A trip to Cheltenham Town offers a classic Gloucestershire football away day experience, combining a compact stadium, passionate supporters, and the elegant charm of the Regency town. The Jonny-Rocks Stadium (formerly Whaddon Road), home of the Robins since 1932, provides excellent facilities for travelling fans, while Cheltenham town itself offers pubs, restaurants, and cultural attractions to make a full day out enjoyable.


Getting There

Cheltenham is accessible by train, car, and coach, making it convenient for visiting supporters.

  • By Train: The nearest station is Cheltenham Spa, around 2 miles from the Jonny-Rocks Stadium. Direct trains run from London Paddington (2h 10m), Birmingham (1h 30m), and Bristol (1h 10m). 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 M5 and A40. Matchday traffic can build, so pre-booking parking (£5–£10) or arriving early is recommended. Official stadium car parks are available, with limited additional street parking nearby.
  • By Coach: Away coaches are dropped off at the designated entrance for visiting supporters, providing safe and convenient access.

Where to Drink

Cheltenham has a welcoming pub scene suitable for pre-match drinks.

  • Near the Ground: Pubs such as The Robins Tavern and The Cheltenham Arms are close to the stadium and friendly to away supporters.
  • Town Centre: A 10–15 minute walk or short bus ride from the stadium, Cheltenham town centre offers pubs along The Promenade, High Street, and Bath Road. The Lansdown and The Crown are popular with visiting fans for a lively pre-match atmosphere.
  • Alternative Options: For quieter pre-match drinks, bars near Pittville Park or Montpellier provide a more relaxed setting.

The Ground: Jonny-Rocks Stadium

The Jonny-Rocks Stadium is a compact, all-seater venue with a capacity of around 7,000. Its intimate layout ensures excellent sightlines and a lively atmosphere for away supporters.

  • Away Section: Visiting fans are located in the Rail-side Stand, with an allocation of around 1,200. The stand is fully covered, allowing chants and songs to carry effectively.
  • Facilities: Concessions serve pies, burgers, hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks. Alcohol is available in designated areas. Toilets are clean and functional, though queues may form near kickoff. Staff are welcoming and experienced with travelling supporters.

Food Options

Cheltenham offers a variety of food options for fans before or after the match.

  • Near the Ground: Local takeaways sell burgers, chips, and kebabs. The Robins Tavern provides pub meals for those wanting a sit-down option.
  • Town Centre: Cheltenham town centre has restaurants and cafés serving British, Indian, Italian, and Chinese cuisine. Chains such as Greggs, Subway, and Wetherspoons are also available for quick meals.
  • Local Specialties: Gloucestershire is known for hearty pies, traditional pub fare, and cream teas — perfect for fuelling up before a game.

Making a Weekend of It

Cheltenham and the surrounding area have plenty to explore if staying overnight or making a weekend of the trip.

  • Nightlife: The town centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants along The Promenade and High Street. The Lansdown and The Crown are popular post-match venues for visiting supporters.
  • Culture & Attractions: Cheltenham boasts Cheltenham Racecourse, The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, and nearby Pittville Pump Room. Fans can also explore Montpellier Gardens or take walks along the Cotswold hills.
  • Day Trips: Bath, Gloucester, and the Cotswolds are easily accessible for sightseeing, shopping, and cultural experiences.

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 experience.
  • Dress for the Weather: Gloucestershire weather can be unpredictable — layers and waterproofs are recommended.
  • Engage with the Atmosphere: The Rail-side Stand is compact and close to the pitch, allowing away fans to make a noticeable impact with chants and songs.

Final Whistle

A Cheltenham Town away day combines modern stadium facilities with the charm of a Regency town and plenty of options for pre- and post-match activities. The Jonny-Rocks Stadium is compact and intimate, providing excellent sightlines for away supporters, while Cheltenham town centre adds pubs, restaurants, and cultural attractions to make a full day out.

From pre-match pints near the stadium to cheering your team in the Rail-side Stand, to exploring The Wilson Art Gallery or walking along Pittville Park afterwards, a trip here blends football, culture, and local character. Cheltenham Town is a rewarding destination for any travelling supporter seeking a full, enjoyable away day in Gloucestershire.

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