Thursday, 4 Jul 2024

Meadow Lane: Notts County

Notts County Football Club, founded in 1862, has a rich history that is deeply intertwined with Meadow Lane, their home stadium. Initially, the club faced challenges finding a suitable venue, as their matches were often displaced by cricket matches at Trent Bridge, home to Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club. However, in 1910, they secured the lease for a piece of land opposite Trent Bridge, where they built their new stadium, Meadow Lane.

Meadow Lane History

Meadow Lane holds a special place in the hearts of Notts County fans. Situated just a stone’s throw away from Nottingham Forest’s County Ground, it boasts the closest proximity between two football grounds in England. Originally built on the site of an old cattle market, Meadow Lane experienced its fair share of challenges.

During World War Two, the stadium was bombed, resulting in significant damage to the Main Stand. The 1990s saw a major redevelopment project, transforming Meadow Lane into the modern stadium it is today. Though there are currently no plans for further redevelopment, ongoing cosmetic changes are being made to enhance the overall experience for fans.

Meadow Lane Stats

Year Opened: 1910
Capacity: 19,841
Average Attendance: 8,024
Record Attendance: 47,310 (Notts County vs. York City, 1955)
Pitch Size: 104 x 69 (7,176 sq m)
Owner: Notts County Football Club
Clubs Hosted: Notts County F.C., Notts County Ladies F.C., Nottingham R.F.C.
First Fixture: Notts County vs. Nottingham Forest, 03/09/1910

Notts County Stats:

Year Founded: 1862
Nickname: The Magpies, County, Notts
Club Mascot: Mr. and Mrs. Magpie
Rivals: Nottingham Forest, Mansfield Town, Derby County, Leicester City, Lincoln City, Chesterfield
Previous Stadiums: Trent Bridge
Kit: Black & White Stripes (Home), Blue (Away)
Training Ground: Eagle Valley Stadium
Shirt Sponsor: John Pye & Jake Bugg
Team Owner: Alexander and Christoffer Reedtz
Record Goalscorer: Les Bradd (125)
Record Appearances: Albert Iremonger (564)

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Meadow Lane Photos

Meadow Lane Photos

Meadow Lane Seating Plan and Where to Sit

Meadow Lane follows the traditional English stadium layout, featuring stands on each side of the pitch. The Kop Stand, located at the North end, boasts a single-tier structure with supporting pillars holding up the roof. Directly opposite is The Haydn Green Family Stand, which includes a small tier of seats and executive boxes. This stand pays tribute to the man who saved the club from liquidation in 2003.

Along one side of the pitch is The Jimmy Sirrel Stand, dedicated to the away supporters. The largest part of the ground is the Derek Pavis Stand, housing the club’s facilities such as the dressing room and players’ tunnel.

Notts County Ticket Prices

At Meadow Lane, ticket pricing is straightforward. Regardless of where you sit or who Notts County is playing against, all tickets are the same price. The only variable is your age. Here are the current prices for adults and concessions:

  • Adults: £22
  • Concessions: £16

Please note that these prices are for advanced purchases. Buying tickets on the day will cost an additional £2.

How to Get Notts County Tickets

Getting tickets for Notts County games is easy. You can visit the club’s official website, call the ticket office, or visit in person. However, it is strongly recommended to book in advance, as cash is no longer accepted at the turnstiles.

Where to Buy

Ticket Compare is a reliable platform to purchase Notts County tickets.

Getting to Meadow Lane

Located near the center of the country, Nottingham is easily accessible from various directions. Here are some popular routes:

  • Train: Nottingham Railway Station is a short 10-15 minute walk from the stadium and provides excellent connections to London and the North.
  • Bus: Nottingham offers a well-connected bus system, with routes 44, 44A, and 11 servicing Trent Bridge from the city center.
  • Car: Taking the M1 and exiting at Junction 26 onto the A610 is the most convenient route by car. Follow the signs to Melton Mowbray and then Meadow Lane.
  • Air: East Midlands Airport, located approximately 20 miles away, provides excellent transport links to Nottingham city center.
  • Taxi: A taxi ride from Nottingham Railway Station to the stadium takes less than five minutes and costs around £6.
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Parking Near Meadow Lane

Parking options near Meadow Lane include the Cattle Market, located opposite the away supporters’ stand, and a council car park nearby. Additionally, the city operates an efficient park and ride system that provides easy access to the stadium.

Useful Resources

  • Parking: Just Park

Meadow Lane Hotels

As a vibrant city, Nottingham offers a variety of hotels that provide convenient access to Meadow Lane. Here are some recommended options:

Pubs and Bars Near Meadow Lane

Nottingham is home to a lively pub scene, thanks to its vibrant student population and two major universities. Before heading to the game, check out some of the popular pubs and bars:

Facilities

Meadow Lane offers modern facilities, thanks to recent redevelopment projects. The stadium’s catering services provide high-quality options, and the views from most areas are excellent, except for the obstructed views caused by supporting pillars.

Prices

  • Programme: £3
  • Pie: £3
  • Cup of Tea: £2
  • Beer: £3.50

Hospitality

Notts County offers various matchday hospitality options to enhance the fan experience. The premium choice is the Directors Club, where you can enjoy a fabulous meal with the chairmen, directors, and their guests before the game, alongside premium seating and more. Alternatively, you can opt for Club 155, featuring a three-course carvery and a post-match interview with the man of the match. For a more budget-friendly option, Club Carlsberg offers a one-course meal and padded seats to enjoy the game.

Private Hire

Notts County boasts exceptional conference and event facilities, making Meadow Lane an ideal venue for business events, presentations, conferences, and private parties. With six different suites accommodating up to 300 people, there is a suitable space for every occasion, including weddings.

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Stadium Tours & Museum

While availability may vary, visitors have the opportunity to embark on tours of Meadow Lane. Lead by former striker and club legend Les Bradd, these tours offer a unique behind-the-scenes experience. Adult tickets are priced at £10, while concessions can enjoy the tour for just £5.

About Notts County

Notts County Football Club holds the distinction of being the oldest professional football team in the world. Though living in the shadow of their more successful neighbors, Nottingham Forest, Notts County has had their fair share of success. They have enjoyed top-flight football and have won the FA Cup, the old second division, and the Anglo-Scottish Cup.

The iconic black and white stripes of Notts County’s kit have also left a lasting impact on world football. Italian giants Juventus originally played in pink and black kits but changed to the distinctive black and white stripes after receiving spare Notts County shirts.

Future Developments

While there are no immediate plans for redevelopment, ongoing cosmetic changes are being made throughout the stadium. Additionally, a sports center is under construction behind the stadium, promising further improvements to the surrounding area in the near future.