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Ashton Gate Stadium: Bristol’s Premier Sporting and Events Venue

Historic Bristol stadium blending rich sporting tradition with modern events and vibrant atmosphere for football, rugby, concerts, and more.

4.5

Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol is a historic and vibrant multi-use venue, home to Bristol City FC and Bristol Bears rugby. With a seating capacity of around 27,000, it hosts football, rugby, concerts, exhibitions, and private events. Located just southwest of Bristol city centre, the stadium blends rich sporting heritage with modern facilities, making it a key landmark and hub for major events in the South West of England.

A brief summary to Ashton Gate Stadium

  • Ashton Rd, Bristol, BS3 2EJ, GB
  • +441179630600
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Arrive early on matchdays to enjoy the pre-game atmosphere and avoid last-minute crowds.
  • Use public transport or walk from Parson Street station to avoid parking fees and Clean Air Zone charges.
  • Explore the walking trails around the stadium to discover local Bristol landmarks and scenic views.
  • Check the stadium’s event calendar for concerts and festivals to experience its vibrant cultural side.
  • Book event spaces in advance for weddings or corporate functions to secure preferred dates and setups.
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Getting There

  • Train

    Take a train to Parson Street station, located about 10-15 minutes’ walk from Ashton Gate. Trains run approximately hourly from Bristol Temple Meads. Ticket prices typically range from £3 to £6 depending on origin and time.

  • Bus

    City bus routes 24 from The Haymarket and regional buses X1, X3, X4, X6, X8, and X9 from Bristol Bus Station serve Ashton Gate with frequent stops. Single fares cost around £2 to £4. Service frequency varies by route and time of day.

  • Walking

    Walking from Bristol city centre to Ashton Gate takes about 30-40 minutes along mostly flat urban terrain. This is a popular option on event days to avoid parking fees and traffic congestion.

  • Car

    Driving to Ashton Gate is possible via Ashton Road, but parking is limited and subject to charges. The area is within Bristol’s Clean Air Zone, with daily charges between £9 and £100 for non-compliant vehicles. Allow extra time for traffic on event days.

Ashton Gate Stadium location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Ashton Gate Stadium

Historic Roots and Sporting Legacy

Ashton Gate Stadium has been a cornerstone of Bristol’s sporting scene since the late 19th century. Originally the home of Bedminster FC before merging with Bristol City in 1900, it became the permanent home of Bristol City FC by 1904. The stadium has witnessed significant moments in football history, including record attendances and hosting international rugby matches since the early 20th century. It is also the home ground for the Bristol Bears rugby union team, who made Ashton Gate their base in the 2014–15 season. The stadium’s stands, such as the Atyeo and Dolman Stands, are named after club legends, reflecting its deep connection to local sports heritage.

Modern Redevelopment and Facilities

Between 2014 and 2016, Ashton Gate underwent a major redevelopment that transformed it into a modern, all-seater stadium with a capacity of approximately 27,000. This redevelopment included rebuilding the Williams and Wedlock Stands and refurbishing the others, enhancing spectator comfort and event capabilities. The stadium now features 22 executive boxes, multiple function rooms, and versatile event spaces suitable for conferences, exhibitions, weddings, and concerts. Its flexible layout allows for a concert mode capacity of up to 32,000, making it the largest events venue in Bristol and the South West.

Location and Accessibility

Situated less than two miles southwest of Bristol city centre, Ashton Gate is easily accessible by various transport modes. The stadium lies near the River Avon and is close to Parson Street railway station, just a 10-15 minute walk away, while Bristol Temple Meads station is about 40 minutes on foot. On matchdays, shuttle buses operate from the city centre. The venue encourages walking and cycling, offering maps with scenic trails to explore the area. Nearby roads are within Bristol’s Clean Air Zone, which affects vehicle access and charges.

Events Beyond Sport

Beyond football and rugby, Ashton Gate Stadium is a premier destination for live music, festivals, exhibitions, and private events. Its large capacity and state-of-the-art facilities make it a preferred venue for concerts by major artists and large-scale community events. The stadium also hosts weddings and corporate functions, offering a unique setting with panoramic views of the pitch and city skyline.

Commitment to Sustainability

Ashton Gate is actively engaged in environmental initiatives through Project Whitebeam, a collaboration with local sports teams and organizations to measure and reduce environmental impact. The stadium promotes sustainable practices, aiming to balance its role as a major events venue with ecological responsibility.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

Visitors to Ashton Gate experience a lively and passionate atmosphere, especially on matchdays when fans fill the stands with vibrant energy. The stadium combines modern amenities with historic charm, offering a welcoming environment for families, sports enthusiasts, and event attendees. Food and drink options, executive lounges, and accessible facilities contribute to a comfortable and engaging visit.

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