Saturday, 5 Oct 2024

Plough Lane: AFC Wimbledon

AFC Wimbledon is a club with a rich and fascinating history. It was formed in 2002 by loyal supporters of the old Wimbledon FC after the club was relocated to Milton Keynes. The new Plough Lane stadium, which opened in November 2020, is a significant chapter in this story.

Plough Lane holds a special place in the hearts of AFC Wimbledon fans. The original Plough Lane stadium, where Wimbledon FC played from 1912 to 1991, was their true spiritual home. After a period of uncertainty, the original Plough Lane was demolished in 2002. The construction of the new Plough Lane began in 2018, just a few hundred yards from the original site. It took three years to complete, and the stadium retains the iconic Plough Lane name, albeit with sponsorship from Cherry Red Records.

The new Plough Lane brings AFC Wimbledon back to its roots in the borough of Merton, almost exactly where its predecessors once stood.

Plough Lane Stats

  • Year Opened: 2020
  • Capacity: 9,215
  • Average Attendance: 7,662
  • Record Attendance: 9,215 (AFC Wimbledon 3-3 Bolton Wanderers, 14/8/21)
  • Pitch Size: 105 x 68 (7140)

Plough Lane Seating Plan and Where to Sit

As a modern stadium, Plough Lane offers seating all the way around in a bowl-style design. The capacity is 9,215, with all seating on a single level, allowing for future upward expansion if needed.

The four stands at Plough Lane have their own sponsors. The Ry Stand, situated towards the East, holds 2,391 fans. The Cappagh Stand, considered the main stand, has a capacity of 4,267 seats and houses the club offices and hospitality areas. The Cherry Red Records end, located in the North stand, can accommodate 1,465 fans. The South stand has a capacity of 1,092 and includes a safe standing terrace.

AFC Wimbledon Ticket Prices

Buying tickets for games at Plough Lane is a straightforward process. The price of your ticket will depend on where you want to sit and your age. It’s advisable to book in advance to avoid paying an additional £2 on the day.

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Here are the ticket prices for adults and concessions when bought ahead of time:

  • Adults: £23.00 – £35.00
  • Concessions: £16.00 – £25.00

How To Get AFC Wimbledon Tickets

AFC Wimbledon fans can purchase tickets online, by post, or in person from the ticket office. The club does not usually offer phone sales, and registration is required for online purchases.

Where to Buy

For more information on where to buy tickets, you can check Ticket Compare.

Getting To Plough Lane

Getting to Plough Lane in South West London is convenient, with various transportation options available.

  • Car: Driving is not recommended, as London traffic can be stressful. However, if you choose to drive, the A24 is the best route from the South, while those coming from the North can plan their own journey.
  • Train: The closest train station is Haydon’s Road, but Wimbledon station offers more frequent options and is just a 30-minute walk to the stadium.
  • Taxi: Taxis can be expensive in London, but if you prefer this option, it is available. However, public transportation is generally more affordable.
  • Tube: Wimbledon (District Line) or Tooting Bec (Northern Line) are the most convenient tube stations, equidistant from the stadium. The Northern Line may be faster and more reliable.
  • Bus: Several bus routes, including 493, 44, 77, and 270, have stops near the stadium. Research these routes for more information.

Parking Near Plough Lane

Parking on-site is not available unless you have specific access requirements. There are no dedicated car parks close to the stadium, so using public transport is highly recommended.

For available parking options near Plough Lane, you can find more information online.

Plough Lane Hotels

Finding accommodation in London is not a challenge, although prices may vary. Here are a few options for various budgets:

[PUBS AND BARS NEAR PLOUGH LANE]
Wimbledon boasts a vibrant pub scene, with many well-known establishments in the area. Here are three recommendations:

[Facilities]
Plough Lane offers premier facilities, despite hosting a club in the lower professional leagues. Food and drinks are available from various vendors, restrooms are brand new, and all seating is covered, providing protection from inclement weather.

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Prices for facilities are as follows:

  • Programme: £3
  • Pie: £4
  • Cup of tea: £2
  • Beer: £4.5

Hospitality

Hospitality packages at Plough Lane cater to businesses and require long-term commitments. However, a limited number of tickets are reserved for one-off special matchday experiences.

The stadium features four chic lounges and corporate boxes. VIP treatment includes a champagne reception, complimentary half-time refreshments, premium seats for improved comfort, and a choice of two, four, or five-course meals or a fork buffet. Matchday programs are also included. Hospitality customers can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and mingle in the Networking Bar.

Private Hire

As a state-of-the-art venue, Plough Lane is perfect for hosting corporate and private events. With its range of suites and boxes, it can accommodate between 10 and 400 guests. The facilities are provided by Elior UK, ensuring a high-quality experience.

Stadium Tours & Museum

Explore the history and facilities of Plough Lane with a stadium tour. Tours cover the entire stadium, including private areas, and end with the fascinating ‘Greatest Journey’ exhibition. The ex-CEO has even served as a tour guide in the past. Tickets are priced at £12 for adults, £10 for concessions, and £5 for under 18s.

About AFC Wimbledon

AFC Wimbledon is a football club that emerged in response to the relocation of Wimbledon FC to Milton Keynes. While AFC Wimbledon has no official connection to the Wimbledon of Vinnie Jones and Lawrie Sanchez, supporters consider it a spiritual successor to the original Dons.

The club’s journey led them back to their roots, with the new Plough Lane opening in 2020, just 200 yards from the site of the original stadium. AFC Wimbledon holds various records, such as the longest unbeaten run in senior English football, spanning 78 league games.

Plough Lane History

There have been two distinct stadiums named Plough Lane, both occupying almost the same location. The original stadium was used by Wimbledon FC from 1912 until 1991 when the club needed a new ground due to the Taylor Report. Wimbledon FC temporarily played at Selhurst Park before ultimately moving to Milton Keynes. This decision angered fans, leading to the formation of AFC Wimbledon. The original Plough Lane was used by Wimbledon and Crystal Palace reserves until 1998. After its sale for development, the ground lay abandoned until its demolition in 2002. Private housing replaced the stadium, but the site is still known as Reynolds Gate, named after one of Wimbledon’s renowned players.

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AFC Wimbledon initially played at Kingsmeadow but eventually rebuilt their stadium near the original Plough Lane site, using the Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium location. Meanwhile, Wimbledon FC changed its name to MK Dons to reflect their new location.

The design for the new Plough Lane stadium was granted planning permission by Merton Council in 2015. KSS designed the stadium, which was constructed by the Buckingham Group between 2019 and 2020. The newfound homecoming delighted fans who had waited three decades for their club’s return. In 2021, an agreement was reached for the London Broncos rugby league team to share the stadium.

The first football match at the new Plough Lane took place in November 2020, with AFC Wimbledon drawing 2-2 against Doncaster Rovers. The stadium reached full capacity almost a year later, witnessing a 3-3 draw with Bolton Wanderers in August 2021.

Future Developments

Given that Plough Lane only recently hosted its first competitive football match in November 2020, immediate development plans are unlikely. If AFC Wimbledon ascends to higher leagues, expansion proposals may emerge, but such plans are distant at this time.

FAQs

Concluding Section

In conclusion, AFC Wimbledon’s Plough Lane stadium holds a special place in the hearts of supporters, marking a true homecoming for the club. The rich history, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient location make Plough Lane an attractive destination for fans and visitors alike. Whether you’re attending a match, exploring the stadium on a tour, or enjoying the hospitality, Plough Lane offers a remarkable experience for football enthusiasts. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of AFC Wimbledon’s journey at Plough Lane.

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