About Sunderland

Sunderland Association Football Club was formed in 1879 and moved to the Stadium of Light in 1997. The Black Cats have a proud history and one of the largest grounds in the country, with a capacity of over 48,000.

The Stadium of Light is in Sunderland, close to the city centre and the River Wear. Away fans are housed in the north stand with good views and dedicated concourse facilities.

Quick Facts

Full Name: Sunderland Association Football Club

Nickname: The Black Cats

Founded: 1879

Stadium: Stadium of Light

Capacity: 48,707

Location: Sunderland

League: Championship

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Stadium Information

Stadium Name

Stadium of Light

Address

Stadium of Light

Sunderland

SR5 1SU

Capacity

48,707

Opened

1997

Pitch Dimensions

105m x 68m

Surface

Grass

Stadium History & Features

The Stadium of Light opened in 1997, replacing Roker Park. The stadium has four stands and is one of the largest in English football. Away fans are located in the north stand with good views of the pitch.

Away Fan Seating

Away supporters are allocated seating in the north stand. Allocations vary by fixture; typically around 3,000 for league matches. Views are good and concourse facilities are available behind the away section.

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Getting to the Stadium of Light

By Metro

Stadium of Light Metro station (Tyne and Wear Metro) is adjacent to the ground on the Green line. Services run from Newcastle Central, South Hylton, and other stops. The Metro is the most convenient way to reach the stadium.

By Train

Sunderland station is the main rail hub, about a 15–20 minute walk from the Stadium of Light. Alternatively, take the Metro from Sunderland to Stadium of Light. Services run from Newcastle, Durham, and other cities.

By Bus

Several bus routes serve the Stadium of Light from Sunderland city centre and the surrounding area. Check Go North East and other operators for matchday services.

Travel Tip

The Metro to Stadium of Light is the most practical option. Allow plenty of time before and after the match as the station gets busy.

Real-Time Travel Updates

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Parking Information

Parking around the Stadium of Light is limited. The club advises using the Metro or official park-and-walk options. Do not park on residential streets without checking restrictions.

Official Parking

Limited official parking may be available; check the club's website. Blue Badge holders should contact the club for accessible parking.

Street Parking

Residential streets near the ground have restrictions. Do not park without checking signs; enforcement is in place.

Important Parking Advice

Use the Metro to Stadium of Light or official park-and-walk. Do not park on residential streets without a valid permit.

Pubs and Bars

Sunderland city centre has a range of pubs and bars; the area around the Stadium of Light is more limited. Above we show some highly rated venues nearby; get more on the Follow Away App.

Pubs near the stadium

Location: Sunderland city centre, approaches to ground

Distance: 5–20 minutes' walk / Metro

Several pubs serve the city centre and approaches to the ground. Many away fans drink in the city before taking the Metro to Stadium of Light. Policies vary; check before you go.

Pub Tips for Away Fans

Sunderland city centre is a popular base. Take the Metro to Stadium of Light closer to kick-off. Be respectful and follow any steward or pub instructions.

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Food and Dining Options

Inside the Stadium

The Stadium of Light has food and drink kiosks in the concourses. Options include hot food, pies, burgers, snacks, and soft and alcoholic drinks. Contactless payment is widely accepted.

  • Pies & Hot Food: Standard matchday hot food
  • Burgers & Snacks: Available at concourse kiosks
  • Soft Drinks & Hot Beverages: Tea, coffee, and soft drinks
  • Alcohol: Beer and other drinks (ID may be required)

Near the Stadium

Around the ground

Fast food and takeaways on the main roads. Limited options; many fans eat in Sunderland city centre.

Sunderland City Centre

A range of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Popular with away fans for pre and post-match.

Sunderland City Centre

Sunderland city centre offers a range of dining options. Many away fans eat or drink in the city before taking the Metro to the Stadium of Light.

Need a hotel?

Staying overnight? Here are some of the highest-rated hotels near Stadium of Light 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

Away tickets for the Stadium of Light are sold through your club's official ticket office. Allocations vary by fixture; typically around 3,000 for league matches. Check your club for sale dates and loyalty criteria.

Ticket Prices

Prices are set by Sunderland and communicated via your club. Confirm with your club for exact prices and concessions.

Important Ticket Information

  • Tickets are sold only through your club's official channels
  • Photo ID may be required for collection or entry
  • Never buy from touts or unofficial sources
  • Check your club for sale dates and loyalty requirements

Matchday Tips for Away Fans

Before the Match

  • Arrive Early: Allow time for Metro and security. Stadium of Light station gets busy.
  • Transport: Check Nexus for any Metro service changes on matchdays.

At the Stadium

  • Security: Bags may be searched; allow time at the turnstiles.
  • Seating: Away fans are in the north stand. Follow stewards' directions.
  • Facilities: Toilets and kiosks are in the concourses behind the away section.

After the Match

  • Exiting: There may be a short hold-back. Follow steward instructions.
  • Transport: Metro queues can be long. Consider waiting in the city centre.

General Advice

  • Cash & Cards: Contactless is widely accepted.
  • Respect: Be respectful to home fans and stewards.

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