Goodison Park

Goodison Park is one of English football's most historic and cherished grounds, home to Everton FC from 1892 to 2025 and the first purpose-built football stadium in England. With a capacity of 39,414 at its closing, this traditional ground represented 133 years of unbroken Everton men's football until the club's move to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock in summer 2025. The Gwladys Street End, home to Everton's most passionate supporters, created an atmosphere on European and FA Cup nights that belied the stadium's modest capacity, and remains the spiritual home that Evertonians refer to when they speak of the club. Everton Women continue to play at the ground.

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 the surviving Archibald Leitch architecture represent authentic English football heritage. Whether visiting on a stadium tour, paying respects to the club's rich history at the Dixie Dean statue, or watching an Everton Women's fixture in the surviving structure, Goodison Park offers an emotional football pilgrimage unlike any modern arena, comparable to the atmosphere at nearby Anfield. Sitting alongside other Premier League grounds such as Anfield and Villa Park.

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 in protest). The new stadium was revolutionary — the first purpose-built football ground in England, designed specifically for the sport rather than adapted from a cricket ground or athletics track, and opened with a capacity of 12,000 and four covered stands.

The Archibald Leitch Era and the Edwardian Modernisation

The Glasgow engineer Archibald Leitch — the most prolific stadium architect in British football history — redesigned much of Goodison in the early 20th century, creating the distinctive double-decker stands that became his trademark and that survived in modified form until the very end. The ground hosted the 1894 FA Cup Final, becoming the first ground outside London to do so, and then the FA Cup Finals of 1910 and 1933 (replays in both cases). By the 1930s, Goodison had become one of the finest stadiums in world football, the only English club ground to host 1966 World Cup matches all the way to a semi-final — including the legendary 3-1 Hungary vs Brazil and the magical Portugal 5-3 North Korea where Eusébio scored four.

Dixie Dean and the Pre-War Title

William Ralph "Dixie" Dean scored his record 60 league goals in 1927-28, a tally never beaten and unlikely ever to be — six in the final match against Arsenal, completing the third-tier total in front of 48,000. Dean's statue outside the Main Stand became the meeting point for visiting supporters; his 18 hat-tricks for Everton remains a club record nobody will catch.

The Catterick and Kendall Glory Years

Goodison witnessed Everton's greatest triumphs. Harry Catterick's side won the league title in 1963 and 1970 — the latter often called the best Everton team ever, with Howard Kendall, Alan Ball and Colin Harvey as the celebrated "Holy Trinity" midfield. Howard Kendall then returned as manager and delivered the mid-1980s peak: league titles in 1985 and 1987, the 1985 European Cup Winners' Cup (defeating Rapid Vienna 3-1 in Rotterdam), and the 1984 FA Cup. The team — Neville Southall in goal, Kevin Sheedy, Peter Reid, Trevor Steven, Andy Gray, Graeme Sharp — is regularly cited as one of the finest English club sides of the modern era. European bans following Heysel cost the club a near-certain shot at the European Cup.

The Gwladys Street and Z-Cars

The Gwladys Street End, the home of Everton's most vocal supporters, became one of football's most feared home ends, with the Z-Cars television theme — adopted in 1962 as the team's pre-match entrance tune — providing the soundtrack to generations of unforgettable midweek European and FA Cup nights. The "Grand Old Team" terrace anthem and the all-blue Goodison aesthetic remained essentially unchanged across the decades.

The Long Decline and the Farewell

Everton survived in the Premier League continuously since 1992-93 — one of just six clubs to do so — but the post-Kendall years brought no further league titles, only the 1995 FA Cup. Multiple ownership changes, Farhad Moshiri's acquisition in 2016, two Profit & Sustainability points deductions, and a string of managers (Allardyce, Silva, Ancelotti, Benítez, Lampard, Dyche) characterised a long campaign of mid-table-or-worse Premier League seasons. The Friedkin Group took over from Moshiri in late 2024.

The Final Season and the Move to Bramley-Moore Dock

The 2024-25 season was Goodison Park's emotional final chapter. After 133 years, Everton relocated to the stunning new 52,769-capacity Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock on Liverpool's waterfront — the home end is among the largest single-tier stands in English football behind the south goal. The final men's first-team match at Goodison was the 2-0 home win over Southampton on 18 May 2025; the women's team will continue to play at Goodison for the foreseeable future. The Main Stand and three other Leitch-influenced structures, after one of the most extraordinary 133-year runs in football, were retained as part of the redevelopment of the surrounding Walton site into housing, community space, and a smaller stadium for Everton Women.

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

Visiting Goodison Park since the men's first team moved to Hill Dickinson Stadium in summer 2025 means a different kind of football pilgrimage — quieter than the closing matchday weekends, but with the architecture, the statues, and the memory of 133 years of football still very much intact. The ground continues to host Everton Women fixtures in the Women's Super League, and the stadium tour is now arguably the most poignant in English football.

What to Bring (for Everton Women fixtures)

⚠️ Important: Everton operates standard security measures even for Women's fixtures. 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 45-60 minutes early for relaxed entry on Women's matchdays.

Pre-Match (2-3 hours before)

The terraced streets around Goodison are quieter now without the men's first team, but the traditional pubs remain part of the pilgrimage. The Winslow (Goodison's closest pub, opposite the Main Stand) reopened after the men's move and is now a heritage destination as much as a matchday pub. The Blue House, The Thomas Frost on County Road, and The Spellow continue to serve. The famous Goodison Toffee Shop on County Road is an institution. 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 and the Z-Cars mosaic on the Bullens Road wall are the traditional photo stops.

Inside the Stadium

On Women's matchdays, gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. 'Z-Cars' still plays as teams emerge — Everton's distinctive theme since 1962, preserved for the women's fixtures. The Gwladys Street is open and atmospheric, with 'Spirit of the Blues', 'Grand Old Team', and the call-and-response Z-Cars tradition all preserved. The intimacy of the ground — never matched even by larger modern arenas — creates a remarkable atmosphere even for smaller fixtures.

Food & Drink

Concourse provision has been scaled back from Premier League levels but the matchday pie selection remains. The classic Everton Pie is still a must-try. Prices reflect Women's Super League standards (£3.50-5 for food, £4-5 for drinks). The Winslow and other surrounding pubs are now the food options of choice for most visiting supporters.

Stadium-Tour-Only Visits

For international visitors arriving outside the Women's fixture calendar, the Goodison Park Stadium Tour is the recommended way to experience the ground. Tours include access to the dressing rooms, the Main Stand interior, the Gwladys Street End, and the Dixie Dean memorabilia — preserved largely as the men's first team left them in May 2025.

After the Match

Local pubs around County Road fill with a mix of older Everton supporters reminiscing and tourists making the pilgrimage. The proximity to Anfield means you can comfortably walk between both historic grounds in 20 minutes. The waterfront and Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock are 25 minutes away by bus.

International Visitor Tips: Goodison Park is accessible by bus from Liverpool city centre (20-25 minutes) or taxi (10-15 minutes, £8-12). The ground remains a recommended visit for any football tourist coming to Liverpool — combine it with the Hill Dickinson Stadium tour at Bramley-Moore, the Anfield tour, and the city's Beatles, maritime and waterfront attractions for a full football-and-culture weekend.

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 or near the waterfront — both are 20-25 minutes by bus or taxi and give access to better restaurants and the wider city.

Liverpool Waterfront and Stanley Dock (Recommended for Football Tourists)

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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 — and now also walkable to Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. Unique industrial architecture, the Rum Warehouse event space, and a waterfront setting. The single best hotel for a Liverpool football pilgrimage that takes in all three grounds.

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The Shankly Hotel (city centre, 4 km)

Themed around Liverpool FC legend Bill Shankly but reasonably central and convenient for both Goodison and Anfield (each 15-20 minutes by taxi). Popular with football fans visiting either Merseyside club.

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Liverpool City Centre

Search hotels in Liverpool City Centre

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

Hope Street Hotel (city centre)

Boutique hotel in Liverpool's Georgian Quarter between the city's two cathedrals. Excellent The Art School restaurant nearby and one of Liverpool's finest independent hotels.

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Malmaison Liverpool (Princes Dock, 3 km)

Stylish chain hotel on the waterfront close to the Three Graces and Cunard buildings. Excellent for combining football with Albert Dock, Beatles Story and Tate Liverpool attractions.

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INNSiDE Liverpool by Meliá (Royal Albert Dock)

Modern design hotel directly on the Albert Dock with views over the river — close to all the waterfront attractions and a reasonable walk to Hill Dickinson Stadium.

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Pullman Liverpool (King's Dock)

Luxury chain hotel between the Albert Dock and the M&S Bank Arena. Strong city-break choice with proximity to the waterfront, restaurants, and football grounds.

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Our Recommendation

Stay on the Liverpool waterfront — the city offers outstanding restaurants, bars, and cultural attractions (Beatles Story, two cathedrals, Albert Dock, Tate Liverpool). The combination of Goodison Park (now a tour-and-pilgrimage destination), Hill Dickinson Stadium (Everton men's new home), and Anfield makes Liverpool the most complete English football city to visit.

The Titanic Hotel at Stanley Dock offers the best overall balance — walkable to Hill Dickinson Stadium, a short ride to Goodison and Anfield, and the most characterful accommodation. Hope Street Hotel is the boutique pick for those prioritising city culture.