The Withdean Stadium is all-seater, with a capacity of just 8,850. Brighton spent 95 years at the Goldstone Ground until its closure in 1997. There followed a two-year period of “exile,” sharing a ground with Gillingham. The club took up temporary residence at the Withdean Athletics Stadium in 1999, whilst attempting to locate a suitable site for a new stadium.
The only permanent stand is the North Stand and this is also the only stand with any cover, being partially roofed at the rear. The remaining three sides are occupied by temporary stands which are open to the elements. However, the club have commenced work on a new stadium on the outskirts of Brighton, adjacent to the university campus. The new ground was due to provide for 22,500 spectators and, if all goes to plan, will be ready for the 2010-11 campaign. All did not going according to plan, and the American Express Community Stadium opened at the start of the 2011/12 season.
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How to get to the Withdean Stadium
By Road
The Withdean Stadium is situated in Tongdean Lane, Brighton BN1 5JD.
Given Brighton’s location on the South coast, the vast majority of away fans will be arriving from the North. Drivers are advised to leave the M1 at junction 6a, joining the M25 towards the M4 / M40. Exit the M25 at junction 7, picking up the M23 (S) towards Brighton. Merge onto the M23 after about 14 miles, continuing on the A23 and following signage for Brighton. Turn right at Tongdean Lane, right again into Withdean Road and left back onto Tongdean Lane, where the ground is located on the right.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Preston Park which is about a 10-15 minute walk from the ground. The station is served by trains from London Victoria and King’s Cross. On exiting the station, walk to the bottom of the hill and turn left along the A23 for the stadium. Click here to check the current train timetables
By Air
The nearest airport is Gatwick, at a distance of 23 miles. Direct rail links to Brighton are available with a journey time of about 40 minutes. Click here to check the current flight times
Taxis
There are several taxi companies in Brighton that can take you to and from the Withdean Stadium. You can always prebook a private hire taxi, or hail a black cab on any highway.
Calling all Brighton Taxi Companies – Why not advertise your company here?.
Where to Park?
Match day parking restrictions operate within a mile radius of the ground. Many fans have advised the use of the “Park and Ride” scheme operating from Mill Road, just over a mile to the North of the ground, near the A23. Several fans have been confused by the “Park and Ride” signage on the A23, as Withdean Stadium is itself used for parking on non-match days.
Fans advise drivers coming down the A23 to keep an eye out for the BP garage at the roundabout, shortly after passing under the A27. Turn right at this roundabout into the Mill road parking area. Others point out that while the dropping-off point is right outside the ground, return buses pick up from the nearby main road.
Away Friendly Pubs near the Withdean Stadium
Many fans report that there are several excellent, away-friendly pubs near the railway station. For real ales, the Station, on Hampstead Road and the Evening Star, on Surrey Street are recommended. The Crown and Anchor is a 5-minute walk along the A23 (heading away from the ground) and is often less crowded than the others. The Sportsman bar, to the rear of the North Stand has also received good reviews, but becomes very crowded.
Hotels near the Withdean Stadium
Jurys Inn Brighton, 101 Stroudley Road, Brighton, BN1 4DJ is centrally located, adjacent to the railway station. The hotel sits in the heart of the city’s New England quarter, within a ½ mile of the ground and within walking distance of the seafront and the Brighton Centre. Guest reviews report this as a fresh, clean, modern hotel with excellent facilities.ramada brighton
The 3-star Ramada Brighton, 149 Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2PP offers a seafront location with easy access to the M23 and is within a mile of the Withdean Stadium. Guests have commented on “great service, helpful staff and a fantastic restaurant.” On-site parking is available.
What have other Away Fans said about their trip to the Withdean Stadium?
away fans brightonMost visitors to the Withdean Stadium have expected to find a bleak stadium with poor facilities. However, the majority report having an excellent day out at the Withdean. Many away fans have noted the friendly welcome and good-tempered banter with the home fans, along with helpful stewards and ground staff.
The Brighton fans give strong vocal support to their team leading to an excellent atmosphere within the ground. On the downside, visitors report the away section to be “miles” from the pitch, due to the surrounding athletics track. Additionally, the open nature of the stadium makes for a daunting visit on cold, wet days.
