Meadow Lane, opened in 1910, is the proud home of Notts County FC — the world’s oldest professional football club, established in 1862.
Located just across the River Trent from Nottingham Forest’s City Ground, Meadow Lane holds a capacity of 19,841 and offers a classic four-stand layout steeped in football tradition. The stadium’s compact design puts fans right on top of the action, creating an intimate and passionate matchday experience.
From the vocal Kop Stand to the iconic Derek Pavis Stand, each section reflects the club’s storied past. A visit to Meadow Lane is a step into footballing history — authentic, atmospheric, and unforgettable.
Meadow Lane Stats
With a capacity of 19,841, the Meadow Lane sits proudly in Nottingham, just a stone’s throw across the River Trent from the City Ground.
Over the decades, it has hosted legendary local derbies, memorable FA Cup clashes, and generations of loyal Magpies fans. The ground’s traditional English design and proximity to rival territory make it one of the most unique football settings in the country.
Stadium Key Facts
Capacity: 19,841
Address: Meadow Lane, Nottingham NG2 3HJ, UK
Year Opened: 1910
Home Team(s): Notts County FC
Record Attendance: 47,310 (Notts County vs York City, FA Cup, 1955)
Owner: Notts County FC
First Fixture: Notts County vs Nottingham Forest, 3 September 1910
Did You Know?
Meadow Lane and Nottingham Forest’s City Ground are just 300 metres apart — the closest professional football stadiums in England. You could kick a ball from one car park to the other (if security allowed, of course!).
Meadow Lane Design and Architecture
Meadow Lane is known for its classic four-stand layout and traditional English football architecture. The stadium has seen multiple redevelopments, with three stands built in the early 1990s, giving it a refreshed yet nostalgic look.
The Derek Pavis Stand, named after the club’s former chairman, is the main stand featuring hospitality boxes and media facilities. The Jimmy Sirrel Stand, paying homage to the legendary manager, houses passionate home fans and offers a great atmosphere.
The Family Stand and the Kop complete the bowl, creating a tight, intimate environment ideal for league football. The structure reflects both history and modern practicality.
Meadow Lane Seating Plan
Meadow Lane’s seating layout offers a traditional stadium experience with excellent sightlines from all stands. The Derek Pavis Stand runs along the west side and is the most modern section, featuring executive boxes, commentary positions, and press facilities. Opposite it is the Jimmy Sirrel Stand, a lower, older-style stand that brings fans close to the pitch and is often filled with the loudest Magpies supporters. The Family Stand sits on the southern end, offering family-friendly seating and activities for young fans. The Kop Stand, behind the northern goal, is where the more vocal home support gathers, making it the emotional heart of Meadow Lane.
The tight proximity to the pitch ensures that even from the back rows, fans are immersed in the action. Away fans are generally housed in a section of the Jimmy Sirrel Stand, with adequate amenities and stewarding to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Meadow Lane Tickets & Pricing
Meadow Lane has long been celebrated for its accessibility and fan-friendly pricing, reflecting the deep community roots of Notts County FC. As one of the oldest clubs in the world, the club has always prioritised keeping football affordable for everyone — a principle still very much alive today.
Ticket pricing at Meadow Lane is among the most reasonable in the EFL. For the 2024/25 season, adult tickets typically range from £18 to £24, depending on the stand and fixture category. Concessions (students, seniors) are available from £14, while under-12s can attend for just £1 when accompanied by an adult — part of the club’s initiative to engage the next generation of fans.
Season tickets are popular with loyal supporters and offer significant savings across the campaign. The club also runs flexible packages and occasional promotional deals, particularly for family-focused fixtures or early-round cup matches.
Demand for tickets generally remains steady, with high turnouts for local derbies, cup ties, or key promotion games. The stadium offers good accessibility, including designated areas for disabled supporters and companions, and Meadow Lane’s central location makes attending matches straightforward via public or private transport.
In short — it’s proper football at proper prices.
How to Get Meadow Lane Tickets
Tickets for Notts County matches at Meadow Lane can be purchased through the official club website, by phone, or in person at the Meadow Lane ticket office. For home games, fans are encouraged to buy in advance online to secure preferred seating and avoid queues.
Notts County offers a Black & White Army membership, which provides priority ticket access, exclusive discounts, and other benefits such as retail offers and early access to cup match sales. Fan card holders also enjoy streamlined purchasing and loyalty rewards.
For the 2024/25 season, League Two match prices range from £18–£24 for adults, £14–£18 for concessions, and just £1 for under-12s with a paying adult. Cup fixtures, like FA Cup or Carabao Cup games, are often priced lower to encourage big attendances.
Tickets for high-demand fixtures (e.g. derbies or playoffs) sell out quickly, so early booking is advised.
Matchday Atmosphere and Fan Experience
Matchday at Meadow Lane is a throwback to traditional English football — raw, passionate, and proudly local. The buzz starts early around the Trent Navigation Inn and spills into the stands, where the Kop roars from kickoff. The Jimmy Sirrel Stand bounces with chants, while the Derek Pavis Stand offers a more relaxed but deeply loyal crowd. You’ll hear the club’s rich history echoed in every song. It’s football without the frills — just atmosphere, heart, and proper pies. A must for any fan of the beautiful game.
How to Get to Meadow Lane
Meadow Lane is conveniently located just south of Nottingham city centre, making it easy to reach by public transport or car. Nottingham Train Station is only a 10-minute walk away, with direct routes from major cities like London, Sheffield, and Birmingham.
Local bus and tram services also serve the area frequently on matchdays. Drivers can use nearby pay-and-display car parks or limited on-street parking, though spaces fill quickly.
The stadium’s central location also puts it within walking distance of pubs, hotels, and the city’s main attractions, making it ideal for visiting supporters and weekend football trips.
How to Access Meadow Lane for Home Fans
Home supporters can enter Meadow Lane through clearly signposted turnstiles on Meadow Lane Road and County Road, depending on their stand. The Kop Stand and Derek Pavis Stand are the most popular for home fans, with access points along the main frontage. Gates open roughly 90 minutes before kickoff, and early arrival is recommended for smoother entry and to soak in the pre-match buzz.
Facilities are modern, with food kiosks, toilets, and accessible seating available. Disabled supporters have dedicated entry points and viewing areas. Tickets can be scanned digitally or collected from the ticket office if bought online in advance.
How to Get to Meadow Lane for Away Fans
Away fans are usually housed in the Jimmy Sirrel Stand, with entrance via County Road, close to the Cattle Market area. The turnstiles are clearly marked and stewards are on hand to assist with directions and seating. Nottingham Station is just a 10-minute walk, with a straightforward route via London Road.
Parking for away supporters is available at nearby pay-and-display car parks like Cattle Market Road or Manvers Street, though arriving early is advised. Pubs such as the Canalhouse and Southbank Bar are known to welcome visiting fans. Accessible facilities and a dedicated away section ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.
Hotels Near Meadow Lane
For those travelling to Nottingham and wishing to stay, there’s plenty to do in the city after a match. There are also some cracking hotels close to the ground, three of which we have below.
Leonardo Hotel Nottingham
Located just a 10-minute walk from Meadow Lane, Leonardo Hotel Nottingham offers modern rooms with comfortable amenities. Guests appreciate its proximity to the city centre and Nottingham Train Station, making it convenient for both matchdays and exploring the city. The hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar, providing a relaxed setting to unwind after the game.
Address: Station Street, Nottingham, NG2 3BJ
Website: Leonardo Hotel Nottingham
Telephone: +44 115 901 6700
Ibis Nottingham Centre
Situated in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market area, Ibis Nottingham Centre is approximately a 15-minute walk to Meadow Lane. This budget-friendly hotel offers clean, modern rooms and a 24-hour front desk. Its central location provides easy access to numerous bars, restaurants, and shops, enhancing your matchday experience.
Address: 16 Fletcher Gate, Nottingham, NG1 2FS
Website: Ibis Nottingham Centre
Telephone: +44 115 985 3600
Mercure Nottingham Sherwood Hotel
A short drive from Meadow Lane, the Mercure Nottingham Sherwood Hotel offers comfortable accommodations with amenities like an indoor pool, fitness centre, and on-site dining. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a bit more relaxation and leisure facilities during their stay.
Address: 296 Mansfield Road, Nottingham, NG5 2BT
Website: Mercure Nottingham Sherwood Hotel
Telephone: +44 115 935 9988
Pubs, Bars Near Meadow Lane
Whether you’re after a pre-match pint or somewhere to celebrate post-game, there are several excellent pubs and bars within walking distance of Meadow Lane. Many are popular with both home and away fans and offer great food, drinks, and football chat.
The Trent Navigation Inn
A stone’s throw from the stadium, The Trent Navigation is a matchday favourite. With its large beer garden, real ales from the Navigation Brewery, and big-screen football, it’s ideal for pre and post-match atmosphere. Often hosts live music and food trucks too.
Address: 17 Meadow Lane, Nottingham NG2 3HS
Website: https://www.navigationbrewery.com
Tel: +44 115 986 5658
The Canalhouse
Famous for having a canal running through it, The Canalhouse is a unique spot just 10 minutes from the ground. It serves a wide range of craft beers and is popular with both locals and away fans thanks to its laid-back vibe.
Address: 48–52 Canal Street, Nottingham NG1 7EH
Website: https://www.castlerockbrewery.co.uk/pubs/the-canalhouse
Tel: +44 115 955 5060
Southbank Bar – Trent Bridge
Located just over the river, Southbank Bar is a buzzing sports pub with wall-to-wall TVs, a strong beer selection, and hearty pub food. It’s especially popular on matchdays and welcomes both home and away supporters.
Address: 18 Trent Bridge, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 2GS
Website: https://www.southbankcity.co.uk
Tel: +44 115 945 5541
Updates on Meadow Lane
As of 2025, Meadow Lane continues to strike a careful balance between maintaining its historic character and evolving to meet the needs of modern football fans. While there are no major structural renovations planned, the club has been steadily improving internal facilities. Recent updates have focused on upgrading hospitality areas in the Derek Pavis Stand, modernising executive boxes, and expanding matchday catering options.
Accessibility has also seen improvements, with enhanced wheelchair viewing areas, additional disabled access points, and upgraded toilet facilities across all stands. Notts County has invested in eco-friendly initiatives, including LED floodlights and improved waste recycling systems, aiming to lower the stadium’s environmental impact.
Looking ahead, there have been discussions around introducing a fan zone outside the ground, complete with food stalls, live entertainment, and family activities to enhance the pre-match experience. Digital ticketing and stadium-wide Wi-Fi are also being rolled out gradually to modernise the matchday process.
Importantly, any upgrades are being approached with sensitivity to the club’s heritage — a priority for supporters. Rather than overhauling the ground, the focus is on thoughtful, practical improvements that preserve Meadow Lane’s traditional charm while enhancing the fan experience for future generations.