A trip to Stockport County offers a traditional Greater Manchester football away day with a modern stadium, passionate fans, and a welcoming town atmosphere. Edgeley Park, home of the Hatters since 1902, provides excellent facilities for travelling supporters, a compact stadium layout, and plenty of local pubs and eateries to make a full day out beyond just football.

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Getting There

Stockport is well connected by train, road, and coach, making it easy for visiting supporters to reach Edgeley Park.

• By Train: The nearest station is Stockport Station, around 1 mile from the stadium. Direct trains run from Manchester (15 minutes), Sheffield (1h 10m), and Liverpool (1h 20m). From the station, fans can walk (15–20 minutes), take a taxi, or catch a local bus to Edgeley Park.
• By Car: The stadium is accessible via the M60 and A6. Matchday traffic can build, so pre-booking parking (£5–£10) or arriving early is recommended. Official stadium car parks are available, while street parking is limited.
• By Coach: Away supporters’ coaches are dropped off at the designated away entrance, providing safe and convenient access.

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Where to Drink

Stockport has a friendly pub scene suitable for pre-match drinks.

• Near the Ground: Pubs such as The Cheshire Cheese and The Millstone are within walking distance of Edgeley Park and welcome away supporters.
• Town Centre: About a 10–15 minute walk from the stadium, Stockport town centre offers pubs and bars along Merseyway, Lower Hillgate, and Heaton Lane. The Old Town Tavern and The Old Grammar School are popular with away fans for their lively atmosphere.
• Alternative Options: For quieter pre-match drinks, venues along Heaton Norris Road or Heaton Moor offer a more relaxed setting.

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The Ground: Edgeley Park

Edgeley Park is a historic, all-seater stadium with a capacity of around 10,900. Its compact design ensures excellent sightlines and a lively atmosphere for away supporters.

• Away Section: Visiting supporters are located in the Cheadle End, 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 modern and functional, though queues may form near kickoff. Staff are experienced and welcoming to travelling supporters.

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Food Options

Stockport offers a range of food options for fans before or after the match.

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

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Making a Weekend of It

Stockport is a historic town with plenty to explore if staying overnight.

• Nightlife: The town centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants along Merseyway and Lower Hillgate. The Old Town Tavern and The Old Grammar School are popular post-match venues for visiting fans.
• Culture & Attractions: Stockport boasts the Stockport Air Raid Shelters, Hat Works Museum, and nearby Etherow Country Park. Fans can also enjoy walks along the River Mersey or explore the Peak District, just a short drive away.
• Day Trips: Manchester city centre is less than 20 minutes by train, providing shopping, nightlife, and cultural attractions. Sheffield and Liverpool are also accessible for day trips.

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Away Day Tips

• Arrive Early: Streets around the stadium can get busy on matchdays. Arriving at least 90 minutes before kickoff ensures time to settle in.
• Drink in the Right Areas: Stick to pubs near the stadium or town centre venues for a safe and welcoming pre-match experience.
• Dress for the Weather: Greater Manchester weather can be unpredictable — layers and waterproofs are recommended.
• Engage with the Atmosphere: The Cheadle 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 Stockport County away day combines historic football traditions with modern stadium facilities and a welcoming town atmosphere. Edgeley Park is compact and intimate, providing excellent sightlines for away supporters, while Stockport 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 Cheadle End, to exploring local museums or enjoying walks along the River Mersey afterwards, a trip here blends football, culture, and local character. Stockport County is a rewarding destination for any travelling supporter seeking a full, enjoyable away day in Greater Manchester.