Brentford travel to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest in the opening weekend of the Premier League season, with kickoff scheduled for 2pm BST on Sunday. The match will be shown in the UK on Sky Sports.
If you’re heading to Nottingham this weekend, here’s everything you need to know to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Minute’s silence
There will be a minute’s silence before kick-off at every Premier League fixture this weekend in memory of brothers Diogo Jota and André Silva.
Getting there by train
Direct trains from London to Nottingham operate every 30 minutes from London St Pancras International, taking about 90 minutes. An alternative route is to travel from King’s Cross and change at Grantham, which takes just over two hours in total. The last direct train back to St Pancras leaves Nottingham at 21:09 and the return journey can take around two hours. Return tickets can sell out, so booking in advance is advised.
From the station to the ground
Upon arrival at Nottingham station, you can reach the City Ground on foot in about 20 minutes by following signs toward Trent Bridge Cricket Ground. If you’d prefer not to walk, buses 5 through to 11 stop near the ground and some stops are near the station. Check Nottingham City Transport’s website for services that suit your timing.
Traveling by car
If you’re driving, exit the M1 at junctions 24 or 26 and follow signs for NG2 5FJ. Parking around the City Ground is very limited on matchdays, with priority given to home supporters. The official parking is priced at £10 per car and operates on a first come, first served basis.
Brentford fans who drive are advised to use the home club’s approved pay-and-display car parks:
– Meadow Lane (Notts County FC, NG2 3HJ)
– County Hall (NG2 7QP)
– Cattle Market (NG2 3GY)
– Lady Bay Sports Ground (NG2 5AA)
Accessibility parking details can be arranged by contacting the club.
Ticketing and collection
The away ticket office is located next to the away section, and ticket collection opens 90 minutes before kick-off. If you need duplicate tickets, these requests should be directed to Nottingham Forest by Brentford’s box office. Please bring photo ID when collecting at the ground.
Accessibility on matchday
There are limited accessible parking spaces at the City Ground; to book, contact accessibility@brentfordfc.com. These spaces operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The stadium provides multiple wheelchair bays and seating for ambulant supporters in the away section. Note that away fans’ toilets are not available in the away section; these facilities are in the home areas, so you’ll need to speak to a steward if you require access. Free audio descriptive commentary is available to all fans and can be booked by emailing accessibility@nottinghamforest.co.uk.
What to expect on the day
The Nest (Iremonger Road, NG2 3HU), adjacent to Meadow Lane, is a 10-minute walk from the ground and opens exclusively to away ticket holders from 10am. It includes a bar and on-site food vendors before and after the match.
Nearby pubs and city life
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, a short stroll from the city centre, is a popular attraction near the venue. There are plenty of other food and drink options in the city centre, but venues reserve the right to refuse entry to away supporters at their discretion.
Away section and turnstiles
The away section is in the Bridgford Stand, with turnstiles opening 90 minutes before kick-off.
Where to stay
If you’re planning an overnight stay in Nottingham, there are several budget-friendly options in the city centre, including Ibis, Premier Inn, Travelodge and Crowne Plaza.
A few practical tips
– Plan your travel early and book any necessary trains in advance, especially the last direct service back to London.
– Bring photo ID for ticket collection and check your ticket details before you travel.
– If you require accessibility services, contact the club’s accessibility team well ahead of your trip.
– Arrive with enough time to navigate security, queues, and stadium procedures.
Have a safe journey and enjoy the match!