A trip to Wrexham is a truly unique away day experience. The Racecourse Ground, home to the Red Dragons since 1864, is the oldest international football stadium still in use and offers a wonderfully authentic, community-driven football atmosphere. With Wrexham’s recent rise in prominence, especially following their high-profile ownership, away fans are in for a historic, lively, and unforgettable day out in North Wales.


Getting There

Wrexham is located in North Wales, close to the English border, making travel options varied depending on your starting point.

  • By Train: Wrexham General station is about a 10–15 minute walk from the Racecourse Ground. Direct trains run from Chester (20 minutes), Liverpool (1h), and Birmingham (2h 15m). Fans arriving from further afield can connect via Chester or Crewe. The walk from the station is straightforward and well signposted for away supporters.
  • By Car: Wrexham is accessible from the A483 and A541, and junctions off the A55 for those travelling from the coast. Street parking around the stadium is limited, and matchday restrictions are in place. Pre-booked stadium car parks or local council car parks (£5–£10) are recommended.
  • By Coach: Official away coaches are dropped off outside the away turnstiles, offering the easiest and safest option for large travelling groups.

Where to Drink

Wrexham has a thriving pub scene, with a mixture of traditional Welsh pubs and modern bars.

  • City Centre: Most away fans congregate around Queen Street and High Street before making the short walk to the ground. The Lamb & Flag, The Queen’s Head, and The George & Dragon are friendly spots that welcome away supporters. The Brewery Tap offers craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Near the Ground: A few pubs around the stadium serve food and drink, but they are mostly home-fan dominated, so visiting supporters are advised to stick to the city centre.
  • Alternative Options: For a more relaxed pre-match pint, the area around St Giles’ Church has several quieter pubs within walking distance of the Racecourse Ground.

The Ground: Racecourse Ground

The Racecourse Ground is steeped in history and charm, combining traditional football ground characteristics with modern updates. It has a capacity of around 10,500, creating a compact and intimate atmosphere where every cheer and chant is amplified.

  • Away Section: Visiting fans are usually located in the Kop end, with an allocation of around 1,500–2,000 depending on the fixture. The stand provides excellent views of the pitch and allows away fans to generate a strong presence despite the small size.
  • Facilities: The concourses are modern for a ground of its age, with kiosks selling pies, burgers, hot dogs, and chips. Alcohol is sold in designated areas. Toilets are functional but queues can form at peak times. The atmosphere is enhanced by the proximity of stands to the pitch.

Food Options

Food options in Wrexham cater well to visiting fans, with plenty of traditional and modern choices.

  • Near the Ground: Quick takeaways sell burgers, kebabs, and fish and chips. The Ivy Bush and a few cafés along Smithfield Road provide more substantial pre-match meals.
  • City Centre: Wrexham city centre has a wide range of restaurants and cafés. The Pantry offers light bites, while The Tavern provides traditional pub food. National chains such as Greggs and Subway are also available for a quick snack.
  • Local Specialties: Welsh cakes, bara brith, and traditional cawl can be found in local cafés and bakeries — perfect for a cultural touch to your away day.

Making a Weekend of It

Wrexham is a compact city with plenty to explore, making it an ideal location for a weekend away.

  • Nightlife: The city centre has lively pubs and bars, particularly along Regent Street and Hope Street. Many venues stay open later on matchdays, giving fans a chance to enjoy the local hospitality after the game.
  • Culture & Attractions: Wrexham is known for its historic architecture, including St Giles’ Church and Erddig Hall. The Wrexham County Borough Museum offers local history exhibitions.
  • Day Trips: Fans can explore the surrounding North Wales countryside, including the Clwydian Range, Llangollen, and the scenic coastal town of Conwy — all within an hour’s drive.

Away Day Tips

  • Arrive Early: Wrexham is a small city, and the streets around the Racecourse Ground can get crowded. Arriving at least 90 minutes before kickoff is recommended.
  • Drink in the City Centre: Pubs around the stadium are mainly home-focused, so stick to Queen Street or High Street for a friendly away atmosphere.
  • Bring Cash: While card payments are accepted in most modern outlets, some smaller pubs and food stalls may prefer cash.
  • Embrace the Atmosphere: The compact size of the ground means chants carry well — get involved early to make the most of the away end’s energy.

Final Whistle

A Wrexham away day offers football history, passion, and an intimate stadium experience that is rare in modern English football. The Racecourse Ground combines charm, authenticity, and a lively atmosphere, while the city itself provides pubs, restaurants, and culture to make a full day or weekend out of your trip.

From pre-match pints in the city centre, to cheering in the Kop, to exploring North Wales’ beautiful scenery afterwards, a Wrexham away day is a truly memorable experience. It’s a destination that delivers football, culture, and Welsh hospitality in equal measure — and one that every travelling supporter should tick off at least once.

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