Anfield Road Tickets & Match Day Guide
Everything You Need to Know for a Matchday at Anfield.
Getting to Anfield
From Liverpool City Centre
Anfield is located approximately 2 miles north of Liverpool city centre. The 917 express bus service operates directly from Commutation Row (near Lime Street Station) to Anfield, running every 10 minutes on matchdays. The journey takes around 15 minutes and costs £4.60 for an adult return ticket.
Alternatively, take the number 17 or 26 bus from Queen Square Bus Station, which takes approximately 20 minutes and costs £2-4. For those who prefer walking, it is a 50-minute walk along Walton Breck Road, though buses are recommended for first-time visitors.
From Liverpool Lime Street Station
Liverpool Lime Street is the city's main railway station and serves trains from across the UK, including London (3 hours from Euston), Manchester (45 minutes from Piccadilly), and Birmingham (2 hours from New Street).
From Lime Street, you can take a taxi (£7-9, 6-10 minutes) or catch the 917 express bus from nearby Commutation Row. Matchday fan support teams are stationed at Lime Street from 3pm on matchdays to direct visitors to transport services.
From Liverpool John Lennon Airport
Liverpool John Lennon Airport is approximately 10 miles from Anfield. The most efficient route is to take the 500 or 86A bus from the airport to Liverpool city centre (30-40 minutes, £2.70), then transfer to the 917 express bus to Anfield (15 minutes). Total journey time is approximately 1 hour.
Taxis from the airport cost £45-55 and take around 20-25 minutes depending on traffic. Uber and private hire vehicles are also available.
By Car and Motorway Routes
Anfield is accessible via the M62 motorway (exit junction 4 or 6) and the M57 (exit junction 3 onto Queens Drive). From the M62, follow signs for Liverpool A5058.
On matchdays, expect heavy traffic from 2 hours before kick-off, with major congestion on the A580, M62, and surrounding residential streets. Road closures typically begin 90 minutes before kick-off on Walton Breck Road and Anfield Road. Plan to arrive at least 3 hours early if driving on matchdays.
Alternative Rail Options
On matchdays, fans can use the Merseyrail network to reach Sandhills or Kirkdale stations, then connect to the Soccerbus service that runs directly to the stadium. The Soccerbus operates approximately 2 hours before kick-off and continues for 50 minutes after the final whistle.
Pedestrian routes are signposted from both stations, making walking another viable option (approximately 20-25 minutes).
Where to Park at Anfield
Parking at Anfield is extremely limited due to the stadium's location in a residential area with strict parking enforcement. Liverpool FC strongly advises using public transport on matchdays.
The club offers a limited number of official parking spaces at St Domingo Car Park, located approximately a 9-minute walk from the stadium. These spaces must be pre-booked by contacting the club on 0843 170 5555 or through the official LFC website, and they typically sell out 48-72 hours before popular matches.
For non-matchdays, visitors can park at Stanley Park Car Park on the corner of Utting Avenue and Priory Road (postcode L4 0TQ), which offers 50 accessible parking spaces plus general parking on a first-come, first-served basis. This parking is free for stadium tours but fills quickly.
Important Parking Restrictions
- Residential streets within 1km of the stadium have permit-only parking on matchdays.
- Parking enforcement operates strictly during matches and events.
- Illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed or clamped.
- Pre-booking through services like JustPark can secure private driveways (£10-15) within 5-10 minutes’ walk.
- Alternative options include parking at Liverpool city centre car parks (approximately £10-15 for 4-5 hours) and taking the 917 express bus to Anfield.
- Florence Melly Community Primary School offers matchday parking (pre-bookable, £10) with a pleasant walk through Stanley Park to the stadium.
Arriving Early: What to Do Around Anfield
Most fans arrive 90 minutes to 2 hours before kick-off to soak up the pre-match atmosphere. Gates at Anfield typically open 90 minutes before kick-off, but arriving early allows time to explore the area, visit pubs, and avoid entry queues.
The streets around the stadium, particularly Walton Breck Road and Oakfield Road, fill with vendors selling scarves, programmes, and matchday memorabilia.
Photo Opportunities and Landmarks
The Shankly Gates at the Main Stand entrance are the most iconic photo spot, featuring the famous “You'll Never Walk Alone” inscription. The 14-foot bronze statue of Bill Shankly outside the Kop Stand is another must-see, along with the Hillsborough Memorial on Anfield Road.
The Steven Gerrard mural at The Sandon pub on Oakfield Road is a newer addition that has become extremely popular with visitors.
The LFC Official Store and Museum
The LFC Official Store is located at the stadium and opens from 9am to 5pm on non-matchdays. On matchdays, it typically opens 3 hours before kick-off. The store offers extensive Liverpool FC merchandise including shirts, scarves, and souvenirs.
The LFC Story museum, included with stadium tour tickets, showcases the club's trophy collection and history. Budget 30-45 minutes if you wish to visit the store before a match.
Pre-Match Atmosphere
The atmosphere around Anfield builds steadily from 2 hours before kick-off. Stanley Park becomes a gathering spot for fans, with informal football games often breaking out. Street vendors sell programmes, scarves, and food from around 3 hours before kick-off.
The area around the Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand and Main Stand is particularly lively in the hour before the match, with fans singing traditional Liverpool songs and chants.
Where to Buy Food & Drink Before the Match
Traditional Liverpool Pubs
The Sandon (178-182 Oakfield Road, 3-minute walk) is the birthplace of Liverpool FC and the most historic pub in the area. Opening 3 hours before kick-off on matchdays, it serves traditional pub food including burgers and hot dogs from outdoor BBQs (£8-12). The atmosphere is rowdy and authentic, with hundreds of fans singing Liverpool songs in the hour before kick-off. The Sandon also offers accommodation for those travelling from afar.
The Albert (Walton Breck Road, 1-minute walk from the Kop) is another legendary matchday pub, also known as “The Twelfth Man.” It gets extremely busy, with fans spilling onto the pavement outside. This pub suits those who want the rowdiest, most authentic atmosphere but can get very crowded. The Park Pub (opposite The Albert) offers a similar atmosphere with views of the stadium from the windows.
Quick Food Options
Homebaked Bakery (199 Oakfield Road, opposite the Kop) is a community co-operative offering excellent pies, sausage rolls, butties, and hot drinks (£3-6). They have limited seating and often sell out, so arrive early. This is perfect for a quick, affordable pre-match bite.
Street food vendors around Walton Breck Road and Anfield Road offer burgers, hot dogs, and international food options (£8-12) from 2 hours before kick-off.
Sit-Down Restaurants
The Boot Room at Anfield offers premium pre-match dining packages (book in advance) with three-course meals, museum access, and appearances from former players. Packages start around £60-80 per person.
Hotel TIA (Anfield Road, 2-minute walk) provides quality pre-match dining with a sports bar atmosphere and often hosts Liverpool legends for Q&A sessions before matches.
Family-Friendly Options
Taggy's Bar & Beer Garden (21 Anfield Road, 7-minute walk) is a family-run Norwegian-owned pub decorated with original Kop memorabilia. The outdoor beer garden has a small football pitch where children can play, and they show matches on big screens. Food is available and the atmosphere is welcoming to families.
The Flat Iron (Walton Breck Road, 15-minute walk) is another family-friendly option popular with locals.
Timing and Practical Tips
Most pubs stop serving food 60-90 minutes before kick-off as they become too busy. If you want a sit-down meal at Hotel TIA or The Boot Room, book ahead and arrive at least 2.5 hours before kick-off.
For quick bites from Homebaked or street vendors, arrive 90 minutes early to avoid sellouts. Budget £3-6 for bakery items, £8-15 for pub meals, and £12-20 for street food and a pint.
Stadium Features & Weather Considerations
Anfield is a partially covered stadium. The Main Stand, Kop, and Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand all have roof coverage, though the extent of protection varies by section and row. Understanding the weather protection at Anfield helps you dress appropriately and know what to expect during your visit.
Roof Coverage by Section
The Main Stand lower and middle tiers (rows 10 and above) are well-covered and offer excellent protection from rain. Upper tier seats are fully covered except for extreme corners (blocks U1 and U9) where the roof overhang is limited.
The Kop provides good coverage from row 10 upwards, but the front rows and very back rows can get wet during heavy rain. The Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand offers similar protection to the Kop.
The Anfield Road Stand has the most variable coverage. The upper tier is generally well-covered, but the lower tier (particularly blocks AL5 and AL6 at the back) sits under the upper tier roof overhang, which can obstruct views upward. Pitch-side wheelchair accessible bays in the Anfield Road Stand and Kop are partially exposed to weather.
Seasonal Weather Considerations
Liverpool's maritime climate means rain can occur year-round, with the wettest months typically October through January. Winters (November-March) can be bitterly cold, with temperatures ranging from 2-8°C. Evening matches in winter require multiple layers, warm coats, hats, and gloves. Wind can be particularly noticeable in corner sections where the roof coverage ends.
Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November) offer the most comfortable matchday temperatures (10-15°C) but rain is common. Bring a waterproof jacket or rain poncho. Summer months (June-August) are warmest (15-22°C), though Liverpool rarely gets extremely hot.
Note that umbrellas are banned inside the stadium for safety reasons.
Sun Position and Glare
For 3pm kick-offs from March to September, the Main Stand upper tier can experience afternoon sun glare, particularly in blocks facing west. The Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand lower tier can also catch low sun in evening matches during summer months. This typically only affects the first 15-20 minutes of matches and is rarely a significant issue.
Stadium Facilities & Amenities
Food & Drink Inside the Stadium
Anfield offers standard stadium catering with varying quality by stand. The Main Stand has the most extensive food options including gourmet choices, sushi, and craft beers alongside traditional pies and burgers.
Price ranges:
- Pies: £3.40-4.50
- Burgers: £5-6
- Hot dogs: £4-5
- Soft drinks: £2.50-3
- Beer: around £4.40 per pint
- Tea/coffee: £2.50
Vegetarian options are available at most kiosks but vegan choices are limited. Half-time queues are 10-15 minutes in most stands. Best strategy: buy food 10 minutes before half-time or wait until 5 minutes into the second half.
Alcohol is not served in family sections and is restricted to concourses (you cannot take alcohol to your seat).
Toilet Facilities
Toilets are located on each concourse level. The Main Stand has the newest and most spacious facilities. Other stands have adequate but older toilets that can feel cramped during busy periods.
Half-time queues are significant in all stands – expect 10-15 minute waits. Best strategy: use toilets at 40 minutes into the first half or wait until 10 minutes into the second half.
All stands have accessible toilets requiring RADAR keys (available from stewards). Changing Places facilities with hoists are in the Kop and Main Stand Lower.
Other Amenities
- Club shop inside the stadium (pre-match and non-matchdays).
- Limited ATMs – bring cash as some vendors prefer it.
- First aid rooms in each stand with visible pitch-side provision.
- Lost property handled via stewards and stadium staff.
- WiFi availability is limited and often unreliable on matchdays.
- Phone charging stations are not widely available – bring a power bank.
What to Bring & What Not to Bring
Recommended Items to Bring
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, waterproof jackets).
- Match ticket (mobile or printed) with a charged phone if using mobile tickets.
- Portable phone charger.
- Cash and debit/credit card.
- Photo ID for ticket collection or age verification.
Small Bags Allowed (with Restrictions)
- Only small bags (A5 size: 148mm x 210mm or smaller) with essential items.
- Non-professional cameras (no large lenses or tripods).
- Small snacks for medical reasons (declare at security).
- Water in plastic bottles (no glass).
Prohibited Items (Will Be Confiscated)
- Large bags or backpacks (no storage available).
- Umbrellas.
- Glass bottles or containers.
- Alcohol from outside the stadium.
- Flares, smoke bombs, or pyrotechnics.
- Professional camera equipment (telephoto lenses, tripods).
- Offensive flags or banners.
- Selfie sticks.
- Flags larger than 2m x 1m (unless fire safety certified).
There are no bag storage facilities at Anfield. If you bring prohibited items, you will have to dispose of them. Re-entry is not permitted once inside the stadium.
Stadium Entry & Bag Checks
Entry to Anfield involves security checks including bag searches and ticket scanning. Understanding the process helps reduce anxiety, especially for first-time visitors.
What to Expect at Entry
- Bag Search: Security staff will inspect any bags. Keep bags organised to speed this up.
- Ticket Scan: Present your mobile or printed ticket at the turnstile; stewards scan it and you'll hear a beep confirming entry.
- Metal Detector: You may pass through basic metal detection, similar to airport security but less intensive.
Peak Entry Times to Avoid
30-15 minutes before kick-off is the busiest period when most fans arrive simultaneously. Queues can extend significantly during this window.
Arriving 45-60 minutes early allows comfortable entry with minimal queuing. Late arrivals (after kick-off) face shorter queues but miss the start of the match.
Mobile Tickets
Mobile tickets work directly from email or the official LFC app – no need to print. Ensure your phone is charged and consider a screenshot as backup. Share tickets in advance with companions.
Re-Entry Policy
Once inside Anfield, you cannot re-enter if you leave. Check you have everything before entering. This is strictly enforced for security reasons.
Entry for Different Stands
- The Kop: Turnstiles on Walton Breck Road.
- Main Stand Upper: Turnstiles S or W at either end of the stand.
- Main Stand Lower: Turnstiles T or V on podium level.
- Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand: Turnstiles along Oakfield Road.
- Anfield Road Stand: Turnstiles on Anfield Road (approaching from 97 Avenue).
- Away supporters: Dedicated turnstiles Q and R in Anfield Road Stand.
Best Seating to Leave Quickly After the Match
If you need to catch trains, have long journeys home, or simply prefer to avoid crowds, seat location significantly impacts how quickly you can exit Anfield after the final whistle.
Fastest Exit Sections
- Main Stand Lower Tier, blocks L1-L3 near Anfield Road: Direct access to exits leading toward the Main Stand entrance and Anfield Road, where taxi ranks and the 917 bus stop (Walton Lane) are located. You can exit the stadium and reach the bus stop within 5-7 minutes.
- Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand, lower tier near exits: Good flow toward Oakfield Road and Stanley Park, from where you can walk toward the city centre or Sandhills station.
Sections to Avoid for Quick Exits
- Upper tier sections in any stand due to stairs and lift bottlenecks.
- The Kop upper tier, spiral staircases create bottlenecks (10-15 minutes to exit).
- Corner sections that funnel through limited exit routes.
- Anfield Road Stand lower tier home sections (AL1-AL5), furthest from main transport links.
Timing Strategies
- Leave at 85-87 minutes: Miss the final whistle but beat the majority of the crowd.
- Wait 20-25 minutes: Stay for full-time, watch celebrations, then exit after crowds thin.
- Worst period: 0-15 minutes after full-time is the peak for congestion and queues.
Post-Match Transport
The 917 bus stop is on Walton Lane (post-match), different from the pre-match drop-off point. Queues form immediately after matches but move relatively quickly as buses run frequently.
Taxis and rideshares use designated pickup points outside the stadium on major routes. Surge pricing for Uber and similar services usually lasts 30-45 minutes after full-time, so pre-booking local taxis can be advantageous.
Walking routes to Sandhills or Kirkdale stations (20-25 minutes) avoid bus queues but require confidence navigating crowds.
Best Seating Sections During Bad Weather
Weather protection varies significantly across Anfield's four stands. Understanding which sections offer the best coverage helps you stay dry and comfortable during Liverpool's frequent rainy matchdays.
Fully Protected Sections
- Main Stand, rows 10 and higher (all tiers): Excellent roof coverage protects you from rain in all but extreme conditions. Upper Main Stand blocks U2-U8 offer complete protection.
- Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand, middle rows upward: Good coverage similar to the Main Stand. Avoid front rows (1-10) and very top rows in heavy rain.
Partially Protected Sections
- The Kop, rows 10-40: Central blocks (105-107, 205-207) offer reasonable protection. Front rows and back rows can get wet in heavy rain.
- Anfield Road Stand upper tier: Generally protected but upper corner blocks can experience rain penetration during severe weather.
Exposed Sections to Avoid
- All pitch-side wheelchair accessible locations in the Kop and Anfield Road Stand.
- Corner sections in upper tiers (e.g., Main Stand U1/U9).
- Very front rows behind goals in Kop and Anfield Road Stand during moderate to heavy rain.
What to Bring
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho (umbrellas are banned).
- Waterproof trousers for exposed sections.
- Hat or hood for extra protection.
- Plastic bag for phones/valuables even in covered sections.
Best Time to Enter Anfield by Seating Section
Stadium gates at Anfield typically open 90 minutes before kick-off. However, entry timing varies significantly by section, with some areas requiring earlier arrival to avoid queues and ensure you reach your seat comfortably before the match begins.
Main Stand
Upper tier sections require the most advance time. Fans seated in the Main Stand upper tier should aim to arrive 60-75 minutes before kick-off. Entry is through turnstiles S or W near either end of the stand, and lifts take you to the upper concourse. These lifts can become bottlenecked 45-30 minutes before kick-off.
Middle and lower tier Main Stand seats can be accessed 40-50 minutes before kick-off through turnstiles T or V on the podium level.
The Kop
The Kop is Liverpool's most famous stand and fills quickly. Upper tier Kop sections should arrive 60 minutes early due to narrow spiral staircases that create bottlenecks. Lower tier Kop (blocks 104-109) can arrive 40-45 minutes before kick-off.
The Kop entrance is via turnstiles on Walton Breck Road. Accessible entrance 2 serves wheelchair users and those requiring assistance.
Sir Kenny Dalglish Stand
This stand typically has shorter queues than the Kop and Main Stand. Fans can arrive 40-50 minutes before kick-off and still reach their seats comfortably. The concourses are relatively spacious, making movement easier even during peak entry times.
Anfield Road Stand
The recently expanded Anfield Road Stand has improved facilities but can still be busy. Upper tier seats should arrive 50-60 minutes early. Lower tier home supporters can arrive 40 minutes before kick-off.
Away supporters in blocks AL6-AL9 should aim for 60 minutes early as this section fills quickly and has limited concourse space.
Accessible Seating
Wheelchair users and ambulant disabled supporters should arrive 75-90 minutes early to allow time for assistance staff to help you to your position. Contact the club's disability team in advance on 0151 264 2500 to arrange support. Accessible entrances have dedicated staff but can take longer due to lift access requirements.
