Craven Cottage

Craven Cottage is one of English football's most charming and historic grounds, home to Fulham FC since 1896 and beloved for its unique riverside setting on the banks of the Thames. With a capacity of 29,600 following the recent Riverside Stand redevelopment, this Grade II listed stadium combines Victorian character with modern facilities, featuring the famous Cottage itself - a preserved pavilion that gives the ground its distinctive name. The intimate atmosphere and picturesque location make it one of the Premier League's most distinctive venues.

Located in Fulham, southwest London, Craven Cottage sits in an affluent residential area with the Thames Pathway running alongside. The stadium's charm lies in its quirky features - the Cottage pavilion, the narrow corridors of the Johnny Haynes Stand (designed by legendary stadium architect Archibald Leitch), and views across the river. Whether watching Fulham in Premier League action or enjoying a matchday stroll along the Thames, Craven Cottage offers a uniquely English football experience unlike any other in London, from Stamford Bridge just two miles away to Emirates Stadium across the city.

Craven Cottage takes its name from a hunting lodge built on the site in 1780, which still stands in the corner of the ground as a Grade II listed building. Fulham FC moved to the location in 1896, though the stadium as we know it was developed in the early 1900s. The club's connection with this riverside location spans over 125 years.

Archibald Leitch and the Golden Era

The legendary stadium architect Archibald Leitch designed the Stevenage Road Stand (now Johnny Haynes Stand) in 1905, creating the distinctive covered terrace with ornate gable that became the stadium's signature. The stand was renamed in 2009 to honour Fulham's greatest player, Johnny Haynes. Throughout the mid-20th century, Craven Cottage hosted regular First Division football, with Haynes leading the club during its most successful period.

Modern Developments

The Taylor Report mandated conversion to an all-seater stadium, though Craven Cottage's confined site limited capacity. Various expansion and relocation plans were debated for decades. Under Mohamed Al-Fayed's ownership (1997-2013), the club reached the Premier League and even a Europa League final (2010). The Shahid Khan era (2013-present) finally saw meaningful development begin.

Riverside Stand Transformation

The most significant development in the stadium's history came with the new Riverside Stand, completed in 2024. This modern structure replaced the temporary stand and increased capacity to 29,600 whilst providing world-class facilities. The development carefully preserved the stadium's historic character whilst adding contemporary hospitality and seating options, ensuring Craven Cottage remains competitive as a Premier League venue.

How to Get Fulham Tickets

There are three main ways to attend a Fulham match at Craven Cottage:

1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)

Purchase directly from fulhamfc.com. Tickets go on sale to members first, with general sale approximately 2-3 weeks before matches. Prices range from £40 (upper corners) to £80 (Riverside central). Membership provides priority access.

⚠️ Note: The new Riverside Stand has increased capacity but high-profile London derbies still sell quickly. Membership recommended.

2. Official Hospitality (Guaranteed Access)

Fulham offer hospitality packages guaranteeing tickets:

• Champions Club - Premium matchday dining from £175+
• Riverside Lounge - Modern facilities with Thames views
• Executive Boxes - Private suite experience for groups

Book through fulhamfc.com/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

Craven Cottage offers behind-the-scenes stadium tours celebrating the club's unique history.

What You'll See

• The Cottage pavilion - the historic building that gives the ground its name
• Home and away dressing rooms where Premier League players prepare
• Tunnel area walking out as players do on matchdays
• Pitch-side access standing on the touchline with Thames views
• Johnny Haynes Stand exploring the Archibald Leitch-designed structure
• New Riverside Stand facilities

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 60-75 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: London derbies and top-six matches sell quickly
• Membership: Worth considering for regular attendance
• Riverside walk: Arrive via the Thames Path for the full experience
• Transport: Putney Bridge tube (5 min walk) is closest

Best Seats at Craven Cottage

Craven Cottage offers a unique matchday experience with its mix of historic and modern stands. Here's the comprehensive guide to seating options.

Johnny Haynes Stand (West Side)

The historic Archibald Leitch stand, Grade II listed and full of character. Named after Fulham's greatest player. Lower tier offers proximity to the action (£50-75). Upper tier provides elevated views (£45-65). Narrow corridors and limited legroom reflect its 1905 origins, but the atmosphere and history are unmatched.

Riverside Stand (East Side)

The new stand completed in 2024, featuring modern facilities and excellent views. Lower Tier offers great proximity (£55-80). Upper Tier provides panoramic views (£50-70). Hospitality options and premium seating available. The finest modern facilities at Craven Cottage.

Hammersmith End (North Stand)

The home end housing Fulham's most vocal supporters. Generates the majority of atmosphere, with fans creating a wall of noise. Prices typically £40-60 for Premier League games. Perfect for experiencing passionate Fulham support, though views are end-on.

Putney End (South Stand)

Contains both home and away sections. Away fans typically allocated corner sections. The Cottage pavilion is located in this corner, offering unique photo opportunities. Prices similar to Hammersmith End (£40-60).

VIP & Hospitality

Fulham offer extensive hospitality options, particularly in the new Riverside Stand. Champions Club provides premium matchday dining from £175+. Executive Boxes available for groups. Various restaurants and lounges with Thames views.

Accessibility

Craven Cottage provides accessible facilities with wheelchair platforms in all stands. The new Riverside Stand offers excellent accessible facilities. Ambulant disabled seating available. Audio-descriptive commentary provided. Contact Fulham's accessibility team when booking.

Pro Tips

• Best atmosphere: Hammersmith End with the vocal home support
• Best views: Riverside Stand central sections
• Historic character: Johnny Haynes Stand for original Leitch design
• Away fans: Putney End corner sections
• Photography: Views across the Thames add unique backdrop

A matchday at Craven Cottage captures the charm of English football - historic surroundings, riverside setting, and a village atmosphere in the heart of London.

What to Bring

⚠️ Important: Fulham 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 riverside weather (it can be cooler by the Thames). Arrive 45-60 minutes before kickoff for smooth entry.

Pre-Match (2-3 hours before)

The area around Craven Cottage offers a unique pre-match experience. Bishop's Park alongside the stadium is perfect for pre-match walks. The Eight Bells on Fulham High Street is the traditional home pub. The Temperance near Putney Bridge offers gastropub options. Walking along the Thames Path to the stadium is a matchday ritual for many. Fulham Broadway (15 minutes walk) offers additional pubs and restaurants.

Inside the Stadium

Gates typically open 90 minutes before kickoff. The Hammersmith End leads the singing. The intimate size means atmosphere carries well, though it's generally more refined than at some grounds. Views of the Thames from the Riverside Stand add a unique element. The Cottage itself is worth photographing before the match.

Food & Drink

Concessions offer traditional matchday fare plus some premium options in the new Riverside Stand. Expect £5-7 for food items and £6-7 for drinks (London prices). Quality has improved with the new facilities. Many fans prefer eating in surrounding restaurants before arriving.

After the Match

Post-match, fans head to Fulham Broadway (15 minutes walk) or Putney Bridge (10 minutes) for transport and pubs. Fulham High Street offers restaurants and bars. The riverside walk to Putney Bridge station is pleasant in good weather.

International Visitor Tips: Craven Cottage is easily reached from central London via Putney Bridge tube (District Line) or Fulham Broadway (District Line). The surrounding area is affluent and pleasant to explore. Combine football with riverside walks and local restaurants.

Where to Stay for Craven Cottage

Near the Stadium

Search hotels near Craven Cottage

Fulham is an affluent residential area with limited hotels immediately near the stadium. Most visitors stay in central London or nearby areas.

Ibis London Earls Court (3 km)

Budget-friendly option in nearby Earls Court with good transport links. Modern rooms, basic facilities, easy access to District Line.

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Novotel London West (Hammersmith, 2 km)

Modern hotel near Hammersmith with good facilities. Restaurant, bar, and comfortable rooms. Good transport links.

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Central London Options (Recommended)

Search hotels in Central London

Staying in central London provides easy tube access to Craven Cottage whilst enjoying London's attractions.

The Hoxton, Holborn (central London)

Trendy boutique hotel in the heart of London. Stylish rooms, excellent restaurant, and great for exploring the city. District Line accessible.

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The Zetter Townhouse (Clerkenwell)

Quirky boutique hotel with character. Excellent cocktail bar, unique rooms. Good for combining football with London exploration.

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Chelsea/Fulham Area

Search hotels in Chelsea

Nearby Chelsea offers hotels with easier stadium access.

The Sloane Place Hotel (Chelsea)

Boutique hotel in trendy Chelsea, close to Fulham Broadway. Stylish rooms, excellent service.

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Our Recommendation

Stay in central London or Chelsea/South Kensington - both areas offer excellent hotels with easy District Line access to Putney Bridge. The tube journey is quick and the riverside walk to the stadium is enjoyable.

For proximity, hotels near Hammersmith or Earls Court offer good value with short journeys. The affluent Fulham area has limited hotels but excellent restaurants for pre-match dining.