Anfield

Anfield is one of football's most atmospheric and historic grounds, home to Liverpool FC since 1892 and renowned worldwide for its legendary Kop stand. With a capacity of 61,276 following the recent Anfield Road Stand expansion, the stadium combines Victorian heritage with modern development, creating an experience that few venues can match. The famous 'This Is Anfield' sign, the spine-tingling rendition of 'You'll Never Walk Alone', and the electric atmosphere on European nights make Anfield a pilgrimage site for football fans worldwide.

Located in the Anfield district of Liverpool, approximately 2 miles northeast of the city centre, the stadium sits within a proud working-class community that has supported the club through triumph and tragedy. The area surrounding the ground has undergone significant regeneration, with new housing and improved facilities complementing the stadium's expansion. Whether witnessing the Reds challenge for Premier League glory, exploring the comprehensive museum, or taking the stadium tour that includes the famous boot room, Anfield delivers an emotional experience that rivals any stadium including Old Trafford across the M62.

Anfield's history predates Liverpool FC itself. The ground opened in 1884 as the home of Everton FC, who played there for eight years before a rent dispute led them to move to Goodison Park in 1892. Liverpool FC was founded specifically to occupy Anfield, and the ground has been the club's home ever since - one of football's great ironies.

The Kop and Anfield's Identity

The famous Spion Kop, named after a battle in the Boer War, was constructed in 1906 and became the largest single-tier terrace in the world, holding 28,000 standing supporters. Architect Archibald Leitch designed the structure that would become synonymous with Liverpool Football Club. The Kop's passionate supporters invented the concept of organised chanting and singing that spread throughout world football. 'You'll Never Walk Alone', adopted from the Gerry and the Pacemakers hit in 1963, became football's most famous anthem.

Hillsborough and Aftermath

The 1989 Hillsborough disaster, in which 97 Liverpool supporters died at an FA Cup semi-final, profoundly affected the club and stadium. The subsequent Taylor Report mandated all-seater stadiums in top divisions, and the Kop was rebuilt as a single-tier seated stand in 1994-95. Though reduced to 12,409 seats, the Kop remains football's most famous stand and continues to generate remarkable atmosphere.

Modern Expansion

After years of aborted plans for a new stadium, Liverpool committed to expanding Anfield. The Main Stand was redeveloped in 2016, adding 8,500 seats and transforming the stadium's exterior. The Anfield Road Stand expansion, completed in 2024, added a further 7,000 seats to reach the current 61,276 capacity. These developments have modernised Anfield whilst preserving its unique character and atmosphere.

How to Get Liverpool Tickets

There are three main ways to attend a Liverpool match at Anfield:

1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)

Purchase directly from liverpoolfc.com when tickets are released. General sale occurs approximately 4 weeks before matches, though most games sell out to members first. Prices range from £45 (upper tier) to £100+ (Main Stand central). Official Membership (£35/year) provides access to member-only sales and is essential for attending.

⚠️ Important: Liverpool has massive global demand - most matches sell out before general sale. Membership is virtually essential. Top matches (Manchester United, Everton, Champions League) often require hospitality or secondary market.

2. Official Hospitality (Guaranteed Access)

Liverpool offers extensive hospitality packages guaranteeing tickets:

• The Reds Bar - Entry-level hospitality from £200 including pre-match dining
• Boot Room Restaurant - Premium dining experience from £350
• Executive Boxes - Private suite experience from £500+ per person

Book through liverpoolfc.com/hospitality for guaranteed access.

3. Third-Party Platforms (Sold-Out Matches)

When official tickets sell out, established platforms offer alternatives:

• LiveFootballTickets - Premier League specialists, from £80
• SeatPick - Comparison platform aggregating sellers

⚠️ Note: Third-party prices are significantly above face value due to high demand. Liverpool operates strict transfer policies - ensure tickets can be legitimately transferred.

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Stadium Tours & Museum

The Anfield Stadium Tour and LFC Museum offer an immersive journey through one of football's most storied clubs.

What You'll See

• Trophy Room showcasing 6 European Cups/Champions League trophies, 19 league titles, 8 League Cups, and the remarkable collection of honours
• Home dressing room where Shankly, Paisley, Dalglish, and Klopp's teams prepared for battle
• The tunnel and 'This Is Anfield' sign - touching the famous sign as players do before matches
• Pitch-side and dugout standing where legendary managers orchestrated Liverpool's success
• The Kop walking out to face football's most famous stand
• Press conference room sitting where managers face the media
• Anfield Museum covering the club's founding, Shankly's revolution, the 1970s/80s dominance, Hillsborough, and the modern era
• Hillsborough Memorial paying respects to the 97 supporters who lost their lives

Practical Details

• Duration: Guided tour approximately 90 minutes
• Schedule: Tours run daily except matchdays and some events
• Price: Adults from £25, concessions available, combined museum + tour packages from £30
• Languages: Tours in English, audio guides in multiple languages for museum
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible throughout stadium and museum
• Best times: Weekday mornings are quietest; European match weeks are particularly atmospheric

Booking

• GetYourGuide - Stadium tours from £25
• Viator - Tour experiences from £25

Pro tip: The museum's coverage of Hillsborough is deeply moving - allow time to appreciate it properly. Combine your visit with exploring Liverpool's other attractions (Beatles Story, Albert Dock, cathedrals).

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Quick Tips

• Book early: Official Membership (£35) is essential for ticket access
• Big matches: Man United, Everton, and Champions League games rarely reach general sale
• European nights: The atmosphere at Champions League games is legendary - worth any effort
• Avoid touts: Unofficial sellers operate around Anfield - stick to official sources
• Arrive early: 'You'll Never Walk Alone' is sung before kickoff - don't miss it

Best Seats at Anfield

For the optimal Anfield experience, the Kop remains the spiritual home of Liverpool supporters and the place to be for atmosphere. However, the Main Stand Lower Tier offers the best combination of views and ambience. Here's the complete breakdown.

The Kop (West Stand)

Football's most famous stand, housing Liverpool's most passionate supporters. The single-tier design holds 12,409 fans who create an wall of noise throughout matches. Prices £50-80 for Premier League matches. Views from the Kop are behind the goal, so not ideal for tactical appreciation, but the atmosphere is unmatched anywhere in world football. Tickets are extremely difficult to obtain - this is bucket-list territory.

Main Stand

The recently expanded stand (2016) offers excellent facilities and views. Lower Tier provides outstanding sightlines close to the action, whilst Upper Tier offers panoramic views. Central sections are premium (£70-100), whilst corner sections offer better value (£50-70). The stand includes the directors' box, media facilities, and extensive hospitality areas.

Anfield Road Stand

The newest addition (2024 expansion) provides modern facilities and excellent views. Lower Tier offers great proximity to the pitch. Upper Tier delivers panoramic perspectives. Away fans are allocated sections of this stand. Prices similar to Main Stand (£50-100 depending on position).

Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand (Centenary Stand)

Named after the club legend, this stand faces the Main Stand and offers good elevated views. Central sections provide excellent sightlines (£55-85). The stand houses family sections and some hospitality areas. Atmosphere is generally good but not matching the Kop.

VIP & Hospitality

Anfield offers extensive hospitality options in the Main Stand. Packages range from the Reds Bar experience (from £200) to premium Executive Box packages (from £500+). The Boot Room restaurant offers fine dining with museum access. Book through Liverpool's official hospitality.

Accessibility

Excellent accessible facilities throughout the stadium, with wheelchair platforms in all stands. Companion seats available alongside. Accessible toilets, lifts, and dedicated entrances in all areas. Audio-descriptive commentary available. Contact Liverpool's accessibility team when booking.

Pro Tips

• Best atmosphere: The Kop - if you can get tickets, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience
• Best views: Main Stand Lower Tier central sections
• Family area: Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand has designated family sections
• Away fans: Allocated sections of Anfield Road Stand upper tier
• European nights: Atmosphere reaches another level for Champions League matches

A matchday at Anfield is among football's most emotional experiences, where 61,000 voices unite in song and tradition spanning over 130 years.

What to Bring

Liverpool operates strict security measures. Bags larger than A4 size (21cm x 30cm) are prohibited - bring only essential items. Prohibited items include large backpacks, umbrellas, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and alcohol. Recommended items: match ticket (mobile via Liverpool app preferred), phone, wallet, layers for Liverpool's unpredictable weather (rain is frequent). Security queues can be lengthy - arrive 60-90 minutes early, especially for big matches.

Pre-Match (2-3 hours before)

The streets around Anfield transform into a sea of red hours before kickoff. Traditional pre-match pubs include The Sandon (birthplace of Liverpool FC), The Albert on Walton Breck Road, The Park, and The Arkles. Food options include Homebaked bakery (famous for Scouse pies) and numerous burger and chip vans. The Anfield Road area outside the stadium is pedestrianised on matchdays. Many fans visit the Shankly Gates, Hillsborough Memorial, and club megastore before matches. The community atmosphere is authentic and welcoming.

Inside the Stadium

Gates open 2 hours before kickoff. The pre-match buildup is legendary - as teams emerge, 61,000 voices join in 'You'll Never Walk Alone', scarves raised aloft. The sight from the pitch is one of football's most famous images. The Kop leads singing throughout, with 'Fields of Anfield Road', 'Poor Scouser Tommy', and countless others echoing around the ground. On European nights, the atmosphere reaches fever pitch.

Food & Drink

Stadium concessions offer traditional matchday fare including the famous Scouse pie, burgers, hot dogs, and chips. Prices are standard Premier League (expect £5-6 for pies, £6-7 for drinks). The Main Stand features enhanced dining options. Most fans prefer eating in the surrounding area before arriving - the local vendors are excellent.

After the Match

Post-match, the local pubs fill with fans celebrating (or commiserating). Transport can be congested - consider walking towards the city centre (30-40 minutes) or waiting 20-30 minutes for crowds to disperse. County Road and Walton Road have post-match options. For late dinners, the Liverpool city centre (taxi £8-12) offers excellent restaurants.

International Visitor Tips: Anfield is accessible by bus from Liverpool city centre (20-25 minutes) or taxi (10-15 minutes, £8-12). The atmosphere is passionate but welcoming - Liverpool fans are known for hospitality. The Hillsborough Memorial deserves respectful attention. Combine your visit with a Beatles tour - Liverpool has much to offer beyond football.

Where to Stay for Anfield

Near the Stadium

Search hotels near Anfield

The Anfield area is residential with limited accommodation options. Most visitors stay in Liverpool city centre (20-25 minutes by bus/taxi) where there are excellent hotels and restaurants.

The Shankly Hotel (city centre, 3 km)

Themed around Liverpool legend Bill Shankly, this hotel is perfect for football fans. Located centrally with Shankly-themed rooms, memorabilia, and a rooftop bar. Staff are knowledgeable about matchday logistics. Popular with visiting supporters - book well ahead for matchdays.

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Holiday Inn Liverpool City Centre (3 km)

Reliable option in the heart of Liverpool with good transport links to Anfield. Modern rooms, restaurant, and bar. Good value for central location.

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Liverpool City Centre (Recommended)

Search hotels in Liverpool City Centre

For most visitors, staying in Liverpool city centre offers the best experience. The city has excellent hotels, restaurants, and attractions, with good transport links to Anfield.

Titanic Hotel Liverpool (Stanley Dock, 2.5 km from Anfield)

Stunning warehouse conversion in the historic Stanley Dock area. Closer to Anfield than most city centre hotels, with unique industrial architecture and waterfront setting. An excellent choice combining character with convenient location.

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Hope Street Hotel (city centre)

Boutique hotel in Liverpool's cultural quarter, walking distance from both cathedrals. Excellent restaurant and bar. One of Liverpool's finest hotels, perfect for combining football with culture.

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Malmaison Liverpool (Albert Dock)

Stylish hotel in the historic Albert Dock area, close to Beatles Story and maritime attractions. Good restaurants and bars on site. Popular choice for visitors exploring Liverpool.

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Our Recommendation

Stay in Liverpool city centre - the city offers outstanding restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions (Beatles Story, two cathedrals, Albert Dock). The atmosphere on matchday evenings in the city centre pubs is excellent, and transport to Anfield is straightforward.

For the most football-focused experience, The Shankly Hotel provides immersion in Liverpool FC history. For proximity to Anfield, the Titanic Hotel at Stanley Dock offers the best balance of location and quality.