The City Ground is a significant football stadium situated along the banks of the River Trent in West Bridgford, Nottingham. Home to Nottingham Forest Football Club, it has a seating capacity of approximately 30,000 and is notable for its passionate atmosphere during matches. The stadium features modern facilities and has been the site of numerous historic football events, contributing to the local sporting culture. Its idyllic riverside location also adds to its appeal as a landmark in the area.
What each source says
- Google 4.7 1,932
- Tripadvisor 4.5 121
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-26.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Convenient Amenities The area around the City Ground features numerous bars and restaurants. There are plenty of options for pre-game meals and drinks within a short distance of the stadium.
- Good Accessibility The stadium is easily accessible via public transport and car. With connections to the train station and nearby parking options, getting to and from the City Ground is relatively straightforward.
- Great Atmosphere The City Ground provides a lively and welcoming atmosphere, especially during match days. The passionate fans and historic setting contribute to an exciting experience.
- Rich History and Tradition As a traditional football ground, the City Ground exudes character and charm. Its historical significance and classic design offer a nostalgic experience for football enthusiasts.
- Scenic Location Situated on the banks of the River Trent, the City Ground offers picturesque views. The stadium's unique location near the river and Trent Bridge creates a memorable backdrop.
Criticised
- Detour for Away Fans Visiting fans may experience a significant detour to reach the away entrance gates. This can be inconvenient and time-consuming, especially for first-time visitors.
- Inadequate Refreshment Facilities The refreshment areas can be small and overcrowded, leading to long queues and slow service. Food and drink options may run out quickly during peak times.
- Limited Legroom in Some Areas In certain stands, particularly older sections, legroom can be restricted. This can lead to discomfort during matches, especially for taller individuals.
- Need for Updates Some areas of the stadium are in need of refurbishment and modernization. While the traditional charm is appreciated, certain facilities could benefit from improvements.
- Potential for Overpriced Refreshments Like many football grounds, food and drinks inside the stadium tend to be expensive. This can be a deterrent for fans looking for affordable options.
The longer read
The City Ground, home to Nottingham Forest, is lauded for its traditional football atmosphere and picturesque location on the banks of the River Trent. Many reviewers describe the stadium as a classic, old-school ground with character, setting it apart from more modern, generic venues. The atmosphere inside is frequently described as lively and welcoming, particularly when the home fans sing "Mull of Kintyre". The stadium's location is convenient, with proximity to the train station and city center, though it may require a 15-20 minute walk. Numerous bars and restaurants are nearby, offering a variety of options before games, including a fan zone area with music and food for home supporters. Some reviewers also appreciated the ease of access via public transport. A common theme is the friendly and helpful nature of the staff and stewards, creating a welcoming environment for visitors. Reviewers frequently praise the stadium's history and the sense of tradition it offers. Several reviewers enjoyed stadium tours, highlighting knowledgeable tour guides and access to areas like the media suite, dressing rooms, and museum. The tours provide insights into the club's history, even for non-Forest fans. The recent improvements and new ideas implemented at the stadium are noted positively. However, some reviewers mention that certain areas of the stadium, particularly older stands like the Peter Taylor stand, are in need of updating. Some away fans have noted that the experience in the away section could be improved, with potential issues regarding the entrance route, view obstruction, and occasional objects thrown from home fans seated above. Leg room can be limited in some areas, especially in older stands, which is expected in a traditional ground. The concourse under the stands can be narrow, leading to congestion, particularly at halftime. Refreshment areas may experience long queues and run out of items, particularly during well-attended matches. A few reviewers mention that smoking occurs in areas where it shouldn't, impacting the experience for others. Despite these criticisms, the overwhelming sentiment is that the City Ground is a worthwhile destination for football fans seeking an authentic and atmospheric matchday experience. Its traditional charm, combined with the passion of the fans, makes it a memorable place to watch a game, especially for those who appreciate the history and character of older football stadiums.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
| Mon | 9:00 - 17:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 9:00 - 17:00 |
| Wed | 9:00 - 17:00 |
| Thu | 9:00 - 17:00 |
| Fri | 9:00 - 17:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.7 against a median of 4.6 across the 5 venues we hold for The Meadows, and the most-reviewed of them.
Still deciding?
- What types of guided tours are available at the City Ground and how can I book them?
- What should I expect on a Nottingham Forest match day at the City Ground in terms of atmosphere, seating, and amenities?
- What are the most convenient public transport routes and parking options for visiting the City Ground in West Bridgford?
- What nearby sights or activities, such as riverside walks or museums, can I explore before or after attending an event at the City Ground?
- Which historic football events have taken place at the City Ground that shaped Nottingham Forest’s legacy?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.