The City Ground

The City Ground is the storied home of Nottingham Forest FC, a club that achieved the remarkable feat of winning back-to-back European Cups under the legendary Brian Clough. With a capacity of 30,445, this riverside stadium on the banks of the River Trent has witnessed some of English football's most extraordinary moments since opening in 1898. The ground combines historic character with modern development, most notably the impressive Peter Taylor Stand, whilst retaining the atmospheric quality that made Forest a force in European football.

Located in West Bridgford, just across the River Trent from Nottingham city centre, the City Ground sits remarkably close to Notts County's Meadow Lane - making them the closest professional football grounds in England. The stadium's picturesque riverside setting offers a unique matchday experience, with fans crossing Trent Bridge to reach the ground. Whether witnessing Forest's return to Premier League football or exploring the history of Clough's remarkable achievements, the City Ground offers an authentic English football experience comparable to historic venues like Anfield and Villa Park.

Nottingham Forest moved to the City Ground in 1898, beginning a relationship with the Trent-side venue that has endured for over 125 years. The club had previously played at several grounds, but the City Ground would become synonymous with Forest's greatest achievements. The early decades saw steady development, with the ground gradually expanding to meet growing demands.

The Clough Era and European Glory

Brian Clough's arrival in 1975 transformed both club and stadium. Having won the league title with Derby County, Clough performed miracles at Forest - taking them from the Second Division to First Division champions in 1978, then to consecutive European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980. The City Ground hosted unforgettable European nights, its intimate atmosphere terrifying visiting clubs. Clough's partnership with Peter Taylor created one of football's greatest ever teams from modest resources.

Stadium Development

The Taylor Report following Hillsborough mandated all-seater stadiums, prompting significant redevelopment. The Peter Taylor Stand (named after Clough's assistant) was completed in 1994, becoming the ground's most impressive structure. The Bridgford Stand followed in 1994, whilst the Brian Clough Stand and Trent End were later converted to seating. Plans for further expansion have been discussed as Forest seek to grow their Premier League ambitions.

Modern Revival

After years in the Championship following relegation in 1999, Forest returned to the Premier League in 2022 under Steve Cooper - their first top-flight season in 23 years. The City Ground once again hosted Premier League football, with the club's passionate supporters creating the atmosphere that had once intimidated the best teams in Europe.

How to Get Nottingham Forest Tickets

There are three main ways to attend a Nottingham Forest match at the City Ground:

1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)

Purchase directly from nottinghamforest.co.uk. Tickets go on sale to members first, with general sale approximately 2-3 weeks before matches. Prices range from £30 (Bridgford corners) to £70 (Brian Clough central). Membership (from £25) provides priority access.

⚠️ Note: Forest's return to the Premier League has increased demand significantly. High-profile matches may require membership or hospitality.

2. Official Hospitality (Guaranteed Access)

Forest offers hospitality packages guaranteeing tickets:

• 1865 Club - Premium matchday experience from £150+
• Executive Boxes - Private suite experience for groups
• Restaurant packages - Dining with match tickets

Book through nottinghamforest.co.uk/hospitality.

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

When official tickets sell out, established platforms offer alternatives:

• LiveFootballTickets - Premier League specialists
• SeatPick - Comparison platform

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Stadium Tours

The City Ground offers behind-the-scenes stadium tours celebrating Forest's remarkable history.

What You'll See

• Home and away dressing rooms where European Cup winners prepared
• Tunnel area walking out as Clough's legends did
• Pitch-side access standing on the touchline
• Brian Clough memorabilia celebrating the club's greatest era
• Trophy displays including European Cup history
• Directors' box and press facilities

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 75-90 minutes
• Schedule: Tours run on non-matchday dates throughout the season
• Price: Adults from £15, concessions available
• Accessibility: Tours are wheelchair accessible

Booking

• GetYourGuide - Stadium tours
• Viator - Tour experiences

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Quick Tips

• Book early: Premier League return has increased demand
• Membership: Worth considering for regular attendance
• Arrive early: Cross Trent Bridge with the crowds for atmosphere
• Transport: Walk from Nottingham station (25 minutes) or take a bus

Best Seats at The City Ground

The City Ground offers a classic English football experience with stands of varying ages and characters. Here's the comprehensive guide to seating options.

Brian Clough Stand (Main Stand)

Named after the legendary manager, this stand along the touchline offers the best views. Lower Tier provides excellent proximity to the action (£45-70). Upper Tier offers elevated perspectives across the pitch. Central sections are premium, whilst corners offer better value (£35-55). The stand contains executive facilities and the directors' box.

Peter Taylor Stand (East Side)

The largest and most impressive stand, completed in 1994 and named after Clough's assistant. Two tiers with excellent facilities. Lower Tier (£40-60) offers good views, whilst Upper Tier (£35-55) provides panoramic vistas. This stand dominates the skyline and offers modern facilities.

Trent End (Home End)

The traditional home of Forest's most vocal supporters. This single-tier stand behind the goal generates the majority of atmosphere, particularly for big matches. Prices typically £30-50 for Premier League games. Perfect for atmosphere but views are end-on.

Bridgford Stand (Away End)

Allocated to visiting supporters, this stand at the opposite end from the Trent End provides away allocation. Home fans may be allocated sections for lower-demand matches. Facilities are more basic than newer stands.

VIP & Hospitality

Forest offers hospitality options primarily in the Brian Clough Stand. 1865 Club provides premium matchday experiences from £150+. Executive Boxes offer private viewing. Various packages available for different occasions.

Accessibility

The City Ground provides accessible facilities with wheelchair platforms in all stands. Ambulant disabled seating available. Accessible toilets in all areas. Audio-descriptive commentary available. Contact Forest's accessibility team when booking.

Pro Tips

• Best atmosphere: Trent End with Forest's passionate supporters
• Best views: Brian Clough Stand Lower Tier central sections
• Family area: Sections of Peter Taylor Stand
• Away fans: Bridgford Stand allocation
• Photography: Peter Taylor Stand upper tier offers great angles

A matchday at the City Ground captures the romance of English football - a historic ground, passionate local support, and the memory of European glory nights under Brian Clough.

What to Bring

⚠️ Important: Nottingham Forest operates standard Premier League security. Bags larger than A4 size (21cm x 30cm) are subject to restrictions. Prohibited items include large backpacks, umbrellas, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and alcohol. Recommended items: match ticket (mobile preferred), phone, wallet, layers for changeable Midlands weather. Arrive 45-60 minutes before kickoff for smooth entry.

Pre-Match (2-3 hours before)

The area around the City Ground offers excellent pre-match atmosphere. The Trent Bridge Inn near Trent Bridge is a traditional choice. The Southbank Bar at the stadium offers home fans a pre-match venue. Across the river, Nottingham city centre provides numerous pubs and restaurants. Walking across Trent Bridge with thousands of fans is part of the matchday ritual. Food vendors operate around the stadium on matchdays.

Inside the Stadium

Gates typically open 90 minutes before kickoff. The Trent End leads the singing, with the classic chant 'You Reds!' echoing around the ground as teams emerge. The atmosphere reaches fever pitch for derbies against Leicester City and matches against big clubs. On European nights, the City Ground's intimate design creates an intimidating wall of sound.

Food & Drink

Concessions offer traditional matchday fare - pies, burgers, hot dogs, and chips. Expect £4-6 for food items and £5-6 for drinks. Quality is standard Premier League level. The Southbank Bar offers better options for those arriving early.

After the Match

Post-match, fans head across Trent Bridge to Nottingham city centre (15-20 minutes walk). The Lace Market and Hockley areas offer excellent bars and restaurants. Transport can be busy immediately after - consider waiting 20 minutes for crowds to disperse or walking to the city centre.

International Visitor Tips: Nottingham is easily reached from London St Pancras (90 minutes by train) and has good connections to other major cities. The city is famous as the home of Robin Hood - Nottingham Castle and the Tales of Robin Hood provide cultural context. Combine football with exploring this historic city.

Where to Stay for The City Ground

Near the Stadium

Search hotels near the City Ground

The City Ground is in West Bridgford, a pleasant residential area. Most visitors stay in Nottingham city centre (20 minutes walk) for better hotel choice and nightlife.

Bridgford Hall Hotel (West Bridgford, 1 km)

Boutique hotel in a converted Victorian mansion in West Bridgford. Walking distance to the stadium with character and charm. Good restaurant on site.

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Premier Inn Nottingham Central (2 km)

Reliable chain hotel near Trent Bridge, ideal position for stadium access. Good value with consistent quality.

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City Centre Options (Recommended)

Search hotels in Nottingham City Centre

Nottingham city centre offers excellent hotels with easy walking access to the City Ground via Trent Bridge.

Hart's Hotel (city centre)

Boutique hotel in a purpose-built property near Nottingham Castle. Excellent restaurant, stylish rooms, and one of Nottingham's finest hotels. Great choice for football and culture combined.

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Crowne Plaza Nottingham (city centre)

Upscale hotel in the heart of Nottingham with pool and spa facilities. Modern rooms, good restaurants, and convenient for all city attractions.

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The Lace Market Hotel (city centre)

Stylish hotel in Nottingham's historic Lace Market district. Georgian townhouse conversion with character and excellent location for nightlife.

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Our Recommendation

Stay in Nottingham city centre - the walk across Trent Bridge is part of the matchday experience, and the city offers excellent restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions. The Lace Market and Hockley areas are particularly good for nightlife.

For proximity to the ground, Bridgford Hall in West Bridgford offers character accommodation with an easy walk to the City Ground. Hart's Hotel is the premium choice for those wanting Nottingham's finest.