Supporters visiting Craven Cottage in 2026 should be aware of the stadium’s strict entry policies, particularly regarding bags, security checks, and prohibited items.
Like many major football venues in England, the home of Fulham F.C. enforces these measures to enhance safety and improve the efficiency of matchday entry.
FootballGroundGuide breaks down the bag rules, screening procedures, and restricted items fans should know before arriving.
What bags are allowed at Craven Cottage?
Craven Cottage operates a small-bag-only policy.
Supporters are permitted to bring one bag per person, provided it does not exceed A4 size (29.7 cm x 21 cm).
The measurements apply to the bag itself. Bags that are folded or partially filled to meet the size limit will not be accepted.
All matchday merchandise purchases will be provided in a branded bag and are allowed in addition to the one permitted bag.
Fans are encouraged to travel light to speed up entry and reduce queues.
Bag drop and storage at Craven Cottage
Fans arriving with non-compliant bags will not be permitted entry.
A paid bag drop facility is available, and it will cost £5 and by card payment only, with proceeds donated to the Fulham FC Foundation.
Additionally, a left luggage facility is located at Bridge Academy on Greswell Street, where supporters can store items such as suitcases, pushchairs, or restricted belongings. Items are left at the owner’s risk, and a ticket is issued for collection after the match.
Alternative storage is also available at major London railway stations, including Charing Cross, Euston, King’s Cross, Liverpool Street, Paddington, St Pancras, Victoria, and Waterloo.
How bag checks work at Craven Cottage
All bags and personal belongings are subject to mandatory security checks upon entry.
- Bags will be opened, inspected, and tagged
- Supporters may be subject to wanding or pat-down searches
- Items must remain with the owner at all times
These measures are designed to improve safety and speed up access into the stadium.
Craven Cottage medical and childcare exemptions
Exemptions are available for supporters who need larger bags for medical or childcare reasons, but prior approval is required.
Fans must contact the club before matchday and may need to provide supporting documentation, such as:
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance or Severe Disablement Allowance
- Access Card
- Medical letters or certification (e.g. registered blind/partially sighted)
- Veterans Agency documentation
Approved supporters will receive a medical exemption certificate, which must be presented at security. All exempt bags will still be searched before entry.
What items are prohibited at Craven Cottage?
Craven Cottage has a comprehensive list of prohibited items to ensure safety. These include:
- Bags larger than A4 size (unless exempt)
- Knives, weapons, firearms, or dangerous items
- Fireworks, flares, smoke devices, and pyrotechnics
- Alcohol, cans, flasks, and glass containers
- Large umbrellas
- Scooters, skateboards, and similar items
- Laptops and tablets
- Professional cameras or recording equipment
- Selfie sticks
- Musical instruments (e.g. drums, trumpets, vuvuzelas, megaphones)
- Flag poles over 1m
- Flags not related to competing teams or offensive materials
- Posters larger than A3
- Spray paint or large marker pens
- Drones and transmitting devices
- Helmets (motorbike or bicycle)
- Prams and pushchairs (subject to assessment)
- Animals (except guide or service dogs)
- Any item deemed dangerous, offensive, or a risk to public safety
Any prohibited item may be confiscated, and the holder may be refused entry and reported to authorities.
What can fans bring into Craven Cottage?
Meanwhile, fans are allowed to bring:
- Mobile phones and small personal items (without separate bags)
- Small A4-sized bags
- Matchday merchandise in club-branded bags
- Empty, soft, clear plastic bottles (500ml or less, without lids) for refill stations
- Essential medical items (with prior approval if required)
The policy focuses on limiting bag size rather than restricting everyday personal items.
Can fans re-enter Craven Cottage after leaving?
No, Craven Cottage operates a strict no re-entry policy.
If a supporter leaves the stadium during a match or event, they will not be permitted to return using the same ticket. This helps maintain safety and crowd control throughout matchday.