Goodison Park

Goodison Park is one of English football's most historic and cherished grounds, home to Everton FC since 1892 and the first purpose-built football stadium in England. With a capacity of 39,414, this traditional ground represents over 130 years of unbroken football history. The 2024-25 season marks Everton's final campaign at Goodison before moving to the new Bramley-Moore Dock stadium, making visits particularly poignant as fans bid farewell to their spiritual home. The Gwladys Street End, home to Everton's most passionate supporters, creates an atmosphere that belies the stadium's modest capacity.

Located in the Walton area of Liverpool, just a mile from rivals Liverpool's Anfield, Goodison Park sits in the heart of a proud working-class community. The stadium's traditional terraced streets and match-day atmosphere represent authentic English football heritage. Whether witnessing the final season at this historic ground, experiencing the famous Gwladys Street atmosphere, or paying respects to the club's rich history, Goodison Park offers a genuinely emotional football experience unlike any modern arena, rivalling the atmosphere at nearby Anfield.

Goodison Park's history is inseparable from English football itself. Everton moved to the ground in 1892 after a dispute with landlord John Houlding at Anfield (who subsequently founded Liverpool FC). The new stadium was revolutionary - the first purpose-built football ground in England, designed specifically for the sport rather than adapted from other venues.

The Archibald Leitch Era

Famous stadium architect Archibald Leitch redesigned much of Goodison in the early 20th century, creating the distinctive double-decker stands that became his trademark. The ground hosted the 1894 FA Cup Final, becoming the first ground outside London to do so. By the 1930s, Goodison had become one of the finest stadiums in world football, hosting 1966 World Cup matches including a famous Brazil game.

The Glory Years

Goodison witnessed Everton's greatest triumphs. The club won league titles in 1963, 1970, 1985, and 1987, with the mid-1980s team under Howard Kendall considered one of the finest in English football history. The 1985 European Cup Winners' Cup victory and FA Cup triumphs were celebrated on this hallowed turf. The Gwladys Street End became one of football's most feared home ends.

A Historic Farewell

The 2024-25 season represents Goodison's emotional final chapter. After 132 years, Everton will relocate to the stunning new 52,888-capacity Bramley-Moore Dock stadium on Liverpool's waterfront. Goodison's final season sees fans from around the world making pilgrimages to experience this historic ground before it closes its doors forever.

How to Get Everton Tickets

There are three main ways to attend an Everton match at Goodison Park during this historic final season:

1. Official Club Tickets (Best Value)

Purchase directly from evertonfc.com when tickets go on sale. General sale typically occurs 2-4 weeks before matches, following priority windows for members and season ticket holders. Prices range from £40 (Park End upper) to £75+ (Main Stand central). Official Membership is essential for the final season.

⚠️ Important: The final season at Goodison Park has created unprecedented demand. Most matches sell out rapidly, with some games not reaching general sale. Membership is virtually essential.

2. Official Hospitality (Guaranteed Access)

Everton offers hospitality packages guaranteeing tickets - particularly valuable for the final season:

• Final Season packages - Special hospitality from £200 commemorating Goodison's history
• Executive Boxes - Private suite experience from £350+ per person
• 1878 Club - Premium dining experience

Book through evertonfc.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
• SeatPick - Price comparison platform

⚠️ Note: Final season demand means third-party prices are very high. Ensure tickets can be legitimately transferred.

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Stadium Tours

The Goodison Park Stadium Tour offers an immersive journey through one of football's most historic venues - particularly meaningful in the final season.

What You'll See

• Home dressing room where legends from Dean to Rooney prepared
• The tunnel walking out towards the famous Gwladys Street End
• Pitch-side and dugout experiencing the manager's view
• Press conference room where Kendall and subsequent managers faced the media
• Directors' box with views across this historic ground
• Trophy room showcasing Everton's rich history and 9 league titles

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 75 minutes
• Schedule: Tours run regularly on non-matchdays - book ahead for final season
• Price: Adults from £15, concessions available
• Languages: Tours in English
• Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to stadium age - contact club for details

Booking

• Book directly through Everton official site
• GetYourGuide - Alternative booking
• Viator - Experience packages

Pro tip: The final season tours include special commemorative elements. This is your last chance to experience this historic stadium.

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Quick Tips

• Book early: Final season demand is exceptional
• Membership essential: Most matches sell out before general sale
• Gwladys Street: Experience the famous end before Goodison closes
• Z-Cars: Don't miss the team emerging to this iconic theme
• Historic moment: Every visit this season is part of football history

Best Seats at Goodison Park

Goodison Park's traditional design creates an intimate atmosphere throughout. The Gwladys Street End offers the best atmosphere for the final season, whilst the Main Stand provides traditional views. Here's the complete breakdown.

Gwladys Street End

Everton's famous home end, housing the club's most passionate supporters. This is where 'Z-Cars' rings out and the atmosphere reaches fever pitch. Lower Tier is closer to the action, Upper Tier offers better overall views. Prices £45-60 for Premier League matches. Highly recommended for the final season - this is Everton's spiritual heart.

Park End

Opposite the Gwladys Street, this modern end provides excellent views. Lower Tier offers good proximity to the pitch, Upper Tier provides elevated sightlines. Houses away supporters in designated sections. Prices £40-55 for home sections.

Main Stand (Goodison Road Stand)

The traditional main stand along Goodison Road, featuring classic Leitch-era architecture. Central sections provide excellent side-on views (£55-75), whilst wing sections offer good value (£45-55). This stand houses the directors' box, press facilities, and hospitality areas.

Bullens Road Stand

Facing the Main Stand, this stand offers good views across the pitch. Named after the street it faces, it provides authentic matchday atmosphere. Prices £45-60 depending on position. Some restricted views in certain areas due to pillars.

VIP & Hospitality

Goodison Park offers hospitality packages, particularly special for the final season. Options range from £150 for matchday dining to £350+ for executive experiences. Given the historic nature of the final season, hospitality packages provide guaranteed access and memorable experiences. Book through Everton's official hospitality service.

Accessibility

Accessible facilities are available throughout the ground, though the stadium's age means some limitations. Wheelchair platforms in various stands, accessible toilets, and dedicated entrances. Companion seats available. Contact Everton's accessibility team for specific requirements.

Pro Tips

• Best atmosphere: Gwladys Street End - essential for the final season experience
• Best views: Main Stand central sections
• Historic experience: The final season makes any seat special
• Away fans: Park End sections
• Book early: Final season tickets are in unprecedented demand

A matchday at Goodison Park, particularly during this historic final season, captures everything that makes English football special - tradition, passion, and community spirit.

What to Bring

Everton operates standard security measures. Bags larger than A4 size (21cm x 30cm) are not recommended - bring only essentials. Prohibited items include large backpacks, umbrellas, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and alcohol. Recommended items: match ticket (mobile via Everton app preferred), phone, wallet, layers for Liverpool's variable weather. Arrive 90 minutes early for the final season - atmosphere and queues will be exceptional.

Pre-Match (2-3 hours before)

The terraced streets around Goodison transform into a sea of blue. Traditional pre-match pubs include The Winslow (Goodison's closest pub), The Blue House, The Thomas Frost, and The Spellow. The famous Goodison Toffee Shop on County Road is an institution. Food options include local chip shops and matchday vendors. St Luke the Evangelist Church (known as the 'Everton Church') next to the stadium is worth a visit. The Dixie Dean statue outside the Main Stand is a popular gathering point.

Inside the Stadium

Gates open 2 hours before kickoff. The pre-match buildup is emotional, particularly for the final season. 'Z-Cars' plays as teams emerge - Everton's distinctive theme since 1962. The Gwladys Street leads chanting, with 'Spirit of the Blues', 'Grand Old Team', and passionate support throughout. The intimacy of the ground creates an intensity rare in modern football.

Food & Drink

Stadium concourses offer traditional matchday fare including pies, burgers, and hot dogs. The classic Everton Pie is a must-try. Prices are standard (£4.50-6 for food, £5-6 for drinks). Facilities are dated but part of the authentic experience.

After the Match

Local pubs fill with fans sharing memories, particularly poignant in the final season. Transport can be busy - consider walking towards County Road or Liverpool city centre (30 minutes). The proximity to Anfield means you can walk between both historic grounds.

International Visitor Tips: Goodison Park is accessible by bus from Liverpool city centre (20-25 minutes) or taxi (10-15 minutes, £8-12). For the final season, book accommodation and tickets well in advance. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience one of football's most historic grounds before it closes forever.

Where to Stay for Goodison Park

Near the Stadium

Search hotels near Goodison Park

The Walton area around Goodison Park is residential with limited accommodation. Most visitors stay in Liverpool city centre (20-25 minutes by bus/taxi) for better hotels and restaurants.

Liverpool City Centre (Recommended)

Search hotels in Liverpool City Centre

Liverpool city centre offers excellent hotels, world-famous attractions, and easy transport to Goodison Park.

The Shankly Hotel (city centre, 4 km)

Whilst themed around Liverpool FC legend Bill Shankly, this hotel is centrally located and convenient for both Goodison and Anfield. Popular with football fans visiting either ground. Good transport links.

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Titanic Hotel Liverpool (Stanley Dock, 3 km)

Stunning warehouse conversion closer to both Goodison and Anfield than most city centre hotels. Unique industrial architecture and waterfront setting. Excellent choice for visiting either Liverpool ground.

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Hope Street Hotel (city centre)

Boutique hotel in Liverpool's cultural quarter. Excellent restaurant and bar. One of Liverpool's finest hotels, walking distance from cathedrals and cultural attractions.

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Malmaison Liverpool (Albert Dock)

Stylish hotel in the historic Albert Dock, close to Beatles Story and maritime attractions. Good restaurants and bars on site.

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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 unique opportunity to visit both Goodison (in its final season) and Anfield makes Liverpool an exceptional football destination.

The Titanic Hotel at Stanley Dock offers the best balance of proximity to both stadiums and quality accommodation. For the final Goodison season, consider booking well in advance as accommodation near both Liverpool grounds will be in high demand.