A trip to Walsall offers a classic West Midlands football away day experience, combining a historic club, passionate supporters, and the atmosphere of a traditional industrial town. The Banks’s Stadium, home of the Saddlers since 1990, provides excellent facilities for travelling fans, while Walsall town centre offers pubs, restaurants, and attractions to make a full day out beyond just the match.

---

Getting There

Walsall is accessible by train, car, and coach, making it convenient for travelling supporters.

• By Train: The nearest station is Walsall Station, around 1 mile from the Banks’s Stadium. Direct trains run from Birmingham (20 minutes), Wolverhampton (20 minutes), and Rugeley (35 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 A34, A454, and M6. On matchdays, traffic can build, so pre-booking parking (£5–£10) or arriving early is recommended. Official stadium car parks are available, with additional street parking nearby.
• By Coach: Away coaches are dropped off at the designated entrance for visiting supporters, providing safe and convenient access.

---

Where to Drink

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

• Near the Ground: Pubs such as The Saddlers Arms and The Banks’s Tavern are close to the stadium and friendly to away supporters.
• Town Centre: About a 10–15 minute walk or short bus ride from the stadium, Walsall town centre offers pubs along Lichfield Street, Bradford Street, and Bridge Street. The Hop Pole and The Old Swan are popular with visiting fans for a lively pre-match atmosphere.
• Alternative Options: For quieter pre-match drinks, venues near Walsall Arboretum or The Chuckery provide a more relaxed environment.

---

The Ground: Banks’s Stadium

The Banks’s Stadium is a modern, all-seater venue with a capacity of around 11,300. Its layout ensures good sightlines and a lively atmosphere for away supporters.

• Away Section: Visiting fans are located in the Donkey Stand, with an allocation of around 2,000. The stand is covered, 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 clean and functional, though queues may form near kickoff. Staff are welcoming and experienced with travelling supporters.

---

Food Options

Walsall 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 Saddlers Arms provides pub meals for fans wanting a sit-down option.
• Town Centre: Walsall town centre has restaurants and cafés serving British, Indian, Italian, and Chinese cuisine. Chains such as Greggs, Subway, and Wetherspoons are also available for quick meals.
• Local Specialties: The West Midlands is known for hearty pies, traditional pub fare, and locally sourced dishes — ideal for fuelling up before a game.

---

Making a Weekend of It

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

• Nightlife: The town centre offers pubs, bars, and casual restaurants along Lichfield Street and Bradford Street. The Hop Pole and The Old Swan are popular post-match venues for visiting supporters.
• Culture & Attractions: Walsall boasts Walsall Leather Museum, Walsall Arboretum, and New Art Gallery Walsall. Fans can explore the town’s industrial heritage, visit parks, or enjoy local shopping.
• Day Trips: Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Coventry are easily accessible for sightseeing, shopping, and cultural experiences.

---

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 town centre venues for a safe pre-match experience.
• Dress for the Weather: West Midlands weather can be unpredictable — layers and waterproofs are recommended.
• Engage with the Atmosphere: The Donkey Stand is compact and close to the pitch, allowing away fans to make a noticeable impact with chants and songs.

---

Final Whistle

A Walsall away day combines modern stadium facilities with the charm of a West Midlands town and plenty of options for pre- and post-match activities. The Banks’s Stadium is compact and intimate, providing excellent sightlines for away supporters, while Walsall 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 Donkey Stand, to exploring Walsall Arboretum or the Leather Museum afterwards, a trip here blends football, culture, and local character. Walsall is a rewarding destination for any travelling supporter seeking a full, enjoyable away day in the West Midlands.