Thursday, 21 Nov 2024

Pride Park: Derby County

For many football fans, the name Pride Park is synonymous with Derby County. After a brief stint as The iPro Stadium due to a sponsorship deal, the ground returned to its original name in 2016. Let’s take a closer look at Pride Park and its history.

The Move to Pride Park

Derby County made the decision to move to Pride Park from their former stadium, The Baseball Ground, for various reasons. The tragedies of The Bradford City Stadium fire and The Hillsborough disaster prompted changes in stadium regulations, including the requirement for all English football stadiums to become all-seater. These changes limited Derby’s attendance to 17,500 initially, but it has since been increased to 33,597.

Pride Park Stats

Here are some key statistics about Pride Park:

  • Year Opened: 1997
  • Capacity: 33,597
  • Average Attendance: 27,259
  • Record Attendance: 33,598 (England v Mexico, 2001)
  • Pitch Size: 105 x 68 (7140)

Pride Park Seating Plan and Where to Sit

Pride Park Stadium is built in a rectangular bowl style, with four differently named stands. The ground is mostly single-tiered, except for the largest stand, which has two tiers. Here’s a breakdown of the stands:

  • The North Stand: Split into upper and lower sections, located behind the goal at the Northern end of the stadium.
  • The East Stand: Runs along the side of the pitch, featuring white seating that spells out the club’s nickname, The Rams.
  • The South Stand: A mirror image of the North Stand, situated behind the Southern goal and typically accommodating away supporters.
  • The West Stand: Named after its sponsor, a Japanese car manufacturer, this stand has two tiers, executive boxes, dressing rooms, and dug-outs.

Derby County Ticket Prices

Derby County announces ticket prices for their matches approximately seven weeks in advance. It’s worth noting that prices increase by £3 for adults and £2 for concessions if purchased on the match day itself. The prices vary depending on the game category, age, and seating location. Here are the various categories for adults and concessions:

  • Category A: £24-£32 / £18-£24
  • Category B: £20-£28 / £15-£21
  • Category C: £16-£24 / £12-£18
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How To Get Derby County Tickets

If you prefer not to buy tickets online, you can contact the club’s box office directly or visit the ticket office at Pride Park. Derby County also has an excellent website where you can purchase tickets for their matches. They offer options for both tech-savvy fans and those who prefer traditional paper tickets.

Where to Buy

You can buy Derby County tickets on their official website: Movin993.

Getting To Pride Park

Pride Park is conveniently located near the center of Derby, making it easily accessible. Here are the different transportation options:

  • Train: Derby Railway Station connects to Manchester, Leeds, and London. The station is less than a mile away from the ground, approximately a 20-minute walk.
  • Bus: The number 111 bus runs from the center of Derby to Pride Park, stopping at nearby Derwent Parade.
  • Car: Pride Park is situated just off the A52, making it easily identifiable. For example, if you’re traveling from London, take Junction 25 of the M1 to access the A52.
  • Air: East Midlands Airport is around nine miles away from Derby. The Skyline bus service provides a convenient link between the airport and the city, with a journey time of approximately 20 minutes.
  • Taxi: If you prefer not to walk from the train station to the ground, a taxi ride will cost around £5 and take a similar amount of time. Remember that longer journeys may incur higher fares.

Parking Near Pride Park

Pride Park offers several officially sanctioned car parks within a short walking distance from the stadium. On-street parking is limited and unauthorized parking may result in towing or ticketing.

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Pride Park Hotels

If you’re visiting Derby for a match, there are several hotel options to consider. Here are some recommendations:

Pubs and Bars Near Pride Park

Derby has a vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some pubs and bars worth visiting near Pride Park:

Facilities

Pride Park Stadium, built in 1997 and refurbished over the years, offers modern facilities to enhance the matchday experience. The concourses provide a range of stalls and shops for refreshments and the views of the pitch are excellent from any seat in the stadium.

Prices

Here are the prices for some typical items at Pride Park:

  • Programme: £3
  • Pie: £3.80
  • Cup of tea: £2.30
  • Beer: £4.20

Hospitality

Derby County offers various hospitality packages to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a casual experience or a more luxurious option, there’s something for everyone. Here are three main areas to consider:

  • Captains Club: This informal option includes an unlimited buffet, dessert, matchday program, and premium seating.
  • Igor’s Lounge: Named after Derby legend Igor Stimac, this lounge offers a three-course bistro menu, padded leather seats on the balcony, a pay bar facility, and occasional visits from Derby ambassadors.
  • Toyota Suite: Experience a sumptuous four-course meal and witness the man of the match presentation in this suite.

Private Hire

Pride Park Stadium is an ideal venue for private events, whether it’s a prom night, banquet, dinner dance, or business conference. The lounges can accommodate small meetings or large conferences, with executive boxes available for break-out rooms. The stadium also caters to weddings, including Asian celebrations, and exhibitions.

Stadium Tours & Museum

A tour of Pride Park Stadium offers fans the opportunity to experience the home dressing room, walk down the tunnel, sit in the dug-out, and even visit the Director’s Box. Regular tour dates are available throughout the year, and private tours can be arranged. Please contact the club for tour availability and pricing.

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Derby County doesn’t have its own museum, but you may find club memorabilia on display at the Museum and Art Gallery in the city. Additionally, the club has an online museum where you can explore the history of Derby County.

About Derby County

Derby County is one of the founding members of the Football League, having competed in every season since its establishment in 1888. The club was formed in 1884 as a separate section of Derbyshire County Cricket Club. In the 1970s, Derby County enjoyed success, winning the First Division championship twice and reaching the semi-final of the European Cup.

In recent years, the club faced financial challenges and a 21-point deduction, resulting in relegation to the third tier of English football. However, under new ownership, Derby County is looking to secure a brighter future.

Pride Park History

Pride Park has a storied history since its opening in 1997. Originally intended as a redevelopment project for The Baseball Ground, Pride Park became the home of Derby County. The stadium has achieved impressive attendance records, hosting not only club matches but also international fixtures.

Future Developments

With the potential to expand capacity to around 44,000, Pride Park Stadium remains a modern and adaptable venue. However, future expansion plans are dependent on Derby County’s success and establishment in the Premier League.

  1. How can I buy Derby County tickets?
    You can purchase Derby County tickets directly from their official website, Movin993, or by contacting the club’s box office.

  2. Where can I find parking near Pride Park?
    Pride Park offers officially sanctioned car parks near the stadium. For available parking options, refer to the club’s official website.

Pride Park Stadium, the home of Derby County, provides a modern and comfortable venue for fans to enjoy football matches. With its rich history, convenient location, and various amenities, Pride Park offers an exciting matchday experience. Whether you’re a fan of the Rams or a visiting supporter, Pride Park is a must-visit destination for football enthusiasts.