Away Day's: A trip to St James Park
St James Park
Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne.
Built: 1892
Capacity: 52,405
Located in the iconic city of Newcastle is the equally iconic St James Park.
The stadium towers above all around it in the city, which personally I find very apt as the love Newcastle as a city has for it’s club is clear for all to see.
What is it like for away fans
Newcastle is an away trip all fans are excited for.
Historically Newcastle United are one of England’s biggest clubs, although they have tailed off in recent years they are still a giant in English football.
Away fans are situated in the far corner of the Leazes End, which can hold up to 3000 fans. However something that is a common complaint among away fans who have traveled to St James Park is that to reach the away end you have to climb 14 flights of stairs.
However those unable to negotiate the stairs a lift is in place.
Places to eat and drink
With the location of the ground being within walking distance of the city centre away fans will never be short of places to eat and drink before the match.
Most away fans tend to drink at the ” A Head Of Steam” ” The Newcastle Tap” and “Victoria Comet” however be aware none of this bars admit children.
All these pubs are located around Newcastle Central Station.
Pub’s closer to the ground tend to only admit home fans.
Inside the ground the spacious concourse sells the usual range of hot dogs and burgers as well as a wide selection of pies. Alcohol is also served in a separate concourse.
Getting to the ground
By car, the ground is well signposted and easy to locate once exiting the A1(M), the best option for parking is Newcastle College which is a 10/15 minute from the ground. The cost of parking here is £4 which is paid upon entry to the college.
By train/metro, Newcastle Central Railway Station is 0.5 miles away from St James Park, the ground is well signposted and easy to find. Various bus routes operate from the station to the ground and the fare is normally 50p.
An alternative mode of transport is to take the metro.
You take the metro from Central Railway Station, changing at Monument Station and then take a connecting service to St James Park where you will find the ground.
Is it safe for away fans
Although Newcastle fans are known as some of the most passionate in the country, their aggression is normally directed more toward their own team as opposed to visiting fans.
The two times I have visited St James Park I have my teams colours around the city without any problems.