A trip to Notts County offers a classic Nottinghamshire football away day experience, combining historic charm, passionate supporters, and the excitement of England’s oldest professional football club. Meadow Lane, home of the Magpies since 1910, provides excellent facilities for travelling fans, while Nottingham itself offers pubs, eateries, and attractions to make a full day out beyond just the match.

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Getting There

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

• By Train: The nearest station is Nottingham Station, around 1 mile from Meadow Lane. Direct trains run from London St Pancras (1h 50m), Birmingham (1h 15m), and Derby (25 minutes). 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 A453 and A52. On matchdays, traffic can build, so pre-booking parking (£5–£10) or arriving early is recommended. Official Meadow Lane 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

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

• Near the Ground: Pubs such as The Magpie Tavern and The Trent Bridge Tavern are close to Meadow Lane and friendly to away supporters.
• City Centre: About a 10–15 minute walk or short bus ride from the stadium, Nottingham city centre offers pubs along Angel Row, Wheeler Gate, and Hockley. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem and The Bell Inn are popular with visiting fans for a lively pre-match atmosphere.
• Alternative Options: For quieter pre-match drinks, venues near Nottingham Castle or Victoria Embankment provide a more relaxed setting.

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The Ground: Meadow Lane

Meadow Lane is a historic stadium with a capacity of around 20,200. Its compact layout ensures excellent sightlines and a lively atmosphere for away supporters.

• Away Section: Visiting fans are located in the Spion Kop or Family Stand, with an allocation of around 3,000. 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

Nottingham 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 Magpie Tavern provides pub meals for fans wanting a sit-down option.
• City Centre: Nottingham 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: Nottinghamshire is known for hearty pies, traditional pub fare, and local delicacies — perfect for fuelling up before a game.

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Making a Weekend of It

Nottingham has plenty to explore if staying overnight or making a weekend of the trip.

• Nightlife: The city centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants along Angel Row, Wheeler Gate, and Hockley. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem and The Bell Inn are popular post-match venues for visiting supporters.
• Culture & Attractions: Nottingham boasts Nottingham Castle, Wollaton Hall, and City of Caves. Fans can also explore the historic Lace Market, the River Trent, or take a Robin Hood-themed tour.
• Day Trips: Derby, Leicester, and Sheffield 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: Nottinghamshire weather can be unpredictable — layers and waterproofs are recommended.
• Engage with the Atmosphere: The Spion Kop and Family Stand are 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 Notts County away day combines historic stadium facilities with the charm of Nottingham and plenty of options for pre- and post-match activities. Meadow Lane is compact and intimate, providing excellent sightlines for away supporters, while Nottingham city 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 Spion Kop, to exploring Nottingham Castle or the City of Caves afterwards, a trip here blends football, culture, and local character. Notts County is a rewarding destination for any travelling supporter seeking a full, enjoyable away day in Nottinghamshire.