Bournemouth tickets

Main Football Stadiums in Bournemouth

The Vitality Stadium, still known to many fans by its original name Dean Court, serves as the home of AFC Bournemouth. Located in Kings Park within the Boscombe suburb, approximately 1.5 miles east of Bournemouth town centre, this compact venue holds 11,307 spectators, making it comfortably the smallest stadium in Premier League history.

Built in 1910 on the site of an old gravel pit, the stadium underwent complete reconstruction in 2001, with the pitch rotated 90 degrees from its original position. The modern four-stand configuration consists of the Vitality Main Stand (north), Ted MacDougall Stand (south), East Stand, and West Stand. Each stand is single-tiered, contributing to the ground's distinctive character and creating excellent sightlines throughout. The record attendance of 28,799 was set in 1957 during an FA Cup tie against Manchester United, back when standing terraces allowed for much larger crowds.

Despite its modest size, the Vitality Stadium creates an electric atmosphere on match days. The intimate setting means fans sit remarkably close to the pitch, creating an intensity rarely found in modern Premier League venues. The stadium gained its current sponsored name in July 2015 through a partnership with the British health insurance company Vitality.

Exciting times lie ahead for the ground. AFC Bournemouth have submitted planning permission for a £90 million expansion that will increase capacity to approximately 20,200 seats by summer 2027, with potential to grow to 23,000. The project involves demolishing the South Stand and replacing it with a new 7,000-capacity structure, filling in all four corners, and expanding the North and East Stands. Remarkably, construction is planned to allow the stadium to remain operational throughout the football season, with major work scheduled during the summer break.

Getting Around Bournemouth to the Stadium

As Bournemouth has just one major football stadium, transport considerations focus on reaching the Vitality Stadium from various parts of the town. The compact nature of Bournemouth makes stadium access relatively straightforward, though planning ahead for match days is essential due to the ground's limited capacity and surrounding residential areas.

From Bournemouth town centre, the stadium is approximately 1.5 miles east, a 30-minute walk along Holdenhurst Road through pleasant suburban streets. Most visiting fans choose faster alternatives. Yellow Buses operate services from the town centre and Bournemouth train station, with the m2 and U1 routes passing close to the stadium. More Bus Wilts & Dorset also run services from surrounding areas including Poole, Lymington, and Salisbury. On match days, buses can take approximately 15-20 minutes from the town centre depending on traffic.

The nearest train station is Pokesdown, though not all services stop there. It's about a 15-minute walk to the stadium - exit right from the station, head toward Boscombe, turn right into Gloucester Road, and follow it into Kings Park where the ground becomes visible. Bournemouth Central Station, the main terminus, is approximately 2.5 miles west of the stadium and requires either a 25-minute walk or bus connection.

Taxis and ride-sharing services from Bournemouth train station take approximately 10 minutes to reach the stadium in normal traffic conditions, costing around £7-10. On match days, expect longer journey times and consider being dropped off slightly away from the immediate stadium area to avoid congestion. The A338 provides the main road access, with brown directional signs guiding drivers once close to Kings Park. Street parking in the residential areas surrounding the stadium is limited and often restricted on match days, making public transport or official car parks the preferred options.

Distance from Bournemouth Airport to Stadium

Bournemouth Airport (BOH), located approximately 7 kilometers north of the town centre in Hurn, provides convenient access for international visitors. The airport primarily serves European destinations and offers a more relaxed alternative to London's major hubs.

The distance from Bournemouth Airport to the Vitality Stadium is approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles). The Yellow Buses 737 Jetbus provides direct service from the airport to Bournemouth town centre, operating every 20 minutes during peak times. The journey to the town centre takes approximately 25-30 minutes and costs around £5-7 for a single ticket. From there, connecting services reach the stadium area in an additional 15-20 minutes.

Taxis from Bournemouth Airport directly to the Vitality Stadium take approximately 20-25 minutes depending on traffic and cost between £20-30. Uber and other ride-sharing services operate from the airport at similar price points. Pre-booking is recommended during match days to ensure availability.

For visitors flying into larger airports, Southampton Airport (SOU) sits 52 kilometers (32 miles) northeast of Bournemouth and offers extensive domestic and European connections. From Southampton Airport Parkway railway station, direct trains to Bournemouth run every 30 minutes, taking 45 minutes and costing £7-18. From Bournemouth station, it's then a short bus ride or taxi to the stadium. London Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted airports all connect to Bournemouth via coach services or train connections through London, though journey times extend to 3-4 hours.

Airport	Distance to Stadium	Train Time	Taxi Time	Approx Taxi Cost
Bournemouth (BOH)	11 km	N/A (bus 45 min)	20-25 min	£20-30
Southampton (SOU)	65 km	45 min + 10 min	50 min	£80-100

When to Visit Bournemouth for Football

The English Premier League season typically runs from mid-August through late May, with matches played primarily on weekends and occasional midweek fixtures. The 2024-25 season began on August 17, 2024, and concluded on May 25, 2025, following this established pattern. Bournemouth play 19 home matches during each Premier League campaign at the Vitality Stadium.

The football calendar follows a predictable rhythm. August through December features regular weekend fixtures, with a particularly busy December schedule traditionally including matches over the Christmas and New Year period. The league takes a brief mid-winter break in January, typically lasting one to two weeks. February through May sees the season's conclusion, with fixtures becoming increasingly crucial as teams battle for European qualification, mid-table security, or survival from relegation.

The most sought-after matches at Bournemouth involve visits from the Premier League's traditional powerhouses. Fixtures against Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Tottenham generate exceptional atmosphere and typically require earlier booking. The south coast meeting with Southampton, Bournemouth's nearest rival, creates particularly intense occasions and usually takes place twice per season. Brighton, Portsmouth (when in the same division), and Reading also represent regional rivalry matches worth experiencing.

Cup competitions add extra excitement to the fixture list. The FA Cup runs from January through May, with third-round ties traditionally played in early January bringing potential giant-killing opportunities. The EFL Cup (Carabao Cup) begins in August with rounds progressing through to the February final. Bournemouth's cup runs have included memorable ties, though fixtures depend on progression through each round.

For the best match-day atmosphere, target October through April when the season reaches its most intense phases. Avoid international breaks (typically occurring in September, October, November, and March) when league fixtures pause for national team commitments. Check the official Premier League fixtures page or Livefootballtickets.com's schedule for specific match dates, as fixtures can be moved for television coverage, often with just a few weeks' notice.

How to Get Football Tickets for Bournemouth

Securing tickets for AFC Bournemouth matches through Livefootballtickets.com offers international visitors a reliable, straightforward booking experience. The Vitality Stadium's limited 11,307 capacity means matches regularly sell out, particularly against high-profile opponents, making advance booking essential rather than optional.

The booking process is designed for simplicity. Browse available Bournemouth fixtures on the website, select your preferred match, and choose from several ticket categories. Standard tickets provide excellent views throughout the compact stadium, while premium options include enhanced seating positions in the Main Stand or East Stand. Hospitality packages offer the full match-day experience with pre-match dining, premium seating, and executive lounge access - ideal for special occasions or corporate entertainment.

Ticket prices typically range from £34 to £54 for standard admission, depending on seat location rather than opposition quality (Bournemouth don't operate a category pricing system like many clubs). Hospitality packages start from approximately £150-200 and scale upward based on included amenities. These prices reflect current market rates and may adjust seasonally.

Booking timelines matter significantly at Bournemouth. For matches against top-six opponents (Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham), book 4-6 weeks in advance to guarantee availability. Mid-table Premier League fixtures generally require 2-3 weeks advance booking. Less high-profile matches against newly-promoted teams might be available closer to match day, though waiting risks missing out entirely given the small capacity.

Your booking includes guaranteed seat allocation within the specified stand, with exact seat numbers confirmed upon purchase. Tickets are delivered electronically or via courier depending on your location and timing. Livefootballtickets.com handles the complexities of international booking, currency conversion, and delivery logistics. The service includes customer support for any questions about your booking, delivery, or match-day arrangements.

Cancellation and exchange policies vary depending on when you book and the specific fixture. Review terms carefully during purchase, as last-minute changes become increasingly difficult to accommodate. Match postponements or rescheduling (occasionally necessary for television coverage or cup competitions) are handled according to official club policies, with alternative dates offered.

One important consideration: some matches have membership requirements through AFC Bournemouth's official channels, but tickets through Livefootballtickets.com bypass this barrier, providing access to international fans without requiring club membership registration.

Stadium Experience & Fan Culture in Bournemouth

The Vitality Stadium's intimate atmosphere represents one of its defining characteristics. With just 11,307 fans creating the noise, the compact bowl amplifies support in ways larger grounds cannot match. Home supporters occupy the Main Stand, West Stand, and portions of the East Stand, generating passionate backing throughout matches. The North Stand houses many of the club's most vocal supporters' groups, creating an authentic football atmosphere.

Away fans are allocated approximately 1,500-2,000 tickets in the South Stand section of the East Stand, positioned in one corner of the ground. The proximity to home supporters and pitch-side action creates an engaging experience. Safety is generally excellent - Bournemouth's family-friendly reputation extends to respectful treatment of visiting supporters. The club actively promotes a welcoming environment, and incidents of trouble are rare.

Pre-match traditions in Bournemouth blend seaside town charm with football excitement. Many fans gather in pubs around the town centre before walking or taking buses to the stadium. The seafront, just a short distance from the ground, provides an appealing pre-match destination in decent weather. Arrive at the stadium at least 30-45 minutes before kick-off to soak in the atmosphere, browse the club shop, and settle into your seat comfortably.

Food and drink inside the stadium offer standard British football fare - pies, burgers, hot dogs, and chips, alongside beer, soft drinks, and tea or coffee. Prices are typical for Premier League venues (£4-6 for pies, £5-6 for beer). Quality is acceptable rather than exceptional, with many visitors preferring to eat beforehand in Bournemouth's numerous restaurants and pubs.

The singing and chanting culture at Bournemouth reflects traditional English football support. "We're on Our Way" serves as the primary club anthem, belted out regularly throughout matches. Expect plenty of call-and-response chants, player-specific songs, and the standard Premier League repertoire. The atmosphere intensifies during tight matches or against significant opponents.

Regarding colours, Bournemouth play in red and black stripes, so wearing these colours shows support for the home team. Neutral fans can wear anything comfortable, though avoiding opposition team colours in home areas shows good judgment. The stadium accommodates families well, with designated family sections available and a generally positive environment for younger supporters.

Planning a Football Weekend in Bournemouth

Bournemouth offers the rare combination of Premier League football and seaside resort attractions, making it ideal for a full weekend experience rather than just a match-day visit. The town's seven miles of golden sandy beaches provide the headline attraction, remaining enjoyable even during the football season's cooler months. The Victorian pier, arcades, and promenade offer classic British seaside entertainment.

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly to luxury. Staying near Bournemouth town centre provides easy access to restaurants, nightlife, and transport connections to the stadium. Popular areas include the town centre itself, Boscombe (closer to the stadium), and the West Cliff area. Hotels like the Hilton Bournemouth, Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott, and Cumberland Hotel offer established quality, while numerous independent hotels and B&Bs provide character and value. Expect to pay £60-120 per night for mid-range options, more during peak summer months. Booking near Pokesdown station or Boscombe places you within walking distance of the Vitality Stadium.

A typical football weekend might start with Friday evening arrival and exploration of Bournemouth's town centre, with its shopping areas and dining options. Saturday brings the main event - arrive early to experience the pre-match atmosphere, watch the game, then enjoy post-match drinks in town. Many supporters head to the Triangle area or around Bournemouth Square, where numerous pubs and bars create a lively evening scene. Sunday provides opportunities to explore beyond football. The New Forest National Park lies just inland, offering stunning natural beauty and picturesque villages. Christchurch, immediately east of Bournemouth, features historic priory ruins and riverside walks. For those interested, the Jurassic Coast (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) stretches westward from Bournemouth, with dramatic cliffs and fossil-hunting beaches.

Restaurant options span all budgets and cuisines. The town centre concentrates most dining choices. For traditional British food, try West Beach or Urban Reef (both seafront locations with excellent views). Bournemouth's multicultural character means Indian, Italian, Chinese, Thai, and Middle Eastern restaurants abound. Near the stadium, options thin out in the residential areas, so plan to eat in town before heading to the match.

The New Forest is accessible by car in 30 minutes or through organized tours. Christchurch is reachable via bus in 20 minutes. Corfe Castle and the Isle of Purbeck offer dramatic scenery and history about 30 minutes drive southwest. These day-trip options complement the football experience, particularly if you're making a longer stay.

Best Nearby Cities for Additional Matches

Bournemouth's location on England's south coast positions it perfectly for football-focused regional tours. Three major football cities sit within comfortable traveling distance, each offering compelling fixtures and distinct football cultures.

Southampton lies just 39 kilometers (24 miles) northeast of Bournemouth, making it the closest major football destination. Direct trains run every 30 minutes from Bournemouth to Southampton Central, taking just 31 minutes and costing £7-22. Southampton FC play at St Mary's Stadium, a modern 32,505-capacity venue that opened in 2001. The Saints currently compete in the Championship (England's second tier as of 2024-25) after relegation from the Premier League, though they remain one of the south's most established clubs with a proud history. The Southampton-Bournemouth rivalry adds extra spice to fixtures when both clubs compete in the same division. A day trip works perfectly - catch a morning train, explore Southampton's historic waterfront and maritime museums, watch an afternoon match, and return the same evening.

Portsmouth sits 56 kilometers (35 miles) east of Bournemouth, about 90 minutes by a combination of train connections via Southampton. Portsmouth FC play at Fratton Park, a traditional 20,688-capacity ground opened in 1899 that drips with football heritage. Currently in League One (third tier), Portsmouth boast a passionate fanbase and historic rivalries, particularly the fierce south coast derby with Southampton. The city's naval heritage provides fascinating context - the Historic Dockyard houses HMS Victory and the Mary Rose. Portsmouth's compact size makes it manageable for a day trip, though an overnight stay allows fuller exploration of both football and maritime history.

Brighton sits 122 kilometers (76 miles) east along the coast, approximately 2.5 hours by train with one change, typically at Southampton. Brighton & Hove Albion play at the Amex Stadium, a stunning 31,800-capacity modern arena opened in 2011 that ranks among England's best new grounds. The Seagulls currently punch above their weight in the Premier League, regularly competing for European qualification. Brighton itself combines seaside resort charm with bohemian culture, featuring the Royal Pavilion, vibrant North Laine shopping district, and legendary music scene. The longer journey makes this better suited to an overnight stay, creating a two-city football weekend pairing Bournemouth and Brighton matches.

For the truly dedicated, London's multiple Premier League clubs lie roughly 150 kilometers (95 miles) northeast, about 2 hours by direct train to London Waterloo. This opens possibilities for combining Bournemouth with matches at Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea, West Ham, Crystal Palace, Fulham, or Brentford, though this requires more complex planning.

Travel Tips for Visiting Fans in Bournemouth

Currency and payment considerations are straightforward in Bournemouth. The British pound sterling (£) is used throughout, with £1 approximately equal to €1.20 or $1.27 (rates fluctuate). Contactless payment is widely accepted and preferred - most pubs, restaurants, shops, and transport services accept contactless cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Cash remains useful for smaller vendors and tipping, though less essential than previously. ATMs are readily available throughout the town centre.

Language poses minimal challenges. English is spoken throughout, with the local Dorset accent generally mild and easily understood. Basic English suffices for most interactions, and service staff in tourist-facing businesses typically accommodate international visitors patiently.

Public transport in Bournemouth operates on a simple system. Yellow Buses dominate local routes, with More Bus Wilts & Dorset covering wider regional areas. Day rider tickets (around £4-10 depending on zones) provide unlimited bus travel and represent good value if making multiple journeys. The m2 bus route is particularly useful, connecting Poole, Bournemouth town centre, and areas near the stadium. Bus drivers accept contactless payment, and on match days showing your football ticket may secure discounted fares. Trains to nearby cities (Southampton, Portsmouth) operate frequently through South Western Railway.

Weather preparation is crucial regardless of season. Bournemouth enjoys relatively mild south coast weather, but English weather remains unpredictable. October through March brings cooler temperatures (5-15°C), frequent rain, and occasional wind. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable walking shoes. Summer months (June-August) average 15-22°C but can surprise with cooler, wet days. The Vitality Stadium is uncovered seating throughout, so rain gear matters for comfort. Evening matches in winter can be particularly cold - thermal layers help.

Mobile phone service is excellent throughout Bournemouth on all major UK networks (EE, O2, Vodafone, Three). EU visitors can typically use their plans without additional charges. North American and other international visitors should check roaming costs or consider purchasing a UK SIM card at the airport or in town. Free WiFi is available in many cafes, pubs, and hotels, though quality varies.

Tipping culture in the UK is more modest than North America. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is standard for good service, often added automatically to bills as a "service charge" (check before adding more). Taxi drivers appreciate rounding up to the nearest pound or adding 10%. Bartenders don't expect tips for each drink, though leaving small change or buying them a drink ("and one for yourself") after good service is appreciated.

Safety in Bournemouth is generally excellent. The town sees typical seaside resort crowds but remains safe for visitors. Normal urban awareness applies - watch belongings in busy areas, avoid poorly lit areas alone late at night, and stay aware of surroundings. Match days see increased police presence ensuring safety. Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) are reached by dialing 999 or 112.

Bournemouth Football History & Rivalries

Football's arrival in Bournemouth came relatively late compared to northern industrial towns. Founded as Boscombe FC in 1899, the club represented the growing south coast resort town's aspirations. The name change to Bournemouth & Boscombe Athletic in 1923 coincided with election to the Football League's newly expanded Third Division South. Another name change to the current AFC Bournemouth followed in 1971, with the "AFC" letters deliberately chosen to ensure alphabetical listing ahead of Arsenal and Aston Villa in league tables - a bit of cheeky branding that remains.

For decades, Bournemouth languished in football's lower divisions. They spent 35 consecutive years in the Third Division South following their league entry, establishing a reputation as a reliable but unspectacular lower-league club. The 1946 Third Division South Cup triumph represented their first major honor. Relegation to the Fourth Division in 1970 marked a low point, though immediate promotion began a pattern of yo-yoing between the third and fourth tiers.

The club's most famous moment before recent times came in the 1956-57 FA Cup when they reached the quarter-finals, including hosting Manchester United before 28,799 fans - still the record attendance at Dean Court. This giant-killing run epitomized Bournemouth's traditional role as plucky underdogs.

Eddie Howe's appointment in 2008 transformed everything. The club was in administration, deducted 17 points, and facing possible extinction. Howe steered them to League Two survival, left briefly, then returned in 2012. What followed ranks among football's most remarkable success stories. Back-to-back promotions from League One to the Championship (2013) then Championship to Premier League (2015) seemed almost impossible for a club with the division's smallest stadium and modest budget.

That 2015 promotion made Bournemouth the first club from Dorset to reach England's top division. Against all expectations, they survived their first Premier League season and continued establishing themselves, finishing 9th in 2016-17. Relegation in 2020 seemed to end the dream, but promotion back in 2022 began a new chapter. Under current ownership and management, Bournemouth achieved their second 9th place finish in 2024-25, demonstrating they've truly arrived as an established top-flight club.

The club's rivalries reflect geography rather than historical animosity. Southampton represents the primary rival - just 24 miles separates the clubs, and supporters' polls consistently name the Saints as Bournemouth's biggest opponents. The "South Coast Derby" generates real intensity when both clubs occupy the same division. Portsmouth, Brighton, Reading, and even Leeds United (due to controversial playoff matches) also feature as rivals, though these relationships lack the sustained proximity of a traditional derby.

Legendary players in Bournemouth's history include Ted MacDougall (the club's record goalscorer with 157 goals between 1969-1972), Steve Fletcher (longest-serving player with over 700 appearances), and more recently Callum Wilson and Dominic Solanke, whose goalscoring prowess proved crucial in establishing Premier League status. The rapid ascent means many current fans remember watching these heroes in League Two rather than facing Manchester United.

Stadium Tours & Fan Experiences

Stadium tours at the Vitality Stadium currently operate on a limited basis. Unlike major Premier League clubs with daily tour schedules, Bournemouth's compact operation means official tours are not regularly available to the general public. The club occasionally offers stadium tours as competition prizes or special events, and these can sometimes be arranged through direct contact with the club for organized groups.

However, this situation is expected to change with the planned stadium expansion. As AFC Bournemouth continues establishing itself as a permanent Premier League fixture and the ground grows to 20,000+ capacity, enhanced commercial operations will likely include regular public stadium tours. The club has indicated that improved fan facilities form part of their long-term vision.

For those visiting on non-match days who want to experience the ground, the club superstore operates on weekdays and some Saturdays, located at the corner of the Main Stand and North Stand. This allows visitors to see the stadium exterior, purchase official merchandise, and potentially glimpse into the ground depending on circumstances.

Match-day experiences beyond the 90 minutes vary by ticket type. Standard tickets provide the essential authentic football experience - find your seat, watch the match, join in the singing, absorb the atmosphere. The compact nature means even standard seats offer excellent views and proximity to action you won't find at larger grounds.

Hospitality packages significantly enhance the match-day experience. These typically include:

• Access to executive lounges with pre-match dining (usually a two or three-course meal)
• Complimentary bar with beer, wine, and soft drinks
• Premium padded seating with excellent sightlines
• Post-match access to lounges for drinks and analysis
• Match programs and team sheets
• Opportunity to meet former Bournemouth players who often attend as hospitality hosts

Premium hospitality suits corporate entertainment, special occasions, or visitors wanting the complete match-day package without worrying about logistics. Prices typically start around £150-200 per person depending on the opposition and specific package.

The club also operates family sections designed for supporters attending with children, offering a more relaxed atmosphere away from the most boisterous areas. These sections maintain all the excitement while ensuring younger fans enjoy a comfortable introduction to live football.

Frequently Asked Questions About Football in Bournemouth

Where's the best place to sit for atmosphere?

The North Stand houses Bournemouth's most vocal supporters and creates the best atmosphere, though availability for individual match bookings can be limited. The West Stand also generates excellent noise. For visiting neutrals, the Main Stand offers good views and balanced atmosphere. The Vitality Stadium's compact size means atmosphere reaches every section effectively.

How early should I arrive at the stadium?

Arrive 45-60 minutes before kick-off for optimal experience. This allows time to navigate any match-day transport delays, use facilities, purchase refreshments, and settle into your seat before teams emerge for warm-ups. The stadium's limited capacity means concourses can become crowded closer to kick-off, and you'll want to avoid missing the atmosphere build-up.

Can I bring a camera or phone?

Yes, personal cameras and mobile phones are permitted for personal use. Fans regularly photograph and record short videos of their match-day experience. Professional-grade camera equipment (large lenses, tripods) requires special permission. Video recording of the match itself for redistribution violates copyright and is prohibited, but personal photos and brief clips for social media are standard.

Are there family sections?

Yes, AFC Bournemouth designate specific family areas within the stadium offering a more family-friendly environment. These sections aim to provide younger fans with an enjoyable, safe introduction to football while maintaining the match atmosphere. When booking through Livefootballtickets.com, specify if you're attending with children to ensure appropriate seating allocation.

What should I do before or after the match?

Before matches, many fans gather in Bournemouth town centre pubs (The Goat & Tricycle, Smokin' Aces, and others) or visit the seafront if weather permits. The town centre lies about 20-30 minutes from the stadium by bus or walk. After matches, returning to the town centre provides numerous dining and drinking options. The Triangle area and Bournemouth Square concentrate most post-match activity. Some prefer a post-match walk along the pier or seafront to decompress.

Is it safe for away fans?

Yes, Bournemouth maintains an excellent safety record and welcoming reputation for visiting supporters. The club actively promotes a family-friendly environment, and serious incidents are rare. Away fans are segregated in the designated East Stand section but face no hostility beyond traditional football rivalry. Police and stewards maintain visible presence, and the town generally treats football visitors well. Normal awareness and good behavior ensure a trouble-free visit.

What happens if my match is rescheduled?

Fixture changes occur occasionally, usually due to television scheduling, cup competition progress, or extraordinary circumstances. When you book through Livefootballtickets.com, you'll receive notification of any changes as soon as they're confirmed. Rescheduling policies depend on timing and reason - tickets typically transfer to the new date automatically, with refund or exchange options available depending on circumstances. Review terms carefully when booking, and maintain contact information accuracy to receive updates. Most fixtures are confirmed 4-6 weeks before scheduled dates, with last-minute changes rare but possible.