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Venues #1 in Newcastle upon Tyne

St James’ Park

4.6 · 11,901 reviews
Electric and intense on match days; industrious and imposing otherwise.
St James’ Park, Barrack Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4ST, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The site has been used for football since 1880, long before the current stadium structure was completed.

2

It is built on a former quarry site and was historically used as an execution ground for the city.

3

The stadium is famous for its lopsided appearance, caused by the refusal of local authorities to allow the expansion of the Leazes and Gallowgate ends for several decades.

4

The pitch is aligned north-to-south, a rarity for modern stadiums which usually follow specific sun-path orientations.

5

The roof of the Milburn and Leazes stands is one of the largest cantilever roof structures in Europe.

6

Despite being a stadium, it is officially classified as being located within a conservation area due to its proximity to historic town moor land.

7

The stadium's foundations include remnants of 19th-century industrial buildings that once occupied the slope.

Overview

St James' Park is a distinctive football stadium situated on a prominent hill overlooking the city center of Newcastle upon Tyne. It serves as the historic home ground for Newcastle United Football Club. The venue is easily identified by its asymmetrical cantilever roof structures, which are visible from across the city skyline. The stadium features a seating capacity exceeding 52,000 spectators. It has hosted various high-profile international matches and rugby tournaments alongside league football. The pitch orientation remains uniquely aligned due to the site's historical constraints and proximity to urban roads. The stadium grounds also house several bars, hospitality suites, and the club’s official retail store. It remains one of the largest stadiums in the United Kingdom in terms of seating capacity.

Photo spot

From the higher ground within Leazes Park, which provides an elevated view of the cantilever roof and stadium silhouette.

Insider tips

Book stadium tours in advance to access the changing rooms and pitch-side tunnel.

Check the club's fixture list before planning a visit, as the area becomes extremely congested and difficult to navigate on match days.

Walk up the hill from the city center for a panoramic view of the stadium architecture before reaching the main gates.

What to avoid

Attempting to drive near the stadium on match days; local road closures and lack of parking make vehicular access near impossible.

Good to know

Tours are unavailable on home match days and match-day preparations often restrict access to certain areas.

Etiquette

Casual, respectful of club staff, and strictly no alcohol in view of the pitch during matches.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings during the off-season to avoid crowds and ensure full tour access.
Address
St James’ Park, Barrack Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4ST, United Kingdom
Website
54.976, -1.622
Get directions
Details
Capacity52,305
Key FeatureAsymmetrical cantilever roof

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings during the off-season to avoid crowds and ensure full tour access..

From the higher ground within Leazes Park, which provides an elevated view of the cantilever roof and stadium silhouette.

Close by you'll find Theatre Royal, Discovery Museum, Great North Museum: Hancock.