Football clubs are the heartbeat of many towns and cities across the UK, they are the bricks and mortar that hold precious memories for generations of football fans. Packed with local supporters and on top of all the action, a visit to a non-league ground on a match day is a great way to see a real sense of joy and community-spirit. So, whether you’re looking to soak up the atmosphere in an ex-professional stadium or be pitch side at a smaller local club, come along with CrossCountry as we explore the best non-league football grounds in the UK.
Blackwell Meadows, Darlington FC
Darlington FC has been deep-rooted in the local community since its formation way back in 1883 at a local grammar school. Darlington were actually one of the founding members of the Northern League in 1889, along with teams from four County FA’s – Cumberland, Durham, Northumberland and North Yorkshire. Since then, the club has had a turbulent career, with highlights like winning the FA Trophy in the 2010/11 season. In 2012, the club and its fans endured going into administration for the third time. Though, thankfully, the Quakers supporters valiantly raised over £1m to redevelop Black Meadows and get the club back in its hometown. Darlington FC now belongs to it’s fans, a happy ending for everyone.
With a capacity of just under 3,300, fans can choose between covered seating and standing areas. But no matter the view of the game, there’s always a feeling of involvement and togetherness at Blackwell Meadows.
Reaching Blackwell Meadows stadium is easy with CrossCountry, just hop on a train to Darlington Station and either soak up the atmosphere with a thirty min walk through South Park or conserve your energy by hopping on the X26 Max or X27 Max bus.
The Home of Football Stadium, Sheffield FC
The birthplace of world football. Football fans across the globe have a lot to thank Nathaniel Creswick and William Prest for – two Yorkshiremen who played for the local cricket club and regularly went for a casual kickabout. On the 24th of October 1857, they decided to formally create Sheffield FC, making it the first football club in the world. One of the club’s early grounds was Bramall Lane (now home to professional club Sheffield United), but Sheffield FC currently play at the The Home of Football in Dronfield – the first ground the club have owned themselves. The stadium has a capacity of just over 2000, with standing areas available on the edge of the pitch for the best view of the game.
To get to The Home of Football, fans can catch a train to Sheffield station and choose between several buses to Dronfield. Sheffield is accessible from various locations across the UK, including Chesterfield station, Burton-on-Trent station, and Derby station.
The Sir Tom Cowie Millfield Ground, Crook Town FC
Crook Town FC purchased Sir Tom Cowie Millfield from the local rugby club back in 1895 for £625, and the club has played there ever since. After a revamp, the first away club to play under their floodlights was Manchester City back in 1968 – the game finished 6 - 1 to the away side. The Black and Ambers currently play in the Northern League Division One, the 9th tier of English football, but this magnificent 1,500 capacity stadium is not one to be missed.
After reaching Durham Station, visitors can catch the X46 bus which stops at Market Place, from there the football ground is a short walk.
Silverlake Stadium, Eastleigh FC/Southampton Women FC
Located just over a mile away from Southampton Airport Parkway station is the home of both Eastleigh FC and Southampton Women FC. Silverlake Stadium has been where Eastleigh have played their home matches since the mid 1950’s and has recently hosted Southampton Women’s games for the past few seasons. With a capacity of over 5,000 and with seats making up over half of that, you’re guaranteed to get a good view of the ground wherever you’re situated.
Eastleigh have been on the up recently, securing their place in the National League over the last few seasons and even broke their attendance record in 2024 in a FA Cup tie. Coming to support them at their home ground might be what helps them get promoted. With Southampton Airport Parkway station being on the doorstep, you can make your way there by either walking or catching the 24 bus.
Gateshead International Stadium, Gateshead FC
Gateshead International Stadium is the largest stadium on the list, with a capacity of close to 12,000, and its where National League Gateshead play their home games. They have called it their home since 1977, when they established themselves as Gateshead FC, and generations of fans have seen the teams ups and downs throughout those years. With several football clubs occupying the North-East of England, Gateshead have had to compete with plenty of their local rivals for fans to fill out their stadium.
This stadium is also home to a number of athletics events and even major concerts. Tina Turner, Bon Jovi and Rod Stewart have all graced the stadium with their live shows. Located just a fifteen-minute metro journey from Newcastle station, there is every reason to come and visit this unique non-league ground.
SEAH Stadium, Wolves Women
Head to the SEAH Stadium on a Sunday afternoon for a chance to see the wonderful Wolves Women play in the National League Northern Premier Division. The SEAH Stadium has a capacity of 5,500 and is also home to Telford United. Wolves Women were formed back in 1975, then the Heathfield Rovers, and since then have seen upwards momentum. They won the 2021/2022 Women’s National League’s Northern Premier Division and just missed out on the title to Nottingham Forest in 2022/2023.
A trip to the SEAH Stadium is simple and rewarding. Hop on a CrossCountry train to Wolverhampton station, from various locations across the UK, and there are multiple onwards rail services to Wellington station. From Wellington station, it’s a twenty minute walk or four minute bus ride to the stadium.
Penlee Park, Penzance A.F.C
Penzance is one of the most south-westerly towns in the UK, making Penlee Park one of the longest away days for most footballer lovers. Those keen for a big trip, though, will not be disappointed by this non-league ground. After entering through the grand black and white gate, fans are welcomed by a 1,100-capacity ground (550 seats), so you can soak up some authentic, local football.
Hop on a train to Penzance station, and it’s only a fifteen minute walk to the ground. Alternatively, take the lengthier but more scenic route going by the famous harbour. Fans can reach Penzance via various routes with CrossCountry, including from Plymouth station and Truro station.
If you’re planning to see a game at a non-league football ground, don’t forget to book Advance rail tickets via our website or the CrossCountry app. Before you travel, make sure to check scheduled train times to find the best journey for you. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Julia