Eugene Cross Park (Ebbw Vale)

Eugene Cross Park is a rugby and cricket ground in Ebbw Vale, Wales. It is the home of Ebbw Vale RFC and Ebbw Vale Cricket Club, it occasionally hosts matches for Glamorgan County Cricket Club, and a small number of international rugby league matches have taken place there.

General information

Arena capacity: 8,000 spectators

Address: Ebbw Vale RFC, Newchurch Road, Ebbw Vale NP23 5AZ

GPS coordinates for the navigator: 51°47′7″N 3°12′23″W

Year of construction: 1919

Field: grass lawn with dimensions of 100 x 70 m

Seating plan of Eugene Cross Park

The stadium features a mix of covered and uncovered seating areas. The main stand is located on the west side of the field and includes covered seating, while the east side of the field has uncovered seating. The north and south ends of the field also have uncovered seating areas. Despite the lack of a specific seating plan, the stadium is known for providing an excellent viewing experience and a great atmosphere for rugby matches.

Where to buy tickets?

Tickets for rugby matches at Eugene Cross Park can be purchased through the official website of Ebbw Vale Rugby Football Club. Additionally, tickets may also be available for purchase at the stadium on match days, although it is recommended to purchase in advance to ensure availability. The club typically announces ticket sale dates and prices prior to each match, and fans are advised to check the club’s website or social media pages for the latest information. In some cases, tickets may also be available through third-party ticketing websites or resellers, although it is recommended to purchase tickets directly from the club to avoid any potential issues with fraudulent or invalid tickets.

How to get there?

Eugene Cross Park is located in Ebbw Vale, a town in the county of Blaenau Gwent in South Wales. The stadium is easily accessible by car, with the A465 Heads of the Valleys Road providing direct access to Ebbw Vale. On-site parking is available at the stadium, although it is limited and can fill up quickly on match days. Alternatively, visitors can park at nearby car parks and walk to the stadium.

For those using public transportation, the nearest train station is Ebbw Vale Parkway, which is located approximately 1.5 miles from the stadium. Regular bus services also operate to Ebbw Vale town center, which is a short walk from the stadium. Visitors are advised to check timetables and plan their journey in advance to ensure they arrive at the stadium in time for the match.

Where to eat and sleep?

There are several options for eating and sleeping near Eugene Cross Park in Ebbw Vale.

For food, the stadium itself has a bar and food kiosks offering a range of refreshments and snacks on match days. Additionally, there are several cafes, pubs, and restaurants located in the town center, which is just a short walk from the stadium. Popular options include The Dragon’s Den, a family-friendly pub serving traditional pub food, and Blaina Wharf, a waterfront restaurant and bar offering a range of meals and drinks.

As for accommodation, there are several hotels and guesthouses located near the stadium and in the wider Ebbw Vale area. The Castle Inn Hotel and Spa is a popular option, located in the nearby village of Trecastle and featuring comfortable rooms, a spa, and a restaurant. The Beaufort Hotel is another option, offering basic but comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving traditional Welsh cuisine. For those looking for a more unique experience, there are also several camping and glamping sites located in the surrounding countryside, such as The Secret Yurts and The Barn at Hall Farm.

Facilities

Eugene Cross Park has a range of facilities to cater to the needs of spectators, players, and officials.

The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 8,000, with both covered and uncovered seating available. Additionally, there are standing areas for supporters who prefer to watch the match from their feet.

The playing surface is a grass pitch, with dimensions of approximately 100 meters by 70 meters. The stadium also features floodlights, allowing for matches to be played in the evenings.

There are several hospitality suites and lounges available for hire on match days, providing a comfortable and private setting for corporate or social events. These spaces can be tailored to meet the needs of individual groups, and catering options are available.

Other facilities at Eugene Cross Park include changing rooms and showers for players and officials, medical rooms, and press facilities. The stadium also has on-site parking available for spectators and officials, although this is limited and can fill up quickly on match days.

History

The stadium was opened in 1978 and is named after Eugene Cross, a former player and chairman of the club who played a key role in securing the funding for the stadium’s construction. Over the years, Eugene Cross Park has hosted a number of important rugby matches, including Wales under-21 internationals and matches in the Welsh Premiership. The stadium has also been used for non-rugby events, such as music concerts and community events. It has undergone several upgrades and renovations to improve its facilities and enhance the matchday experience for supporters.