Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Pre-season friendlies: Seven brilliant lower-league grounds to visit this summer

Pre-season friendlies: Seven brilliant lower-league grounds to visit this summer
View inside York Road, home to Maidenhead United FC - Photo via IMAGO / PPAUK

Pre-season is one of the best times of year to tick off new football grounds.

Tickets are usually affordable, the atmosphere is relaxed, and clubs often welcome visitors with open arms.

Whether you're chasing another Futbology tick or simply looking for a different matchday experience, these seven lower-league venues are well worth adding to your summer itinerary.

Read on as FootballGroundGuide takes a look at some of the lesser-known stadiums well worth visiting.

Memorial Ground (Farnham Town)

Few clubs have enjoyed a rise quite like Farnham Town, who have climbed three divisions in as many seasons to reach the National League South. Nestled just a short walk from Farnham's bustling town centre, the Memorial Ground is a proper community venue where local support has fuelled the club's remarkable ascent. With attractive surroundings and plenty of pubs and cafes nearby, as well as impressive options inside the ground, it's an ideal day out.

Pre-season fixtures: Badshot Lea (11 July), Wycombe Wanderers (21 July), Yeovil Town (28 July), Eastleigh (1 August).

The Dripping Pan (Lewes FC)

There are few grounds in England quite like The Dripping Pan. Framed by medieval castle ruins and the rolling Sussex hills, it's one of the country's most picturesque football venues. Lewes FC is also renowned as the world's first gender-equal football club, funding its men's and women's teams equally, making every visit far more than just football.

Pre-season fixtures: Hastings (18 July), Gillingham (21 July), Dorking Wanderers (25 July), Bromley (1 August).

Causeway Lane (Matlock Town)

If scenery is your thing, Causeway Lane is hard to beat. Sitting on the edge of the Peak District National Park, the ground offers stunning green views behind the main stand, while sharing the site with Matlock Town Cricket Club creates a unique sporting backdrop. Time your visit right, and you could even enjoy cricket and football on the same day.

Pre-season fixtures: Grantham Town (4 July), Belper Town (11 July), Quorn (14 July), Mickleover (21 July).

York Road (Maidenhead United)

Football has been played at York Road since 1871, making it one of the oldest continuously used football grounds in the world. Its traditional main stand, compact layout and old-school character make it a must-visit for groundhoppers, especially with Maidenhead expected to move to a new stadium in the coming years.

Pre-season fixtures: MK Dons (10 July), Southampton U21s (18 July), Wolves (22 July).

Moss Lane (Altrincham)

Known officially as the J. Davidson Stadium, Moss Lane has been Altrincham's home since 1910 and remains one of non-league football's classic venues. Standing terraces, close proximity to the pitch and a rich history of famous giant-killings combine to create an authentic matchday experience that has changed little for more than a century.

Pre-season fixtures: Macclesfield (25 July), Manchester United U21s (31 July).

Aerial View of J Davidson Stadium, home to Altrincham FC
Aerial view of J Davidson Stadium, home to Altrincham FC in Cheshire – Photo via IMAGO / Pro Sports Images

Penlee Park (Penzance AFC)

The journey to Cornwall is part of the adventure. Penlee Park is one of England's most remote football grounds and rewards visitors with charming art-deco features, a picturesque entrance and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. Add in excellent local cider and the chance to explore one of Britain's most beautiful coastal towns, and it's an away day unlike any other.

Pre-season fixtures: Pendeen Rovers (14 July), Perranwell (17 July).

Guardian Warehousing Arena (Sporting Khalsa)

Sporting Khalsa has become one of non-league's great community success stories, with investment transforming the club's facilities and helping its rapid progress up the pyramid. The Guardian Warehousing Arena is also famous for its outstanding food offering, with the on-site 442 Bar & Grill serving highly-rated Punjabi cuisine alongside the traditional football matchday experience.

Pre-season fixtures: Shifnal Town (7 July), Bromsgrove Sporting (14 July), Rushall Olympic (18 July).

Lewis joined as News and Features Editor in July 2025, having previously held senior roles at Snack Media and GRV Media. A passionate follower of sport, in particular football and golf, as well as a proud Aldershot Town supporter, he brings over six years of experience in the digital sports publishing space.

Articles: 796