For many football fans, away days are the highlight of the season. The camaraderie, the journey, the chance to watch your team in unfamiliar territory—it’s all part of the magic of following your club. One ground that stands out on the fixture list is Turf Moor, home of Burnley FC. Nestled in Lancashire, this historic stadium offers a unique matchday experience. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned away-day veteran, here’s a guide to making the most of your trip to Burnley away.
The Club and the Ground
Burnley FC are one of English football’s great traditional clubs. Founded in 1882, the Clarets have enjoyed their fair share of highs and lows, but Turf Moor has remained their home throughout. Opened in 1883, it’s one of the oldest football grounds still in use in the country.
The stadium itself holds just over 21,000 spectators, with away fans usually placed in the Cricket Field Stand at one end of the ground. From this vantage point you’ll have a decent view of the pitch, though the stand is shared with home supporters on one side, so the atmosphere can be lively.
Getting There
By Train
Burnley is well connected by rail, though it usually involves a change at Manchester. Burnley Manchester Road is the main station, around a 20-minute walk from Turf Moor. There’s also Burnley Central, a little further out but still within walking distance. Trains can be busy on matchdays, especially if your club brings a large following, so it’s worth booking in advance.
By Car
If you’re driving, Burnley sits just off the M65, making it fairly straightforward to reach. Parking can be tricky near the stadium, with many streets operating resident-only schemes. A handful of official car parks and independent pay-and-display sites are available, though they fill up quickly. Many fans opt to park in the town centre and walk up.
By Coach
For most away fans, official club coaches are the simplest option. These usually drop you close to the stadium and allow you to avoid the hassle of parking or navigating public transport.
Where to Eat and Drink
Burnley isn’t a huge town, but it’s got a good selection of pubs and food spots for away supporters.
- The Cricket Club: Right next to the ground, Burnley Cricket Club often opens its doors to away fans on matchdays. It’s one of the most popular pre-match spots, offering a friendly atmosphere, cheap drinks, and plenty of space.
- Town Centre Pubs: If you arrive by train, you’ll find several pubs en route to the stadium. The Boot Inn and The Bridge Bier Huis are decent options, though some pubs closer to Turf Moor are more home-fan orientated.
- Food Options: Traditional chippies and takeaways are scattered around the ground, perfect for a quick bite before heading in. Burnley also has the usual high-street chains in the centre if you want something more familiar.
Matchday Atmosphere
Turf Moor is an old-school ground with a reputation for passionate home support. The Burnley fans are known for getting behind their team, particularly when facing the bigger clubs. The Cricket Field Stand can be quite noisy, with home and away fans in close proximity, which makes for a charged atmosphere throughout the game.
If your team brings a strong following, expect plenty of back-and-forth chanting. The concourse inside the away end is fairly tight, so it can get crowded, but that’s part of the away-day experience.
Inside the Away End
The facilities are functional rather than flashy. Expect basic food and drink offerings—pies, burgers, hot dogs, and the usual selection of beers and soft drinks. The concourse isn’t the biggest, so if you want to grab something before kick-off, it’s worth heading down early.
One thing Turf Moor does deliver is a proper football feel. You’re close to the pitch, the stands rise steeply around you, and the atmosphere often feels more intense than in some of the modern, out-of-town stadiums.
Things to Do in Burnley
If you’re making a weekend of it, Burnley has a few attractions worth exploring:
- Towneley Hall: A historic house set in beautiful parkland, ideal for a pre- or post-match stroll.
- The Singing Ringing Tree: A unique wind-powered sculpture overlooking the town, offering incredible views across Lancashire.
- Leeds & Liverpool Canal: Runs through the town, with scenic walks and pubs dotted along the way.
That said, most away fans will spend their time either in the pubs or at the ground itself, soaking up the football atmosphere.
Final Tips
- Plan Ahead: Burnley isn’t the easiest town to navigate on a busy matchday, so allow extra time for travel.
- Bring Cash: While most kiosks take card, some of the local pubs and food stands still prefer cash.
- Wrap Up Warm: Turf Moor has a reputation as one of the coldest grounds in England, thanks to its exposed location and open stands. Even in early spring or late autumn, temperatures can bite.
Verdict
Burnley away is a classic English football trip: a historic ground, passionate fans, and a no-frills experience that’s all about the game itself. You won’t find the glossy, modern touches of some Premier League stadiums, but you will get a proper old-school atmosphere that feels like stepping back into the roots of the game.
For the dedicated away supporter, Turf Moor is a must-visit. Just bring your singing voice, wrap up warm, and embrace one of football’s great traditional away days.

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