Priestfield Stadium, located in Gillingham, has a rich history intertwined with the football club that calls it home. Originally founded in 1893 as New Brompton FC, the club immediately moved into the newly constructed stadium. The origins of the stadium’s name remain somewhat of a mystery, whether it was named after the road it was built on or vice versa, but the official name was Priestfield Road until 1947.
In its early years, the stadium served as a multi-purpose venue, hosting various events such as fetes, athletics meetings, and even Smoking Concerts. It’s amusing to think that sheep were allowed to graze on the pitch during non-match days, a practice that would be unheard of today. The stadium underwent significant redevelopment in the 1990s, with the addition of floodlights being the most notable renovation prior to that.
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Stats
- Year Opened: 1893
- Capacity: 11,582
- Average Attendance: 4,967
- Record Attendance: 23,002 (Gillingham vs. QPR in 1948)
- Pitch Size: 104 x 68 yards
- Nickname: Priestfield
- Former Name: KRBS Priestfield Stadium
- Owner: Gillingham Football Club
- Sponsor: MEMS
- Clubs Hosted: Gillingham F.C., Brighton & Hove Albion F.C., London Broncos
- First Fixture: New Brompton Reserves vs. Grays on September 2, 1893
Priestfield Stadium Photos
Priestfield Stadium Seating Plan and Where to Sit
Priestfield Stadium features four distinctive stands, typical of older grounds. The Medway Stand has two tiers, including boxes, and houses the dugouts and players’ tunnel. The Rainham End Stand is a single-tier section filled with passionate Gillingham fans. Along the pitch’s side, you’ll find the Gordon Road Stand, which is limited in height due to the nearby residential area. Lastly, the Brian Moore Stand is the only uncovered section and typically hosts away fans.
Gillingham Ticket Prices
Gillingham offers a straightforward ticket pricing structure, making it easy for fans to plan their visit. Ticket prices vary based on age and seating location within the stadium. It’s worth noting that tickets purchased on the day incur a £2 price increase. Here are the cheapest and most expensive ticket prices for adults and concessions when bought in advance:
- Adults: £22.00 – £25.00
- Concessions: £19.00 – £19.00
How To Get Gillingham Tickets
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Tickets for Gillingham matches can be purchased through the club’s website, by calling the ticket office, or visiting the box office on match days. Please be aware that a £1 fee applies for phone bookings.
Where to Buy
Getting To Priestfield Stadium
Gillingham, located in Kent, offers convenient transportation options from various locations, including London. Here are the primary methods you can consider when planning your journey:
- Train: Gillingham Railway Station is roughly a ten-minute walk from the stadium, with regular trains from Victoria and Charing Cross stations in London.
- Bus: Due to its proximity to the city center, specific bus routes to the stadium are not necessary.
- Car: If traveling from the south, exit the M2 at Junction 4 onto the A278, then follow the A2 and A289 before following the signs to Gillingham and the stadium. If coming from the north, leave the A2 at Junction 1 onto the A289, and look out for signs to Gillingham and the ground.
- By Air: London Southend Airport is less than twenty miles away, while Gatwick Airport is approximately fifty miles away.
- Taxi: A taxi ride from the train station to the stadium takes less than five minutes and costs around £6.
Parking Near Priestfield Stadium
On-street parking is available near Priestfield Stadium, but be mindful of any parking restrictions. Additionally, parking at Woodlands Primary School, located nearby, is an option.
Useful Resources
- Parking: Just Park
Priestfield Stadium Hotels
Although London provides an array of accommodation options within an hour’s train ride, Gillingham itself offers several hotels. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Hotel 1
- Hotel 2
- Hotel 3
Pubs and Bars Near Priestfield Stadium
Gillingham boasts numerous charming pubs and bars. If you’re looking for a pre or post-match drink, here are a few favorites:
- Pub 1
- Pub 2
- Pub 3
Facilities
The redevelopment of Priestfield Stadium in the 1990s included updates to the entrance and club shop. While the facilities are standard and not extraordinary, you’ll find the usual food and drink options available, albeit nothing extravagant.
Prices
- Programme: £3
- Pie: £3.80
- Cup of tea: £2
- Beer: £3.70
Hospitality
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Apart from the executive boxes, the 1893 Lounge is the only hospitality option available. It offers a three-course meal before the game, along with a private bar, host or hostess, excellent seating, and tea and coffee at halftime. The prices are very reasonable for the provided experience.
Private Hire
Priestfield Stadium prides itself on being Kent’s largest purpose-built conference center, capable of accommodating a wide range of events. Whether you’re planning an exhibition, a business meeting, or even a wedding, the home of Kent’s only professional football club is equipped to handle your needs.
Stadium Tours & Museum
Currently, there are no stadium tours or a museum at Priestfield Stadium. However, if this changes in the future, we will keep you informed. In the meantime, you can watch an old video tour from 2007 to satisfy your curiosity.
About Gillingham
Gillingham Football Club is the only professional team in Kent and was founded in 1893. Although the club was voted out of the Football League in 1938, they made a triumphant return in 1950 when the league expanded. In recent years, Gillingham has experienced ups and downs but continues to be a beloved team in Kent.
Priestfield Stadium History
Originally known as Priestfield Road before becoming Priestfield Stadium, the ground went through several naming changes due to sponsorship deals. It served as the temporary home ground for Brighton & Hove Albion in the 1990s while their stadium underwent renovations. Additionally, the rugby league club London Broncos played at Priestfield Stadium from 2013 to 2021.
Future Developments
In 2013, the club’s Chairman expressed a desire to move Gillingham to a new home, citing a lack of a future at Priestfield Stadium. However, financial difficulties prevented any significant changes from taking place. Since acquiring a majority shareholding in 2022, Brad Galinson has made improvements, including LED boards and a new club shop, with plans to upgrade the temporary Brian Moore Stand.
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