For travelling fans, Middlesbrough away is a proper northern trip – passionate supporters, a modern ground by the river, and one of those journeys that feels like a real adventure. The Riverside Stadium, Boro’s home since 1995, has become an iconic stop for football fans, with its riverside setting and no-nonsense atmosphere. Whether you’re heading to Teesside for the first time or you’re a seasoned away traveller, here’s everything you need to know about a trip to Middlesbrough.

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Getting There

Middlesbrough isn’t the most straightforward place to get to, but with a bit of planning it’s manageable.

• By Train: Middlesbrough station is about a 15-minute walk from the Riverside Stadium. Services connect from York, Darlington, Leeds, and Newcastle, though if you’re travelling from further afield you’ll usually need to change at one of those hubs. From London, the quickest option is around 3h 20m (via York or Darlington).
• By Car: If you’re driving, the A19 and A66 are the main routes into Middlesbrough. The A66 runs directly past the stadium, making it easy to find. Parking is available at official stadium car parks (pre-booking advised), and there are plenty of independent car parks and industrial estates charging £5–£10 nearby.
• By Coach: Away coaches park right outside the away end, making this the simplest option if you want to avoid navigating Teesside traffic.

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Where to Drink

Middlesbrough is a passionate football town, and while some pubs near the ground are home-fan only, there are plenty of away-friendly options.

• Town Centre: Just a short walk from the station, the town centre has a good selection of pubs. Doctor Brown’s is a well-known spot for away fans, and The Isaac Wilson (a large Wetherspoons) is another safe bet. The Swatters Carr is another popular pre-match option with cheap drinks.
• Close to the Ground: The Navigation Inn is near the Riverside, but it’s usually home fans only. Most away supporters prefer to drink in the centre before walking down to the stadium.
• Real Ale Options: If you’re into your craft beer, Twisted Lip and The Chairman are solid choices, though they attract a more mixed crowd.

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The Ground: Riverside Stadium

The Riverside Stadium is one of the most recognisable in the Championship, with a capacity of around 34,000. It sits on the banks of the River Tees and has a bowl-shaped design that still manages to generate a strong atmosphere.

• Away Section: Visiting fans are housed in the East Stand, in the corner closest to the South Stand. The allocation is around 3,000, though for smaller games it’s often closer to 2,000. The views are generally very good, with clear sightlines from almost every seat.
• Facilities: As a mid-90s ground, the concourses are decent, with plenty of space and food/drink kiosks. Expect pies, burgers, hot dogs, and chips. Alcohol is usually available, though restrictions sometimes apply for high-profile games.

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Food Options

Teesside has some famous food traditions, and it’s well worth sampling them if you’re making the trip.

• Near the Stadium: Food vans line the walk to the ground, selling the usual matchday grub – burgers, hot dogs, and chips.
• Town Centre: There are plenty of takeaways, chip shops, and fast-food outlets around Linthorpe Road and Corporation Road. You’ll find everything from Greggs to McDonald’s within 10 minutes of the stadium.
• Something Local: Middlesbrough is the home of the legendary parmo – a breaded chicken cutlet smothered in béchamel sauce and cheese, usually served with chips. It’s not exactly health food, but it’s a must-try for any visiting fan.

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Making a Weekend of It

While Middlesbrough itself is very much an industrial football town, there’s plenty nearby if you want to make a weekend of your trip.

• Nightlife: The town centre has a lively nightlife, with bars and clubs around Linthorpe Road and Albert Road. Expect cheap drinks and a no-nonsense atmosphere.
• Culture & Sights: Middlesbrough is home to the famous Transporter Bridge, an industrial landmark you can walk or ride across. The Dorman Museum and MIMA (Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art) are also worth a look.
• Scenery: The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside – the North York Moors are just 30 minutes away, and the seaside town of Redcar is nearby if you fancy fish and chips by the coast.

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Away Day Tips

• Plan Your Travel: Middlesbrough can be a long haul from many parts of the country, so plan connections carefully if you’re coming by train.
• Arrive Early if Driving: The A66 gets busy on matchdays, and parking near the ground fills up quickly.
• Expect a Warm Atmosphere: Boro fans are passionate, but in general the atmosphere around the ground is welcoming if you keep it good-natured.
• Try a Parmo: It’s practically a rite of passage when you’re in Middlesbrough – perfect after the game with a pint.

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Final Whistle

Middlesbrough away is a trip that delivers the full football experience. The Riverside Stadium is modern enough for comfort but still steeped in character, the fans are passionate, and the town has a proper football culture. Yes, it’s a trek for many supporters, but it’s one of those journeys that feels worth it when you’re standing in the away end singing your heart out.

From pre-match pints in Doctor Brown’s to tucking into a parmo after the final whistle, Boro away has everything that makes an away day special. Pack your scarf, brace yourself for the Teesside weather, and get ready for a proper northern football trip.