For sports fanatics, there is nothing quite like football season. Although yelling at the TV can be exhilarating, there is something special about soaking in the atmosphere of a stadium on game day. Roaring fans, perfect penalties and of course, the post-game pints – nothing comes close.
Whether you’re a home or away fan, a trip to the AFC Plough Lane Stadium should certainly be on the cards. Plough Lane, which is now known as ‘The Cherry Red Records Stadium’, is located in south-west London and has been the home of AFC Wimbledon since November 2020. With an incredibly successful 13 seasons, AFC Wimbledon has gone from ninth tier all the way to third – officially making it to League One.
So, what are you waiting for? Get planning your next sports day out, and ready to cheer for ‘The Wombles’ from their home turf.
Plough Lane, or ‘The Cherry Red Records Stadium’ is located in Wimbledon, south west of London. On game day, gates open 1 hour and 20 minutes before kick-off, so there’s plenty of time for the excitement to build before the action gets underway.
Conveniently located a stone’s throw from central London, both Earlsfield and Wimbledon stations offer easy access to the stadium – so there’s no excuses as to why you can’t cheer your team on in person!
Whilst Earlsfield is within walking distance of the gates, the 493 bus takes you directly from Wimbledon station to the stadium in under 10 minutes.
There are a number of routes on our network which take you to the stadium, with direct trains from Woking, Guilford and Weybridge. Explore our full range of ticket types to find the right one for your journey. You can get cheap train tickets to AFC Wimbledon Plough Lane Stadium by booking early or going off-peak, and if you have a Railcard or if you’re travelling in a group, you could save even more.
Due to the stadium’s location within zone 3 of the London travel zones, you can travel there using a London Travelcard, Oyster Card and contactless. Also, if you are within easy access of the Northern line on the tube, you can easily walk from Tooting Broadway to the stadium.
Things to do at AFC Wimbledon
Whilst match day provides a lots of activity at this stadium, there are a whole host of activities to enjoy when visiting the AFC Wimbledon Plough Lane Stadium. From pre-game snacks to post-game pints, the grounds themselves provide the perfect day out for sports fans and family weekends alike.
Matches
Hoping to feel the buzz of victory from the very stands of the stadium? At its core, AFC Wimbledon is for the football fans, and with a huge selection of matches throughout the year – you won’t be disappointed by what’s in store. With its rise over the last number of seasons, AFC Wimbledon is host to a range of exciting games, such as Sky Bet League One, The Emirates FA Cup, and the Carabao Cup.
Tickets
Whether you’re a committed fan or just like going to the odd game or two, there are a range of different types of tickets on offer. There are discounts available for Debenture Holders and further offers available for families and under 21s. Memberships are also a great way to save money on supporting your team, and AFC Wimbledon’s he newly-devised Stadium Card gives you discounts, exclusive offers and more.
Of course, you can also purchase match tickets for games of your choice, so you can decide which games you’d like to attend throughout the season.
Want to elevate the experience? With matchday hospitality packages on offer, you can make your day out much more luxurious with incredible Platinum, Gold and Silver packages also available.
AFC Wimbledon Club Shop
Are you a true fan if you don’t have your own collection of club merchandise? Start repping your beloved Wombles after a stop at the AFC Wimbledon Club Shop.
Things to do near AFC Wimbledon
If you’re keen to get your day out started, pay a visit to Wimbledon Park on the morning of the match to walk off your post game nerves. Or if you’re looking for some pre-match grub, dig into some of the incredible offerings at the vibrant Tooting Market.
After you arrive at Earlsfield station, you’ll have the chance to wander down Garrat Lane heading towards the stadium. Here, you can find a number of places to eat and drink, with artisan café Bean & Hop on offer to satisfy your caffeine cravings or a friendly pint of bitter waiting for you at the Old Sergeant pub.
If Wimbledon is your station of choice, be sure to wander down to the Wandle Trail after the match. Although a bit further from the stadium, it is certainly worth the journey!
Family zone
If you want to make match day a family venture, there is a kids’ zone on-site at the stadium where young fans can meet Haydon (the team’s mascot & favourite Womble!) and take part in a range of fun activities. There is also a designated family seating area in Block 125 of the Ry Stand, so every member of the family can get the most from the match.
Tips for the day
Although we are all keen to get involved on match day, AFC Wimbledon Stadium can get incredibly busy! To get the most from your visit, make sure to follow our tips:
- Since there is limited parking available on-site, and roads are known to get quite congested in the area, we’d suggest taking the train instead.
- Be sure to allow for extra time to get through security and find your seats – and if you do arrive early, be sure to stop by the AFC Wimbledon Club Shop to stock up on pre-match goodies.
- Make sure to pack light! If possible, try and carry a small bag that will fit under the stadium seat so as not to block passageways or cause disruption to your fellow match attendees.
Food and drinks
Rooting for The Wombles or supporting your team on the away side can work up quite an appetite. Luckily, there are a range of food and drink stands located around the stadium for whatever you’re in the mood for.
Or, if you’ve decided on a hospitality package, there are even more dining options on offer for those in Corporate boxes or with Platinum packages. Enjoy the perks of the Networking Bar, and raise a glass to your team with your fellow fans in style!
Whether you’re looking for a pre-match snack, or have the post-match munchies, there are also a number of pubs and restaurants located in the area. If you fancy a beer, why not try All Bar One Wimbledon or cheers to a successful game at the Halfway House. If you want to head for a meal after the match, round up your friends and family for a feast at Roxie Steak or choose Al Forno to satisfy those pasta cravings.
Places to stay in and around AFC Wimbledon Plough Lane Stadium
If you’re travelling from further afield to visit the stadium, why not make a weekend of it? Whether you’re on a budget, or looking for something more luxurious, there are a range of accommodation options within easy access of the stadium.
For family friendly options, look no further than the cosy Marple Cottage Guest House, or book a room at the Antoinette Hotel to keep all the kids happy. Don’t want to break the bank? The Wimbledon Hotel has plenty of budget-friendly options, while the local Premier Inn also promises to be cost effective.
Feeling confident that your team has it in the bag? Celebrate the victory in style by staying at the Fox & Grapes Wimbledon, or get ready to crack open the champagne at the luxury Dog & Fox hotel.
AFC Wimbledon Plough Lane accessibility
AFC Wimbledon Stadium is intent on providing all fans with a brilliant matchday experience. The Club knows that disabled supporters may need extra assistance, so they have provided dedicated ambulant seating and wheelchair access for a number of stands throughout the stadium. Carers and assistance dogs are also welcomed to the grounds for those who require them.
