A Guide for Every Fan ⚽🏟️
It’s matchday in Newcastle upon Tyne, and the streets are buzzing. Fans flood into St James’ Park, black-and-white scarves wrapped tightly around their necks. The pub doors swing open, chants spill onto the pavement, and you can almost taste the excitement in the air. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a first-time visitor, a Newcastle United matchday is an experience like no other.
Want to make the most of your visit? From where to sit and what to eat to matchday traditions and transport tips, this guide covers everything you need to know before heading to St James’ Park.
The Build-Up: Matchday Atmosphere in Newcastle 🎶🍻
One thing is certain—Newcastle loves its football. On a matchday, the entire city transforms. From early afternoon, the streets fill with chanting fans, packed-out pubs, and a buzz that’s impossible to ignore.
🔹 The Bigg Market & Grainger Street – Pubs spill over with fans getting in the mood before the game.
🔹 The Gallowgate & Strawberry Place – Right next to the stadium, where the excitement reaches fever pitch.
🔹 Grey Street & Quayside – A bit more relaxed but still buzzing with pre-match anticipation.
If you want the full Newcastle matchday experience, head to a local pub before the game. Here are some fan favourites:
🍺 Shearer’s Bar (inside the stadium) – Named after Alan Shearer, it’s the go-to for pre-game drinks.
🍺 The Strawberry – A legendary pub just outside the stadium, filled with NUFC memorabilia.
🍺 Tilley’s Bar – Great for craft beer lovers who want a break from the usual matchday lagers.
🍺 The Trent House – A classic Geordie pub with football playing on the screens.
📢 Tip: Arrive early! Newcastle fans take their pre-match rituals seriously, and pubs fill up fast.
Getting to St James’ Park 🚆🚌🚶♂️
Luckily, St James’ Park is one of the most accessible stadiums in the UK, sitting right in the city centre.
🚇 By Metro – The St James’ Metro Station (Yellow Line) is right outside the stadium. Alternatively, Monument Station (a 5-minute walk) has connections to both the Yellow and Green lines.
🚌 By Bus – Newcastle’s Eldon Square Bus Station and Haymarket Bus Station are both within walking distance.
🚶♂️ By Foot – If you’re already in Newcastle City Centre, you’re never more than 10–15 minutes away.
🚗 By Car – Parking can be tricky, but options include:
- Eldon Square Car Park (£7 for 4 hours)
- Dean Street Car Park (£4 for evening matches)
- NCP Car Parks (City Centre)
📢 Tip: Newcastle gets very busy on matchdays. If possible, use public transport to avoid traffic headaches.
Where to Sit in St James’ Park 🏟️🔍
St James’ Park is a 52,305-seat cauldron of noise, and every stand has its own unique atmosphere.
The Best Stand for…
🎶 Passionate Atmosphere – The Gallowgate End (behind the goal) is where the loudest and most dedicated fans sit. Expect non-stop chanting!
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Experience – The East Stand is quieter and offers a great view of the entire pitch.
📸 Best View – Milburn Stand (Level 7) offers panoramic views, though it’s a steep climb.
💰 Budget-Friendly Seats – The Leazes End (Upper Tier) offers some of the cheapest tickets, but it’s far from the pitch.
🎟️ Matchday Ticket Prices (Approximate)
- Premium seats: £50-£60
- Standard seats: £30-£45
- Concession tickets: £15-£25
📢 Tip: For big matches, tickets sell out fast! Buy in advance via the Newcastle United website.
What to Eat & Drink Inside St James’ Park 🌭🍻
Once inside, you’ll find classic stadium food—but if you want the best pre-match grub, grab something before heading in.
🍔 Inside the Stadium
- NUFC Steak & Ale Pie – A Geordie staple! (£4.50)
- Hot Dogs & Burgers – Classic matchday food (£5-£6)
- Beer – John Smith’s, Foster’s & Heineken available (£5.50/pint)
🍽️ Nearby Food Spots
- Fat Hippo (burgers) 🍔 – 10 mins from the stadium
- Pani’s Café (Italian) 🍝 – Great pre-game pasta
- Greggs 🥪 – For the ultimate Geordie experience, grab a sausage roll
📢 Tip: If you’re after quick food, grab something before entering—stadium queues can get long.
Matchday Traditions & What to Expect 🎵🏴🏳️
A Newcastle United match is more than just 90 minutes of football—it’s a ritual.
🎶 The Blaydon Races – Sung just before kickoff, this classic Geordie folk song sets the tone.
🏴☠️ Gallowgate Flags – Huge black-and-white flags waved before the match, creating an incredible visual.
📢 The Roar of the Toon Army – Newcastle fans are known for out-singing the away supporters—so join in!
Expect non-stop chanting, dramatic celebrations, and an atmosphere that makes every match feel special.
📢 Tip: Stay until the end—Newcastle fans don’t leave early, no matter the score!
Post-Match: Where to Celebrate (or Drown Your Sorrows!) 🍻🎉
🔹 Victory? Head to…
- The Strawberry 🍻 – Right outside St James’ Park, it’s always packed with celebrating fans.
- Shearer’s Bar 🎶 – Inside the stadium, great for post-match drinks.
- The Akenside Traders 🎵 – Lively pub near the Quayside, perfect for late-night celebrations.
🔹 Lost the match? Head to…
- Pumphreys 🍷 – A quiet escape if you need a break from football chat.
- Dat Bar 🍹 – Craft beers & cocktails for those avoiding sports talk.
📢 Tip: Newcastle’s nightlife is legendary—win or lose, the city keeps the party going.