Cardiff City Stadium (Cardiff)

The Cardiff City Stadium is a stadium in the Leckwith area of Cardiff, Wales. It is the home of Cardiff City Football Club and the Wales national football team.

General information

Official website: cardiffcitystadium.co.uk

Arena capacity: 33,280 spectators

Address: Leckwith Road, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, CF11 8AZ, Wales

GPS coordinates for the navigator: 51°28′22″N 3°12′11″W

Year of construction: 2009

Construction cost: £48 million

Field: Desso GrassMaster lawn with dimensions of 100 x 68

Seating plan of Cardiff City Stadium

After spending 99 years at their former Ninian Park ground, the Club in 2009, moved only a quarter of a mile away to the new stadium. Although with far superior facilities than Ninian Park, the design of the stadium itself was rather uninspiring (as admittedly most new stadiums built in this country are). However, in 2014, the Club after being awarded the hosting of the UEFA Super Cup Final, set upon increasing the capacity by 5,000 seats chiefly by expanding the Ninian Park Stand on one side.

This stand was originally single tiered, but has since had a small second tier and then an overhanging third tier added, making it the tallest and largest stand at the stadium. However, it’s most striking feature is its roof, which is simply huge, elevating and extending quite a distance forward to provide cover to those below. A little reminiscent of the East Stand at Elland Road, the Ninian Stand is far more attractive having more of a distinctive look with clear windshields to either side.

Located opposite is the Grandstand. Named after the corresponding stand at the old Ninian Park, this stand is two tiered, with a small second tier of seating that overlaps the back of the lower tier. In this area at the rear of the lower section there is a row of executive boxes. Whilst at the back of the second tier there is visible a glassed frontage to and area used for corporate entertainment.

The team dug outs are located at the front of this stand. Both ends are virtually identical, being single tiered, all seater affairs. The roofs above these stands are situated quite high above the seating areas, with a large back wall, part of which contains Perspex panels to provide more light to the playing surface. The stadium is completely enclosed with all four corners having spectator seating. Above each end there is digital video screen. In view of its multi purpose nature the stadium has in each corner a large access tunnel.

Outside the stadium there are the entrance gates that once welcomed visiting players and officials to Ninian Park. Beside the gates is a plaque in remembrance of Scotland and Celtic Manager Jock Stein who passed away at Ninian Park shortly after a Wales v Scotland World Cup Qualifying game in 1985.

For the stadium buffs, then as you come off the A4232 and head towards the stadium then on your left you will pass the new Cardiff International Sports Stadium. This has a capacity of 5,000, with one covered seated stand that holds 2,613 spectators. Although chiefly the home of Welsh Athletics, the stadium is also used for football with Welsh League Two side Cardiff Bay Harlequins playing their home games there.

Away fans are located on one side of the Grange Stand and the corner with the Ninian Stand. Up to 1,800 fans can be accommodated in this area. The acoustics are also good, with the stadium having a loud PA system. The concourses are spacious and have televisions to keep you entertained. Generally, the stewarding is fine too.

Within the stadium away fans are kept separate from home fans, by a small area of ‘no mans land’ lined with stewards. This does though allow for plenty of banter between the two sets of supporters.

Outside there is a fenced-in compound, which is also used to accommodate the away coaches but also keeps fans separated after the game has finished which should avoid most problems.

The Club operates automatic turnstiles, where you have to put your ticket (which has a barcode on it) into a slot reader, which then allows the turnstiles to admit you.

Where to buy tickets?

On first viewing, Cardiff’s ticketing structure is a little complicated. The club categorizes their matches into Bronze, Silver and Gold before further breaking down the ticket costs according to zones within the ground. If that wasn’t confusing enough there are then different prices for tickets depending on whether you buy them as an ‘Early Bird Member’, on general sale or on the match day itself.

Should you be an Early Bird Member you’d get tickets cheaper, whilst if you wait until the match day to buy them you’ll pay more.

The club’s official website would be the first place to start if you’re hoping to pick up some tickets to see The Bluebirds play. There is an interactive seating map that lets you know how much availably there is for match tickets as well as how much they’ll cost, but you need to register with the site before you can see it. You can also speak to the club’s ticket office on their dedicated ticketing line or call in at the box office in person and ask them about the best seats they’ve got available.

How to get there?

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales, so it’s certainly easier to get there than other places. Here are the most common methods you’ll probably want to know about.

Train

The railway station in closest proximity to Cardiff City Stadium is now Grangetown Station. It is approximately 5-10 minutes walk away from Grangetown, which you can get to by taking a connecting train from Cardiff’s main station, Cardiff Central. There are direct trains from London Paddington, Birmingham, the south coast and south-west England, with connections from the rest of the National Rail network to Central Station – a step free station with staff assistance available.

Bus

As well as numerous public buses that run from the centre of Cardiff out to the ground, there is also a shuttle bus that operates from Wood Street in the city centre out to Cardiff City Stadium. They run ever ten minutes from two hours before kick off and the return leg, which runs from the Fred Keenor statue, runs for up to an hour after the final whistle.

Car

If you’re travelling to the Stadium by car, access to us from the M4 is easy. Leave the M4 at junction 33 and take the A4232 towards Cardiff/Barry. Exit the A4232 on to the B4267 turn-off, signposted towards Cardiff City Stadium. You’ll see us on the horizon as you approach the turn-off!

Follow the slip-road off the B4267 and take the first left at the roundabout – the Stadium will be on your right hand side. Turn right at the second set of traffic lights and follow the appropriate signage for your dedicated parking space.

Taxi

If you didn’t want to bother waiting for buses or getting a connecting train then a taxi from Cardiff Central Railway Station out to the ground would take less than ten minutes and set you back close to £10. If you get caught in traffic then it will take longer and, you’d assume, cost more.

On Foot

It’s easy to walk to Cardiff City Stadium, with footpaths and direct routes from most areas of the city. To walk from the centre of Cardiff to the Stadium will take approximately half an hour. You will need to head south west of the Principality Stadium towards the Riverside area of the town, then follow signs to the Stadium.

N.B Supporters are advised to think of their own safety when walking to the Stadium, particularly during evening games or when visibility is reduced. Always be aware of traffic around you and think about your route home when leaving at the end of the game.

Parking

Parking at the ground itself is mostly reserved for season ticket holders, with the rest of the spaces being allocated on a first come, first served basis. There are a couple of unofficial parking areas close to the stadium and you might be able to park on a street not too far from the ground, too. Do be aware of parking restrictions in operation, though.

Where to eat and sleep?

As the capital city of Wales it’s fair to say that there are a number of good hotel options in Cardiff. Oddly enough though, they are all around 20 minutes from the stadium. We’ve lined up some of our favourites for your consideration here.

1. Lincoln House. Lincoln House is a beautiful guesthouse built in 1900, but with all the mod cons such as free wifi, free parking, and breakfast included in the price. It is a ten minute drive or a 25 minute walk to the stadium.
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2. Park Inn by Radisson. If you would rather play it safe with a well known chain, then the Park Inn by Radisson is a good bet. It has air conditioning, free wifi, a restaurant and bar, even room service if you like that sort of thing.
3. Jolyons Boutique Hotel. This boutique hotel is located a little further away than the others, but it is right next to the Millennium Centre, the Doctor Who experience, and the sea. It’s a family friendly hotel with free wifi and flat screen TV’s, ideal if you want to see a bit of the city either side of the match.
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Cardiff is a great city to head to for a drink and a night out. It always offers a cracking atmosphere and because of the two major stadiums located in its boundary it is a city that is used to welcoming sports fans on a regular basis. Here are some of the best places to go for a bevvy or two.

1. Owain Glyndwr. The Owain Glyndwr is located just 200 metres from that other famous venue in Cardiff, the Millennium Stadium. It is spread over two floors and offers tasty food, excellent drinks and live sport shown on plasma screens throughout the venue.
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2. The Lansdowne. A cosy traditional pub that is close to the station and has possibly one of the most attractive bars in Wales. They offer a fine drinks selection and also have pub games and live music on some nights.
3. Legends Club. This place has more television screens than it has staff by the looks of it. It is set up specifically as a sports bar so don’t expect 5 star lounges and the like, instead expect plenty of atmosphere, lots of activity, and lots of live sport. They also do food.
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Facilities

Having been open for just a decade, it’s fair to say that Cardiff City Stadium’s facilities are excellent in comparison to a number of other grounds in the UK. The concourses are wide and clean with numerous places to buy food and drink before the match.

Vincent Tan, Cardiff City’s owner, knows what it takes to earn money both from and for his football club. For that reason the hospitality options at Cardiff City Stadium are numerous and extensive. Designed to meet the needs of business owners who are entertaining clients, companies that wish to reward their staff, or even just Bluebird fans who want to spoil themselves, you’re sure to have a great day in one of the hospitality lounges. Here are some of your options:

• Sony Suite – Refurbished to feature products by the company it’s named after, The Sony Suite promises a fusion of football and fun for its visitors. You’ll get a pre-match buffet, access to a pay bar and balcony seating directly outside the lounge.
• The Captains Lounge – Adorned with pictures of Cardiff’s most iconic captains through the club’s history, your VIP experience here includes a three-course meal, free drink on arrival, a pre-match appearance from a first team player and hosting by two club legends. You’ll also enjoy half-time refreshments, a pay bar facility and padded seats right on the halfway line.
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• Match Day Box – The ultimate experience in privacy, a match day box will offer you a private, glass-fronted suite for up to ten guests, Diamond level seating that you’ll have direct access to, privately served food and a selection of fine wines available for purchase.

The club has a number of spaces available to hire out for private events. From the Ricoh Suite that can host up to 600 people down to executive boxes that are ideal for breakout meetings, there is unlikely to be an event you’d like to hold that the club won’t be able to cater for.

Accessibility

Cardiff City Stadium offers a number of reasonable adjustments based on individual needs.

Season Tickets, Match Tickets & Memberships

Season Tickets, Match Tickets and Memberships can be purchased from the ticket office in person, online or over the phone. All are sold subject to availability.

To purchase Season or Match Tickets and qualify for a free personal assistant ticket, supporters must be in receipt of one of the following:

• Middle or higher rate of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) (mobility or care component).
• Enhanced rate of Personal Independence Payment (PIP).
• The Severe Disablement Allowance.
• Certificate of Visual Impairment (CVI).
• A personal letter from your GP to confirm the nature and details of your relevant disability.
• Other forms of proof may be accepted. Proof of eligibility may be required before tickets are issued.

The above will be required before tickets can be purchased online. Once they have seen the documentation, your account will be updated with the relevant permissions so a personal assistant ticket can be viewed online.

Wheelchair Users

The accessible areas are coloured orange with a range of viewing options available. Please note that availability is limited for upper sections as they are issued to season ticket holders on a seasonal basis.

Stadium entry will depend on your viewing location but all access is step free with a lift available if located on an upper level.

Cardiff City Stadium has seven accessible entrances. For Home supporters; Main Reception, Corporate Entrance 2, Gates 5, 7 and 10, and Corporate Entrance 16. For visiting supporters; Gate 12

Powered wheelchairs and scooters can be used in all wheelchair accessible spaces. Please advise the Ticket Office staff at the time of your purchase that you require a wheelchair space.

Accessible Toilets

There are 24 accessible toilets throughout Cardiff City Stadium. All accessible toilets can be accessed using a radar key. It is advised that supporters bring their own radar key when visiting the stadium. If you do not have a radar key, please see your nearest steward who can arrange access.

A Changing Places facility is located on the third floor of the stadium and is available to all visitors who may need to use it. It has been placed near a raised wheelchair accessible viewing area.

The Changing Places facility includes a height adjustable adult-sized changing bench, mobile hoist, height adjustable sink, a screen to allow some privacy as well as a wide tear off paper roll to cover the bench. Please note the hoist is only compatible with a loop sling and supporters will need to bring this with them.

Accessible Parking

There are 78 marked accessible parking bays at Cardiff City Stadium for home supporters, which are issued on a seasonal basis. They do offer match by match parking payable in cash upon arrival and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Upon entry, please advise the stewards of your gate number and advise you require an end of row bay for access and they will do their utmost to assist.

Away supporters should contact DAO, Ben Jones, at [email protected] no less than 24 hours before kick-off to book an away accessible parking space.

Sensory Room

Cardiff City Stadium’s sensory room has been developed with Cardiff City FC Foundation to provide supporters with sensory issues a comfortable space to access live football.

The sensory room is equipped with a variety of specialist sensory equipment to make your visit to CCS as accessible and enjoyable as possible. Supporters can watch the game from the adjacent Media Box, their allocated seat or utilise the sensory room’s facilities which are staffed by the Foundation’s experienced staff.

This is available to supporters of all ages with sensory differences or who may find busy environments challenging. Tickets for the Sensory Room are available for all first team fixtures and can be purchased by calling the ticket office.

Ambulant Supporters

General match seating is available for Ambulant Disabled supporters in accessible areas of the Stadium.

There is a number of easy access seats for supporters to use with no or minimal stepped access. These are close to accessible amenities and entrances.

Please advise the ticket office at the time of booking your match tickets.

Blind or Visually Impaired Supporters

Cardiff City Football Club is delighted to continue the audio description commentary service at Cardiff City Stadium to promote access for all football fans this season.

The service, provided by Alan March Sport Ltd, will be available at all future home fixtures.

The free to use service for blind and vision impaired spectators will be available to both home and visiting fans, with the team of trained audio describers keeping up with play to the second to ensure listeners know exactly where the ball is and what is happening on the pitch.

To register your interest and book a receiver, please email [email protected].

Deaf or Hard of Hearing Supporters

Cardiff City Stadium has induction loop equipment in the Stadium Ticket Office, Stadium Superstore and Stadium Reception.

On match days at Cardiff City Stadium, information is displayed on the stadium screens and announced via the Public-Address System.

Headsets are not currently available for supporters to listen to match commentaries. Any supporters who do wish to listen to match commentaries are recommended to listen to Cardiff City TV or BBC Radio Wales.

Assistance Dogs

Assistance dogs are welcomed at Cardiff City Stadium. Familiarisation/orientation visits can be arranged via Ben Jones. Both home and away supporters can be accommodated with assistance dogs, away supporters will be seated amongst their own supporters.

Please make the ticket office aware at the time of booking if you would like to attend a match accompanied by an assistance dog.

Architectural Aspects

The fresh-looking Cardiff City Stadium opened in 2009 and plays host to football and rugby matches, as well as international football and concerts. This new multi-purpose stadium in Cardiff, Wales is an excellent example of using composite panels to achieve modern building aesthetics.

Locally designed, locally produced and built to benefit the local community as part of a revitalization project, Cardiff City Stadium was designed to make a difference.

The stadium was created to serve a number of purposes, chiefly as home to the Cardiff City Football Club & Cardiff Blues Rugby. It was designed to deliver multiple benefits to the teams, fans, the local community, Cardiff and, indeed, all of Wales.

The stadium’s exterior was designed to take advantage of the benefits of composite panels. The panel used is called Europanel and was supplied by Cardiff-based Eurobond Laminates Ltd, a leading UK manufacturer and supplier of low risk, non-combustible core composite panel solutions.

Europanel delivered an architecturally flat look for the outside of the stadium with passive fire protection built in. Its secret fix system hides away jointing without losing structural integrity or support and allowed for simple and rapid installation, making sure the stadium was ready in time and to budget before the new football and rugby seasons.

Darren Stewart, Projects Director, Eurobond, explains that on top of first-rate performance, the Europanel offers “strong environmental credentials, including environmental product declarations, lifecycle analysis and a WRAP approved recycling process.”

At the core of each Eurobond panel, you’ll find a non-combustible ROCKWOOL insulation core. This precision manufactured, dimensionally stable core allows to provide architecturally flat panels offering excellent fire resistance, little or no toxic smoke emission and the required acoustic and thermal performance. These installed product performance benefits are all backed up by the superb environmental credentials listed above.

A composite panel with ROCKWOOL insulation core offers an attractive design solution for a wide range of buildings. Aesthetics, rapid construction, cost savings, and low environmental impact are just a few of the benefits that convince designers to specify composite panels. Add dimensional consistency, fire protection, thermal and acoustic performance and it is clear as to why ROCKWOOL insulation core composite panels are becoming a specifier’s first choice.

History

The stadium was opened in 2009 as a replacement for the club’s former ground, Ninian Park. The permission for a new stadium was initially granted in January of 2002 yet ground wasn’t broken for its construction until September 2007. It was the home of Cardiff Blues rugby union team for a time and also hosted the 2011 Amlin Challenge Cup Final between Harlequins and Stade Francais. It has also hosted concerts by the Welsh band Stereophonics and Bon Jovi, amongst others.