Travel Information: Sunderland 11/03/06
Last updated : 09 March 2006 By Paul Farrington
What's the ground like?
The club moved to the new stadium, from Roker Park in July 1997. It is totally enclosed and is the largest new football ground so far to be built in England. The stadium itself is truly magnificent and I would say that it is one of the best (if not the best) stadiums in England. It is composed of two three tiered stands (at one end and one side of the pitch), whilst the others are two tiered. Unfortunately, sitting at the back of the highest tiers means a limited view of the majority of the stadium, hence the feeling of being a bit cut off.
The West Stand also has a row of executive boxes (which you can sit outside if you wish). There is a large electronic scoreboard at either end. You really have to experience not only the stadium but also the occasion that is Sunderland to believe it. Away fans are housed at one end of the stadium, in the two tiered Metro FM (South) Stand.
Currently, with half the stadium being larger than the other, it looks a little imbalanced from the away end. However, looking at the larger stands, one feels that if the Club added a tier to the remaining sides an even more remarkable stadium would emerge.
What's it like for away supporters?
If you can only get to one stadium this season, then go to this one. I found the stadium almost overwhelming, the PA system deafening (especially when the classical piece 'Dance Of The Knights' from Prokofiev's 'Romeo & Juliet' is played before the players come on to the pitch at the start of the game and Republica's 'Ready To Go', 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 smoke or swear inside the stadium. If you persist with either you may find yourself being ejected from the ground! The delicious 'Football's Famous Chicken Balti Pie' (£2.20) is available inside the stadium.
Where to drink
There are bars inside the ground, however they get really crowded. I would recommend the William Jameson (Wetherspoons pub) in the centre of town for a drink before or after the game, as it has a great atmosphere. Graham Dutton recommends the new Yates's bar opposite Wetherspoons.
Whilst Maurice Perry informs me; 'Try Idols on High Street West, in the city centre, which has good beer and scantily clad barmaids and dancers. The beer is not bad too! Away fans are welcome'. Whilst Jason Adderley a visiting West Brom fan adds; ''The Albion pub, on Victor Street is a five minute walk from the ground, with some parking nearby.
I've used this pub the last three times I've visited Sunderland with West Brom. Always friendly and the landlord even puts on complimentary snacks after the game. Otherwise there is a chippy a couple of doors away. An all round top boozer'.
Directions
Exit the A1 at the Durham/Sunderland exit and take the A690 towards Sunderland. After about eight miles, turn left onto the A19, signposted for the Tyne Tunnel. Stay in the left hand lane and take the Sunderland slip road onto the bridge 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 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, so 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.
[Information courtesy of
www.footballgroundguide.co.uk]
