A trip to Newport County offers a classic South Wales football away day experience, combining a historic stadium, passionate supporters, and the charm of Wales’ historic port city. Rodney Parade, home of the Exiles since 1912, provides excellent facilities for travelling fans, while Newport city centre offers pubs, eateries, and attractions to make a full day out beyond just the match.

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Getting There

Newport is well connected by train, car, and coach, making it convenient for travelling supporters.

• By Train: The nearest station is Newport Station, around 0.7 miles from Rodney Parade. Direct trains run from Cardiff (20 minutes), Bristol (25 minutes), and London Paddington (1h 30m). 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 M4 and A48. On matchdays, 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.

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Where to Drink

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

• Near the Ground: Pubs such as The Exiles Arms and Rodney Tavern are close to Rodney Parade and friendly to away supporters.
• City Centre: About a 10–15 minute walk from the stadium, Newport city centre offers pubs along Commercial Street, High Street, and Bridge Street. The Steelworks and The Black Swan are popular with visiting fans for a lively pre-match atmosphere.
• Alternative Options: For quieter pre-match drinks, venues near Belle Vue Park or the River Usk provide a more relaxed environment.

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The Ground: Rodney Parade

Rodney Parade is a historic stadium with a capacity of around 8,700. Its compact layout ensures excellent sightlines and a lively atmosphere for away supporters.

• Away Section: Visiting fans are located in the Railway End or other designated section, with an allocation of around 2,000. The stand is fully covered and close to the pitch, 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 functional, though queues may form near kickoff. Staff are experienced with travelling supporters.

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Food Options

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

• Near the Ground: Local takeaways sell traditional matchday fare such as burgers, chips, and kebabs. The Exiles Arms provides pub meals for fans wanting a sit-down option.
• City Centre: Newport city 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: South Wales is known for hearty pies, traditional pub fare, and locally sourced dishes — ideal for fuelling up before a game.

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Making a Weekend of It

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

• Nightlife: The city centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants along Commercial Street and High Street. The Steelworks and The Black Swan are popular post-match venues for visiting supporters.
• Culture & Attractions: Newport boasts Newport Transporter Bridge, Newport Museum, and Belle Vue Park. Fans can explore the River Usk, nearby Caerleon Roman Fortress, or walk along the historic quayside.
• Day Trips: Cardiff, Bristol, and Chepstow are easily accessible for sightseeing, shopping, and cultural experiences.

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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 city centre venues for a safe pre-match experience.
• Dress for the Weather: South Wales 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.

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Final Whistle

A Newport County away day combines historic stadium facilities with the charm of a South Wales port city and plenty of options for pre- and post-match activities. Rodney Parade is compact and intimate, providing excellent sightlines for away supporters, while Newport city 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 the Newport Transporter Bridge or Belle Vue Park afterwards, a trip here blends football, culture, and local character. Newport County is a rewarding destination for any travelling supporter seeking a full, enjoyable away day in South Wales.