A trip to Accrington Stanley offers a traditional Lancashire football away day, combining a compact stadium, a passionate local fanbase, and a welcoming town atmosphere. The Wham Stadium, home of the club since 1968, provides excellent facilities for travelling supporters, and the town itself offers pubs, eateries, and local charm to make a full day out beyond the match.
Getting There
Accrington is located in Lancashire and is accessible by train, car, and coach.
- By Train: The nearest station is Accrington Station, around a 20-minute walk from the Wham Stadium. Direct trains run from Manchester (45 minutes), Preston (50 minutes), Blackburn (15 minutes), and Liverpool (1h 20m). From the station, fans can walk, take a taxi, or catch a local bus to the stadium.
- By Car: The stadium is accessible via the M65 and A56. On matchdays, traffic can build, so pre-booking parking (£5–£10) or arriving early is recommended. Limited street parking is available near the stadium.
- By Coach: Away coaches are dropped off at the designated away entrance, providing safe and convenient access for travelling supporters.
Where to Drink
Accrington has a friendly pub scene suitable for pre-match drinks.
- Near the Ground: Pubs such as The Wham Tavern and The Stanley Arms are close to the stadium and welcome away fans.
- Town Centre: A short walk or bus ride from the stadium, Accrington town centre offers pubs and bars along Blackburn Road and Broadway. The Talbot and The White Lion are popular with away supporters for their lively atmosphere.
- Alternative Options: For quieter pre-match drinks, pubs along Whalley Road or Union Street offer a more relaxed setting.
The Ground: Wham Stadium
The Wham Stadium is a modern, all-seater venue with a capacity of around 5,450. Its compact design ensures excellent sightlines and an intimate atmosphere for away supporters.
- Away Section: Visiting fans are located in the Railway End, with an allocation of around 1,200. The stand is fully covered and close to the pitch, allowing chants and songs to carry effectively.
- Facilities: Concessions sell pies, burgers, hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks. Alcohol is available in designated areas. Toilets are clean and functional, though queues may form at busy times. Staff are welcoming and experienced with travelling supporters.
Food Options
Accrington offers a variety of food options for fans before or after the match.
- Near the Ground: Local takeaways sell burgers, chips, and kebabs. The Wham Tavern provides pub meals for fans wanting a sit-down option.
- Town Centre: Accrington town centre has restaurants and cafés serving British, Indian, Italian, and Chinese cuisine. Chains such as Greggs, Subway, and Wetherspoons are available for quick meals.
- Local Specialties: Lancashire is famous for its traditional pies and hearty pub fare, ideal for fuelling up before a game.
Making a Weekend of It
Accrington has attractions for fans staying overnight or making a weekend of their trip.
- Nightlife: The town centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants along Broadway and Blackburn Road. The Talbot and The White Lion are popular post-match venues for visiting supporters.
- Culture & Attractions: Accrington boasts Accrington Museum, Peel Park, and nearby Hyde Park, offering fans local history and scenic walks.
- Day Trips: Manchester is under an hour by train, while Blackburn, Preston, and Burnley are easily accessible for sightseeing or cultural visits.
Away Day Tips
- Arrive Early: Streets around the stadium can get busy on matchdays, so plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before kickoff.
- Drink in the Right Areas: Stick to official away pubs near the stadium or town centre venues for a safe pre-match environment.
- Dress for the Weather: Lancashire weather can be unpredictable — layers and waterproofs are recommended.
- Engage with the Atmosphere: The Railway End is compact and close to the pitch, allowing away fans to make a noticeable impact with chants and songs.
Final Whistle
An Accrington Stanley away day combines traditional Lancashire football charm with modern facilities and a welcoming town atmosphere. The Wham Stadium is compact and intimate, providing excellent sightlines for away supporters, while Accrington town centre adds pubs, restaurants, and local attractions to make a full day out.
From pre-match pints near the stadium to cheering your team in the Railway End, to exploring Accrington Museum or enjoying a walk in Peel Park afterwards, a trip here blends football, culture, and local character. Accrington Stanley is a rewarding destination for any travelling supporter seeking a full, enjoyable away day experience in Lancashire.

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