A trip to Stoke City is a quintessential midlands away day, combining a passionate football fanbase, a modern stadium, and the no-nonsense charm of the Potteries. The bet365 Stadium, home of the Potters since 1997, is a compact, fan-friendly venue that delivers excellent views and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re coming from nearby towns or further afield, Stoke City away is a trip worth making.

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Getting There

Stoke-on-Trent is well connected by train, car, and coach, making it accessible from across the Midlands and northern England.

• By Train: Stoke-on-Trent station is the main hub, with direct trains from Manchester (1h 15m), Birmingham (1h 10m), Liverpool (1h 15m), and London Euston (around 2h 30m). From the station, the bet365 Stadium is about a 15–20 minute walk, or a short taxi ride. Signage and marshals help guide away fans on matchdays.
• By Car: The stadium is near junctions 15 and 16 of the M6 motorway. Matchday traffic can be heavy, so it’s advisable to allow extra time. Official stadium car parks are available for pre-booking, and there are also nearby council or private car parks (£5–£10).
• By Coach: Official away coaches are dropped close to the away entrance, which is the easiest option for supporters travelling with their club.

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Where to Drink

The city has a strong pub culture, and there are several good options for travelling fans.

• City Centre: A short walk or taxi ride from the stadium, pubs such as The Swan and The Hop are popular with away supporters. The Pottery Tap is a good choice for craft beer fans.
• Near the Ground: Pubs immediately around the bet365 Stadium are largely home-fan dominated, so it’s safer to enjoy drinks in town before walking to the ground.
• Alternative Options: Stoke-on-Trent town centre is only a 10–15 minute walk from the stadium, and a variety of pubs along Glebe Street and Bethesda Street offer welcoming atmospheres for travelling fans.

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The Ground: bet365 Stadium

The bet365 Stadium is a modern venue opened in 1997, with a capacity of around 30,000. It combines good sightlines, modern facilities, and a lively atmosphere, particularly when the away end is full.

• Away Section: Visiting supporters are located in the East Stand, with an allocation of around 3,000. The stand is well designed, giving a clear view of the pitch while keeping away fans in a concentrated area to create atmosphere.
• Facilities: The concourses are spacious, with kiosks selling pies, burgers, hot dogs, and chips. Alcohol is served in designated areas, though restrictions may apply for higher-risk fixtures. Toilets are modern and well maintained, though queues can form during peak periods.

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Food Options

Stoke-on-Trent has plenty of options for a pre-match bite or post-match meal.

• Near the Ground: A handful of takeaways and fast-food outlets serve burgers, kebabs, and chips, providing convenient fuel for fans before heading inside.
• City Centre: The town centre has a wide variety of food outlets, including chains like Nando’s, Greggs, and Subway, as well as independent cafés, bakeries, and sandwich shops. Hanley is the main retail hub and offers additional dining options.
• Local Specialties: Stoke is famous for the Staffordshire oatcake, a type of thin pancake often filled with bacon, cheese, or sausage. It’s worth trying one before or after the match for a local culinary experience.

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Making a Weekend of It

Stoke-on-Trent offers more than just football, making it possible to enjoy a weekend away.

• Nightlife: The town centre has a lively selection of pubs and bars. Hanley has the biggest concentration, with venues offering live music, craft beers, and traditional pubs.
• Culture & Attractions: Stoke-on-Trent is known as the Potteries, and fans can explore the Gladstone Pottery Museum or the Wedgwood Museum. The Trentham Gardens estate is also nearby, ideal for a scenic walk.
• Day Trips: The Peak District is within easy driving distance, offering hiking, cycling, and scenic photography opportunities. Fans coming from nearby cities like Manchester, Birmingham, or Nottingham can also combine the trip with a short regional excursion.

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Away Day Tips

• Arrive Early: Allow plenty of time for traffic or public transport delays, especially on busy matchdays.
• Drink in Town: Stick to town centre pubs rather than those near the stadium to avoid home-fan crowds.
• Try a Local Oatcake: Sampling a Staffordshire oatcake is a must-do culinary experience when visiting Stoke.
• Be Weather Ready: The Midlands can be unpredictable, so layer up for colder months and bring a waterproof if needed.

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Final Whistle

Stoke City away offers a true Championship experience: passionate fans, a modern stadium, and the no-nonsense charm of a Midlands city. The bet365 Stadium provides excellent sightlines and facilities, while the city and surrounding area offer plenty to explore before and after the game.

From pre-match pints in the town centre, to cheering from the East Stand, to sampling a local oatcake afterwards, a Stoke City away day delivers football, culture, and northern hospitality in equal measure. Pack your scarf, plan your route, and get ready for an authentic Potteries football trip.