Nestled beside the River Trent in the south of Nottingham, Meadow Lane Stadium is the historic home of Notts County FC — officially recognised as the world’s oldest professional football club.
While Premier League headlines swirl across the river at the City Ground, true fans of authentic League Two football know that Notts County’s ground has always offered more soul, history, and atmosphere per square foot than most modern arenas. For a genuine taste of football in Nottingham, Meadow Lane is unmatched.
Meadow Lane Stadium is the proud home of Notts County FC, offering one of the most authentic League Two football experiences in England. With its rich history, loyal fanbase, and no-nonsense atmosphere, the Notts County matchday is a must for football traditionalists. Whether you’re a local supporter, an EFL groundhopper, or visiting Nottingham for a taste of proper lower league football, Notts County’s stadium delivers unmatched charm and passion every single time.
📍 Location: Meadow Lane, Nottingham, NG2 3HJ
⚽ Home Team: Notts County FC
🎟️ Capacity: 19,841
🏗️ Opened: 1910
unique features & quirks
🕰️ Historic Heartland – Founded in 1862, Notts County are the oldest professional football club in the world. Meadow Lane has hosted more than a century of drama — from Division One to near oblivion and back.
🚶♂️ Rival Over the Road – Just 300 yards separate Meadow Lane from Nottingham Forest’s City Ground. It’s the closest two professional stadiums sit in the UK. The views across the Trent are sublime; the rivalry… less so.
⚽ Old-School Vibes – Traditional four-stand layout, low roofs, and one of the best grass surfaces in the lower leagues. This is how football should feel.
first impressions: the matchday experience
🔥 Atmosphere
The Kop (behind the goal) is where the noise builds, but every stand has its voice. Expect honest support, sharp one-liners, and that underdog spirit that comes from years of punching up.
🎭 Iconic Traditions:
“Come On You Pies” – the pre-match rallying cry. The classic black-and-white stripes — said to have inspired Juventus’ kit. A fanbase that knows pain, humour, and exactly where the best chippy is.
how to get to meadow lane
🚶 Walking: Less than 20 minutes from Nottingham train station — head south across the River Trent. Easy, flat, and lined with pubs.
🚆 Train: Direct lines from Derby, Leicester, Sheffield, and London St Pancras.
🚌 Bus: Plenty of city buses drop within 5–10 minutes’ walk.
🚗 Parking: Limited street parking in the Meadows. Best bet is the council-run car park near Cattle Market Road.
🚖 Taxi/Drop-off: Best drop spot is off Meadow Lane itself, near the Iremonger Road entrance.
📍 Address: Meadow Lane, Nottingham, NG2 3HJ
tickets: how to get in to notts county
🎟️ Notts County Matches:
Official website Matchday sales at the main ticket office Online options include season tickets, family bundles, and “Kids for a Quid” deals on select fixtures
best seats in the house
🏆 Derek Pavis Stand – The main stand. Modern(ish), great views, comfortable seating. Perfect for new fans or families.
🎤 The Kop – Hardcore support. Standing allowed in parts. You’ll feel every goal and every groan.
🌍 Haydn Green Family Stand – Behind the opposite goal. Good for junior fans and school trips.
🎫 Jimmy Sirrel Stand (Away End) – Long and low, running along the touchline. A decent experience for visiting fans with surprisingly good views.
where to eat before the game
🥧 Pies at the Ground – Notts County serve proper pies. Steak and ale is a cult favourite.
🍔 The Navigation – On Wilford Street. Classic pub grub, full of home fans and staff who know it’s matchday.
🍟 Greggs (Station Street) – The unofficial pre-match fuel stop. Cheap, quick, classic.
best pubs for pre-match drinks
🍻 Neon Raptor Brewing Co. – A short walk to Sneinton Market. Try the strong beer and the very strong beer if your team might lose.
🍺 The Vat and Fiddle – Real ale heaven near the station, full of matchday chat and old-school footy types.
🥃 The Embankment – Elegant and owned by local brewers at Castle Rock. It’s a Victorian building with a beer garden.
notts county: what’s the vibe?
notts county: what’s the vibe?
📊 Current Form: Bounced back to League Two with intent. A top-half side with eyes on the play-offs — and better football than most expect.
🧠 Manager: Martin Paterson
A well-travelled former striker who’s taken charge with serious intent. Played in the Premier League with Burnley FC, made a name at Huddersfield, and picked up international experience in MLS with Orlando City and in the Indian Super League with ATK. Charismatic, fiery, and fearless on the touchline.
🌟 Player to Watch: Jodi Jones
A walking assist machine.
Set a new record for most assists in an English league season (24)
League Two Player of the Season in 2023/24
First player to assist 4 goals in one match (in England’s top four leagues) since Harry Kane Signed a new deal through 2027 – in an absolute classic 5-5 with Grimsby Town.
A modern winger with vision, pace, and a devastating final ball. If there’s a goal, he probably made it.
beyond football: things to do in nottingham
🏰 Nottingham Castle – Recently refurbished. Big on history, Robin Hood, and rebellion.
🛍️ Hockley – Indie shops, bars, vintage clothes, and great coffee.
🌳 The Arboretum – Green space near the city centre with Victorian charm.
🕵️ The National Justice Museum – Brilliant if you’re into crime, punishment, and interactive exhibits.
final verdict
Meadow Lane is a proper ground. No frills, no filters — just generations of football, a fiercely loyal fanbase, and a club constantly rewriting its next chapter. Whether you’re a local, a groundhopper, or a visitor chasing authenticity, this is a matchday experience that delivers.
📌 Pro Tip: Don’t spend your day across the river. Come early, grab a Neon Raptor pint, and enjoy football the way it’s meant to be.
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