Saturday, 5 Oct 2024

The Boleyn: (West Ham)

West Ham United Football Club has a rich history that dates back to its formation in 1895 as Thames Ironworks, an amateur football club comprising employees of a local ironworks company. After a brief disbandment, the club relaunched as West Ham United FC in 1900, earning the nicknames “The Hammers” and “The Irons” due to their working-class roots.

In 1904, West Ham United found their home at The Boleyn Ground, located in the Upton Park area of London. The ground was named after an association between Anne Boleyn and Green Street House, a property rented by the club from 1912 onwards. Despite being commonly referred to as Upton Park, The Boleyn Ground has witnessed countless historic moments in West Ham United’s history.

Stats

  • Year Opened: 1904
  • Capacity: 35,016
  • Average Attendance: 34,900
  • Record Attendance: 42,322 (West Ham vs Tottenham, 1970)
  • Pitch Size: 100 x 64 yards
  • Nickname: Upton Park
  • Owner: West Ham United F.C.
  • Clubs Hosted: West Ham, Charlton Athletic
  • First Fixture: West Ham vs Millwall, 1st September 1904
  • Final Fixture: West Ham vs Manchester United (3-2), 10th May 2016

The Boleyn Photos

The Boleyn Seating Plan and Where to Sit

The Boleyn Ground offers a traditional stadium layout with four stands situated close to the pitch, allowing for an electric atmosphere during home matches. Here’s a breakdown of the stands:

  • The Sir Trevor Brooking Stand: Previously known as The Centenary Stand, this two-tier stand is named after one of West Ham’s legendary players. The upper tier caters to families, while the lower tier is split between home and away fans.
  • The East Stand: As the oldest and smallest section of the stadium, this stand is a hub for passionate and vocal West Ham supporters.
  • The Bobby Moore Stand: Named after another iconic figure in the club’s history, this two-tier stand, formerly known as The South Bank, underwent renovations in 2001.
  • The Betway Stand: This stand, the newest and largest at The Boleyn Ground, was built in 2001 and originally named The Dr. Martens Stand. It houses the club’s offices, board rooms, suites, and dressing rooms.
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Getting To The Boleyn

The Boleyn Ground enjoys a convenient location in Central London, making it easily accessible for fans. Here are some transportation options:

  • Train: The most recommended mode of transport is the tube. Travel to one of London’s main train stations, then use the Underground to reach Upton Park.
  • Bus: Several bus routes, including 5, 15, 58, 115, 147, 104, 330, and 376, provide access to the stadium from various locations in London.
  • Car: Depending on your direction of travel, follow the A406 to the A124 or the A13, or use the Blackwell Tunnel to reach the A13. From the west, take the A406 to the A124 and proceed on the Barking Road.
  • By Air: London is well-served by airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, and Luton, offering a range of flight options for traveling fans.
  • Taxi: A taxi ride to The Boleyn Ground takes approximately 20 minutes, with an estimated cost of £40.

Parking Near The Boleyn

Parking in Central London can be challenging, including around The Boleyn Ground. It is advisable to park at tube stops located further out of the city and use the Underground for travel.

Useful Resources

  • Parking: Just Park

The Boleyn Hotels

Given the central location, finding accommodation near The Boleyn Ground is relatively easy. Here are a couple of options close to the stadium:

Pubs and Bars Near The Boleyn

London boasts countless pubs and bars, providing ample choices for pre-match drinks. If you’re seeking recommendations, here are some options:

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Facilities

The Boleyn Ground offers facilities that, despite showing their age, meet the needs of match-going supporters. Although the away section is on the smaller side and slightly cramped, visitors can enjoy food and drinks during the game. Betway kiosks are available for fans interested in placing a bet.

Prices

  • Programme: £3.50
  • Pie: £3.50
  • Cup of Tea: £2.30

Hospitality

Though The Boleyn Ground’s age may suggest dated hospitality, there are still several options for premium experiences. These include private boxes, sports lounges, exclusive bars, and areas for premium dining.

For example, the 66 Club Restaurant pays tribute to three West Ham players who secured legendary status by winning the World Cup with England in 1966. This package offers seating in the director’s box, champagne upon arrival, a fine dining menu with beverages, a complimentary programme, and hosting by members of the 1966 World Cup-winning squad.

Alternatively, the Carlsberg Legends Lounge provides a two-course buffet, entertainment, interviews with football legends, padded seats in the VIP section, and access to the lounge for an hour and a half after kick-off. The Boleyn Ground offers various hospitality options to suit different preferences.

Private Hire

The Boleyn Ground prides itself on its versatility as an iconic venue and an ideal location for conferences and events. With 850 delegate spaces spread across 10 function rooms, each equipped with PA systems and plasma screens, it can cater to various meeting and event requirements. An additional 70 rooms boasting pitch-side views offer options for breakout rooms, training courses, or private dinners.

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Looking to tie the knot? West Ham’s Home Team Changing Room might be the dream location for the ultimate Hammers fan. Couples can have their wedding ceremony in this iconic spot and have their photos taken on the pitchside.

Stadium Tours & Museum

Although West Ham United will bid farewell to The Boleyn Ground at the end of the season, they currently offer farewell stadium tours. Participants can explore the inner sanctum of the ground, including the dressing rooms, tunnel, and pitchside. Tours, lasting an hour, are available at various times throughout the year, with tickets priced at £20 for adults and £15 for children.

The Boleyn History

Despite the official name of the stadium being The Boleyn Ground, most football fans refer to it as Upton Park. The ground has a storied history, including an anecdote about a V-1 flying bomb landing on the south-west corner of the pitch in 1944, leading to West Ham playing their home matches elsewhere. Many fans will forever cherish their memories of the atmosphere and excitement of trips to Upton Park, with chanting and bubbles flowing before every kick-off.

Future Developments

While there are no planned developments for The Boleyn Ground, West Ham United’s future lies in the Olympic Stadium from August 2016. With a 99-year lease on the ground purpose-built for the 2012 London Olympics, the club is moving forward into an exciting chapter.