What's The Ground Like?
The Blackthorn Atyeo stand at one end of the ground is a handsome, covered all seated single tiered stand. It was opened in 1994, replacing a former open terrace and made a great difference to the overall look of the ground. At the other end is the covered Wedlock Stand (also known as the Eastend), part of which is given to away supporters. On one side is the Dolman Stand, which although single tiered is divided into an upper and lower area. The lower part is used as a family area, although this area is largely open to the elements. Opposite, the Williams Stand is an older looking single tiered stand, with several supporting pillars. A small band resides in one corner of the Atyeo Stand which on occasion helps to boost the atmosphere.
What Is It Like For Visiting Supporters?
Away fans are housed at one end of the ground in part of the Wedlock Stand, which is shared with home supporters. Around 2,800 away supporters can be accommodated in this area. The acoustics of this stand are excellent, so even a small number of away fans can really generate some noise. The close proximity of the home fans also helps boost the atmosphere. The facilities are pretty standard, plus there are a number of supporting pillars running across the front, which could impair your view. The rake of the stand which was a former terrace, is pretty shallow, which means that there is not a great height between rows. Also if you are unfortunate enough to be sitting near to the back, then you may find yourself watching the game through the equivalent of a letter box, as the roof comes down quite low to the front of the stand.
Refreshments available inside include; Cheeseburgers (£3), Burgers (£2.80), Various Pies & Pasties including the Chicken Balti Pie (£2.40), Pizza Pods (£2.40) and Jumbo Sausage Rolls
Where To Drink?
Alex Webber recommends the Pumphouse and the Nova Scotia for away supporters by the waterfront, but adds that pubs nearer to the ground such as the Hen & Chicken and the BS3 Bar should be given a wide berth. The Robins pub, which is situated a few minutes walk from the away end and was a favourite for away fans has now alas become a pub for 'home supporters' only. Please note that alcohol is not available to away fans inside the ground.
How To Get There By Car & Where To Park
Leave the M5 at Junction 18, travel along the Portway (A4) following signs for the Bristol Airport/Taunton (A38). Over the swing bridge (Brunel Way), branching left into Winterstoke Road, and you will see the ground on your left. Parking at the ground is for permit holders only, although there is another alternative car park on Ashton Vale Road (using the above directions it is a right hand turn off Winterstoke Road, opposite the ground), run by You Can Park Ltd. It is two minutes walk from the ground, has 400 spaces and cost £3.50. Spaces can be pre booked by calling 0871 200 3261. Otherwise it is a case of finding some street parking.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Parson Street which is around a ten minute walk away from the ground. However few trains stop at this station so you are more likely to end up at Bristol Temple Meads mainline station instead. This station is at least two miles from the ground and hence too far to walk, so best to jump in a taxi (around £6). Neil Le Milliere a visiting Exeter City supporter adds '"don't try and walk it from the station unless you really have to and then allow at least 3/4s of an hour for the journey". Chris Davis says; 'there are buses which leave from behind the Atyeo Stand at the end of the game which go to the centre of Bristol and Temple Meads Station at a cost of £1. Although predominantly for home fans, away fans could also use them'.