Pride Park Stadium Sports Fan Tips
Pride Park Stadium is a venue in Derby
Best Food and Drink at Pride Park Stadium?
I wouldn't say it's Michelin Star quality food inside; it's more "edible” than "delicious”, and the price tag would make you grimace even if it was a Premier League team. There are Pukka Pies (just don't look up the Tesco price!) for £3.70 and pasties for the same price. At half-time you're allowed out for a smoke, or to stretch your legs, and there are a few vans selling burgers and hot dogs at prices that will make you wince. However, if you're hungry, they'll fill you up.
What to expect from the Pride Park Stadium crowd?
While Portman Road of Ipswich is often termed the best Championship venue, Pride Park is right up there. The fans are exceptional: they rally behind their team in times of struggle and create a mountain of noise at every game. This, of course, makes the away fans double their efforts to be heard; all told, there's a cacophony of noise which makes an electric atmosphere. You shouldn't have any trouble wearing your club colours around the area, just be sensible.
Best restaurants near Pride Park Stadium?
Kinda depends what you like. Some fans are all about convenience after a game, making the Frankie & Benny's just outside the stadium seem like the dream option. The food is good, though sometimes service can be slow when there's considerable traffic.If you can handle the 10 minute stroll back into town, then there is no shortage of great eateries there. Derby does pubs brilliantly, but it's also a dab hand at fine dining for those who want to really make the most of the weekend!
Things to check out around Pride Park Stadium?
There are two separate indoor climbing centres in Derby if you are looking for something a bit physical to balance out a day of sitting. Both the Alter Rock and The Climbing Unit cater to all abilities, so you're welcome to try it out even if you've never scaled more than a flight of steps previously. For some, it's mental exercise that's required after a game: try solving your way out of the riddle-puzzle-timebomb at Make Your Escape! There's only an hour to get out; can you do it?
Best Insider tip at Pride Park Stadium?
If Derby is known for anything, it's great pubs with fantastic local ales. No fewer than 18 pubs are listed on the CAMRA Good Pub Guide in this industrial town, so I think my tip requires little explanation: explore them! Whether it's bookending a match, or perhaps spending an extra day in the area, a thorough tour of even some of these pubs will have your taste buds aroused and your thirst thoroughly quenched. Real ale, for those who know what it means to drink properly!
Best Pubs around Pride Park Stadium?
The pubs just next to the Derby train station are pretty fun, friendly and full of loyal and excited fans! Definitely something to check out (if you can arrive a bit early!) for the home support. If you're with the away crowd, try looking a little further afield to pubs like The Navigation Inn or The Brunswick, which are both popular with fans who've travelled before you. There's a Harvester a few minutes' walk from the stadium, but its family vibe isn't well suited to big crowds; if you're a small group, you should be fine.
Pride Park Stadium seating?
For away tickets, you're looking at up to £28 a game, though it can as little as £22 for the right (i.e. low popularity) opposition. The facilities are up to scratch across the board at Pride Park, and the seating is no exception. The views are good, the seats comfortable and the leg room sufficient. If you ask me, those are the most important aspects of any stadium seat, and Derby manage to tick all the boxes.
How do I get to Pride Park Stadium?
The easiest way for most people travelling to the game is to take the train into Derby Railway Station. Not only does this mean you can sample Derby's magnificent collection of ales, but it's also an easy 10 minute walk to the stadium. Peachy. There aren't really any bus options, as far as I know.For away fans, there are huge car parks just behind your end of the stadium at the velodrome; however at £8 per car, it's not cheap. Many fans prefer the Cattle Market parking, which is £6 for the day and will get you back on the road fairly quickly after the game.