lynn Family Stadium…

• A limited number of game day posters will be available to fans as they enter all home games. Featuring a player on one side and the team roster on the back, the posters include a QR code to access the day’s digital game program.

• A number of sponsor giveaways are in the works throughout the season, starting with 2,000 flags provided by IBEW Local 369 at Saturday’s LouCity game. Fans are also encouraged to head to the team store for a 2022 schedule poster and complimentary logo magnet.

• From 6:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, stop by tables near the Modelo bar at the Waterfront end of the stadium for a Racing player autograph session . Players will be signing schedule posters for their upcoming Challenge Cup games.

Game Day Experience

• Tailgating is encouraged in the Gold and Green lots, which open at 10 a.m. on game days. Visit LouCity.com/tailgating or RacingLouFC.com/tailgating for guidelines.

• Let’s sing it together. Look for coordinated “Lou” and “City” video board messages at the start of both halves for the boys in purple — a chant that gets the whole stadium involved .

• It’s a toast to our wins : After victories, the White Claw Seltzer Garden on the east side of Lynn Family Stadium will open for an additional hour and is expected to include appearances by coaches and players.

Something to Sip

• Barrell Craft Spirits® , an official cornerstone partner of Racing Louisville FC, will be available for purchase inside Lynn Family Stadium. BCS is a Louisville-based, award-winning independent blender and bottler of unique aged, cask-strength sourced whiskey and rum spirits that is recognized for its blending expertise. The company selects and blends products that explore different distillation methods, barrels and aging environments, and bottles them at cask strength.

BCS is also the presenting sponsor of Racing’s player walk-ins,  capturing their stadium entrances and those important moments before kickoff. Each month throughout the 2022 Racing campaign, Barrell Craft Spirits® will make a donation to a local nonprofit organization for each shot on goal.

For more information, please visit  www.barrellbourbon.com . 

• Located at the southwest corner the Lynn Family Stadium, the Rabbit Hole Bar boasts panoramic views of the field against the backdrop of the Big Four Bridge and Louisville’s scenic skyline. In a nod to LouCity and Racing, Rabbit Hole’s branding has been reimagined in the teams’ colors. Rabbit Hole has created a specialty cocktail menu featuring its award-winning bourbon, gin and vodka, expressly for their activation at the stadium.

• Check out freshly squeezed juices and cocktails at the South Seas tiki bar , new to the Waterfront end of Lynn Family Stadium.

• And yes, when temperatures call for it, there will be hot chocolate .

For the Foodies

• Louisville-based Four Pegs, at the stadium’s southwest corner, has introduced  The Pitch , a giant sandwich loaded with pulled pork, brisket and pulled chicken, then topped with cole slaw, pickles and barbecue sauce.

• Louisville Vegan Jerky’s Smoky Carolina BBQ variety will be available at multiple concession stands. The company’s products are non-GMO certified, made in small batches by hand and are with freshly sourced Kentucky ingredients.

• Kettle Kings , the perfect blend of sweet and salty, is a 5-star kettle corn offered at a 3-star price on both ends of the stadium concourse.

Louisville City FC: established 2015

Loucity has solidified itself as the nation’s premier second-division soccer club since launching less than a decade ago. back-to-back usl championship title winners in 2017 and 2018, the boys in purple have reached at least the league’s conference final in all nine of their seasons., get our newsletter, our partners.

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Hummel: SAFC release special edition launch capsule

Sunderland AFC is releasing a special edition launch capsule to celebrate our new partnership with hummel.

The drop features two legendary products that have never before been released to supporters, our 1992 FA Cup Final walk-out jacket and 1993-94 third shirt.

Previously worn exclusively by players in the shadow of Wembley’s iconic twin towers, the walk-out jacket features a bold colourway with a striking purple and sky-blue trim.

Our electric yellow third kit signalled the end of hummel’s first era on Wearside, but like the Danish sportswear brand, it’s back with a bang and available to fans for the very first time.

The first team showcased our new partnership with hummel on Saturday, arriving in style at the Hawthorns before taking on West Bromwich Albion.

Vaux Taproom provided the perfect backdrop for our launch, as we showcased a taste of our future retail offering.

Alongside this, local artist Rach Small ( @celadoreUK ) and poet Tobias Hodgson ( @tobiashodgson ) also helped model the range.

1,992 items of this limited range will be made available, going on sale in the next 24 hours.

To be the first to know when it drops, simply sign up to our mailing list  here .

Update:  Both products will be available in store and online, subject to availability. 

Update: You can now purchase via safcstore.com here .

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