About Herne Bay
Herne Bay are based in Herne Bay on the north Kent coast. Nicknamed the Bay, they were established in 1886 and play at Winch's Field on Stanley Gardens.
They compete in the Isthmian League South East for the 2026/27 season. In 2025–26 they finished 13th of 22. The ground has a capacity of 3,000 with 200 seats and 1,500 under cover.
Herne Bay moved to Winch's Field in August 1953 from Memorial Park. Over 1,000 attended the inaugural match, a 2–2 draw with Tunbridge Wells.
Quick Facts
Full Name: Herne Bay Football Club
Nickname: The Bay
Founded: 1886
Stadium: Winch's Field
Capacity: 3,000
Location: Herne Bay
League: Isthmian League South East
Stadium Information
Stadium Name
Winch's Field
Address
The Crest Stadium
Winch's Field
Stanley Gardens
Herne Bay
Kent
CT6 5SG
Capacity
3,000
Opened
1953
Surface
Grass
Stadium History & Features
Herne Bay won the Kent League four times between 1991 and 2012, earning promotion to the Isthmian League. They reached the FA Vase semi-finals in 2011–12, losing to West Auckland Town.
The club won the Isthmian South East play-offs in 2021–22 to reach the Premier Division but were relegated after one season. They won four consecutive East Kent League titles between 1902 and 1906.
Away Fan Seating
No fixed away allocation is published on Wikipedia or hernebayfootballclub.co.uk. Follow stewards and any fixture notices on the day.
Getting to Winch's Field
By road
From the M2/A299, take the A291 exit signposted Canterbury and Herne Bay. Follow signs for the seafront along Canterbury Road, pass under the railway bridge and turn left into Spenser Road, then left into Stanley Gardens (hernebayfootballclub.co.uk).
By train
Herne Bay station is on a direct line to London Victoria (approximately 80 minutes). The ground is a 10-minute walk via Spenser Road (hernebayfootballclub.co.uk).
By bus
Stagecoach East Kent routes 6, 6A, 6B and 7 serve Herne Bay from Canterbury. The nearest stops are Canterbury Road (5 minutes via Spenser Road) and Herne Bay rail station (10 minutes) (hernebayfootballclub.co.uk).
Travel Tip
Limited stadium parking is available for early arrivals. A large public car park on William Street is an alternative (hernebayfootballclub.co.uk).
Parking Information
Limited parking is available at the stadium for early arrivals. Local road parking and a large car park on William Street are alternatives (hernebayfootballclub.co.uk).
Stadium and local parking
Limited on-site parking for early arrivals. A car park marshal directs parking on matchdays — do not block emergency access. William Street car park is nearby (hernebayfootballclub.co.uk).
Important Parking Advice
Use official or recommended parking where possible. Always check signs and do not block residents' driveways.
Pubs and Bars
Named pubs near the ground are not listed on Wikipedia or the club's official site. Check local listings before you travel.
Local options
Location: Herne Bay
Distance: Check before you travel
No specific pubs are named on Wikipedia or the club's official site. Use the Follow Away app and local listings for away-friendly options.
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
The clubhouse cafe operates on matchdays. Alcohol cannot be brought into the stadium (hernebayfootballclub.co.uk).
- Hot Food: Matchday kiosks where available
- Drinks: Soft drinks and, where permitted, alcohol
Near the Stadium
Herne Bay
Check local listings in Herne Bay for cafes and restaurants.
Herne Bay
Herne Bay has a range of dining options — check local listings for matchday opening times.
Need a hotel?
Staying overnight? Here are some of the highest-rated hotels near Winch's Field 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 in advance at hernebayfc.ktckts.com or at the gate using cash if capacity remains. Online sales end at kick-off or when capacity is reached.
Ticket Prices
2025/26 (hernebayfootballclub.co.uk): Adults £12 (18–65), Concessions £7 (over 65 and disability), Juniors £3 (13–17), Under 12s free (must be accompanied by an adult).
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 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 cash — check the club site.
- Respect: Be respectful to home fans, stewards and local residents.