About Dover Athletic
Dover Athletic Football Club was formed in 1983 after Dover F.C. folded and has played at Crabble Athletic Ground since formation. Nicknamed the Whites, the club is based in River, a northern suburb of Dover.
They returned to National League South via the 2024–25 Isthmian League play-offs. Crabble sits in a council-owned sports complex on a hillside site; recent club materials also use the sponsored name Megger Community Stadium.
Quick Facts
Full Name: Dover Athletic Football Club
Nickname: The Whites
Founded: 1983
Stadium: Crabble Athletic Ground
Capacity: 6,500
Location: Dover
League: National League South
Stadium Information
Stadium Name
Crabble Athletic Ground
Address
Lewisham Road
River
Dover
Kent
CT17 0JB
Capacity
6,500
Opened
1931
Surface
Grass
Stadium History & Features
Sports use of the Crabble site dates to 1897; the upper football ground was built in 1931. Wikipedia lists capacity figures of 6,500 (about 2,010 seats) and also cites a modern capacity of 5,745 — confirm with the club if needed.
Floodlights were installed in 1961. The clubhouse was redeveloped in 2008 and a family stand added in 2016.
Away Fan Seating
A fixed away-end allocation is not stated on the official visit page. Covered terraces sit behind both goals with a Main Stand and Family Stand — follow stewards on the day.
Getting to Crabble Athletic Ground
By Train
Kearsney is the closest station (about 10–15 minutes’ walk). Dover Priory is about 2 miles away (bus or taxi advised). From Kearsney walk along Lower Road past Crabble Corn Mill; the Cricketers pub is a landmark before the ground entrance (official visit page).
By Car
From the M25 take the M2/A2 towards Dover. At Whitfield roundabout follow local signs to Lewisham Road, River (official visit page).
Travel Tip
Kearsney is usually the better rail option than Dover Priory. Check doverathletic.com.
Parking Information
There is no supporter parking inside the ground. Parking is available at the adjacent rugby ground inside the main entrance; stewards direct traffic.
Adjacent Rugby Ground
Park at the rugby ground inside the main entrance as directed by stewards. No supporter parking inside the football ground itself.
Important Parking Advice
Use official or recommended parking where possible. Always check signs and do not block residents’ driveways.
Pubs and Bars
The Cricketers is named as a landmark on the walk from Kearsney. Other named pubs are not listed on Wikipedia or the club visit page.
Cricketers
Location: Near Crabble, River
Distance: On the walk from Kearsney station
Named as a walking landmark on the club’s official Visit Crabble page.
Pub Tips for Away Fans
Be respectful and follow any steward or pub instructions. Policies can change by fixture.
Food and Dining Options
Inside the Stadium
Clubhouse facilities are referenced on club contact pages; confirm matchday catering on doverathletic.com.
- Hot Food: Matchday kiosks where available
- Drinks: Soft drinks and, where permitted, alcohol
Near the Stadium
Dover
Check local listings in Dover for cafes and restaurants. Named venues are only listed here when given on Wikipedia or the club site.
Dover
Dover has a range of dining options — check local listings for opening times on matchdays.
Need a hotel?
Staying overnight? Here are some of the highest-rated hotels near Crabble Athletic Ground on Google. For more options, get more venues on the Follow Away App.
Get more venues on the Follow Away App to find hotels and places to stay near the ground.
Ticket Information
Buying Tickets
Buy through official club channels. Confirm arrangements on doverathletic.com or via your club.
Ticket Prices
Confirm current prices with the club or your ticket office.
Important Ticket Information
- Prefer official club channels or your own club’s ticket office
- Photo ID may be required for collection or entry
- Never buy from touts or unofficial sources
- Check sale dates and any segregation notices before you travel
Matchday Tips for Away Fans
Before the Match
- Arrive Early: Allow time for travel, parking and security checks.
- Transport: Check rail and bus operators for any matchday changes.
At the Stadium
- Security: Bags may be searched; allow time at the turnstiles.
- Seating: Follow stewards to the correct home or away area for the fixture.
- Facilities: Toilets and kiosks are usually in the concourses or clubhouse.
After the Match
- Exiting: There may be a short hold-back. Follow steward instructions.
- Transport: Allow extra time for the journey back.
General Advice
- Cash & Cards: Many grounds accept contactless; some still prefer or require cash — check the club site.
- Respect: Be respectful to home fans, stewards and local residents.
