Sunderland’s Stadium of Light is one of the most atmospheric and historic grounds in English football. Located on the banks of the River Wear, it offers away fans a mix of passionate supporters, modern facilities, and a memorable matchday experience. Visiting Sunderland is as much about the city and its footballing culture as it is about the game itself.

---

The Club and the Ground

Sunderland AFC has a long and proud history, with numerous domestic trophies and a deeply loyal fanbase. The Stadium of Light, opened in 1997, has a capacity of around 49,000, making it one of the largest stadiums in the region.

Away supporters are typically placed in the Upper tier of the North Stand. This area is well-separated from home fans, ensuring safety while still giving away supporters a chance to soak in the stadium’s vibrant atmosphere.

The stadium’s design allows the roar of the home crowd to carry across the pitch, making it an intimidating venue for visiting teams. Even from the away end, fans can feel the passion and energy of Sunderland supporters.

---

Getting There

By Train

Sunderland Railway Station is about a 15–20 minute walk from the stadium. Walking through the city centre is straightforward, and many away fans use this route to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere. Taxis are also available for those who prefer not to walk.

By Bus

Local buses run near the Stadium of Light and stop close to the main entrances. Matchday services are frequent and convenient for fans traveling from the city centre or nearby areas.

By Car

Driving is possible but parking is limited and matchday traffic is heavy. Official club car parks exist, but they fill up quickly. Many away supporters park further out and walk or use public transport to reach the stadium.

By Coach

Official away coaches drop off close to the designated entrances, providing a safe and organized option for traveling groups.

---

Where to Eat and Drink

Sunderland is a footballing city, and pre-match food and drink are an important part of the day.

• City Centre Pubs: Bars and pubs around High Street West and the Sunniside area welcome away fans and provide a lively pre-match atmosphere.
• Near the Stadium: Options immediately around the stadium are limited and primarily cater to home supporters. Arriving early ensures a smoother pre-match experience.
• Food Inside the Stadium: The concourses offer standard stadium fare such as pies, burgers, and hot drinks. Queues can form at half-time, so many fans prefer to eat beforehand.

---

Matchday Atmosphere

The Stadium of Light is renowned for its passionate home supporters. The fans’ chants, songs, and unwavering energy create a challenging environment for visiting teams.

For away supporters, the stadium can feel intimidating due to its size and the vocal home crowd, but the allocated sections and professional stewarding make it a manageable and enjoyable experience. The compact design ensures that even away fans feel part of the action while being fully aware of the home crowd’s presence.

---

Inside the Away End

The away sections provide good sightlines and modern facilities. Toilets, concourses, and food kiosks are adequate, though queues can form during peak times.

Stewards are experienced and guide fans efficiently to their seats, ensuring safety and smooth navigation. Arriving early is advisable, both to settle in and to soak in the pre-match atmosphere. Be aware, there is a ban on away fans entering the stadium with coins and vapes.

---

Top Tips for Away Fans

1. Arrive Early: Walking through the city or arriving via bus allows you to experience the pre-match buzz and avoid congestion.
2. Use Public Transport: Buses and walking are the easiest ways to reach the stadium. Avoid driving if possible.
3. Pre-Match Meals: Eat in the city centre to ensure away-friendly environments.
4. Dress for the Weather: Sunderland can be cold and windy, particularly in winter months.
5. Travel in Groups: Moving together adds both safety and enjoyment.

---

Things to Do in Sunderland

If you’re planning a weekend visit, Sunderland offers a variety of attractions:

• Sunderland City Centre: Pubs and bars provide pre-match entertainment.
• Riverside Walks: The Stadium of Light is near the River Wear, offering scenic routes before or after the game.
• Museums and Culture: Check out the National Glass Centre or local galleries for a cultural touch.

Most away supporters focus on the match, but taking time to explore Sunderland enhances the overall experience.

---

Final Thoughts

Sunderland away at the Stadium of Light is an unforgettable experience for football fans. The stadium’s passionate supporters, modern facilities, and riverside location create a lively and engaging atmosphere for visiting fans.

While it can be imposing, preparation — including early arrival, using public transport, and planning meals — ensures a smooth day. For away supporters, Sunderland offers a perfect blend of stadium atmosphere, city charm, and football culture, making it a must-visit fixture in the Premier League calendar.

Whether it’s your first trip or a repeat visit, the Stadium of Light delivers a complete and memorable footballing experience, leaving away fans with lasting memories long after the final whistle.