Introduction to the Ground
The County Ground has been the permanent home of Swindon Town FC since 1896. Located near the centre of Swindon, the stadium has hosted top-tier football, major cup ties, and international fixtures. It remains a cornerstone of the club’s identity and a symbol of its long-standing place in the Football League.
Stadium Information and Key Facts
- Capacity: 15,728
- Location: County Road, Swindon SN1 2ED
- Opened: 1896
- Tenants: Swindon Town FC
- Record Attendance: 32,000 – vs Arsenal, FA Cup (15 January 1972)
- Owner: Joint ownership between Swindon Town FC and the supporters’ trust
- First Fixture: Swindon Town vs Reading, 1896
Did You Know? The County Ground became the first Football League stadium to install floodlights in 1951.
Structure and Stand Layout
The County Ground follows a four-stand configuration. The Arkell’s Stand on the east side is the oldest structure and includes club offices, dressing rooms, and press facilities. Opposite sits the Don Rogers Stand, the largest in the stadium, with modern seating and good sightlines. The Town End is Swindon’s most vocal stand and houses core home support, while the uncovered Stratton Bank behind the opposite goal is opened for away fans or high-demand matches.
Stand-by-Stand Overview
- Arkell’s Stand: Main stand with hospitality boxes and press area; long-serving season ticket holders sit here.
- Don Rogers Stand: Largest stand, fully seated with cantilever roof; home to family sections and general home support.
- Town End: Covered end behind the goal; known for atmosphere and core Robins fans.
- Stratton Bank: Mostly uncovered; occasionally open for away supporters during higher-attendance fixtures.
Ticket Prices and Availability
Adult tickets for league fixtures are usually priced between £21 and £25, with cheaper rates available in the Town End and Stratton Bank. Concessions are offered to over-65s, students, and under-21s. Under-11s can attend for as little as £1 in designated areas. Season ticket holders benefit from reserved seating, merchandise discounts, and booking priority for away games.
Prices may increase slightly for cup matches or local derbies, but remain competitive across the EFL. The club also offers flexi-ticket bundles and group discounts.
Where and How to Buy Tickets
Tickets can be purchased through the official Swindon Town website, by phone, or in person at the County Ground ticket office. E-tickets are available for mobile use or print-at-home. The club’s loyalty scheme rewards regular buyers with priority access for key matches. For families, designated seating areas in the Don Rogers Stand provide a quieter matchday option.
Atmosphere and Matchday Experience
The County Ground is known for its traditional feel and vocal home support, especially from the Town End. The compact layout brings fans close to the pitch, with low roofing helping to enhance acoustics. Local rivalries, such as those with Oxford United, often see a marked increase in atmosphere. Facilities are basic but functional, with food kiosks and merchandise stalls positioned around the ground.
Travel and Transport Options
Swindon Railway Station is approximately a 15-minute walk from the stadium, with direct services from London, Bristol, and other major routes. By road, the ground is accessible via the M4 (Junction 15) and the A419. Matchday parking is limited but available for a fee on-site. Additional spaces can be found in council-operated car parks nearby.
Entry for Home Supporters
Home fans access the ground from multiple points. The Town End turnstiles are located off Shrivenham Road, while the Don Rogers and Arkell’s Stands can be accessed via County Road. Stewards are present around the ground to direct foot traffic. Turnstiles open 90 minutes before kick-off. Family-friendly zones are situated within the Don Rogers Stand.
Access for Away Supporters
Away fans are normally seated in the eastern section of the Arkell’s Stand, next to the Stratton Bank. Entry is via designated turnstiles on County Road, where stewards assist with crowd flow. The area is fully seated and has basic amenities. Fans arriving by train can walk to the ground in 15 minutes via Manchester Road.
Hotels Close to the County Ground
Leonardo Hotel Swindon
Modern hotel located 10 minutes from the stadium with restaurant and bar facilities.
Address: Fleming Way, Swindon SN1 2NG
Website: Leonardo Hotel Swindon
Tel: +44 1793 445600
Travelodge Swindon Central
Affordable option within walking distance, with access to city centre amenities.
Address: Princes Way, Swindon SN1 2SF
Website: Travelodge Swindon Central
Tel: +44 871 984 6485
Holiday Inn Express Swindon City Centre
Well-positioned near the train station, this hotel offers breakfast and modern rooms.
Address: Bridge Street, Swindon SN1 1BT
Website: Holiday Inn Express Swindon
Tel: +44 1793 602000
Pubs Near the Ground
The County Ground Bar
Located inside the stadium complex, open on matchdays for home fans with standard drinks and large screens.
Address: County Road, Swindon SN1 2ED
Website: Swindon Town Official
Tel: +44 1793 524524
The Tap and Barrel
Five minutes from the ground; popular with both sets of fans. Offers cask ales and matchday food.
Address: Manchester Road, Swindon SN1 1EX
Website: Tap and Barrel
Tel: +44 1793 436659
The Merlin
Greene King pub with full menu, beer garden, and screens for live football. Ten-minute walk to stadium.
Address: Drove Road, Swindon SN1 3AF
Website: The Merlin
Tel: +44 1793 520272
Current and Planned Upgrades
In 2023, Swindon Town and its supporters’ trust jointly purchased the County Ground from Swindon Borough Council. The co-ownership arrangement has laid the foundation for phased redevelopment plans aimed at modernising the stadium.
Proposals include renovating the Stratton Bank, upgrading toilet and catering facilities, and making the ground more accessible. While timelines remain unconfirmed, the project prioritises sustainability and supporter input. The intention is to improve infrastructure while maintaining the traditional matchday experience.