Cambridge United
Abbey Stadium
Capacity:
8,127 (4,376 Seated)
Address:
Newmarket Road, Cambridge CB5 8LN
Telephone:
01223 566 500
Fax:
01223 729 220
Pitch Size:
110 x 74 yards
Pitch Type:
Grass
Club Nickname:
The U's
Year Ground Opened:
1931
Undersoil Heating:
No
Shirt Sponsors:
Mick George
Kit
Manufacturer:Hummel
Home Kit:
Amber and Black Stripes
Away Kit:
White and Blue
The Club have announced tentative proposals to build a new 12,000 capacity stadium. The stadium would be built on a site close in-between Cambridge Airport and Junction 35 of the A14, around a mile due east of the current Abbey Stadium, along Newmarket Road (A1303). However with the proposed site of the new stadium being on greenbelt land and with no funding for the project in place, then there are going to be quite a number of hurdles for the Club to overcome to make this happen. The artists’ mock-up of how the new stadium may look is courtesy of the Cambridge United website, where more images and information about the project can be found.
The Main Stand on one side is a covered two-tiered all seated stand, part of which is used as a Family Enclosure. This traditional looking stand was built in 1967 and was later extended. It has a number of supporting pillars and the team dugouts are located at its front, either side of the player’s tunnel. Opposite is the Habbin Stand. This covered terrace was opened in 1960 and named after a former Supporters Club President. It runs for almost the entire length of the pitch. It does though have a number of supporting pillars running across its middle.
At one end of the ground is the modern South Stand, which was opened in 2002. This good sized covered single tiered, all seated stand, replaced a former open terrace. The seating area is raised in this stand, meaning that supporters enter the stand via a small flight of stairs. To one side of this stand, on the Main Stand side is a Police Control Box. The North Terrace at the other end of the ground is covered. However, it only runs for about half the width of the pitch, with one side ending in line with the eighteen-yard box. On one side towards the Habbin Terrace is a very small covered terrace that backs on to the supporters club building.
Away fans are housed in the Mead Grab & Plant Stand at one end of the ground, where up to 1,600 supporters can be seated. However normally only half the stand is open on match days on the Habbin side of the ground. This relatively new covered, all seated stand has good facilities and is raised a little above the pitch, although it is set back a bit from the playing action, but generally gives good views of the game. For some larger games then the South part of the Habbin terrace can also be made available. This covered terrace can accommodate almost 1,000 supporters.
The entrance to the away section is reached by walking along a path through Coldham Common, which is a field that is used from time to time to graze cows (well judging from the number of cow pats!). Not much fun at the best times and especially when it is a bit more difficult to see for those night games! On looking at the ground from the main Newmarket Road then the path to the away sections is down the right-hand side of the ground.
The refreshments on offer include Cheeseburgers (£3.50), Burgers (£3), Hot Dogs (£3.50), Steak Pies (£3), Chicken Balti Pies (£3) and Potato, Cheese & Onion Pasties (£3). Whilst Graham Young tells me; ‘On the whole Cambridge is a good day out as it is generally relaxed and friendly’.
There is a supporters club at the ground itself, that normally allows in away supporters, except for high profile games. The club charges a £2 entrance fee and also serves food. However as you would expect on matchdays it gets rather busy and sometimes has to turn away fans because it is full. Near to the away turnstiles there is an outdoor fan zone which welcomes all fans (although away fans have to show their match ticket to enter). It has a bar facility the ‘Abbey Arms’ that normally has a real ale on offer, plus food outlets. music and entertainment.
With a number of pubs in the local area having closed down, there is little choice for away fans in the way of a pre-match pint. Along Newmarket Road going to towards the city centre is the Wrestlers pub, which also offers Thai food. Otherwise it may be in an idea to drink in the centre of Cambridge before the game or enroute.
Jeff Beastall a visiting Mansfield Town fan adds; ‘Unable to get admittance into the supporters club at the ground, the police directed us towards Cambridge town centre. We set off down Newmarket Road then bore a left into East Road (A603). Just past KFC on the right is Dover Street and here well tucked away is a little gem of a pub – The Tram Depot. As its name implies, it was once where the trams into town would have started from. It is a character pub offering a broad selection of beers and lagers, with meals and snacks, It is just over a mile away from the ground which took me around 20 minutes to walk back to. However, the pub prefers that you keep team colours covered. Postcode for the Tram Depot is CB1 1DY with a bit of off-street parking nearby if you wish to call for swift one before heading to the game’.
The Abbey Stadium, Cambridge’s current ground, is 99 years old. Cambridge United, however, have only played their games there for 90 years having first occupied the stadium in 1932. At this time the ‘stadium’ was a single stand with changing rooms. Still, Cambridge had a home. Prior to the move to Abbey Stadium the club had been somewhat nomadic around the city with various pitches used.
From the North
Take the A1 and A14 to Cambridge, heading towards Newmarket. Turn off onto the B1047 sign posted for Cambridge Airport. At the top of the slip road turn right towards Fen Ditton. Go through Fen Ditton until you reach a T Junction, where at the traffic lights you turn right into Newmarket Road. Go straight across the roundabout (there is a McDonalds on one corner) and you will come to Abbey Stadium on your left hand side.
From the South
Take the M11 to Junction 14 and then join the A14 towards Newmarket. Turn off onto the B1047 signposted for Cambridge Airport. Then as North.
From the West:
Take the A428 to Cambridge, then join the A14, heading towards Newmarket. Turn off onto the B1047 signposted for Cambridge Airport. Then as North.
Car Parking
There is no parking available for away fans at the ground. There is some parking to be had on the streets surrounding the stadium. Otherwise some off road car parking is available behind the stadium. To reach this, continue past the ground entrance for another 400 yards and turn left at the traffic lights into Coldhams Lane. Continue for about 300 yards, crossing a small roundabout and over a railway bridge, The car park entrance is on the left about 50 yards beyond the bridge. Thanks to Chris Armstrong for providing the directions and car parking details.
Around a mile and a half away on Newmarket Road on the outskirts of Cambridge is a Park & Ride facility that football fans can use on Saturday match days. Although primarily to take shoppers into the City Centre it passes and will stop near the ground. The cost is £2.50 return per person (or £3 for one adult plus one under 16). After the match there is a dedicated Park & Ride bus parked across from the stadium to take fans back to the park and ride. If following the directions above then you will pass the Park & Ride on your right (its post code is CB5 8AA).
There is also the option of renting a private driveway in the local area via: YourParkingSpace.co.uk.
Please note that after the match has ended roads around the stadium can get pretty deadlocked at times. So you may wish to consider parking further away from the Abbey Stadium to help avoid this.
The owners of the Abbey Stadium, Grosvenor Estate have announced ambitious plans to increase the capacity of the stadium to around 11,000. This would be achieved by building a new 3,500 capacity terrace at the Newmarket Road (South) end of the ground. This would be followed by replacing the current Habbin Terrace with a new 3,000 all seated stand complete with corporate areas. The final phase would see the current Main Stand being refurbished and extended. However the scheme is dependent on Grosvenor Estates being given permission to pursue other developments in the Cambridge area, the profits from which would be used to fund the Abbey Stadium Developments.
An artists impression of how the redeveloped stadium would look (image courtesy of Cambridge United FC)
The main Cambridge Railway Station is over two miles away, so best to catch a taxi (about £9). The station is served by trains from Birmingham New Street, Norwich, Ipswich and London King’s Cross. In May 2017 the new Cambridge North Railway Station was opened. At just under two miles away from the Abbey Stadium, it is slightly closer than Cambridge Railway Station, but still a fair way. It is also served by trains, from Norwich and London King’s Cross, as well as London Liverpool Street.
Walking or By Bus From Cambridge Railway Station
If you decide to walk to the ground, then it is a fair old stroll, and a mazey route, but should only take 30 minutes at a good pace. Leave the station and take the first right hand turn into Tenison Avenue. Just beyond the traffic lights turn right into St. Barnabas Road. Follow this road along over the traffic lights and into Gywdir Road. Go through the traffic barrier and take the first left turn into Norfolk Street. Then take the first right turn just past the newsagents into St. Matthews Street, pass the church and take the 4th right into New Street. Follow all the way along until you reach Coldhams Lane. Head left here and then take the first right onto Newmarket Road, continue along this road for the ground. Thanks to ‘Main Stand Matt’ for providing the directions.
Steve Horabin suggests an alternative walking route from the station with beer and food stops along the way; ‘When exiting the station entrance immediately turn right and cut through the car park. At end of the car park, you will see a pedestrian exit which takes you onto Devonshire Road. Turn right and just before the end of the road you will see the entrance to the Devonshire Arms on your left. This pub shows BT & Sky Sports on large screens and has up to five real ales from the Milton Brewery, it is also listed in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide. On exiting the pub turn left and at the crossroads turn right into Mill Road (or if you go straight across into Kingston Street, there is another CAMRA Good Beer Guide pub, the Kingston Arms up on the left). Proceed over the bridge and pass a pub on your left called the Earl Of Beaconsfield, then in the next parade of shops is good fish and chip shop called the Seatree. Take the next left into Sedgwick Road which becomes Cromwell Road. Where the road forks, keep to the left (still Cromwell Road) and at the end of the road cross straight over onto to the common and there is a pathway running to the left, which leads you over to the stadium. The total walking time from the station to the ground using this route is around 25 minutes.’
Richard Green a visiting Macclesfield Town fan adds; ‘There are frequent buses that run to the Abbey Stadium before and after the game. I got on the C3, although the bus drivers in Cambridge directed me to several different numbered buses before a more ‘down-to-earth’ Cambridge fan (who was actually a bus driver), correctly directed me to the C3 bus. The bus journey takes 10-15 minutes’. The fare is £2.50 return.
Walking From Cambridge North Railway Station
The ground is signposted from the station. Turn left from the station, go through the cycle park then along the cycle path which leads down to a street called Moss Bank. At the bottom of Moss Bank you will reach a T-junction where you turn right and cross over onto Fen Road, which leads into Water Street. Keep on the left hand side and you’ll see a Greene King Pub called the Green Dragon. After crossing the Green Dragon bridge onto Stourbridge Common, take the left sided footpath towards Garlic Row -again there are signs to Abbey. Keep on the left until reaching the end of Garlic Row and turn left onto Newmarket Road. The Abbey Stadium is a couple of minutes away on the right.
Thanks to Peter Neep and Christopher Mason for providing these directions.
Booking train tickets in advance will normally save you money! Find train times, prices and book tickets with Trainline. Visit the website below to see how much you can save on the price of your tickets:
Official Programme: £3
Home Fans*
Main Stand (Centre): Adults £20, No Concessions
Main Stand (Wings): Adults £20, Concessions £15, Under 18’s £10**
Main Stand Family Enclosure: Adults £18, Concessions £13, Under 18’s £8**
North and Habbin Terraces: Adults £16, Concessions £12, Under 18’s £8**
Away Fans*
South Stand (Seating): Adults £20, Concessions £15, Under 18’s £10
Habbin Terrace: Adults £16, Concessions £12, Under 18’s £8
* These ticket prices are for those tickets purchased prior to matchday. Tickets bought on the day of the game can cost up to £2 more.
** Under 16’s can qualify for further discounts on these prices if they become club members.
Concessions apply to Over 64’s, Under 22’s and Students with an NUS Card.
Cambridge vs Peterborough rivalry: Cambridge and Peterborough haven’t always been playing their games in the same leagues but there is a real rivalry between the teams. This is largely centred on the fac they’re the two biggest clubs in their region; just an hour separates the two cities.
Cambridge vs Luton rivalry: Like their derby games with Peterborough, Cambridge and Luton is a game with added spice albeit not quite at the same intensity. This is largely because Luton have other teams nearer by that attract their hatred.
Cambridge United FC fixture list (takes you to the BBC Sports Website)
For details of disabled facilities and club contact at the ground please visit the relevant page on the Level Playing Field website.
Record Attendance
14,000 v Chelsea
Friendly, 1st May 1970.
Average Attendance
2019-2020: 4,072 (League Two)
2018-2019: 4,231 (League Two)
2017-2018: 4,523 (League Two)
Official Web Site:
Cambridge-United.co.uk
Unofficial Web Site:
Cambridge United Mad (FootyMad network)
If anything is incorrect or you have something to add, please e-mail me at: [email protected] and I’ll update the guide.
Cambridge United v Tamworth
Conference Premier League
Saturday, January 28th, 2012, 3pm
Scot Rowland (Tamworth fan)
1. Why were you looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
Having visited Cambridge before I know that the Abbey Stadium is a tidy stadium and there are also a few decent boozers around the ground.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking:
My journey was very easy getting the 10:19 train direct to Cambridge. We decided to get a taxi from the city centre to Newmarket Road which is where the ground sits so there were no problems in finding the stadium.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy? Home fans friendly?
We made the mistake of going into the first pub we came to upon leaving the station. The Live and Let Live is a few minutes’ walk from the station and has long seen better days so one to avoid. We then headed to The Wrestlers on Newmarket Road which was a nice little pub although was quite busy approaching matchday. Before kick-off we headed into the clubhouse, which was a decent size although gets very busy. It does charge a small fee to enter but we encountered no problems with the home supporters, as with the few Cambridge fans we spoke to were on the whole a friendly bunch.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of the away end and other sides of the ground:
The ground is of a decent size and is awash with bright yellow and black paint on the approach so doesn’t look bland and unwelcoming. It was a case of waiting to see where we would view the action as on our previous visits we have occupied both the South Stand and Habbin Terrace although both are annoying to get to having to walk through the common by the side of the stadium. This season we were in the new South Stand which is a nice all seater stand, which sits raised over the pitch giving you a very good view of the action. The Habbin Terrace is an old terrace with number of supporting pillars which do impede your view (I’ve found this from previous visits). The Main Stand is a two tiered all seater stand which is also quite old. The North Stand sits behind the goal and runs about half way with a small enclosure next to it.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, toilets etc..
I think this game was the definition of a smash and grab, Cambridge spent the vast majority of the game on the attack and ran the possession, and had numerous chances, but Tamworth put in a fantastic defensive performance with Hedge in goal and the back four defending resolutely. The only goal came from a deflected shot from Liam MacDonald which looped over the keeper into the net. The atmosphere was very good with both sets of fans making noise, the home fans quietened as the game wore on clearly frustrated with their team but the Tamworth fans made a decent noise despite the lowish number of fans. The stewards were fine and we encountered no problems, the food was actually very good having a cheeseburger, it was very tasty and a lot better than most of the fare at games.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Despite the decent crowd the roads around the stadium weren’t too bad, we decided to get a taxi from the stadium to the train station for the 17:43 train back to Ipswich where we live.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Cambridge is normally a relaxed and friendly away day and I’ve never encountered any problems. There are some very good boozers close to the ground and the facilities at the Abbey Stadium are good, overall a good day out and an excellent result for Tamworth against a decent Cambridge side.
Cambridge United v Barrow AFC
Conference League
Tuesday, March 13th, 2012, 7.45pm
Mike Kimberley (Neutral fan)
I was looking forward to visiting Abbey Stadium as my last visit was for a League match some thirty-four years before. The journey by train from London is quick at just under an hour and then a fifteen minute walk to the ground. Unsure of the route we paid £8.80 in a cab.
There are no pubs in the immediate vicinity of the ground although away supporters were admitted to the Club House. All fifty-four away fans were put in the South Stand. The general ambiance and attitude of the stewards was friendly enough.
The South Stand is several yards from the pitch as it appears, and I am only guessing, that the original stand/terracing was demolished after the new and impressive stand was built behind it. This does not detract from the overall view. The cheese-burger I had at £3 was perfectly acceptable without being extraordinary but there was no Bovril available.
My enjoyment of watching my seventh Barrow away game of the season was improved by the very positive way the team played but then dashed by Cambridge’s winner on 88 minutes against the run of play.
We returned to the station by cab after getting delayed in traffic and arrived at the station at the same time as those that had walked. The nearest pubs to the station are ten minutes walk away towards the City centre which is not long enough when only having twenty-five minutes before the train.
The return journey to London is slightly longer at an hour and two minutes. In summary Abbey stadium is a pleasant Conference venue. For those attending a Saturday match, the City is a very pleasant place to spend a couple of hours wandering so early arrival is recommended.
Cambridge United v Grimsby Town
FA Trophy Semi Final 1st Leg
Saturday, February 15th, 2014, 3pm
Sam Walker (Neutral fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
Our team Leicester City were not in action due to it being FA Cup weekend, so my Dad and I decided to spend the weekend watching a local side. The weather had not been pleasant around the country and despite East Anglia getting off comparatively lightly, many games had been called off, so we plumped for this game because it was most likely to go ahead. Also because it would be my first FA Trophy game and my Dad's first since 1971.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Living in Norwich, we caught the 11:40 train to Cambridge. Despite the possibility of delays of up to an hour due to a fallen tree on the line, we were not held up and arrived in a very windy, but thankfully, a dry Cambridge at around 12:55. We caught the bus from outside Cambridge station and arrived at the ground at about 1:20pm.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
With the ground not opening until 1:45, we bought a programme and waited for the turnstiles to open. Whilst waiting we saw the Grimsby team coach pulling up and the alighting players were warmly welcomed by a group of Cambridge fans standing nearby. After initially being sent to the wrong part of the ground, we found the entrance for the Main Stand. For both of us, it was £18 each. We bought food in the ground. I had no problems, though Dad claimed on his visit that the staff 'wouldn't receive any customer service awards!'
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
This was my second visit to Cambridge, having previously visited in 2011. After visiting so many identical stadiums, it was nice to visit a 'proper' football ground, albeit one that was showing its age in places.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Grimsby kicked off and with the wind on their backs tried an audacious shot which flew over the bar, and it was their only real effort for another 85 minutes. Cambridge took the lead on 21 minutes through Ryan Bird, and then the rain came down, which along with the wind restricted play somewhat. Cambridge went 2-0 up on 55 minutes through Ryan Bird's second of the game. Grimsby were second best throughout but kept going and got their reward in the 95th minute, to make the final score 2-1. The game was never going to be a classic with the high winds but fortunately the long ball was few and far between, with Cambridge in particular highlighting their attacking potential. Both sets of fans got behind their team and were vocal throughout. The attendance was 3,264 and the 1,000 or so Grimsby fans were roundly applauded by the home fans.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
We left on the final whistle, and we caught a bus directly outside the ground. We caught a train at around six o'clock and arrived back in Norwich at around 7:10pm.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A very enjoyable afternoon. The high winds and rain were testing but both sides coped very well. A 1-1 draw in the second leg saw Cambridge win 3-2 on aggregate to set up a Wembley final with Gosport Borough. I would welcome a return to the Abbey in future, though hopefully with better weather.
Cambridge United v Barnet
Conference Premier League
Saturday 29th March 2014, 3pm
James Sweeney (Barnet fan)
Why you were looking forward to going to the Abbey Stadium?
I was optimistic about going because there would be a good away support and it is fairly local so we went up to see what the ground had to offer. Also, I had never been to Cambridge before and wanted to see what it was like. Also the earlier fixture at the Hive between the two Clubs had been a lively affair with the game finishing 2-2. Barnet should have won that game when a late goal by George Sykes was disallowed for the Bees.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey was quite difficult, as once we came off the M11 and on to the A1134, we got lost driving around Cambridge. We did eventually find the ground, back on a road that we had previously driven along, so we must have taken a wrong turning somewhere! We found some street parking and walked to the ground. I think next time, we might get the train up to save us the aggro of getting lost again!
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We went to a nearby chippy for lunch and we then took our place in the away end which was a very decent stand. The home fans were making a lot of noise and so were Barnet fans so the atmosphere was really good.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The away end is a new stand, which is raised above pitch level, so we had to climb a small flight of stairs to get to the seats, which were comfy and had plenty of leg room. Opposite to us was the home end which I noted had a disabled enclosure towards one corner. Adjacent to us was a terrace for home fans which was in many ways a lot like the old east terrace at Underhill as it went the whole length of the pitch and had a TV gantry on top. Opposite to the East Terrace was the Main Stand, which looked to be of a good age as was the old Main Stand at Underhill. It had the same structure and shed roof and the blue seats behind where the teams emerge from.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
A 1-1 draw similar to the fixture played at the hive earlier in the season. Both teams had evens in terms of possession and both continued to press each others box and there was a brilliant atmosphere from both the home side and the 606 travelling Barnet fans that made the journey from the Hive.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
We decided to get onto the A1 from the A14 as it was easier to get into London this way. But to do this we had to drive around Cambridge and passing the Cambridge City ground as we did so. We were on the A1 pretty quickly and passed the Stevenage ground as we approached London.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
It was a very good game with a great atmosphere and on a lovely spring day. It was also nice to visit an older proper football ground. I probably will go again if Barnet play but I will get the train up then bus it to the stadium.
Cambridge United v Exeter City
League Two
Tuesday, September 16th, 2014, 7.45pm
Steve Ellis (Exeter City fan)
1. Why were you looking forward to going to this ground and how easy was the journey?
I was looking forward to going to the Abbey Stadium, as for me it was a new ground to visit. The journey was straight forward as I travelled on the official supporters coach, leaving Exeter at 12.30pm and arriving six hours later in Cambridge.
2. What did you do before the game, pub, chippy….home fans friendly?
On arrival at the ground I went to the supporters clubhouse bar, where there is a £1.50 entry charge for visiting supporters. Prices of drinks started at £3. Home fans I encountered were friendly.
3. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end and then other sides of ground?
Getting to the away end, entails a walk down a footpath in-between the back of the West Stand and a field. If it is a night game then keep your eyes peeled, as there is a cattle grid at the entrance to the path and the pathway itself is not that well lit. However volunteers from the CFU (Cambridge fans united), were on hand to point you in the right direction and to make sure you find your way to the away turnstile. They were also happy to help with any other queries you may have.
Away fans are housed in the modern South Stand, at one end of the ground. The stadium is all seated apart from the West Stand, to our left, which is half terraced and half seated. On the whole it was a traditional looking ground.
4. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, refreshments and toilets.
The game was played in good spirit, with Exeter playing the better football and running out as 2-1 winners. The atmosphere in the ground was good, helped by the fact that all the stands are covered which aided the acoustics of the crowd.
The stewards were helpful and very much low key, the refreshments are reasonably priced with hot food starting at £3, drinks from £1.50. Toilets under the stand were clean.
5. Comments on getting away from the ground after the game.
No issues getting away after the game, as our supporters coach was parked just opposite the main entrance the journey home was relaxed after watching Exeter get their first win of the season. We arrived back in Exeter at 3.30am!
Cambridge United v Southend United
League Two
Friday, December 26th, 2014, 1pm
John & Stephen Spooner (Southend United fans)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
We had visited some years ago but had forgotten most of the memories about the ground, apart from getting lost trying to find it! Plus we always like to see a Boxing Day match.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey for us as North Wales exiles was straightforward down the M6 and A14 following satnav and the guidance on this website. It was a cold dry day. The 1pm kick off made for an early start on the 200 mile journey. The route home, however was a different matter with heavy rain as we set off home, turning to sleet in Birmingham, and then snow about 5 miles from home, and the local hills and lack of gritting ensured a rather difficult end to the day. The ground was easy to find and we parked in Ditton Walk, opposite the main entrance, as advised by helpful stewards.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
We collected our tickets and made our way over a cattle grid and on a path through a field behind the Main Stand to meet up at the entrance to the away end, with my brother and his daughter. Home fans were friendly.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
The first sight of the ground was the floodlights and then main entrance to the ticket office and the ground appears small but on entering the stadium, we were impressed by the South Stand which appears to be the best of the stands. There is plenty of leg room and friendly stewards told us we could sit anywhere. There is a large area of grass between the pitch and the South Stand which makes the pitch appear shorter than it really is, and further away. The stand behind the opposite goal makes for a lopsided view as it does not go the full width of the pitch.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was hard fought, with neither team offering much of a goal threat. It was freezing cold too, which didn't help the atmosphere, despite a good crowd of over 7,000, including 1200 Southend fans. Southend managed to score the only goal of the game in the 2nd half to ensure Southend stayed in the League top 7.
We didn't bother with food at the ground due to long queues at the kiosk at the rear, outside the South Stand. The 68 page programme, £3, was good value with a number of interesting articles.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away from the ground was easy enough, once the inevitable traffic cleared from the surrounds of the stadium.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
An away win on Boxing Day, despite the cold was more than we expected. Cambridge is a nice ground to visit. The only disappointing part of the day was the return journey due to the foul weather, driving through torrential rain and sleet, before skidding through the snow as we neared home.
Cambridge United v Accrington Stanley
League 2
Saturday 11th April 201, 3pm
Adam Houlden (Accrington Stanley fan)
Why you were looking forward to going to the Abbey Stadium?
It was my very first visit to Cambridge and another new ground to add to my list.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Despite taking the long route via the M6 and across the A14 the journey took 4 and a half hours. We decided to stop in Cambridge town centre for lunch and parked in a multi storey easily enough. After asking someone the right way to the ground we found it easily enough, even though it was two miles away. Parking was easily found on a council estate opposite the stadium.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We had some lunch in Cambridge city centre. After the game which was drawn we went in the clubhouse at the home supporters end for a drink before going home and found the Cambridge fans very friendly especially with Adam who has autism.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
A nice old fashioned ground with plenty of atmosphere. Accrington supporters were put in a small section on one side, opposite the Main Stand, as there were only about 50 Stanley fans who had made the trip. There were no sign of the legendary cows on the walk along to the away turnstiles!
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was a bit of a nervy affair, as both teams were still not quite safe from the prospect of relegation, so the draw was a fair result. Facilities and stewards pretty good and there was an excellent atmosphere inside the ground.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Would have been slow because of heavy traffic, but as mentioned before we spent half an hour in the clubhouse at the end of the game, to let the traffic clear.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A nice day spent in a pleasant city and a new ground with Stanley gaining another point towards their 10th season in League Two.
Cambridge United v Stevenage
League Two Saturday 26th September 2015, 3pm
James Walker (Stevenage fan)
Why were you looking forward to visiting the Abbey Stadium?
I was looking forward to this game as it is one of the easiest of our away games to get to (just a short hop on the train from Stevenage) and it's one of the few local derbies for us. We had also won three and drawn one of our previous four ties against Cambridge so I had reason to be confident. On top of that there was the possibility of four ex-Stevenage players lining up in the Cambridge team, so that added a bit more spice to the occasion.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
As previously mentioned, we got the train and so it was easy. We got on at Knebworth Station, and 50 minutes (plus 10 stops) later, we arrived in Cambridge just after 1.30pm. A brisk 25 minute walk later, and we were arriving at the stadium. It's a simple walk to the Abbey Stadium from the station, and you even get to walk through a large cow field!
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We arrived at the ground just before 2pm and so went straight into the away end. Next stop was to visit the programme seller (priced at £3 each) and then to get some food (Chicken Balti pie, chips and a bottle of Sprite costing £7 in total – a very good price and fantastic quality too). We didn't encounter any home fans enroute.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Abbey stadium?
With this being my fifth visit to the Abbey Stadium, I knew exactly what to expect and I always enjoy coming here. Wide concourses and raised seating, as well as a big space at the corner of the pitch to stand and chat with people if you need to stretch your legs.
View From The Away End
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was a flat contest, with us just shading thr first half, and should've gone in 2-0 up. Charlie Lee and Tom Hitchcock came very close at either end of the half, with the former hitting the bar. The second half was largely dictated by Cambridge and only some very good stops from Jesse Joronen kept us in the match, until Cambridge made their pressure count late on injury time (the 97th minute) through Harrison Dunk.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away was simple as all we had to do was walk out of the stand, turn left and we were already walking through the field that leads to the station. 25 minutes later we were on the platform, which gave time for a quick visit to Smiths for a drink for the train home.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall it was an okay away day. easy journeys and a decent enough atmosphere, with only the late goal ruining the day for us. At least I was home in time to watch England v Wales in the rugby!
Half Time: Cambridge United 0-0 Stevenage
Full Time: Cambridge United 1-0 Stevenage
Attendance: 5,503 (573 away fans)
Cambridge United v Portsmouth
Football League Two
Saturday 10th October 2015, 3pm
Matthew Penny (Portsmouth fan)
Why were you looking forward to visiting the Abbey Stadium?
This was a stadium that I hadn't done before – so another one to tick off my list! Also – I knew that the away stand was relatively bigger than the others in the stadium and had good views. Plus with our huge visiting support, and the noisy home fans, it would be an awesome atmosphere.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Relatively easy journey on train from Bath. Taxi to the ground and a short walk through a field to get to the away end. But I had researched this before hand so no surprise!
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I was very surprised to find that no beer was being sold in the away end! So instead I just grabbed some nice chips and a rubbish burger. The home fans seemed fine. Stewards were friendly making sure we were in the right area (as Pompey had the whole away end some terracing down one side).
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Abbey stadium?
Impressive away stand – the rest of the stadium was okay. Impressive group of fans opposite the away stand in the home terrace.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Awful start to the game, with Pompey conceding within five minutes.. But we held out until half time. A scuffle at half time resulted in the Cambridge captain being sent off! In the second half, Pompey dominated and scored 3 goals to win the game 1-3. But Pompeys style of football was pretty boring at times. Not that we cared in the away end. With plenty of celebrations going on!
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Quite easy – we left on the final whistle. Getting a cab after the game back to the train station though was horrific. I would advise pre-booking one.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Very nice day out. Good weather. Great game and result obviously. Thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere from Pompey and enjoyed the banter between us and the Cambridge fans. I would recommend a visit to the Abbey Stadium.
Cambridge United v Doncaster Rovers
FA Cup 2nd Round
Sunday 6th December 2015, 2pm
Owen Hodson (Doncaster Rovers fan)
Why were you looking forward to visiting the Abbey Stadium?
Cambridge United are in the league below Doncaster, so this cup tie provided an opportunity to go to a different stadium. Also Cambridge had a new manager in Shaun Derry who was previously interviewed for the Donny job.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I went on the supporters coach from Doncaster. As the coach neared the Abbey Stadium, it seemed to pass through a council estate and then strangely the coach was parked on a nearby industrial estate (Behind Topps Tiles). The Doncaster supporters then had to walk through a field for a good ten minutes walk to reach the away turnstiles.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I had a walk around the stadium and went into the club shop. Everyone was friendly around the ground. There is a supporters club located next to the club shop.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Abbey stadium?
The away end from the outside looked big. When you got through the gates there was lots of space behind the stand. The stadium has a seated Main Stand and away end with the rest terraced. The away end has great leg room and comfortable seats.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was dominated by Cambridge in the first half and they got a penalty which we saved but they scored rebound. However Fergie (Darren) gave the hairdryer treatment at half time and the second half was Donnys. 3 goals in 11 minutes from Lund and 2 for Conor Grant including one of the best of the rounds. Cambridge hit the bar and Donny had a few chances but the game stayed at 3-1 Doncaster. They was 672 Doncaster fans and the Cambridge fans was loud aswell so they atmosphere was great. The stewards seemed friendly and was seened to be laughing at some of the songs. There was a fair few police officers around the ground. At half time I had a bacon roll due to reviews I've read and they don't lie, best bacon sandwich I've ever had! The toilets was quite clean as well.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
After the game we walked back through the field. A Cambridge fan went past on a child's bike and was upset when he said it was "just a game of football", he was clearly masking his true emotions.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall a great day out. Out of the League One stadiums I've been to this stadium is better then most of them. Good leg room, food and atomosphere lead to a great away day.
Cambridge United v Grimsby Town
Football League Two
Saturday 15th October 2016, 3pm
Kevin Dixon (Grimsby Town fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Abbey Stadium?
Another new one for me, though not sure why I've never been before, as it's within comparatively fairly easy reach of Grimsby. It's actually our fifth closest away game this season.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I chose to go the country route via Louth, Horncastle, skirting round Boston, (noted bottleneck), down to Spalding, then via March and Ely, and finally down the A10 to Cambridge, where I joined the A14 then the B1047 to the Abbey Stadium. Apart from a few tractors on the fens, I had no problem until I got to Newmarket Road, where traffic was almost at a standstill. I managed to get parked on the Ditton Fields Estate just across the road.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
It being almost 2pm when I arrived, I chose to go straight in to the ground, passing plenty of friendly locals on the way. The field through which you walk to the away end was free of cows today!
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Abbey Stadium?
The away South Stand is a relatively new addition, although the rest of the ground, much like our own, has seen better days. The South Stand is all seated, and there is plenty of leg room, and a good view of the pitch with no pillars in the way. The home end is a covered terrace, and the Main Stand is again all seated. Opposite this is another covered terrace, which was occupied to the halfway line by more home fans.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, steward s, pies, facilities etc..
The first half was the best we have played for a number of games, and we deservedly took the lead in the 26th minute through Jame Berrett's first goal for the club. In the second half, Cambridge changed formation, and put us under a bit of pressure, but fortunately their strikers had an off day, so the score stayed at 1-0. The 1,149 Town fans sung all the way through the second half, which, with the Cambridge fans in the home end giving it a good go, created a great atmosphere. Stewards were friendly and chatty, and the burgers, hot dogs and chips on sale looked pretty good. Toilets were spacious and clean.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
An absolute nightmare. When I walked across to the car, traffic was still at a standstill on Newmarket Road, and it took the best part of an hour to get out of the estate. If I visit again, I will certainly park in a different place. Despite this, I was still home by 8.15pm, following the same route as my outward journey.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A friendly place to visit, one I would gladly visit again.
Cambridge United v Cheltenham Town
Football League Two
Saturday 26th November 2016, 3pm
Paul Oxenbury (Cheltenham Town fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Abbey Stadium?
Yes, I've wanted to go to Cambridge United for a number of years but because of being in different divisions and evening fixtures, I have been up until now, unable to go.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I took a slightly circuitous route as I was going with my friend, a Cambridge fan who lives in Birmingham. So I first travelled from Cheltenham Spa to Birmingham New Street on the train and then my friend drove us along the M6/A14 straight into Cambridge. The car journey took about 3 hours overall. We parked on a verge just off the Newmarket Road taking a short walk to the Abbey Stadium.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Before the game, we had lunch at the Cambridge Brew House in the city centre where met up with some more people. As we were outnumbered four to one by Cambridge fans, there was plenty of good natured banter before the game.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Abbey Stadium?
The Abbey Stadium is the kind of ground I like. To get to the away end from the Newmarket Road, you have to walk through a field fitting in with the general atmosphere of Cambridge as a city which in a couple of minutes walk feels like you're in the countryside. We were seated in the newest stand at the far end. The view was very good and the seating comfortable with plenty of leg room (though at 5 foot 9 that's rarely an issue!) but at £22 to get in, I felt it was a bit too expensive and the stand is a bit of a way back from the pitch making the perspective of the pitch slightly off (I'm told this is because there are plans to renovate the Newmarket Road End and move the pitch toward the South Stand that have yet to be followed through). The rest of the ground is a traditional lower league venue with a mix of seating and terracing creating a very tight little stadium.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
As Cheltenham fans rarely cause any trouble, stewards are normally fine with us. My only contact with the stewards was to ask whether I could pay on the turnstile and and where the toilets were. Both were helpful and the toilets were perfectly acceptable. The game itself was an absolute disaster for Cheltenham. Cambridge went ahead early on, completely dominated and were much better in every area of the game. They should have been more than a goal up at half time and quickly extended their lead after the break. At 3-0 down with 15 minutes left, fans who decided to leave and fans who decided to stay got into an angry argument with each other, it was probably the most entertaining bit of the game from a Cheltenham perspective! Cheltenham managed a late consolation but in truth 3-1 flattered us.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
The traffic around Cambridge reminded me a lot of Cheltenham. It's an absolute nightmare to get away quickly but fortunately we stopped off in a pub called the Earl of Beaconsfield to watch the Chelsea Tottenham game before head ing back to Sawston, a few miles south of Cambridge for the night. The next day, we went back to Birmingham with a less smooth journey as traffic had divert off the motorway via Coventry, before an uneventful rail trip back to Gloucester.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Despite the awful result and performance, I very much enjoyed my weekend. Cambridge is a beautiful city and well worth a visit. The Abbey Stadium is a good example of a traditional lower league football ground. If Cambridge and Cheltenham are in the same league next season, I would love to make a return trip.
Cambridge United v Cheltenham Town
Football League Two
Saturday 26th November 2016, 3pm
Tom (Cheltenham Town fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Abbey Stadium?
I was looking forward to as it would be a new ground for myself. I like to go home and away where possible with with Cheltenham Town and often find myself going to grounds I've been to before so this was nice to visit somewhere new for me.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We drove down in the car and it was an easy enough journey and took us about three hours.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We know some Cambridge fans so we went to their house to visit them before the game.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Abbey Stadium?
As we were in the car we could see the ground approaching and we parked a five minute walk away. When we got close to the stadium, the home and away fans were split and the away fans had to walk across a damp muddy field to get to the turnstiles which wasn't ideal. The away end was probably the nicest stand in the ground with the only problem being that it is quite well set-back from the pitch. The rest of the ground was smart enough and it is sort of thing you expect to see in League Two.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Cheltenham were poor, losing 3-1. The performance fitted in perfectly with our recent form. There seemed to be an excessive amount of stewards, they were friendly enough and didn't cause a problem there was just a lot of them. The Cambridge fans created a good atmosphere as you'd expect with them playing us off the park.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
We knew where we were heading just the amount of traffic was absolutely horrendous!
Cambridge United v Plymouth Argyle
Football League Two
Saturday 4th February 2017, 3pm
David King (Plymouth Argyle fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Abbey Stadium?
I had never managed to get to the Abbey Stadium previously and this was one of a handful of grounds in League Two that I had not managed to visit.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I travelled up the previous day and stayed in Newmarket. Trains are infrequent from Newmarket to Cambridge however the journey only takes around 20 minutes compared to over an hour by bus.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I looked around Cambridge for a couple of hours then walked to the Railway station and on to the Kingston Arms. There were already some Plymouth fans here and we were made to feel welcome. Beer choices were good and I spent an hour here. I then moved on to the Seatree fish and chip shop where I had an excellent cod and chips washed down with a pot of tea! I then walked the remainder of the distance to the Abbey Stadium. I tried to get into the supporters club but was turned away at just after 2pm as they were not allowing anyone else in, entry was shown as £2.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Abbey Stadium?
The Abbey Stadium is a strange ground. Away fans are in the modern South Stand where the view is great and there is cover should it rain. The rest of the ground is a mix of older stands. The North Terrace looked fairly modern but does not extend the full width of the pitch and the Main Stand is older but does not reach along the full length of the pitch. Only one half of the Habbin Stand was in use with the half nearest the away end not being used.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
There were refreshment kiosks and toilets situated behind the South Stand and these were of a good standard. Additional catering was available from a mobile catering unit at the corner of the South Stand. Pre match entertainment was average at best and a lot of fans arrived quite near kick off so there was not much of an atmosphere from either sets of fans. Away fans are quite a way behind the goal so it is hard to make yourself heard despite the roof over the stand. Cambridge made a bright start and but for some resolute defending by Plymouth and a degree of luck they could have scored. Plymouth were not keeping possession of the ball for any period of time however they became more of an attacking threat after 20 minutes and had a number of chances themselves before scoring on 41 minutes. Plymouth managed to keep Cambridge at bay and led at half time. Cambridge made a change around the start of the second half and again threatened the Argyle goal but as the second half progressed they seemed to run out of ideas. Plymouth did not have many chances to extend the lead in the second half although Jordan Slew shot just wide with just the goalkeeper to beat. Cambridge applied some late pressure but Plymouth held on for a narrow victory. An entertaining game but a poor attendance and not a particularly good atmosphere. both sets of fans were rather subdued throughout
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
I walked back to the City Centre and visited the Wetherspoon's for a meal. This was extremely busy as the "egg chasers" were watching the France versus England Rugby game.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall not the best football stadium I have visited in League Two although the facilities were okay. The pubs and café was fine though and Plymouth got another three points on the road.
Cambridge United v Plymouth Argyle
Football League Two
Date: Saturday 4th February 2017, 3pm
Bryan Davis (Plymouth Argyle fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Abbey Stadium?
I had never been to Cambridge so we (that’s me plus my better half) thought we’d combine a bit of culture with seeing Argyle play.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Easy trip along the A14 to Cambridge. We parked in the Newmarket Road Park & Ride (£1.00 to park) and got the bus (£3.00 each) into the city centre. You can get your bus ticket either on the bus or from the car park machine.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We had a wander around the city taking in the rather impressive buildings, particularly those of the university. Not surprisingly it was quite busy with lots of tourists. Lunch at The Senate Bistro by Great St Mary’s Church was very good – not exactly cheap though!It took us about 30 minutes to walk back to the Abbey Stadium.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Abbey Stadium?
I think that the approach to the away end is approaching legendary status, but the reality is that it’s just a tarmac path through a field which on this occasion had no livestock in. The away end is a modern, all-seater stand on the southern side of the ground and offers a good view of the pitch, albeit some considerable way back from the byline. The Main Stand alongside the eastern side is older and of traditional single tier seated design. The home end covered terrace only extends about 2/3 of the width of the pitch. The western side has a covered stand (all terraced I think) again this appears quite old.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc.
In the first half Cambridge were attacking the goal in front of the away fans and had an early (2nd minute!!) opportunity, however with danger avoided Argyle, who were fielding 4 January signings, settled into the game. It was quite entertaining with both teams pressing and the Cambridge goalkeeper was required to make a couple of fine saves. Argyle eventually took the lead on 41 minutes through Sarcevic’s first goal for the club. Cambridge were unlucky not to score in time added on, but it was 0-1 at the half.
It felt like more of the action had taken place at the opposite end of the pitch in the first half so we were hoping that we’d be closer to the action in the second half. Cambridge had other ideas and only a goal mouth scramble kept them from equalising early in the period. The match then turned generally into a Defence v Attack affair with Cambridge pressing hard and just the occasional break away by Argyle, Jordan Slew causing the hosts the most trouble. There were no more goals and so the match ended with a very welcome win for the Greens.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
We walked back to the Park & Ride car park which took about 30 minutes and was certainly quicker than trying to get a bus as Newmarket Road was rammed. From here it was easy back to the A14. It’s worth mentioning that when heading Westbound on the A14 from Cambridge there are 2 junctions where you have to get off the main road you are on to carry on the A14 – the first being J31A and the second at J23 near Huntingdon.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A great day out to a city I’d never been to, the weather was excellent and Argyle took the three points.
Cambridge United v Crawley Town
Football League Two
Saturday 29th April 2017, 3pm
Dan (Crawley Town fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Cambs Glass Stadium?
No real reason just visiting a new ground and hoping for an away day win!
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Car journey up around 90 minutes in Cambridge very heavy traffic but nothing major. Parking I followed directions on this website to Coldhams Lane and parked up at a business there.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
After parking up walked through the meadows to the south of the stadium which was very rural but a pleasant walk. All locals and stewards were friendly. The club has a very family feel.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Cambs Glass Stadium?
The Abbey Stadium is mostly very old on three sides and could do with a bit of refurbishment.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The atmosphere was a bit flat as each stand is very detached. Away terracing had a good view of pitch and segregated away from home fans.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
The walk back to the car was quick. The traffic going out of Cambridge was a little slow but once out of centre a good run home.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A good day out just a shame we lost 2-0!
Cambridge United v Carlisle United
Football League Two
Saturday 12th August 2017, 3pm
Phil Armstrong (Carlisle United fan)
Cambridge United vs Wycombe Wanderers
League Two
Saturday 7th October 2017, 3pm
Iain Burnham (Wycombe Wanderers)
Cambridge United v Port Vale
League 2
Saturday 5th May 2018, 3pm
Thomas Inglis (Neutral – Visiting Dundee United fan)
Cambridge United v Exeter City
League 2
Saturday 19th October 2019, 3pm
John Baker (Exeter City)
Cambridge United v Leyton Orient
League 2
Saturday 6th December 2019, 2019
Owen Elsom (Leyton Orient)
Cambridge United v Bradford City
League 2
Saturday 15th February 2020, 3pm
Paul Stanton (Doing the 92)
Game Attended
Cambridge United v Oxford UnitedCompetition
League OneDate
07/08/2021Kick Off Time
1500Team Supported
Oxford UnitedWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
First game of the season, not a lot of football attended in last 18 months for obvious reasons. An away day which are always the best plus another ground to tick offHow easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Was a pleasant drive until I got about 1.5 miles from ground were the traffic really builds up and it took me about 40 minutes to travel the last mile. I rented a parking space at DFS a 5 minute walk from the away end which I highly recommend.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I parked up about an hour before kick off and headed straight for the ground. Home fans were a friendly bunch.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Ground is really old in terms of appearance bar the away end which is much more modern. Comfortably the best stand in the groundComment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
We dominated possession as we usually do without really creating too many clear cut chances throughout and took the lead on the stroke of half time with a superbly taken goal. Second half again comfortable and we did have a couple of chances to kill the game but gave a needless penalty away and had to settle for the draw. Stewards were spot on and a decent burger van just as you get in that sells some good foodComment on getting away from the ground after the game
The journey away from the ground was a lot quicker although initially it’s slow moving but once out of the city it was a good run homeSummary of overall thoughts of the day out
Thoroughly enjoyed my day minus the result and was great to see fans back in numbers especially our fans who turned out in force. All in all great to be backImages
Game Attended
Cambridge United vs GillinghamCompetition
SkyBet League OneDate
28/09/2021Kick Off Time
19:45Team Supported
GillinghamWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
It was my first away game since COVID restrictions at stadiums were relaxed, so was looking forward to the trip.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey was surprisingly stress-free for a Tuesday afternoon, and easily managed to find parking just off of the road where the stadium is located, about a five minute walk away.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Before heading to the stadium I stopped at a local chippy for dinner. Once at the stadium, a steward kindly gave directions as to where away fans can pick up their tickets, and I headed around to the front of the stadium to pick them up. Whilst there, I headed into the club shop/portacabin, to buy the club crest pin badge to add to the collection. Despite a few odd looks from some of the home fans in there, they were friendly enough!What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The Abbey Stadium is a proper old-school league ground with a mixture of all-seater stands and terracing. Interestingly, away fans are given the most modern stand in the stadium; a covered all-seater stand with a burger van outside and small window at the back of the stand selling beer.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was one of the more stress-free away games that I'd been to; Cambridge didn't really cause our defence too many issues, and we comfortably ran out comfortable 0-2 winners. Our second goal from Danny Lloyd was a great hit into the top corner, in ever-increasing rain. The atmosphere was decent for a crowd of 4,000, with 326 Gills fans. Cambridge's noisy end seemed to be down at the other end of the stadium, and supported with a drum. Fair play to the stewards, who spent the whole game getting rained on!Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
The rain by the games conclusion was now torrential, so after a quick five minute walk/swim back to the car, I was on my way back to Kent without any traffic-issues.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Overall a decent away day! Obviously great to be back following the Gills around the country, and the performance and result was just the icing on the cake.Images
Game Attended
Cambridge United vs Sheffield WednesdayCompetition
EFL League 1Date
19/10/2021Kick Off Time
19.45Team Supported
Sheffield WednesdayWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Over 40 years since I was at the 'Abbey', so thought that it might be time for a return visit!How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Another long journey from South Wales, setting off at 12 noon and arrived at 4.15pm. As we arrived early we were easily able to park in Ditton Fields, just across the road from the ground.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Had a 3-4 minute walk down to McDonalds for cuppa following the journey. While there we noticed a chippy across the road 'The Codfather' on Barnwell Road, so decided to eat there. Sadly we regretted this decision, and they wouldn't get many stars on 'Trip Advisor'! We then walked to the ground and went for a couple of drinks at the Supporters Club immediately outside the ground. The sign outside said 'no visiting supporters' for our game, but we asked at the door anyway and they were happy to allow us in for a £2 charge. It was nice and pleasant inside and we were able to watch the early Champions league game on a big screenWhat you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The ground is small and compact. With a virtual sell out I was surprised that the seats were 'unreserved', with a certain amount of chaos ensuing.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
I thought that the home fans were excellent and certainly made a lot of noise. Wednesday started slowly and it was little surprise when we went behind after 20 minutes. We gradually improved and it was no surprise when we equalized with 10 minutes to go. Stewarding was not exceptional. For example one steward stood in the middle of the gangway at half time effectively blocking the way. When I asked him why he replied by saying that it was his job to keep the gangway clear! Paid £2 for a cup of tea from a mobile burger van situated inside the turnstiles, which was pretty standard. The toilets were quite small but adequate.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
One narrow public footpath with minimal lighting and a small gate at the end was inadequate and there was quite a bit of crushing. Driving out of Cambridge is 'challenging' with what seemed like hundred's of cyclists going in various directions! After what seemed an eternity we finally got away from the city and had a relatively trouble free journey home.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
A long and tiring journey, but another point that ultimately might be crucial when we get to the season's end.Images
Game Attended
Cambridge United v SunderlandCompetition
League OneDate
27/11/2021Kick Off Time
3pmTeam Supported
SunderlandWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
With this being our fourth season in the third tier it has proved difficult to muster much enthusiasm for games at small grounds at this level, and a recent poor run of form had done nothing to change that. However, Cambridge was a new ground for a majority of our fanbase, and it at the very least afforded an opportunity to visit a historical English city, which was why we decided to make a full weekend of it.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Despite the harsh weather conditions of Storm Arwen, we ventured on the lengthy walk from our hostel near the train station to the ground (around 40 minutes in total). Fortunately, there was sufficient time for a couple of pit stops to break up the journey.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
To make the long walk to the ground more palatable we stopped off for an ale at the Dobblers Inn, which had a good selection of ales and reasonably-priced food, and the Corner House on Newmarket Road, which was full of Sunderland fans enjoying the sub-zero temperatures in the beer garden. The home fans I spoke to were all very friendly and welcoming, which is more than can be said for certain other clubs in this division.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The approach to the ground is far from glamorous, and felt more akin to a hike through a rural field. We were housed in the standing terrace to the left of the goal, which didn't give the best view of the action but did allow us to create a decent amount of noise. There was quite a big gap between the away fans and home fans, which meant that the atmosphere lacked some of the usual intensity you find at most Sunderland away games in League One.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game itself was full of commitment from both sides, but generally lacking in quality. We took the lead when a corner flew in directly off the post, but were quickly pegged back when our defence parted like the Red Sea to allow Cambridge to equalise. Fortunately, Nathan Broadhead then made it 2-1 to Sunderland with a screamer from outside the box, and despite Cambridge having about thirty corners in the second half, that's how it stayed. The facilities were very basic; at half time the lights briefly went out in the men's toilets, which was both a hilarious and slightly grim experience. There was a solitary food stand serving beer, but that proved woefully inadequate to cater for the legions of thirsty away fans. The stewards were very friendly, and wished us a safe journey home after the game.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Getting away from the ground was easy enough, despite it being pitch black at this stage. We stopped for a celebratory beer and meal at the Alexandra Arms, and then back to our hostel to prepare for a night on the town, where we funnily enough ran into Sunderland manager Lee Johnson after the players' Christmas party.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Despite not being a traditional footballing city, Cambridge ranks up there with one of the most enjoyable away trips I've had in this league. We had some great conversation with the home fans, and there is of course no shortage of great pubs and other attractions in the city.Images
Game Attended
Cambridge v RotherhamCompetition
League OneDate
18/02/2021Kick Off Time
3pmTeam Supported
RotherhamWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Could be the last game before a possible Lockdown. Went on supporters coach and looking forward to a new ground.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
On supporters coach so no problem.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
We stopped in Huntingdon on way down and had a few hours in Spoons. However despite there being over 1000 away fans there they only had one bar open with 2 people working. So after a 15 minute wait to add insult to injury 2 lukewarm cans of Magners were £9..What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
It was a bit of a hike to the away end. Tidy Ground though.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Game was scrappy but we edged a 1-0 win. Couldn't get a pie because of the wait. Didn't even notice the stewards which was good. Facilities were okay.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Easy bit of a hike but the coach was away quickly.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Great day out with family.Images
Game Attended
Cambridge United v Plymouth ArgyleCompetition
League OneDate
22/02/2022Kick Off Time
19:45Team Supported
ArgyleWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Visiting family so looking forward to taking my Grandson to see the Mighty Argyle for the second time. We had won three and drawn one of our last four away games so hopeful we could continue the run.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
18 mile drive from my sons house, we parked in the Sainsbury's at Coldham's Lane and walked the mile or so to the ground from there via Coldham's Common,What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Went straight in to the ground as we had eaten before we left home. Bought a programme and went to our seats in the very back row of the stand. Did not meet any home fans on the way to the ground as most approach the ground from the Newmarket Road end.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
The away end, although a considerable distance from the pitch is the only decent stand in what can only be described as a run-down stadium. It really is a throwback to the 70's and sems to have changed very little in years.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Cambridge played their normal hoof-ball on a very poor playing surface. (I presume they do not worry much about maintaining a decent surface as they seldom use it to pass the ball). Argyles normally steady centre backs were letting the ball bounce for some reason and Cambridge scored twice before half time. Despite Argyle having loads of possession they did nothing with it with constant mis-hit passes and over hit through balls and Cambridge deservedly won 2-0. To hear the celebration of the home fans after the game and to see their comments on social media they appeared to have won the Premier League, Champions League and World Cup. Crowd was a very poor 5286 with over 900 from Argyle which was impressive for a Tuesday night game with a 530 mile round trip,Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
No issues getting away due to the sparse crowd. Walked across a very dark common due to the lights having failed.(I should say that the common has a better surface than the Abbey Stadium) and back to the car then 30minute drive back to my son's place.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
A disappointing result but on to the next game.Images
Game Attended
Cambridge v IpswichCompetition
League OneDate
23/10/2021Kick Off Time
3Team Supported
IpswichWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Go to most gamesHow easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Long way out came by trainWhat you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Pub - didn't see anyWhat you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Ok for this levelComment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Facilities are very poor. One caravan serving cans of warm lager!Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Long walk back in to CambridgeSummary of overall thoughts of the day out
OkImages
Game Attended
Cambridge United v M K DonsCompetition
EFL League OneDate
19/03/2022Kick Off Time
15:00Team Supported
M K DonsWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
This was our second trip to the Abbey Stadium and with The Dons on an unbeaten away run since Christmas, it was a sell out away end so bound to be a great atmosphere. I had been on our previous trip to Cambridge so knew what to expect from the home fans and stadium.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The journey from Milton Keynes albeit across country with no motorways was fairly easy & trouble free. We parked in B & Q's car park which is just a few minutes walk from the ground, we weren't the only ones to take advantage of this, there were both home and away fans using the car park free of charge.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
As we arrived just 45 minutes before kick off we went straight into the ground for some chips & curry sauce before the main event. The stewards and Cambridge fans we met on our way in were friendly enough and there was no issues walking to and from the ground at all.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
As I said we had been here before so knew the layout of the ground. The away end is reasonably good compared to some of the so called "bigger" clubs and the facilities for fans are more than adequate. I can imagine if it was a wet day it might not be so pleasant as the bar and catering were all in the open air but the sun was shining and it was all very friendly and nice.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game itself was a pretty dour affair with The U's preferring the hoof it up the pitch approach whilst The Dons tried to keep the ball on the floor to battle the bobbly surface. This all lead to another 0 - 1 away win which was well cellebrated by both the players and the 1446 travelling fans. The halftime food was pretty standard footie fare, burgers, pies, chips, etc. It was all pretty tasty and not too pricey, 33.50 for a cheese burger.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Leaving the ground we walked back to the car with a mixture of home and away fans with not a single bit of a problem. There was a small bit of traffic around the shopping are but once clear of this it was a straight forward trip back onto the A14 and away home.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
An excellent trip and a recommended destination. We will definitely return here next time we play each other.Images
Game Attended
Cambridge Utd v BarnsleyCompetition
League 1Date
17/09/2022Kick Off Time
3pmTeam Supported
BarnsleyWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
A ground I've not been to before and Barnsley hadn't played there for 30 years.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I booked to travel by train but got a refund when a rail strike was announced. The strike was then postponed due to mourning for HM Queen . I had to travel by the official club coach instead, which limited my pre match drinking options. A 3.5 hour journey , including a half hour stop at Peterborough services on the A1. The coach dropped us outside the ground and a friendly steward and the Cambridge mascot greeted us and told us where to find the coaches after the game.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I wanted to try at least one of the real ale pubs on my original list, but with only 1.5 hours before kick off my options were limited. The Wrestlers is home fans only. The Cornerhouse was closed, so it was a brisk 25 minutes walk to the Tram Depot and a nice pint of Everards original. I should have stayed for a second pint but made the wrong decision and called in the nearby Duke of Cambridge. £4.45 a pint is a lot for a bloke from up North. Both pubs were mainly frequented by Barnsley fans.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
1200 Barnsley fans were located behind the goals. The ground is quite compact but tidy enough. The view for away fans is good , but you are at quite a distance from the pitch. The concourse is adequate . As usual the toilet facilities are inadequate. Unlike some grounds, away fans are well away from the more boisterous home fans.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Cambridge had won all their four home games and were captained by ex Red Paul Digby. Barnsley's form was patchy but a draw away at Portman Road and a win at Hillsborough showed good away form at least. Cambridge started well and hit the post. Barnsley went 0-1 ahead when a miscued pass wrongfooted the home defence and Devante Cole scored. Half time 0-1. The second half was very eventful. Barnsley keeper Collins came out to head a ball clear and there was a collision. No foul and no card according to the officials. The assistant was in a good position. A 14 minute delay and Collins, covered in blood, was led off and replaced by the academy keeper. Barnsley were then reduced to 10 men when Kitching , rather harshly when you replay the incident, was given a second yellow card. Down to 10 men and 40 minutes to play. A looping header from Cundy from a free kick made it 0-2 and in the 92nd minute substitute James Norwood latched on to a long ball and scored. Oxford huffed and puffed and were probably unlucky to have two goals ruled out for offside. No problems with the stewards that I witnessed. I didn't eat or drink in the ground. The wire mesh grill at the refreshment window isn't very appealing. The tray of chips did look good though. I was almost tempted.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
We came out of the ground , turned right along the cow path to the main road where the coaches were lined up a couple of hundred yards away. About 3 hours to get home without a stop. Toilet on the coach 👍Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
A good day out , it usually is if you win away. Another ground visited. A pity I didn't get chance to visit more pubs in the City Centre.Images
Game Attended
Cambridge v DerbyCompetition
League 1Date
01/10/2022Kick Off Time
3pmTeam Supported
DerbyWhy were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
Needed our first away league win of the season & visited ground 40 years ago & loved it.How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Good journey from Derbyshire. Love the upgraded A14. Ground near a retail park. Found a good parking at Sainsburys Coldmore Lane where you could pay for all day for £4. Only half an hour walk to the ground & easy to get away after onto the A14.What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Shopped in the retail park before the game. Home fans friendly and stewards particularly helpful.What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Nice compact ground. Good view & easy to find.Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Atmosphere from the fans amazing especially when the 2nd goal went in.Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
As I had parked 30 mins walk from the ground and near the A14 it was easy to get away and head home. Roads around the ground were pretty busy so glad I didn’t park too near.Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
A great day, city, ground and result winning 2-0 and getting our first away goals of the season.Images