Last Update:
August 7, 2024
Bramall Lane is one of the most underrated grounds in the country and is the oldest stadium in the world still hosting professional football matches.
The construction of three large modern-looking stands, plus the filling in of the corners (albeit one corner is filled with administrative offices) makes it a great ground and one that has character.
What are the stands at Bramall Lane called?
The four stands at Bramall Lane:
- John Street Stand (North)
- Kennedys Kop Stand (East)
- Tony Currie Stand (South)
- HE Barnes Bramall Lane Stand (West)
Which is the loudest stand at Bramall Lane?
The Kennedy’s Kop Stand tends to attract the more vocal supporters, while the John Street Stand is a popular choice with families.
Bramall Lane description
Tony Currie Stand and John Street Stand
Whilst the Tony Currie Stand is a fairly plain-looking stand, the John Street Stand, which sits opposite, is probably the smartest-looking stand at Bramall Lane. This stand which was opened in 1996, has had the corners to either side of it filled in, by offices on one side and a family seated area on the other.
At the back of the stand are a row of executive boxes and on its roof is a small gable, reminiscent of when many older grounds featured them.
Kop Stand and Bramall Lane Stand
At one end is the Kop Stand, which is slightly disappointing as it has two large supporting pillars. Opposite is the Bramall Lane Stand, which during the summer of 2006 was extended around one corner of the stadium to meet the Tony Currie Stand.
Also, the roof was replaced with a new cantilever structure, allowing the supporting pillars of the old roof to be removed, giving fans more cover and an unimpeded view of the playing action. This stand is two-tiered and also has an electric scoreboard, perched between the two. The stadium is balanced, with all four stands being of the same height.
Outside the stadium behind the Tony Currie stand is a statue of former club chairman Derek Dooley and another of former playing legend Joe Shaw.
The capacity of Bramall Lane is 32,050 after expansions in 2001 and 2006. A future expansion is set to the take the capacity of the world’s oldest in-use professional football stadium to around 40,000.
What is the oldest football stadium in England?
Well, Bramall Lane isn’t literally the oldest football stadium in England, but it is the oldest football stadium still used to host professional football matches. And with that criteria, it’s the oldest in the world, too. It has been home to Sheffield United since 1889.
What is the oldest football stadium in the world?
The true honour of the world’s oldest football stadium goes to another site and side in Sheffield. The home of Hallam FC – the second oldest football club in the world, behind Sheffield FC (the two sides faced off on 26 December 1860) – is Sandygate Stadium. With a capacity of 1,300 (250 seated), it now hosts the semi-professional Hallam FC. So, when disregarding the need to be currently hosting professional football, the oldest football stadium in the world is Sandygate Stadium, first opened in 1804 and used by its current tenantss since 1860. 163 years of football at one ground.
Over the past ten years, the club have announced plans for an expansion to two of their stands – the South Stand and the Kop.
When first announced, Sheffield United revealed they had applied for planning permission to add a new tier to the South Stand which would increase the overall capacity of Bramall Lane by 5,400 seats. In terms of the Kop, the club announced they wanted to add 3,000 seats to stand.
As of April 2024, neither of these two developments have been progressed. However, the club have recently updated the planning application for the South Stand expansion to keep the permissions alive.
An Artists Impression Of The Extended South Stand
Image courtesy of Sheffield United FC
The main entrance to Bramall Lane is outside the Tony Currie Stand. This is where most fans will arrive to the stadium as the main car park is situated directly opposite it. From there, supporters will enter the stadium via the stand they are sitting in.
Away fans will need to head straight to the HE Barnes Bramall Lane Stand as this is the only area of the ground where they will be admitted. Home supporters can use any of the other turnstiles but are advised to use the one listed on their ticket.
Sheffield United fans singing the Chris Wilder song!
@AwayDaysBible3 pic.twitter.com/ZjgQaXI1cI
— Football Chants (@FootyFansChants) October 27, 2018
Where do away fans sit at Bramall Lane?
Away fans are housed in the lower tier of the HE Bramall Lane Stand at one end of the ground.
What is the away allocation at Sheffield United?
Around 3,000 supporters can be accommodated. For cup games, if the demand requires it, then the upper tier can be made available too.
Is Bramall Lane a good away day?
Bramall Lane is a great place to watch football as the stands are located close to the pitch, the views are generally good, as well as the atmosphere too. And it’s a historic location.
On the concourses, there are television screens showing the game going on inside as well as a betting outlet. Food is available in the form of a range of pies, hot dogs and burgers while alcohol is also typically served.
The club have automatic turnstiles, meaning that you have to insert your ticket into a bar code reader to gain admittance.
What’s the atmosphere like at Bramall Lane?
The Sheffiled United fans are very passionate and vocal about their club. This makes for a great atmosphere at games, but also can make it somewhat intimidating for away supporters. It is one of those grounds that by just listening to the crowd you can tell what s happening on the pitch.
Pubs close to the ground tend to be for home fans only. About a ten-minute walk away at the bottom of Eccleshall Road is a Wetherspoons Outlet called the ‘Sheaf Island‘. This good-sized pub tends to have a mix of home and away fans.
Other pub options for away fans at Bramall Lane:
- Beer Engine – 17 Cemetery Rd, Highfield, Sheffield S11 8FJ
- The Globe – 54 Howard St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2LX
- Golden Lion – 69 Alderson Rd, Highfield, Sheffield S2 4UB
Sheffield United were actually born out of their city rivals, Sheffield Wednesday, turning their back on their home ground due to financial implications and disagreements over the lease. As such, Bramall Lane has always been home to the Blades. That, however, does not mean the ground has always been in the same way we see it now.
The stadium was originally built for cricket way, way back in 1855, with a bonafide stand being built in 1896. A second quickly followed a year later and then 12 years on, the first roof was seen. World War Two brought about some stadium damage but renovations fixed those issues and, structure wise, things stayed fairly static for 20-odd years. From the sixties onwards, the ground slowly moved to adopt more seating with the 2000s seeing the Shoreham Street corner filled in to tweak the capacity with other changes since then seen very much as ‘modernisation’.
From The North
Leave the M1 at Junction 36 and follow the A61 into Sheffield. Follow the A61 into Sheffield passing Hillsborough Stadium on your right. Continue along the A61, which becomes the ring road around the western side of the city centre. You will eventually reach a roundabout at the junction with the A621. At the roundabout turn right onto the A621 Bramall Lane. The ground is a short way down on the left.
From The South
Leave M1 at Junction 33 and take the A630 into Sheffield City Centre. On reaching the inner ring road follow signs for A621 Bakewell, the ground is about a 1/4 of a mile the other side of the city centre. It is located on the A621 (Bramall Lane).
Where is the best place to park near Bramall Lane?
There is some street parking to be had in the area, but roads close to the ground are for residents only. Further along Bramall Lane itself (going away from the City Centre) is the Ant Marketing Building (S2 4RN) which offers matchday parking at a cost of £5. However, it is normally full 90 minutes before kick off.
Alternatively, if you want to avoid Sheffield City Centre, then you may find it easier to park at Meadowhall Railway Station, near to the well known Shopping Centre (unless of course it is in the run up to Christmas or the January sales, when the shopping centre is very busy), just by Junction 34 of the M1, where you can park for free. You can then take a yellow tram to the City Centre and then walk to the ground. The tram journey time is around 20 minutes.
Stadium Post Code for SAT NAV: S2 4SU
Sheffield Railway Station is located just under a mile away from Bramall Lane. It is around a 15 minute walk away. As you come out of the railway station, walk up the slope and cross over at the traffic lights, then turning to your left. Walk straight along Shoreham Street passing BBC Radio Sheffield and the University Engineering Centre on your right, until reaching the large traffic light junction and crossover. Turn up to the right along St Mary’s Road, past the Church to the next junction and turn left into Bramall Lane. The visiting supporters’ turnstiles are about 200 yards along this road on the left.
As per an agreement with all Premier League clubs, away fans will be charged a maximum price of those shown below for all League games:
Away Fans (Bramall Lane End)
Adults £30
Over 60s £25
Under 22s/Students £20
Under 18s £16
Official Programme £3.50
Sheffield United vs Sheffield Wednesday rivalry: Most fans will know that the Steel city derby is a big one in the football calendar with both clubs coming from the same city but the roots of the rivalry go much deeper than that. Nowadays, the game can be fierce but, generally speaking, things are quite balanced amongst the fans. That’s not always been the case. Bramall Lane, which is obviously the Sheffield United ground, was once home to Wednesday. It was only when the Owls turned their back on the lease agreement that United were born. Why? Well, the land owner of the Lane missed the income so created a club off the back of it. The derby has been their ever since.
Sheffield United vs Leeds rivalry: From a Blades perspective, Leeds are second in the ‘most hated’ ranks. Why? Sheffield and Leeds are the two biggest cities in Yorkshire and with both located in the south of the county, a simmering of heat is to be expected. Leeds, however, consider Wednesday to be the bigger rival.
Sheffield United vs Rotherham: Sheffield and Rotherham are separated by just six miles so it’s fair to say bragging rights on the line when the two teams clash. Despite that, the two clubs have spent most of their time at different levels, which takes something out of the fixture. Even so, it still has a bit extra compared to a ‘normal’ game.
For details of disabled facilities and club contact at the ground please visit the relevant page on the Level Playing Field website.
Record Attendance
68,287 v Leeds United
FA Cup 5th Round, 15 February 1936.
Modern All Seated Attendance Record
32,604 v Wigan Athletic
Premier League, 13 May 2007.
Average Attendance
2022-23: 28,746 (Championship)
2021-22: 27,611 (Championship)
2020-2021: N/A (COVID-19)
2019-2020: 30,869 (Premier League)
2018-2019: 26,177 (Championship League)
2017-2018: 26,854 (Championship League)
Official Web Site:Â www.sufc.co.uk
If anything is incorrect or you have something to add, please e-mail me at: [email protected] and I’ll update the guide.
Ground Layout
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the ground itself?
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out
Sheffield United v Brighton & Hove Albion
Premier League
Saturday 22nd February 2020, 3pm
Joseph Ross (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Bramall Lane Ground?
I'd heard stories from friends and family about how they'd loved going to Bramall Lane in years gone by and enjoying the old school features of the ground and the atmosphere. In addition to this, it was a new stadium for me and a chance to follow Albion away.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I live in Leeds and my friend (who also lives in Leeds) picked us up at 1 pm and we drove down. A relatively easy journey with no delays and we were in Sheffield at 2 pm. We knew it was mainly street parking and we parked up on Langdon Street.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
My friend knew a Blades fan who we were meeting for a drink. We walked to a pub called The Cremorne which was full of home fans but as away fans (with no colours on) we came across no trouble at all. After a quick pint, we took the 5-minute walk to the ground and went in.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Bramall Lane Stadium?
The Kop Stand facing the away end is very impressive and the atmosphere was good. The concourse was a little cramped I thought. Also worth noting that if your tickets say to enter through gangway G, don't be alarmed when gangway F is the last available entrance when walking along the concourse. The stewards were very helpful and pointed us in the direction of our seats, which had fairly good views of the playing surface. One criticism that I did have is that a screen is not visible for the majority of away fans, which in the age of VAR was a little frustrating.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
After the home fans sang their 'greasy chip butty' anthem the game began with Sheffield United starting the brighter and creating early chances. Their pressure paid off when Enda Stevens volleyed in after 26 minutes. However, the lead only lasted 4 minutes with Neal Maupay equalising with a header. In the second half, Lewis Dunk had a great chance to put Albion ahead but spurned it over. Albion then had a penalty shout turned down for a clear handball in the penalty area. The home side put pressure on late on but couldn't find a way through a resolute Brighton defence and it ended 1-1.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
My friend had a commitment meaning they needed to get off quickly, which left me getting the train back to Leeds. I got away from the ground fine and followed the signs and crowds back to Sheffield Railway Station which took around 20 minutes. I got on the train at 5:45 and got chatting to a few disgruntled Middlesbrough fans who'd seen their side lose 1-0 at Barnsley. I got back into Leeds station at 6:45 and was back home by 7:30.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A very enjoyable day out at a brilliant ground. Hopefully, we'll stay up and we'll be playing them again next season.
Sheffield United v Bournemouth
Premier League
Sunday 9th February 2020, 2pm
Lewis Wright (Bournemouth)
Sheffield United v Newcastle United
Premier League
Thursday 5th December 2019, 7:30pm
Matty (Newcastle United)
Sheffield United v Southampton
Premier League
Saturday 14th September 2019, 3pm
Tim French (Southampton)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting the Bramall Lane Ground?
Never been to Bramall Lane before, ashamedly given its history. The fact that it's a 'proper' ground, and its proximity to the centre of such a fine city. And they play in red and white stripes – what's not to like? The weather was beautiful and we were all looking forward to the domestic campaign resuming after a break for the Euro qualifiers.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Made the 2-hour train journey from St Pancras (I live in East Anglia) which goes through some lovely scenery the further north you travel. Chatted with the guy sat next to me, a Blades fan on holiday from Australia where he'd relocated from South Yorkshire 20 years ago. Easy walk to the ground from the station, 15 minutes direct (well, that was on the way back).
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Got a steer from a mate who knows the city, and headed first to the Rutland Arms on Brown St with plenty of time until kick-off. Got a raised eyebrow when I asked if they serve away fans wearing colours (why was I even asking?). They had half a dozen real ales on, the couple of which I had were in very decent condition. Definitely recommend the steak sarnie and chips. Quirky comfortable decor, friendly staff and customers, mostly home fans. With hindsight, I would have had another beer or two there, but as it was I headed to the Triple Point Brewery on Shoreham Street, which is directly on the way to the ground. Loads of home and away fans enjoying the beer in the Sheffield sunshine. Very decent, and inexpensive, beer; they laid on a separate small side bar but either way the staff were very good ensuring no one was thirsty for long.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Bramall Lane Stadium?
I walked around the ground to get a sense of context and a feel of the place. Always nice to have a ground steeped in history, in or near a town or city centre. Inside the ground is much as described on this Football Ground Guide website, no need to repeat – other than (as much as I like St Mary's) for me, you can't beat a traditional design with four separate stands, whether or not the corners are in-filled.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Didn't take much notice of the food inside the ground – it looked much the same as anywhere else. No draft beer on offer, but they sell bottles of multinational corporate lager and cider at not unreasonable prices. Service was a bit slow but friendly. We'd brought a decent number of fans and the atmosphere was fairly lively home and away. I thought we managed to drown out the Greasy Chip Butty song at the start of the first half, but not the second.
The game had several incidents and both sides were looking to get something out of the match. The game really got going in the second half, with VAR disallowing a Blades goal for offside, up the other end from the away supporters. Although the outcome was obviously in our favour (and rightly so), it does feel like VAR is dragging the game back too much. Anyway, it really felt like they were getting the upper hand when Moussa Djenepo scored with a wonderful dribble, shimmy and strike – right in front of the away end. They looked like they might still come away with something until Billy Sharp was sent off for a rash challenge. Cue some very happy celebrations at the final whistle, a nice touch from Djenepo at the end (I know it's a common sight, but he made such a special effort to give his shirt to one lad in particular), and Hasenhuttl – he's such a top guy when he celebrates in front of the away end.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Easy getting out of the ground and back to the railway station, no issues or delays. Had a pre-booked ticket so couldn't stay for more beer in this fine drinking city.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Sheffield is a great place, really lively city, some fantastic pubs and beer; having two football teams really adds to the flavour (obviously Blades in the ascendency at the time of writing this review). Hope we get to meet again in the same division next season – definitely look forward to doing the same again. Not far from a perfect day out, given our result.
Blackburn Rovers v Sheffield Utd
Championship League
Saturday 29th December 2018, 3pm
Bill Holt (Blackburn Rovers)
Sheffield United v Swansea City
Championship League
Saturday 4th August 2018, 5.30pm
Joe Hughes (Swansea City)
Sheffield United v Millwall
Championship League
Saturday 15th April 2018, 3pm
Bobbie (Millwall fan)
Sheffield United v Cardiff City
Championship League
Monday 2nd April 2018, 7.45pm
Tony Moore (Cardiff City fan)
Sheffield United v Leeds United
Championship League
Saturday 10th February 2018, 12.30pm
Shaun (Leeds United fan)
Sheffield United v Preston North End
FA Cup 4th Round
Saturday 27th January 2018, 3pm
Richard Symonds (Doing the 92)
Sheffield United v Norwich City
Football Championship League
Saturday 16th September 2017, 3pm
Josh Oakley (Norwich City fan)
Sheffield United v Barnsley
Championship League
Saturday 19th August 2017, 12.15pm
Tom Bellamy (Barnsley fan)
Sheffield Wednesday v Newcastle United
Football League Championship
Saturday 8th April 2017, 5.30pm
Christopher (Newcastle United fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Hillsborough?
With Newcastle United going well in the league and close to sealing promotion, it was a game not to be missed. Not only this but I had heard that Hillsborough has a decent atmosphere and is a traditional old ground. However thoughts of Hillsborough will always be linked to the disaster that took place there in 1989 when 96 fans lost their lives. The disaster subsequently shaped the way of UK stadia over the last 25 years or, great from a safety point of view, but bad in the way it's lead to soulless all seated bowl stadiums. No matter what era of football you grew up in, Hillsborough is a major factor behind and the stadium is always going to be known for that. As a football fan there is a mix of great sadness, and curiosity associated with the stadium because of it. As it happens the match itself was played near the time of the anniversary, and our manager (Rafael Benitez), the former Liverpool manager laid a wreath at the memorial ahead of kick off.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I got one of the supporter coaches down so all that was done for me. However our bus was stopped as it came off the M1 and we waited for half an hour for a Police escort. Apparently they were waiting for other busses to arrive before leading us in together. In the end the Police decided to take our bus in on it's own.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Locals said there were no pubs in the area allowing away fans in. There is an Asda Store just over the bridge from the away end where you can pick up drinks and snacks. Also just over the bridge is a nice little chip shop, not the largest menu, but affordable and good chips.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the Hillsborough Stadium?
The Leppings Lane End that we were housed in, isn't much to look at. Once though the turnstiles (which I found had more room than some newer grounds) you go up a gangway bridge which is very much like something that you would find in a railway station in a rundown town centre.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Inside the concourse the atmosphere was bouncing, which was once of the reasons behind me considering this the best away day for atmosphere that I have been too. As more fans arrived it did get more cramped, especially down to the end of the kiosks which was selling alcohol. It is worth noting that the majority of the kiosks do not accept cash, it's card and contactless payments only. I'm not sure if other kiosks towards the other end accepted cash or not. As I had been to the chip shop across the road I never got anything to eat or drink in the ground itself, so can't comments on the food and prices. From our seats we had a decent view, although there is a couple of supporting pillars but if your in the upper stand then the obstruction is minimal. This is where you can once again see how much of a traditional old school ground Hillsborough is. The match itself was decent, by no means a classic, and one of our poorer performances. We lost 2-1 which was disappointing. the Wednesday fans were in decent voice, especially once they had established a lead. Our fans were singing throughout and the atmosphere was certainly the best away atmosphere I have been too.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
It's worth noting that the away coaches will all be parked on the street outside of the ground afterwards, this was not made clear to us and I had to ask a Police Officer of this before heading into the ground. Those who forget to ask may be unsure of the situation until the match has ended. With all the busses being parked on the road outside the ground then this means that for the most part you will have to wait for every supporter to board their bus before going. Also, even though the police closed off roads they never made a full escort all the way to the M1, so getting away can take a little time.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Despite the result and the performance by our team, Hillsborough was a great day out. At the time of writing we are looking likely to gain automatic promotion, and if this is the case then I wouldn't mind it Sheffield Wednesday were promoted via the play offs as I'd like to go back, on the condition Wednesday start letting us beat them for a change. All in all I'd certainly recommend Wednesday away as a must for fans of any clubs who come across them.
Sheffield United v Bolton Wanderers
Football League One
Saturday 25th February 2017, 3pm
Matthew Bowling (Bolton Wanderers fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Bramall Lane?
With it being a much anticipated top of the table clash between two of the biggest clubs in the league and another Yorkshire v Lancashire encounter.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
No real trouble in finding the ground, but parking around Bramall Lane on a match day could be a nightmare, if arriving after 1.30pm as there were no parking spaces that I could see. As I was on a supporters minibus, then luckily a steward directed us to a parking place only five minutes walk away from the visitors turnstiles.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I went down to a burger bar just outside the ground on the corner of the Kop where I'd eaten before, there was no sense of any trouble brewing, but it was still a while to kick off.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides Bramall Lane?
Bramall Lane is an impressive ground and the oldest still being used in the whole country, so it's quite an important ground for to visit. All five stands are completely different and they to fill the stadium so no complaints on that front. Although personally I prefer grounds that have a uniform look about them.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
I was feeling anxious before the game and it wasn't helped to find out that our in-form striker Madine was out of the squad completely and with Sheffield United naming an unchanged eleven it didn't look good. There was a decent atmosphere again from both sets of fans. The stewards were helpful in finding the seats and the facilities below on the concourse were good, despite the pricing. Sheffield United took the lead when Billy Sharp latched onto a defensive mistake to fire the hosts in front. We never really got going and struggled to test the Sheffield goalkeeper. Sheffield doubled the lead when Carruthers blatantly dived in the box and a penalty was wrongly given, Billy Sharp smashed home to make it 2-0. Despite Bolton making attacking changes we always struggles to break down gage hosts defence and deserved to lose on the day.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
It was hard getting away from Bramall Lane. We got stuck in traffic from the ground all the way up to the motorway junction, as soon as we were on the motorway we found no problems and then got back in good time.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Not a good away day at all. It was a very frustrating game played against a side who on the day were miles better than we were. I can only hope for better to come and quickly please Bolton!
Sheffield United v Shrewsbury Town
Football League One
Saturday 19th November 2016, 3pm
Peter Eriksson (Neutral fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Bramall Lane?
I have wanted to come to Bramall Lane for many years since its the oldest professional ground still used. I also remember seeing a game on television when they still had the old cricket pitch on one side and I thought It looked very strange so that made me more curious about the ground too.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I stayed in Leeds so only a 40 minute train ride to Sheffield. On exiting the railway station just turn left follow Shoreham Street and that will lead you straight to the Bramall Lane ground.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
I first went to the ticket office to pick up my ticket then I had a look in club shop and general look outside the ground. Then I went into the Cricketers Arms pubs to watch the Manchester United v Arsenal match. Everyone seemed friendly and in good mood since Sheffield United were on a good run.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Bramall Lane?
The Bramall Lane ground is very impressive and should really be a Premier League stadium. The whole place is breathing of Sheffield United with colour and of their history. The ground inside is excellent with four evenly matched stands, but still every stand is different from each other and have their own unique look. If the supporting pillars in the Kop Stand at one end could be removed, then I would say that Bramall Lane would be the perfect stadium.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game itself was an unusual one. Sheffield United scored two good goals in the first half and had a penalty saved, whilst Shrewsbury had two players sent off. Still Shrewsbury managed to pull a goal back with their only attack in the second half. Thereafter Sheffield managed to miss chance after chance and the Shrewsbury goalkeeper made a few incredible saves, so the final score stayed at 2-1. The atmosphere was okay for this kind of game but you could feel that Bramall Lane must be a really loud place for the more high profile matches. The greasy chip butty song was very loud. I hope to see a Sheffield derby here some day. The facilities was okay, nothing fancy. And I only had a cup of coffee so I can't judge the food.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Same easy way back to the station for the train back to Leeds.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
I'm really happy I finally went to see a game at Bramall Lane. It was only for a League One game but I have no complaints. Sheffield United played the ball on the floor all the time so that's very unusual to see for a lower league game. Bramall Lane is now my new favourite ground. I hope I will be back again soon!
Sheffield United v MK Dons
Football League One
Saturday 29th October 2016, 3pm
Andy Hawkins (Neutral fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Bramall Lane?
I had never been to Bramall Lane before, plus we were visiting relatives nearby so I thought I give it a visit.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Very easy, we came by car and I was dropped off just round the corner from the ground.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Well I had to get a ticket first which was very quick and easy, I then went to the Cricketers pub in Bramall Lane itself, which although small, had a good atmosphere and the beer was cheap considering I'm a Chelsea fan I'm used to paying extortionate prices. There was some MK Dons fans were in there but there were no problems I saw.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Bramall Lane?
It's difficult to tell from outside, but once inside I was very impressed it's a traditional ground but has a modern feel with very good facilities although the toilets could do with a bit of modernising, but the concourse were of a good size and there was plenty of room.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
United were on a bit of an upsurge and the started the game scoring on six minutes and although they had the better chances they couldn't add a second. MK Dons equalised just after half time but the Blades got the winner a short while later. Altogether it was a good game and the Blades fans created a great atmosphere, the stewards were very friendly.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
I was picked up after the game so it was very easy and was back indoors at 6pm.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall a great day out. The blades and MK Dons fans were very friendly, there was a good atmosphere and Bramall Lane is a great ground full of tradition.
Sheffield United v Peterborough United
Football League One
Saturday 17th September 2016, 3pm
Richard Feek (Peterborough United fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Bramall Lane?
Sheffield on the whole is always an enjoyable away day, a City full of good pubs, bars and restaurants and equally important two traditional football grounds full of history and tradition. For me on this particular occasion I was looking forward to taking my two young sons who are now regulars at home games but just starting out on the road supporting Peterborough away from home.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
The train from Peterborough was 20 minutes late but the time was made up on route. The journey was direct and was made more enjoyable by the good mix of football fans on the train, there were plenty of Norwich supporters on board along with a few Forest and Sheffield United fans. We walked to Bramall Lane from Sheffield Railway Station which took around 15-20 minutes. The ground was well sign posted for the majority of the route.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Before the game we headed to the Sheaf Island pub which a fairly new Wetherspoons pub, the pub itself was large, open planned and tidy. Service was quick and the pub was fairly busy with a mixture of fans and students who were returning to University over the weekend. All of the fans we met appeared to be friendly some of which engaged in light conversation.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Bramall Lane?
Although I have visited Bramall Lane before I was more impressed on this visit mainly due to away fans being allocated the upper tier which gave some great views of the stadium and the action on the pitch. The top tier of the stand is quite steep which helped with the view of the game.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Facilities in the concourse were of a reasonable standard although not the biggest of areas so it did become quite crowded. Service was pretty quick and the usual selection was available. Stewarding seemed pretty relaxed as did the atmosphere inside the stadium. The Sheffield United fans were quiet for large periods of the game but when they did become vocal they created a good atmosphere.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting out of the ground was quick and we made the walk back to the railway station with plenty of time to spare for the train home.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall it was a great day out despite the result (Posh lost 1-0). Sheffield is a nice City with plenty to do before and after the game and its nice to be able visit large traditional football stadiums in the City compared to some of the more modern soulless venues that are on offer through out the game these days. Should we be in the same league next season it will be a must do game to attend again.
Sheffield United v Oxford United
Football League One
Saturday 27th August 2016, 3pm
Rob Pickett (Oxford United fan)
Why were you looking forward to this game and visiting Bramall Lane?
Living in Sheffield as a northern exile this was a no brainer. Nice to get a game in with minimum travel hassle.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Some friends were up for the game and staying. Given local knowledge, parked a mile away. The Blades are always well supported, so allowed for that.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Availed ourselves of a sandwich and two pints at the Stags Head pub Psalter Lane. The pub is a 15 minute walk away from Bramall Lane. Decent pub with Thornbridge real ales. No real contact with home fans, but no hassle either.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Bramall Lane?
Over the years Sheffield United have maximised the capacity of the Bramall Lane ground and with their large support, it is always a good atmosphere. I was surprised at how high up we were, but Oxford brought around 1,800 fans.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Decent enough facilities and stewards were on the ball over some high jinks. Game was very poor and both sides played badly. Sheffield scrapped a 2-1 win.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
After a bad result against a poor side the heavens opened up and we got drenched. One of those days.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A decent day was marred by a rubbish game. However Bramall Lane is always worth a visit.
Sheffield United v Southend United
Football League One
Saturday 14th November 2015, 3pm
John & Stephen Spooner (Southend United fans)
Why were you looking forward to visiting the Bramall Lane football ground?
It was our first visit to Bramall Lane and a chance to see Southend manager, Phil Brown pitting his wits against the successful Nigel Adkins. The experienced Sheffield United winger Jamal Campbell-Ryce had also played for Southend United.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Living in North Wales it was a relatively simple car journey of two hours via the M56 and the A57 through the Peak District. Finding the ground was easy too, but parking was particularly difficult. Street parking is severely restricted around the ground and most is permit only, although having arrive early we managed to park about 600 yards away in a street off London Road.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
Our main preoccupation before the game was searching for somewhere to park. It was constantly raining too so didn't meet local fans. We enjoyed a sandwich in the car and had a read of the 84 page match programme costing £3. An interesting read and, unusually, the team sheet on the back of the program was headed "Today's Major Characters" in bold red lettering.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of Bramall Lane?
The ground is impressive looking from the outside. The away entrance is located in Bramall Lane itself and we were seated in the Redbrik Upper Stand which meant we had some stairs to climb to get to our seats. There is a concourse area for food and toilets. On entering the seating area there were more steps to ascend, but there were ample hand rails to assist us older fans. The stands all round present a magnificent sight, and many fans were saying how good it looked. Despite constant rain, the pitch was in very good condition. The view from the away end is superb.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was highly entertaining and Southend United were on the front foot from the start kicking towards us and deservedly scored first after 29 minutes from a Leonard 30 yard screamer and 2 minutes later Payne made it 2 nil to send the 1060 Southend fans delirious. The joy was short lived as after 36 minutes Baxter scored for Sheffield United and in the 45th minute Collins scored to make it 2-2 at half time. The atmosphere was good and the acoustics in the away end are good. The 19,000 crowd was not as loud as I expected, which may have been due to the non stop rain. I can recommend the meat and potato pies. The stewards were relaxed and informative. The toilets were clean. Sheffield United hit the woodwork 3 time in the 2nd half but Southend United held on for a thoroughly deserved 2-2 draw, leaving both teams a point apart in mid table.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Bramall Lane was closed to through traffic to allow Southend United supporters coaches and pedestrians to leave safely, so we had a slightly longer journey to make to get away from the ground and heavily congested traffic made for slow going but soon enough we found the A57 and headed home towards Manchester and North Wales.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Apart from difficulty in parking and constant rain we had an enjoyable day. Sheffield United is well worth a visit. The stadium is what you expect to see at the highest level of football and the sooner Sheffield United climb back up the leagues, the better for all. The fact that Southend United had matched this once great club and competed in a good standard football match ensured a pleasant journey and good memories.
Sheffield United v Scunthorpe United
League One
Tuesday 24th March 2015, 7.45pm
Ross Fowler (Scunthorpe United fan)
Why you were looking forward to going to Bramall Lane?
As it was a fairly close away trip (from Doncaster), we decided to buy tickets for the game. however the original fixture was postponed. Eventhough it was now a midweek game we still decided to go. It was also to be the first ever visit to Bramall Lane so thought it would be a good trip.
How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We took the train from Doncaster which is only around 20-25 minutes. Only a fifteen minute walk is needed to get to the ground from Sheffield station. A shortcut can cut some of that time but only leads you to the home Kop End, so a further walk had to be taken to get to the opposite away end.
What you did before the game pub/chippy etc, and were the home fans friendly?
As we were walking around the stadium, a Sheffield United fan came up to us and started having a chat which was nice. We were close to kick off time so we headed straight into the ground and to our seats.
What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the stadium?
It looked a huge stadium when we came out into it. It was a good view from the away stand as it was quite steep. The overall attendance was around 19,000, not bad for a midweek game at League One level.
Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was awful from the Scunthorpe perspective. It was 4-0 to Sheffield United and a completely abysmal performance. The 745 away supporters were in full voice for most of the first half but had nothing to sing about after that! We didn't bother with any food as there was only one kiosk open and queues were too long to bother with. Stewards were even sympathetic with us walking out! I was still disappointed with the atmosphere from the home ends as hardly any singing was heard.
Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
We walked back to the station in no real rush because of the time of our train back, obviously disappointed, but I enjoyed visiting the stadium and all that goes with it.
Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
It was a terrible day in terms of performance and result but enjoyed everything else at a very good stadium.
Sheffield United v Wolverhampton Wanderers
League One
Saturday, March 22nd, 2014, 1.25pm
Jack Finch (Wolves fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
This was on paper, one of our toughest remaining fixtures. The Blades were on a sensational run of form under Nigel Clough, recently winning 10 games on the spin, as well as keeping 8 clean sheets in a row. We were in pretty good form ourselves, and although we came unstuck at Crawley in midweek, we were still top of the League. It was also United's 125th Anniversary, so a bumper crowd was expected. I hadn't been to Bramall Lane before, so I was looking forward to a new ground to tick off.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I went on the official club coaches, which meant an early start, given the 1:25 kick off. We left Molineux at around 9:30am, and arrived in Sheffield at 12 noon. That included a 20 minute wait on the hard shoulder of the M1 for our Police escort. The journey into Sheffield was pretty easy. The coaches dropped us off outside the away end, so all in all the journey was pretty simple.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
I went straight into the ground, as I didn't fancy walking around too much. The home fans seemed pretty friendly, and obviously in celebratory mood, given their recent form, and anniversary.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
I think Brammall Lane is, in a very real sense, a 'proper' football ground. I mean that in a complimentary way too. There are quite a few identikit stadiums knocking around these days, but you can tell Brammall Lane has bundles of character. The three home stands are all one tiered, with only our away stand being two tiered. However, the way the stand is built, you feel very close to the pitch even in the upper tier.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
As expected, the game started at a rapid tempo, with United coming close to scoring early on, the lively Scougall forcing a good save from Carl Ikeme. Wolves took the lead soon after though, when James Henry's cross fooled everybody to nestle in the far corner. The first half continued in a similar vein, with both sides looking dangerous. United perhaps had more possession, but Wolves looked dangerous on the break. Richard Stearman did well to clear off the line, whilst at the other end Henry hit the woodwork with a curling effort. Arguably, the Blades were helped by a bizarre refereeing performance from Kevin Friend, who seemed determined to join in with the Blades' birthday celebrations. Every decision appeared to go their way, which led to ironic chants of "Free Kick, to the Wanderers!", when a decision did go our way!
Wolves doubled their lead just after the second half got underway. There was some good link up play down the right from Henry and Matt Doherty, and the ball broke to Dave Edwards, who finished with aplomb. I was surprised about the lack of response from the Blades after this, as aside from a couple of long range efforts, Wolves held their lead comfortably. Leon Clarke perhaps should have extended Wolves' lead, but fluffed two decent chances. Wolves play was sharp throughout, with signing of the season Kevin McDonald shining on his return to his former employer. I was also impressed by Sheffield United, and you get the feeling that had Nigel Clough been there all season, they'd be challenging near the very top of the League. In the likes of Doyle, Maguire, Scougall and Baxter they have some very capable players. In the end it was a hard earned but thoroughly merited three points to take home to the Black Country, taking us onto an impressive tally of 80 from 37 games.
The atmosphere was obviously helped by the occasion, and the parade of legends before kick off was a nice touch. Being in my 20's, some of the names weren't familiar, but the likes of Neil Shipperley, Simon Tracey and Georges Santos brought back memories of previous battles with the Blades. Both sets of supporters were loud throughout the game, with a fair amount of banter between us in the away end and the fans nearest us in the Main Stand.
The stewards were there if you needed them, but didn't get involved with the fans unnecessarily, which is how it should be in my opinion.
The facilities were decent, however the concourse was a little crowded, but there was still room to move. It just meant a bit of a queue to leave at the end, but with plenty of singing and chanting, it wasn't so bad. The £3 pie was very nice, and served with a smile too, which is always a bonus!
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
As before, the coaches were parked outside the away end, meaning it was a simple journey from the stand to the coach. There was no trouble with the home fans on their way home.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Overall, I would recommend a visit to Bramall Lane. Without naming names, there are quite a few soulless, out of town stadiums in this League, so Bramall Lane offers a chance to see football played in a proper ground, in a proper city. The day was helped by another good performance in what's turning out to be a good season for Wolves.
Sheffield United v Charlton Athletic
FA Cup Quarter Final
Sunday, March 9th, 2014, 12 noon
James Butler (Charlton Athletic fan)
To say I was looking forward to this match would be an understatement. This match was certainly going to be a red letter day in my life as a Charlton supporter.
Five and half thousand Addicts fans had bought tickets for a 12noon kick off in Sheffield. And guess when the earliest train arrives in Sheffield from London on a Sunday? Five past midday! Well done to the FA, thanks!
Undeterred the Charlton army headed north from Friday onward. We chose to go by car, yours truly blagging a people carrier from work for the journey. So there we were on the road at 6.30am on a Sunday morning, with my mate Del Boy, his son and soon to be son in law. We sped north, breakfast was taken at Peterborough, and we arrived at Sheffield at around 10.30am. I had a clear idea of where I was going until we pulled up behind a car with a Charlton sticker in the rear window. “he looks like he knows where he’s going” pipe up a youth from the back, like I didn’t. Like an idiot I went for it and was lost, along with three other car loads for about half an hour. To make matters worse it turns out to be the bloke who sits in front of us at home games, he will never be allowed to forget this.
Having got back on track we parked up in the city centre, probably impossible on a Saturday, for a very reasonable £3.50. Quick comfort break in Waitrose and on to the ground. Home fans seemed friendly, but the pubs seemed a little hostile so we avoided them. South Yorkshire Police looked as if they had prepared for a war. Up until 14 days prior to the match this day was going to be the Sheffield derby, but Charlton spoiled the script and the potential overtime payments. Someone had clearly decided that as the Police plans were already made, then they might as well stick to them. Plus apparently there was mayhem after Forest lost at Bramall Lane there in the last round. We are not Forest, there is no history of ill feeling between the clubs, the level of Policing was a waste of money, unbelievable.
Keen to exit the war zone created by the South Yorkshire Police we went straight into the ground. For this match we had be allocated both tiers of the Jessica Ennis End, and yes we did all the obvious jokes! Entry into the stand was amazingly interestingly tight, stop it, there was barely room behind the turnstile to turn and go up the stairs, certain no room to swing the proverbial cat. The concourse serving all the normal fare was also tight, but we got some beers in and started cranking up the noise.
After a couple of beers we decided to take up our seats. Now I am not a seasoned traveller, I have done about 30 odd of the 92 grounds, but I though Bramall Lane inside was the best ground I have been to. Interesting mix of old and new, with the Kop home end being a particularly impressive stand. From the our lofty top tier we had great view, with plenty of leg room, although sitting was never going to be on the agenda. As the ground filled the stewards, of whom I had heard bad things, were fine, and left us to it, but quickly sorted out any really silly behaviour, but in a professional manner.
The game kicked off in a fantastic atmosphere, which the football really did not live up to. All square at the break, with no chances of note. Plenty of banter was going back and forth between us and the home fans, especially those in the stand immediately to our right.
Second half got underway with no real change. We missed a sitter and the writing was on the wall. We folded, they came on to us, two quick fire goals and Sheffield United were on their way to Wembley, and boy did we know it. I have seen a few games in my time, but the noise generated by the home fans in the last 15 mins was incredible, I have never heard such loud support. Sheffield United fans I salute you. Mind you if you don’t make a noise at an FA Cup Quarter final, then when will you?
For us a horrible end to the one bright spot in a horrible season. We left the ground to the raucous sound of celebrating home fans, out of the cup and bottom of the league, following a football team really stinks sometimes.
Got back to the car, one home fan even commiserated with me, thanking us from the bottom of his heart for knocking out Wednesday in the previous round. Nice touch, no consolation. Got past the South Yorkshire Police, clearly hacked off by the lack of a full scale riot, the Police helicopter was looking a bit over the top.
Just to top the day off I took the wrong turn and ended up in a traffic jam behind the home end of the ground, in my car, dressed in Charlton Shirt. Talk about drive of shame, but it was all good natured.
Got home around 6.30pm after nearly being run off the road on the M1, woman, 4X4’S and mobile phones, shouldn’t be allowed, lethal combination.
Despite the outcome it was a trip that I will never forget. I was not all bad, just the result.
Sheffield United v Carlisle United
League One
Monday, April 1st, 2013, 3pm
Craig Milne (Carlisle United fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
This was the second time I'd visited Bramall Lane and after enjoying my first visit I was eager to take another look. However Sheffield were playing well in the League, whilst Carlisle were struggling, so I wasn't too confident about getting a result.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I've learnt to play the train game now and booked a return ticket from Widnes to Sheffield at the discounted price of £13 saving £8 by booking in advance. It's a direct train, taking an hour and a half with only a handful of stops. The journey takes in views of the Etihad, Old Trafford and Edgeley Park grounds. Sheffield station is no more than ten minutes from the ground and the city centre, where there are plenty of pubs. Finding the ground is easy, you can walk straight up the hill outside the station passing the interesting water features and then turn left along the road, going straight down then under a subway and Bramall Lane is right in front of you.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
The train arrived on time at 12.42 and we headed straight into the city centre. Wetherspoons, Lloyds and several other bars all offered real ale and cheap food. The Wetherspoons had a mix of fans in and a match on the big screen. No problems with home fans, food or the ale.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
A cracking ground well laid out and a good mix of old and new designs. I like the away end but I've only ever been in the lower tier. The bars are always under staffed so expect queues. On this visit though it was so cold the hot drinks stand had a massive queue and hardly anyone was waiting for beer. They do provide a beer only bar. The stands are very close to the pitch and it reminds me a bit of Anfield. The electronic scoreboard is only any use to the home fans as it is situated directly above the away end between the upper and lower tier.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Although a scoreless draw it was a very good game, with lots of incident, seeing Carlisle coming closest to breaking the deadlock hitting a post just before half time and then being reduced to 10 men but valiantly holding on for a point. The stewards were very thorough checking bags on the way in. Something to note was I had taken my flag and they asked to see if it had a British kite mark on it? Which I presume is a new thing to make sure that it is fire resistant. When I got in and went to put the flag up, again a steward came over to examine it. I presume that if it had not had a kite mark then I wouldn't have been allowed to put it up. All that said the stewards were polite and helpful. A 0-0 draw was a great result for us on current form and having a player sent off.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
After the final whistle we got straight out and walked the same way back to the station no more than ten minutes walk and no hassle on the way.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
A grand day out which Is what I expect from a trip to Sheffield. No hassles with the journey and enough time to grab some beer from the Sainsburys outside the station before boarding the train. I was approached by a Sheffield United fan at the station who apologised for it not being a better game and for the the lack of entertainment provided by his team. Which was fair enough to be honest. We'll still be there next year!
Sheffield United v Stevenage
League One
Saturday, April 28th, 2012, 5.20pm
Jake Smith (Stevenage fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
I was looking forward to my visit to Bramall Lane as it is a ground I had yet to visit, and was feeling confident about a result after we beat the Blades at home earlier in the season
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
I traveled to the game on a minibus with some friends, so it was quite easy to get to to the ground for me as our driver wasnt actually going to the match so he simply dropped us off and picked us up when the match was finished, although if you are planning on driving to the game you may have to park quite far away as the ground is in the city centre so parking spaces are few and far between.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
When I got to the ground I went straight in as it was only half an hour or so until kick off, but there were plenty of home fans still entering too, and they didn't give the Stevenage fans any trouble
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
Although the ground looks impressive from the inside, I have to say from the outside it certainly doesn't look as good as it could do, perhaps if they painted it the ground would look a little better? The away end is a good modern stand, as for the home end i wouldn't like to sit on the Kop as the supporting pillars look like they could be an annoyance if you were unfortunate to have to sit behind one
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
The game was a good one, and even though it was on Sky just over 30,000 packed into Bramall Lane to watch the clash as it could decide both teams fates come the end of the season. Although we threw away a 2-0 lead we still drew and looked to have all but booked a place in the play offs, which is incredible as when Sheffield United were playing in the Premiership we were a non league club! The stewards weren't too fussy and just did there job as expected. The food in the ground is a little over priced but it wasn't the worst food I've had at a ground, and the toilets were just okay, nothing more nothing less.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
After the game me and my friends went into the city for a few drinks before setting off home again, so when we finally left Sheffield there was no traffic at all. Even though we had just played Sheffield United there wasn't many of there fans to be seen at all, surprisingly there were more Sheffield Wednesday fans celebrating there victory over Brentford earlier in the day.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
An almost perfect day out in term of the result, although the ground failed to impress me enough to want to go back, although should we play Sheffield United in the play offs this season, I may consider making the journey again.
Sheffield United v AFC Bournemouth
League One
Saturday, April 7th, 2012, 3pm
Myles Munsey (Neutral supporter)
Reasons for visit:
The oldest professional sports ground in the world they kept telling me. But aside from that a chance to go to an historic ground was too good to miss.
Getting there:
From my base in Macclesfield an easy and scenic hour long train ride along the Hope Valley to Sheffield. Once there the ground was easy to find. Just follow the red and white. It took around 20 mins at a leisurely pace.
Before the game:
Arriving at the ground early at around 1.30pm I had loads of time to look round. Once again it was a pleasure to speak to the home fans that seemed a knowledgeable bunch. One gentleman kindly reminded me that I was standing on Yorkshire’s cricket pitch –at least I would have been had they not dug it up!
A ticket was purchased from the ticket office and being a category C game was only £13 which I thought was very reasonable for LeagueOne. In truth I was expecting to pay a lot more.
Outside the ticket office and fashioned into a grass bank was a memorial garden dedicated to Blades followers who have passed away. This is something have not encountered before. A nice touch. Out of respect I spent a few minutes there in quiet contemplation.
First impressions:
As you come up Shoreham Street the ground looms large above you and the huge corrugated iron shed that is the Kop end is impressive. This is where I sat. These large ‘cowsheds’ used to be quite common but more modern construction of course now hold sway. ‘It needs some paint on it’ I thought because it seems to have faded somewhat but is still a striking stand all the same.
I needed the toilets and these were a bit disappointing. Brick built, basic with freezing water and rudimentary paper towel dispensers. I did like the big stairways with handrails up to the top of the stand. That is a feature which does take me back.
Also showing my age here I warmed to the pre-match music which included;
Let’s spend the night together (Rolling Stones)
Keep on running (Dave Clark 5)
And then of all the strange things………….the teams came out to Samuel Barber’s Adagio with strings. Lovely music but why?
This was then followed by the Greasy Chip butty song. That at least was explained to me!
The game:
With Sheffield Wednesday winning their lunchtime encounter 2-0 against Huddersfield, United need to keep the pressure up on the blue half of the steel city with three more points.
A well taken goal by Ched Evans (who else) and an opportunist (lets poke the ball in whilst I’m sat on my backside) effort from Richard Cresswell seemed to have wrapped up the points until Bournemouth grabbed a goal back in bizarre circumstances after Zamon Hines intercepted a throw out by the keeper and walked the ball into an empty net. After furious protests the goal stood.
The Blades saw out the last 20 minutes – not altogether comfortably at times – to gain the prized three points.
Getting away:
As I had requested an aisle set getting out was easy and I was back in Sheffield Station for 10 past five.
Overall thoughts:
As a modern stadium it was comfortable with a good atmosphere and everything was very well organised. Good fans and friendly stewards. No offence, but apart from the memorial garden (which is to be 100% commended) and obligatory statues of former players there seemed little to distinguish it from other contemporary venues.
But please let none of this put you off because if you go to Bramall Lane you will be well looked after.
Sheffield United v Chesterfield
League One
Wednesday, March 28th, 2012, 7.45pm
Chris Connolly (Chesterfield fan)
A big Wednesday night match for both teams with United needing a point to go above their bitter city rivals and into second place, and the Spireites in dire danger of relegation. This is the first time for a few years that Chesterfield have visited both Bramall Lane and Hillsborough so this was a good chance to compare the two. I feel it has to be said that, for an away supporter at least, that in my opinion, Bramall Lane is far superior. The Leppings Lane at Hillsborough with its inadequate concourses and gangways, plus rather strict stewards, is not great.
There are no such problems at United’s away end, which is showing its age but is much brighter, friendlier and less oppressive. Having said that, it is a bit mean for the Blades to confine away fans to the lower tier where the view of the pitch isn’t so good. A low shot into the near goal could easily cross the line unseen by the fans since the advertising boards actually obscure the last few inches of the pitch at that end.
Car parking is not too bad since there are a lot of terraced streets around, while the ground is easy to find since it is close to the city centre and a bright splash of red. Fans of both sides mingled with no problem at all and many were munching on chips bought from one of the many fast food shops on London Road. No need for anyone to go hungry or thirsty here with so many caffs and pubs as well as chippies within easy walking reach.
Inside the ground, with five minutes to go before kick-off the Shoreham Street end was half empty and it looked as if United’s fans had decided for some reason to give the game a miss, but suddenly they all turned up and the ground looked a good 75% full when the match began. Obviously Blades fans like to get that last pint in before taking their seats. The first half of the match was even and the Spireites well deserved their equaliser just before half time, but the first 15 minutes of the second half turned into a massacre, with Ched Evans scoring a quick hat-trick to kill the game off. The last half hour saw both managers withdraw players to give them a rest before Saturday’s games with more vital points at stake, although, realistically, this defeat has just about closed the door on Chesterfield’s hopes of escaping the big drop.
No problems at all getting out of the ground, with, once again, red and white shirts mingling with blue with no hint of trouble. A few Blades fans had sung “Going down, going down” at us but that was only to be expected and all-in-all I’d say United’s supporters are less intense and less noisily partisan than Wednesday’s. Maybe their expectations aren’t as high, since, traditionally, the Owls have been the more successful and glamorous of the two.
In summary, going to Bramall Lane is a perfectly nice football experience in a traditional football area, and a day out to enjoy (unless, of course, your team decides to go to sleep and let three goals in within a few minutes) and one I feel happy to recommend.
Sheffield United v Hartlepool United
League One
Saturday December 31st 2011
Neil Hawley (Hartlepool United fan)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
We had been doing quite well away recently and Bramall Lane is somewhere I've always wanted to go.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
We went down on the Friday and stayed in the hotel next to the ground. I would recommend it for fans making a long trip.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
There is a chippy on Shoreham Street we used before the game. I would recommend it. Very welcoming for away fans.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
It is certainly a Premier League ground, there is one old stand, the Kop which was the biggest. There are however three very modern, new stands.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, facilities etc..
Stewards-good, they were very welcoming and friendly. Blades fans we met sitting above us, but there were no problems. The atmosphere was brilliant and over 20,000 fans were at this game. Crowds we can only ever dream of. I enjoyed the Blades fans singing the 'The Greasy Chip Butty' song. They came out flying and too a 3-0 lead before half time. We bagged a nice consolation goal though.
6. Getting away from ground after the game.
We got out of the ground easily and found our car parked in the hotel car park. Was then an easy drive home, arriving back at about 9pm, in good time to see in the New Year.
7. Summary of overall thoughts:
Go to this wonderful ground. One day it will host Premier League games, I'm sure of it.
Sheffield United v Sheffield Wednesday
League One
Sunday 16th October 2011, 1pm
Teresa Jewell (Sheffield Wednesday fan)
This derby match is really important to both sets of fans and is steeped in history and to some, the cause of hatred. Yet the funny thing is that as I came off Sheffield Midland Station platform from Manchester as I actually life in Stockport, the few fans around of both Clubs were mixing quite well. With only a few police present.
The ground at Bramall lane is easy to get to with a 15-20 minutes walk or there are taxi's outside of the station. Myself dad and my son had time to kill so we walked through the city centre with a couple of hundred other supporters. Many not wearing their colours for obvious reasons.
As we got nearer the ground you can see that Bramall Lane has under gone many changes making it more up to date and clean looking. The police presence was very strong, but it was easy to get to the away entrance turnstiles, which were electronic. The facilities for away fans were good, catering was varied good priced and the staff cheerful and pleasant. The toilets were found to be clean and of a good standard.
Finding our seats with the help of the really good stewards was a blessing. These same stewards dealt with a strong arm with any trouble makers so do be aware of this. They do not mess and they take you out of the stand very fast.
Getting away from the ground was easy the police were a little over evident and roads were closed. We were able to walk back into the town centre with out any trouble and back to the train station. This is were the only trouble was seen.
Overall this was a good day really enjoyed it. The game was hard fought with goals coming from Quinn on 11 minutes and Evans on 20 minutes for Sheffield United. There was loads of action and of course fouls but it wouldn't be a derby without those. Sheffield Wednesday even though they had lots of the ball and 10 attempts on goal managed to score on the 82nd minute through O'Grady and then 4 minutes later through Madine. As can be imagined the travelling Wednesday fans were in heaven unlike the home fans who were gutted.
As I Wednesday fan, I really wanted to write something bad about being an away fan at Bramall Lane, but there is nothing to write. A good ground to visit.
Final score: 2-2
Attendance: 28,136
Teresa Jewell, Travelling Owls Fan (even home games are an away game, as I life in Stockport) I am a Yorkshire girl through and through and proud!
Sheffield United v Charlton Athletic
League One
Saturday October 1st 2011, 3pm
Nicholas Rice (Charlton fan)
This was a match I was very much looking forward to. Before the game I was very intrigued as to how we would perform in our first real test of the season. We were unbeaten since April and a trip to Bramall lane is never easy for any team.
The journey up was easy enough. We got on the train at midday from St.Pancras and within two hours we were in Sheffield on a scorching hot day!
Having arrived at 2pm we had a good hour to get to the ground. Opposite the station is a main road and just on the other side plenty of travelling addicks fans were gathered outside the Howard pub enjoying the sun and making plenty of noise! The walk from the station to the ground took around 15 minutes.
When we got into the ground the massive stand opposite us behind the goal at the far end of the ground (the home Kennedys Kop) is the most noticeable of all the stands. The ground is traditional but not old or run down like you would expect from a traditional stadium of that size to be. In fact it's very neat and presentable. Also there was a red tent outside the main ticket office purposefully for away fans looking to buy tickets on the day which I found to be very handy and efficient.
The home stands were filling up well and the sun was still out as the game kicked off. The south Londoners made most of the noise. Eventually a few chances fell the way of the Blades half way through the first half, but it remained 0-0. At half time the bogs were as you would expect, compact, packed and smokey with a number of fans grabbing a fag. There were a few food kiosks around the away end but I didn't fancy a pie in that heat!
The 2nd half kicked off and the game was close until Charlton substitute Yann Kermogant leapt from the bench straight onto the end of a Dale Stephens corner to make it 0-1. Shortly after that the ball fell to Bradley Wright Phillips after an error from a blades centre half and there was only one outcome; 0-2 Charlton. After that a few good chances came the way of United but to no avail for the home side. The 3 points were going back to south London.
Getting away was easy enough, I headed back to Sheffield station and made the train with plenty of time to spare.
A very memorable away day, with a great traditional ground, good support for both sides a good result for the Addicks and Sheffield itself came across as a nice city with plenty of character.
Sheffield United v Leeds United
Championship League
Saturday 19th March 2011, 1pm
Chris Fretwell (Leeds United)
1. Why you were looking forward to going to the ground (or not as the case may be):
Never been to Bramall Lane before and being a Leeds fan, Sheffield United is a big game.
2. How easy was your journey/finding the ground/car parking?
Quite an easy route from Mansfield to Sheffield, went through Chesterfield and got onto the A61 then the ground appears on the right. Not much parking around the ground but we found some street parking on Hill Street right behind the away end. It costs £2 for 10 hours so it easily covers the game. There wasn’t many spaces and the other streets in the area are permit parking only so arrive in plenty of time.
3. What you did before the game pub/chippy…. home fans friendly?
We got to the ground for about 10:30 and walked around the back of the GAC stand. We spoke to the stewards and asked if there was any food outlets about and a steward informed us about a KFC on Queen Street about a 10-15 minute walk away. We spoke to some Sheffield United fans on the way to the ground and they seemed quite friendly. Didn’t see a pub near to the ground.
4. What you thought on seeing the ground, first impressions of away end then other sides of the ground?
First impressions of the ground was that it looked modern from a distance but then as you get closer, you can see it is ageing. The turnstiles are electrical so you just put the barcode of your ticket it in, like at Elland Road then you proceed into the ground. We walked through the concourse which looks like it needs doing up a bit then walked up to our seats. We were sat in the Upper tier so we got a good view but the seating is very steep like at Preston.
5. Comment on the game itself, atmosphere, stewards, pies, toilets etc..
The game itself was a nightmare for Leeds. We were on the back foot from the kick off and our keeper kept us in it. In the second half we came out more attacking but we just couldn’t get the ball up to our striker. Both of Sheffield United’s goals were from crosses into the box, the second being a re-bound. The stewards were fantastic despite reports I have heard about the treatment of Leeds fans in the past meetings between Leeds and Sheffield United. I didn’t have a pie unfortunately due to having a KFC about an hour before kickoff and didn’t use the toilets. The atmosphere was good from the Leeds fans in the first half but once Sheffield United got their goals they started to sing and the Leeds fans simply gave up on what I believe was the worst performance in 4 years. The Sheffield United PA announcer didn't help matters by making comments such as ‘Best performance of the season’ and ‘We are looking forward to playing you next season Leeds’ when the performance Sheffield United put in was one of the worst I have seen and on another day we would have won 4-0 and the fact they look certain to go down and I can easily say Preston were a better footballing side the other week when we played them.
6. Comment on getting away from the ground after the game:
Getting away from the ground was not too bad. There was a huge police presence though and it caused a lot of traffic around the ground. Was back home for 4 o’clock which is unusual for a Saturday.
7. Summary of overall thoughts of the day out:
Was a good day overall despite the result and other results went our way as well. Would definitely go again!