A trip to Port Vale offers a classic Staffordshire football away day, combining a modern stadium, passionate fans, and a friendly town atmosphere. Vale Park, home of the Valiants since 1950, provides excellent facilities for travelling supporters, a compact stadium environment, and plenty of pubs, eateries, and attractions to make a full day out.

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Getting There

Port Vale is located in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, and is accessible via train, car, and coach.

• By Train: The nearest station is Longport Station, approximately 1.5 miles from Vale Park. Stoke-on-Trent Station is around 3 miles away and is well connected by trains from Manchester (50 minutes), Birmingham (1h 20m), Derby (50 minutes), and London Euston (2h 30m). Fans can take a taxi or local bus from the station to the stadium.
• By Car: Vale Park is accessible via the A50 and A500. Matchday traffic can build, so pre-booking parking or arriving early is recommended. The stadium has official car parks, while nearby street parking is limited.
• By Coach: Away supporters’ coaches are dropped off at the designated away entrance, providing a safe and convenient arrival for travelling fans.

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Where to Drink

Stoke-on-Trent has a vibrant pub scene suitable for pre-match drinks.

• Near the Ground: Pubs such as The Vale Tavern and The Cherry Tree are within walking distance of Vale Park and welcome away fans for a pre-match pint.
• Stoke City Centre: About a 10–15 minute drive or short bus ride, the city centre has pubs along Hartshill Road and Bethesda Street. The Bull and Spectacles and The Potters Arms provide lively atmospheres for visiting supporters.
• Alternative Options: For quieter drinks, pubs around Longton or Tunstall offer a relaxed environment before heading to the stadium.

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The Ground: Vale Park

Vale Park is a modern, all-seater stadium with a capacity of around 19,000. Its compact layout ensures excellent sightlines and a lively atmosphere for away fans.

• Away Section: Visiting supporters are housed in the Hamil Road 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 sell pies, burgers, hot dogs, chips, and soft drinks. Alcohol is available in designated areas. Toilets are clean and functional, though queues may build near kickoff. Staff are friendly and experienced with travelling supporters.

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Food Options

Stoke-on-Trent offers a range of food options for fans.

• Near the Ground: Local takeaways sell burgers, chips, and kebabs. The Vale Tavern also offers pub meals for fans wanting a sit-down pre-match feed.
• City Centre: Stoke city centre has restaurants and cafés serving British, Indian, Italian, and Chinese cuisine. Chains such as Wetherspoons, Greggs, and Subway are available for quick meals.
• Local Specialties: Staffordshire is known for hearty pies and traditional pub meals, widely available near the stadium and in the city centre.

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Making a Weekend of It

Stoke-on-Trent has a rich cultural heritage and attractions for fans staying overnight.

• Nightlife: The city centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants along Hartshill Road and Bethesda Street. The Bull and Spectacles and The Potters Arms are popular post-match venues for visiting fans.
• Culture & Attractions: Stoke-on-Trent is famous for its pottery industry. Visitors can explore the Gladstone Pottery Museum, The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, and nearby Trentham Gardens.
• Day Trips: Manchester, Birmingham, and Derby are all within easy reach by train, offering shopping, nightlife, and cultural experiences.

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Away Day Tips

• Arrive Early: Streets around the stadium can get congested on matchdays, so plan to arrive at least 90 minutes before kickoff.
• Drink in the Right Areas: Stick to pubs near the stadium or in the city centre for a safe and welcoming pre-match experience.
• Dress for the Weather: Staffordshire weather can be unpredictable — bring layers and waterproofs.
• Engage with the Atmosphere: The Hamil Road Stand is close to the pitch, allowing away fans to make a noticeable impact with chants and songs.

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Final Whistle

A Port Vale away day offers a traditional Midlands football experience with modern facilities, a compact stadium, and a welcoming town atmosphere. Vale Park provides excellent facilities for travelling supporters, while Stoke-on-Trent offers pubs, restaurants, and cultural attractions to make a full day out.

From pre-match pints near the stadium to cheering your team in the Hamil Road Stand, to exploring pottery museums or Trentham Gardens afterwards, a trip to Port Vale combines football, culture, and local character. It’s a rewarding destination for any travelling supporter seeking a classic away day in the heart of Staffordshire.