Wednesday, 13 Nov 2024

Roots Hall: A Rich History of Southend United

Located in Southend-On-Sea, Roots Hall has been the home of Southend United Football Club for many years. This iconic stadium holds a special place in the hearts of football fans, with a rich history woven into its very foundations.

A Tale of Two Roots Halls

The journey of Roots Hall began when Southend United was first formed. Initially, the club played their games on a piece of land called Roots Hall. However, due to the outbreak of the First World War and the army’s need for storage space, the club had to relocate. They found a temporary home in the middle of The Kursaal Amusement Park.

The original Roots Hall site had transformed into a sand quarry and tipping site. It took a monumental effort for the club to acquire the rights and build a purpose-built stadium on this land. Construction began, and after ten years of hard work, the new Roots Hall was finally completed. The stadium was officially opened by Sir Stanley Rous, the Secretary of the Football Association, despite being unfinished at the start of the inaugural season.

The Stats Behind the Legacy

Roots Hall boasts impressive statistics that exemplify its significance in the football world. Opened in 1955, the stadium has a capacity of 12,392 spectators. The average attendance is 6,932, and the record attendance of 31,033 was set during a match between Southend United and Liverpool in 1979.

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A Seat for Every Fan

The stadium’s layout follows the traditional ‘English Style’ with four distinct stands. The Fairfield BMW East Stand, housing the Director’s Box and hospitality lounges, takes center stage. The Paul Robinson West Stand is the largest stand in the stadium, while the GetItPrinted.com North Stand accommodates away fans. The Trade Price Cars Stand, a two-tier structure, is known for its passionate fans and the Family Section.

Simplified Ticketing Scheme

Southend United has implemented a straightforward ticketing scheme. There are no complex categories or varying prices based on seating sections. Instead, the cost of a ticket is determined solely by age, with slight variations for on-the-day purchases. The club aims to make attending matches accessible and enjoyable for all fans.

Getting to Roots Hall

Southend-On-Sea is conveniently located in Essex, making it easily accessible for fans traveling from London and surrounding areas. There are several options for reaching the stadium:

  • Train: The nearest train station, Prittlewell Railway Station, is a short 5-minute walk from Roots Hall. Trains from London Liverpool Street Station can take you there in under an hour.
  • Bus: Given the stadium’s proximity to Southend-On-Sea city center, taking a bus is unnecessary. However, local travel companies can provide further information if needed.
  • Car: Taking the A127 from Junction 29 of the M25 is the recommended route. Follow the signs until you reach Roots Hall.
  • By Air: Southend Airport is a mere three miles away, while London City Airport is approximately forty miles from the stadium.
  • Taxi: Taxis from the city center to Roots Hall are quick and affordable, usually costing around £5.
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Parking and Nearby Resources

Parking options near Roots Hall include limited on-street parking (subject to restrictions) and designated parking areas at Southend-On-Sea Civic Centre and Southend High School on Prittlewell Close. For a comprehensive list of available parking spaces, please visit the available parking near Roots Hall page.

Experiencing Southend-On-Sea

Southend-On-Sea is known for its picturesque seaside, offering visitors a range of accommodation options. Here are some popular hotels to consider when planning your visit to Roots Hall.

Pubs and Bars: A Coastal Experience

Seaside towns are renowned for their cozy pubs and bars. Southend-On-Sea is no exception, offering numerous establishments where fans can unwind and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere before or after a match.

Excellent Facilities for Every Fan

Roots Hall offers a comfortable and convenient matchday experience. While there are supporting pillars throughout the stadium that may obstruct certain views, amenities such as food and drink kiosks are readily available in the concourse. Additionally, fans can purchase programs and place bets on the action.

Hospitality Fit for All

Roots Hall provides various hospitality options to suit every budget. From the Blues Legends Lounge, offering a two-course meal, to the Captains Suite, serving a three-course dinner with halftime refreshments and wine, the hospitality experience at Southend United is top-notch. For a more private experience, Executive Boxes are available, accommodating up to nine friends and providing snacks and beverages.

Future Developments

In 2007, Southend Borough Council approved plans for a new stadium at Fossetts Farm, backed by Sainsbury’s supermarket. However, recent plans submitted in December 2019 suggest that the development may be proceeding without Sainsbury’s involvement. The club aims to complete the new venue by 2025, while 500 new homes will be built on the current Roots Hall site.

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FAQs

  • Are stadium tours available at Roots Hall? At present, there are no stadium tours or museum available at Roots Hall. Any changes to this will be promptly updated.
  • How can I get Southend United tickets? Tickets can be purchased conveniently through the club’s official website, via phone, or by visiting the box office directly. It is worth noting that a £1.00 surcharge applies for non-online purchases.

Conclusion

Roots Hall stands as a testament to Southend United’s rich history and commitment to providing an unforgettable matchday experience. From its humble beginnings to the ambitious plans for the future, this stadium continues to unite fans and inspire the next generation of football enthusiasts. Join the vibrant atmosphere at Roots Hall and make lifelong memories supporting Southend United.

To learn more about Southend United and stay up to date with club news and events, visit the official Movin993 website.