A trip to Leyton Orient offers an authentic London football away day with plenty of local character and a compact, intimate stadium. Brisbane Road, home of the O’s since 1937, combines historic football tradition with a friendly atmosphere for visiting supporters. Situated in East London, the club’s location makes it accessible by public transport, with plenty of pubs, eateries, and attractions nearby to make a day out enjoyable.


Getting There

Brisbane Road is very accessible via London’s public transport network, making travel straightforward for away supporters.

  • By Train/Tube: The nearest station is Leyton Midland Road, a 5-minute walk from the stadium, served by London Overground trains. Leyton Underground (Central Line) is about a 10-minute walk away, providing quick connections to central London and Stratford.
  • By Car: Driving in East London is possible but parking is extremely limited near the stadium. Public transport is strongly recommended. If driving, use nearby public car parks and allow extra time for London traffic.
  • By Coach: Away supporters’ coaches are dropped off outside the designated away turnstiles at Brisbane Road, providing a safe and convenient arrival point.

Where to Drink

The area around Brisbane Road and nearby Stratford offers plenty of pubs and bars for pre-match drinks.

  • Near the Ground: Pubs close to the stadium, such as The Sir John Tavern and The Leyton Hotel, are away-friendly and convenient for a quick pint before kickoff.
  • Stratford Town Centre: A short walk or bus ride away, Stratford offers a larger selection of pubs and bars. The Star and The Three Compasses provide a lively atmosphere and plenty of space for away supporters.
  • Alternative Options: For quieter pre-match drinks, cafés and bars around Leyton High Road provide a more relaxed environment.

The Ground: Brisbane Road

Brisbane Road is a historic, all-seater stadium with a capacity of just over 9,000. Despite its modest size, it offers excellent sightlines and a compact atmosphere, making it an engaging experience for visiting fans.

  • Away Section: Visiting supporters are housed in the South Stand, with an allocation of around 1,000. The stand is covered and close to the pitch, allowing chants to carry effectively across the stadium.
  • Facilities: Concessions serve pies, burgers, hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks. Alcohol is available in designated areas. Toilets are functional and clean, though queues can form at busy times. Staff are experienced in managing travelling supporters.

Food Options

Leyton and nearby Stratford offer a wide range of food options for fans.

  • Near the Ground: Several local takeaways sell traditional matchday fare, including kebabs, burgers, and chips. The Sir John Tavern offers pub meals and a friendly atmosphere for fans wanting a sit-down option.
  • Stratford Town Centre: Stratford has an extensive range of restaurants, cafés, and fast-food outlets, serving British, Indian, Chinese, and Italian cuisine. Wetherspoons is a popular and affordable choice for pre-match meals.
  • Local Specialties: Being in East London, street food and traditional pub fare dominate. Classic pies, sausage rolls, and fish and chips are all available for fans looking for a traditional matchday snack.

Making a Weekend of It

Leyton Orient’s location in East London makes it ideal for combining football with sightseeing or other activities.

  • Nightlife: Stratford and nearby Leyton have a variety of pubs, bars, and casual restaurants. The Star and The Three Compasses are popular post-match venues.
  • Culture & Attractions: Stratford offers attractions such as the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Westfield Stratford City shopping centre, and the ArcelorMittal Orbit. Leyton itself has a more local charm, with independent cafés and historic pubs.
  • Day Trips: Central London is easily accessible by tube or Overground, allowing fans to combine sightseeing, shopping, or cultural experiences before or after the game.

Away Day Tips

  • Arrive Early: London transport and local streets can get crowded on matchdays, so allow plenty of time to reach the ground and settle in.
  • Drink in the Right Areas: Stick to pubs near the stadium or in Stratford for a safer and friendlier pre-match experience.
  • Dress for the Weather: London can be unpredictable — bring layers and waterproofs if needed.
  • Engage with the Atmosphere: The South Stand is compact and close to the pitch, giving away fans the chance to make a noticeable impact with chants and songs.

Final Whistle

A Leyton Orient away day offers a classic London football experience with historic charm, a compact stadium, and a friendly atmosphere for visiting fans. Brisbane Road provides excellent sightlines and a close-knit environment, while nearby Leyton and Stratford offer pubs, restaurants, and attractions to make the day or weekend enjoyable.

From pre-match pints at a local pub to supporting your team in the South Stand, and exploring Stratford or central London afterwards, a trip to Leyton Orient combines football, culture, and local character. It’s a rewarding experience for any travelling supporter seeking both the excitement of football and the vibrancy of East London.

Leave a comment

What makes the premier League so special?

“The Premier League is one of the most difficult in the world. There’s five, six, or seven clubs that can be the champions. Only one can win, and all the others are disappointed and live in the middle of disaster.”

~ Jurgen Klopp