Falmer Stadium tickets

Where to Park at Falmer Stadium

Parking at Falmer Stadium is extremely limited and must be pre-booked. The club operates three official car parks that open 3 hours before kick-off. Car Park A sits directly adjacent to the East Stand, Car Park B (The Bridge) is a 10-minute walk from the stadium, and Car Park C (Sussex University, accessed via Stoney Mere Way only) is also a 10-minute walk. Official parking costs £15-18 per match and sells out 48-72 hours before popular fixtures. Book through the club's official website at brightonandhovealbion.com/tickets, and you'll receive a parking voucher to display in your windscreen.

No on-street parking is available anywhere near the stadium on matchdays. Brighton & Hove Council enforces strict parking restrictions within a 1-kilometre radius, and enforcement officers actively patrol the area. Vehicles parked illegally risk £70 fines or being towed.

The club strongly encourages use of two Park & Ride locations. Mill Road (BN1 8ZF) has 450 spaces and sits just off the A23/A27 junction, making it convenient for visitors from London and the north. Brighton Racecourse (BN2 9XZ) offers 700 spaces and typically takes 20 minutes to reach the stadium. Both sites open 3 hours before kick-off and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Shuttle buses to the stadium are included in your match ticket price. The last buses depart the stadium 90 minutes after the final whistle, and car parks close 2 hours post-match.

Many fans choose to park in nearby Lewes, approximately 3 miles east of the stadium. Lewes Station car park charges around £2.70 for all-day Sunday parking, with on-street parking and council car parks free on Sundays (though spaces fill quickly). Lewes offers the added benefit of numerous pubs and restaurants for pre-match food and drink. From Lewes Station, it's one stop (7 minutes) to Falmer, with frequent additional services on matchdays and free travel with your match ticket.

Private parking spaces can be booked through services like JustPark and YourParkingSpace, with prices starting from £6.90 per day. These spaces are typically driveways or private car parks within 10-20 minutes' walk of the stadium. Book well in advance for matchdays as availability is limited.

Motorcycle parking is available at the stadium free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Accessible parking for blue badge holders is available at a 50% discount when pre-booked, with spaces designated in Car Park C (Sussex University) and an accessible shuttle bus service provided to the stadium.

Arriving Early: What to Do Around Falmer Stadium

Most fans arrive 60-90 minutes before kick-off. Falmer Stadium sits in a relatively remote location surrounded by university campuses and countryside, so pre-match entertainment centres around the stadium itself rather than nearby pubs or restaurants.

The stadium opened a new fan zone area outside the North Stand in 2024, featuring covered spaces, expanded food and drink stalls, and entertainment on matchdays. This area fills with fans from about 90 minutes before kick-off, creating a building atmosphere as supporters gather. Food vendors offer burgers, chips, pies, and Harvey's Sussex ale on tap. Prices typically range from £8-12 for food and £5-6 for drinks. All outdoor outlets operate cashless only.

The club megastore relocated to a new building adjacent to the North Stand in July 2024. The store stocks the full range of Brighton merchandise, from replica kits to souvenirs and training wear. Most fans browse the shop before heading to their seats, though queues build closer to kick-off.

Dick's Bar, located above the club shop, opens to both home and away fans but operates a no-colours policy for away supporters. The bar typically has queues to enter and fills quickly, so arrive early if you want to visit. Capacity is 200.

For those arriving very early or seeking a quieter pre-match experience, Stanmer Park offers peaceful countryside walks just over half a mile from the stadium. Access the park via Falmer Station bridge and the pedestrian underpass. Circa in the Park cafe serves refreshments. The park isn't practical for parking on matchdays but makes a pleasant arrival experience if you're taking the train.

The Swan Inn in Falmer village, a 5-minute walk from the station, is a traditional pub but typically admits home fans only on matchdays, with door staff checking match tickets. The pub fills quickly and can get cramped.

Most visiting fans and many home supporters choose to spend their pre-match time in Brighton city centre or Lewes, both offering far more pub and restaurant options. Brighton Station has numerous pubs immediately outside, with The Evening Star (a renowned real ale pub), The Lord Nelson, and The Basketmakers Arms all within a 5-minute walk. These establishments welcome both home and away fans, provided everyone behaves respectfully. From Brighton, it's a 9-minute train journey to Falmer, so plan to arrive at Brighton Station at least 75 minutes before kick-off to allow time for a pre-match drink and the journey to the stadium.

Lewes offers a more relaxed alternative with traditional pubs like The Pelham Arms and various restaurants, all generally welcoming to away supporters. The town is quieter than Brighton and offers easier parking, making it a popular choice for visitors.

Where to Buy Food & Drink Before the Match

Given Falmer Stadium's location, your best food and drink options sit either in Brighton city centre (9 minutes by train) or Lewes (7 minutes by train), both offering free travel with your match ticket.

In Brighton, The Evening Star (15 Surrey Street, 3-minute walk from Brighton Station) is legendary among football fans for its extensive selection of Sussex real ales and ciders. This traditional pub doesn't have TVs but offers excellent beer and a welcoming atmosphere for both home and away supporters. The Lord Nelson (36 Trafalgar Street, directly opposite Brighton Station) serves food, local ales, and wines, with two fireplaces creating a comfortable environment. It regularly hosts live music. For those wanting to watch early kick-offs, The Blind Busker offers traditional pub food, craft ales, and multiple big-screen TVs showing live sport.

The Basketmakers Arms (12 Gloucester Road, 5-minute walk from Brighton Station) won Brighton Pub of the Year in 2014 and 2015. This quaint 19th-century establishment serves quality real ale and hot food in a friendly atmosphere, though it doesn't have televisions. For a quick bite, various food outlets surround Brighton Station, with cafes, sandwich shops, and takeaways offering options from £5-10.

Lewes provides a calmer pre-match experience. Pubs like The Pelham Arms welcome away and home fans, serving traditional pub meals with last orders typically 90 minutes before kick-off. Various restaurants line Lewes High Street, offering everything from fish and chips to Indian cuisine. Prices range from £10-20 for a meal. Don't leave your departure too late—aim to be at Lewes Station at least 40 minutes before kick-off to ensure you board a train and reach the stadium comfortably.

Around the stadium itself, food stalls in the fan zone open about 2 hours before kick-off, serving burgers, chips, and other quick options for £8-12. Harvey's Sussex ale is available on tap for around £5-6 per pint. Inside the stadium, Piglet's Pantry provides award-winning pies (steak and ale, chicken and gammon, and vegetarian options) that many consider the best in the Premier League, priced at approximately £4-5.

Remember: all food and beverage outlets at and around the stadium operate cashless only, so bring your card or use contactless payment.

Stadium Features & Weather Considerations

Falmer Stadium benefits from extensive roof coverage, with the curved roof extending over most of the seating bowl. However, coverage varies significantly by location. The West Stand, especially the middle and upper tiers, enjoys the most comprehensive protection. The East Stand upper tier also has good coverage, though the lower tier can experience rain in heavy downpours, particularly in the front rows (rows 1-10).

The North Stand behind the goal offers reasonable cover for most seats, though the very front and back rows may catch rain in stormy conditions. The South Stand (away section) provides moderate coverage, with the back rows generally protected but front and middle sections exposed to elements in heavy rain. The corners of the stadium, where stands meet, are the most exposed areas and can be windier than other sections.

Brighton's coastal location means weather can be unpredictable. From November to March, temperatures drop significantly, particularly for evening matches. The stadium sits on exposed land between the South Downs, making wind chill a factor—layers are essential. Expect temperatures ranging from 2-10°C for winter evening matches. Rain is common throughout the football season, though Brighton tends to be drier than other parts of the UK.

For afternoon matches from April to September, sun position becomes relevant. The East Stand lower tier faces west and receives direct afternoon sun, which can make viewing difficult between approximately 2pm and 5pm for matches kicking off at 3pm. Consider bringing sunglasses or a cap if sitting in this section for afternoon fixtures. The West Stand faces east and generally avoids sun-in-eyes issues.

What to bring

• Winter: multiple layers, warm jacket, scarf, gloves (the exposed location feels colder than Brighton city centre).
• Rain: waterproof jacket (umbrellas aren’t permitted inside the stadium).
• Summer: sun cream, hat, sunglasses (especially for East Stand lower tier).
• Optional: small portable phone charger (network can be patchy with 31,000+ fans).

Best Time to Enter Falmer Stadium by Seating Section

Gates at Falmer Stadium open 2 hours before kick-off. The stadium has moved to a numbered entrance system rather than compass directions (North, East, South, West), with your ticket indicating which numbered entrance to use. This system helps distribute crowds more evenly and reduces queues at busy turnstiles.

West Stand

For the West Stand, particularly the upper tiers, arrive at least 60-70 minutes before kick-off. This three-tiered stand requires navigating stairs and concourses, and these areas become congested 30-45 minutes before the match starts. The West Stand houses the most corporate and premium seats, meaning more security checks and bag inspections can slow entry. Lower tier seats in the West Stand can be accessed comfortably 45 minutes before kick-off.

East Stand

The East Stand benefits from generally faster entry, with the lower tier (Family Stand) particularly efficient as many families arrive early. East Stand lower tier: arrive 40-50 minutes before kick-off. East Stand upper tier: arrive 50-60 minutes before kick-off to navigate the stairs without rushing. The East Stand's two-tier structure is less complex than the West Stand, making movement easier.

North Stand

The North Stand, home to Brighton's most vocal supporters, fills quickly with season ticket holders arriving early to secure their atmosphere-building positions. If you have a ticket here, arrive 60 minutes before kick-off. While it's a single-tier stand with no upper level to navigate, the popularity of this section means entry points get busy. The North Stand is closest to Falmer Station, making it the most convenient for quick arrivals.

South Stand (Away)

The South Stand (away section) also operates as a single tier. Away fans should arrive 50-60 minutes before kick-off. The South Stand sits furthest from Falmer Station, requiring the longest walk around the stadium (3-5 minutes). Security checks for away supporters can be more thorough for high-profile matches, adding time to entry. Turnstiles 17-21 serve the away section.

Peak entry times occur 30-45 minutes before kick-off across all sections. If you arrive during this window, expect queues of 5-15 minutes. For completely stress-free entry with time to buy food and find your seat comfortably, arrive 75-90 minutes before kick-off. The stadium concourses, bars, and food outlets open when the gates do, providing entertainment while you wait.

For wheelchair users and those with mobility requirements, accessible entrances have dedicated queues that typically move faster. Staff are available to assist. Consider arriving 60 minutes before kick-off to ensure comfortable entry with any assistance needed.

Understanding Falmer Stadium's Seating Layout

Falmer Stadium opened in 2011 with an initial capacity of 22,374. Subsequent expansions, particularly the addition of the East Stand upper tier in 2012-2013 and filling in of corners, brought capacity to 31,876. The stadium's distinctive curved roof design helps it blend into the surrounding South Downs landscape while creating excellent acoustics inside.

West Stand

The West Stand serves as the main stand and the stadium's architectural centrepiece. This three-tiered structure holds 11,833 supporters and stretches along the full length of the pitch. The lower tier provides excellent sightlines from pitch level, while the middle tier houses corporate boxes and premium seating. The upper tier offers the most elevated views in the stadium. The dugouts, press area, and television gantries all sit in this stand. The premium 1901 Club occupies sections of the middle tier, offering hospitality packages. Entry gates for the West Stand serve sections beginning with 'W'. Facilities including bars, food outlets, and toilets are distributed throughout the three levels, though toilet queues at half-time can be significant, particularly on the lower tier.

East Stand

The East Stand is the largest section by capacity, holding 13,654 supporters across two tiers. The lower tier (sections E1A to E1H) functions as the designated Family Stand, with a maximum ratio of three adults to one child. This area provides a gentler, family-appropriate atmosphere with strict stewarding to maintain standards. Facilities nearby include family-friendly food options and accessible toilets. The upper tier, added during the 2012-2013 expansion, features steep gradient seating that enhances views despite being further from the pitch. The Goldstone restaurant, a premium hospitality area, occupies part of the East Stand. For cup matches, away fans may be allocated additional seats in the East Stand corners. Halfway line seats in sections E1D, E1E, E3D, and E3E offer the best overall tactical views in the stadium.

North Stand

The North Stand, a single-tier structure behind the goal, accommodates 2,688 passionate home supporters. This section generates the most noise and atmosphere in the stadium, with standing (or persistent standing despite all-seater regulations) common throughout matches. The North Stand is closest to Falmer Station, making it ideal for quick exit after matches. Behind the seating area, a three-floor facility houses the club offices, megastore, Dick's Bar, and various administrative spaces. While the atmosphere is electric, families with young children might find the intensity overwhelming. Toilets can be extremely busy at half-time. Sections in the North Stand don't have obstructed views, though seats in the very front rows sit low and close to advertising boards.

South Stand (Away)

The South Stand mirrors the North Stand's single-tier design, with 2,575 seats typically allocated entirely to away supporters. This is unusual in modern Premier League stadiums, where away fans often occupy only a corner or section. The full stand behind the goal creates an intimidating atmosphere for opposition goalkeepers. Away fans enter through turnstiles 17-21 on the stadium's south side, furthest from Falmer Station. The concourse opens 2 hours before kick-off and remains open for 1 hour after the final whistle, allowing away fans to wait out post-match queues at the station. All seats are padded (a luxury for away sections) with generous legroom. The South Stand includes accessible facilities and viewing platforms for wheelchair users.

Corner sections have been progressively filled in as the stadium expanded. These areas connect the main stands and generally offer good views, though some seats sit at awkward angles for viewing both goals equally. Blocks in the southwest corner (S1G to S1H) adjacent to away fans can be lively, with home supporters engaging in banter with visitors.

Best Seats for Different Viewing Experiences

For the best overall tactical pitch view, target central sections in either the West or East Stands. West Stand middle tier (sections W2C to W2F) provides elevated central views perfect for seeing patterns of play develop. These seats combine height with centrality. East Stand upper tier central sections (E3D and E3E) offer similar quality at slightly less premium pricing. Both locations allow you to see the full width of the pitch and follow tactical movements. Avoid seats too low (rows 1-10), where advertising boards restrict views, or too high in the upper tiers (row 30+), where distance reduces detail.

For maximum atmosphere and the authentic matchday experience, the North Stand delivers. Every section here vibrates with constant chanting, singing, and support. Lower sections (N1A to N1F) put you in the heart of the noise, though expect limited room to sit—most fans stand throughout the 90 minutes. The North Stand experience isn't for everyone: it's intense, often cramped, and stewards may request you remain standing or seated depending on the match. For those wanting atmosphere with slightly more comfort, corners adjacent to the North Stand (sections W1H, W1I, W2I, or W3I) provide secondary atmosphere without the relentless intensity.

For seeing goals up close at your end, behind-goal positions in either the North Stand or South Stand create thrilling moments when your team scores. However, understand the trade-off: goals at the opposite end feel distant and difficult to fully appreciate. These sections work best for hardcore fans who prioritize the celebration experience over comprehensive viewing. The North Stand suits home fans wanting this experience, while away supporters automatically occupy the South Stand.

Families should book the designated Family Stand in East Lower (sections E1A to E1H). This area enforces a maximum three adults to one child ratio and maintains family-friendly standards throughout matches. Alcohol isn't sold in this section, and stewarding ensures appropriate behavior. Sections in the middle (E1D and E1E) offer the best views. Proximity to family toilets and child-friendly food outlets makes this area practical. Children under 1.2m (approximately 4 feet) struggle to see from front rows even when standing—aim for rows 10-20 for younger children. The atmosphere remains enthusiastic but family-appropriate, avoiding the intensity and occasional strong language found in other sections.

For photography enthusiasts, several positions offer different advantages. For player close-ups and touchline action, lower rows in the West Stand near the dugouts (sections W1D or W1E, rows 5-15) put you near team benches and substitutions. For architectural and stadium atmosphere shots, corners of the stadium capture the curved roof structure beautifully. The East Stand upper tier looking toward the West Stand showcases the stadium's impressive design. For celebration shots when your team scores, positions just to the side of the goal (sections W1A, W1B, E1A, or E1B) provide angles showing both the goal and player reactions.

Best Seating for Kids at Falmer Stadium

The East Stand Lower tier (sections E1A to E1H) operates as Brighton's dedicated Family Stand. This entire section maintains a family-friendly environment with a maximum ratio of three adults to one child under 14. Book through the club's family section when purchasing tickets.

The atmosphere here balances enthusiasm with appropriateness. You'll find passionate support, especially when Brighton score or make attacking moves, but without the constant standing, strong language, or intensity found in sections like the North Stand. Stewarding is noticeably more attentive, quickly addressing any behavior that breaches family-friendly standards. Alcohol isn't sold in this section, further maintaining a suitable environment for children.

Sightlines matter significantly for children. Those under 1.2 metres (roughly 4 feet tall) may struggle to see from the front rows (rows 1-10) even when standing, as the pitch sits level with these seats and taller adults block views. Target rows 10-20 for the best experience with younger children. These rows provide slightly elevated viewing while remaining close enough to feel engaged with the action. By row 25+, young children might feel distant from the pitch.

Practical considerations include proximity to facilities. The East Stand has good toilet facilities nearby, important as children typically need bathroom breaks more frequently than adults. Half-time queues can be long, so go 10 minutes before half-time or 5 minutes after the break starts. Food outlets in this area offer family-friendly options including smaller portion sizes and healthier choices alongside standard pie and chips.

Sections to avoid with young children include the North Stand (too intense, persistent standing, very loud), the corners near away fans (potential for strong language during rivalry moments), and upper tiers of the West Stand (long climbs up stairs can tire young legs, and distances from pitch reduce engagement).

Brighton offers junior supporter programs and occasionally organizes matchday activities for children, including player appearances and interactive zones. Check the club website before your visit for any special events. The club shop also entertains children before matches with displays of kits and memorabilia.

First-time young visitors particularly benefit from the Family Stand's welcoming environment, where other families create a supportive community. Many season ticket holders in this section attend regularly with their children, fostering a familiar, friendly atmosphere that helps young fans feel comfortable at their first matches.

Best Seating for Accessibility at Falmer Stadium

Falmer Stadium provides 185 wheelchair-accessible spaces for home supporters distributed across all four stands, including pitchside and raised platform positions. Away supporters have access to 17 wheelchair spaces, all on a raised platform ensuring excellent views. Additionally, 727 easy access and amenity seats are available in all parts of the stadium except the West Upper Tier.

To book accessible seating, contact the club directly through their accessibility email at [email protected] or call the ticket office. Accessible tickets must be booked in advance and cannot be purchased on matchday. When booking, staff will discuss your specific requirements and match you with the most appropriate viewing position. Companion tickets are provided free of charge—you only pay for your own ticket. Subject to availability, you may purchase up to three companion seats adjacent to your accessible position.

The East Stand offers some of the best elevated accessible views, with sections E231-E235 providing excellent sightlines of the entire pitch from a raised platform position. These spots put you at an ideal viewing height without being too far from the action. West Stand accessible positions sit closer to the pitch but slightly lower, offering different perspectives. Choose based on whether you prefer elevated overview viewing (East) or closer proximity to players (West).

Accessible parking is available at Car Park C (Sussex University) when pre-booked with your ticket at a 50% discount. You must display a valid blue badge. An accessible shuttle bus service operates between this car park and the stadium. Remember to register your vehicle registration number when booking, as ANPR cameras monitor the car park.

All entrances to the stadium are wheelchair accessible with step-free routes. Falmer Station provides step-free access through side gates to both platforms, with step-free routes between platforms and ramp access to all trains. Staff are available to assist. All buses serving the stadium are wheelchair accessible with suspension that lowers to the kerb and screens displaying stop names.

Inside the stadium, accessible toilets are located throughout the venue, with multiple facilities on each level. A Changing Places facility in section E2A provides full accessibility amenities including a height-adjustable bench and hoist. Standard accessible toilets are well-maintained and typically have shorter queues than standard facilities, though plan for some wait time at peak periods (half-time).

Audio descriptive commentary is available via receiver and headset, which can be signed out from the ticket office on matchday. This service provides live description of the action for blind and partially sighted supporters. The Inclusion Room offers a safe space for fans who may struggle sitting in the main stands due to sensory needs or other requirements. This facility is available to all ages and disabilities.

For supporters requiring assistance on matchday, contact the club's supporter services team in advance. Staff can arrange meeting points, provide guidance to seats, and ensure appropriate support is in place. The club is conscientious about accessibility despite the hilly terrain around the stadium, ensuring step-free routes to all areas for visiting fans.

Best Seating to Leave Quickly After the Match

For the fastest possible exit to Falmer Station and onward trains, the North Stand provides unbeatable proximity. Sections N1A through N1F sit closest to the station, with a 2-minute walk to platforms. Lower row numbers (rows 1-15) in these sections allow you to leave your seat and reach the concourse without fighting through crowds descending from higher rows. If catching a train is crucial—perhaps you have a connection to make in Brighton or London—the North Stand is your best bet.

The East Stand also offers relatively quick exit to the station, particularly the upper tier. While you're further from the station than the North Stand, you avoid some of the congestion that builds around the North Stand exits immediately after the final whistle. Sections E3A and E3B on the east side provide a good compromise of reasonable distance and less crowded exit routes.

Sections to avoid if you need to leave quickly include the South Stand (away section), which sits furthest from the station requiring a 5-minute walk, and corners of the West Stand (SW corners in particular). These positions funnel through narrow exit points that create significant bottlenecks as thousands attempt to leave simultaneously. The West Stand upper tier also slows exit, as you must navigate down multiple flights of stairs before reaching ground level.

Leaving 5 minutes before the final whistle typically allows you to beat the main rush. For a tight connection, leaving at 85-87 minutes gives you a 10-15 minute head start on the crowds. However, many fans find this unsatisfying, especially in close matches. The alternative strategy: wait it out. Queues at Falmer Station take approximately 30-50 minutes to clear after matches, depending on attendance and whether fans are heading to Brighton, Lewes, or other destinations.

The away section concourse stays open for 1 hour after the final whistle, and the North Stand bar (Dick's Bar) opens to both home and away fans for 2 hours post-match. Having a drink while crowds dissipate can be more pleasant than standing in a 40-minute queue on a cold evening. Station queues drop dramatically 20-25 minutes after the final whistle.

For those driving, waiting 20-30 minutes allows most traffic to clear from the immediate stadium area. Car parks don't permit vehicles to remain more than 2 hours after the match ends, but this window is usually sufficient to avoid the worst congestion on the A27 and surrounding roads.

Best Seating Sections During Bad Weather

For guaranteed protection from rain, the West Stand middle and upper tiers provide the most comprehensive coverage. Sections W2A through W2H (middle tier) and W3A through W3H (upper tier) sit deep under the roof overhang. Even in heavy, driving rain, these sections remain dry. Rows 10 and higher in the West Stand lower tier also benefit from good coverage, though the very front rows (1-9) can catch spray in extreme conditions.

The East Stand upper tier offers good rain protection, particularly central sections E3C through E3F and rows 15 and higher. The steep gradient means the roof extends effectively over most seating. The East Stand lower tier has moderate coverage—back rows (20+) stay reasonably dry, but front and middle sections can get wet in sustained rain. As the designated Family Stand, this may be frustrating with children who dislike getting damp.

Both the North and South Stands behind the goals provide partial coverage. Upper rows in each stand (approximately rows 25+) benefit from some roof protection, while front rows (1-15) are largely exposed. During light rain or drizzle, you'll likely stay dry in the back third of these stands. In heavy downpours, expect to get wet anywhere in the lower two-thirds.

The corners where stands meet represent the most exposed positions in the stadium. Northeast, northwest, southeast, and southwest corners all have gaps in roof coverage and can catch wind-driven rain from multiple directions. These sections also tend to be windier, amplifying cold in winter. If weather looks threatening, avoid corner seats entirely.

Remember that waterproof clothing is essential if you're in exposed sections—umbrellas are not permitted inside the stadium for safety reasons (they block views and can be dangerous if lost in wind). A waterproof jacket with a hood provides the best protection without violating stadium policies.

Stadium Facilities & Amenities

Falmer Stadium's food and drink offering centres around Piglet's Pantry, a local bakery providing award-winning pies that have earned acclaim as potentially the best in the Premier League. Options include steak and ale, chicken and gammon, and vegetarian butternut squash and spicy vegetable varieties, priced around £4-5. Other food options include burgers, hot dogs, chips, and various snacks, with prices typically £3-8 per item. Harvey's Sussex ale, a local brewery's beer, is available on tap and highly regarded among fans (around £5-6 per pint). Dark Star, another local brewery, also features. International and standard lagers are available, along with wines and soft drinks. The stadium consistently tops Premier League rankings for best pint quality.

Cashless: All food and beverage outlets operate entirely cashless—no cash is accepted anywhere in the stadium.

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most outlets, though variety is somewhat limited. Half-time queues at food kiosks can be significant, often 10-15 minutes for popular items. Order during the first half or arrive early enough to eat before kick-off.

Toilet facilities are distributed throughout the stadium with locations on each level of every stand. The quantity is generally adequate for the 31,876 capacity, though half-time creates inevitable queues. Wait times at half-time can reach 10-15 minutes in the busiest facilities, particularly in the North Stand and West Stand lower tier. Cleanliness standards are high, with regular maintenance throughout matches. To avoid peak times, visit toilets 5-10 minutes before half-time or wait 5 minutes into the second half. Family toilets are located near the Family Stand in the East Lower tier.

First aid facilities are positioned at strategic points around the stadium, with trained medical staff available throughout matches. If you require medical assistance, alert the nearest steward who will contact medical personnel. For minor issues, first aid stations can provide basic supplies.

Lost property can be reported to any steward or the ticket office in the North Stand. The stadium operates a lost and found service, though recovery isn't guaranteed for items left in public areas. Keep valuables secure and with you at all times.

Phone charging stations are not available at the stadium. Bring a portable charger if you're concerned about battery life—network congestion with 31,000+ people can drain batteries quickly.

WiFi is not generally available to spectators. Mobile network coverage can be patchy during matches due to high user density, with data speeds often dropping significantly. Don't rely on being able to stream or use data-intensive applications.

ATMs are not present inside the stadium. Given the cashless policy, this isn't critical for purchases, but ensure you have sufficient funds on your cards before arriving. The nearest ATMs are in Brighton city centre or at Falmer Station.

The club megastore near the North Stand opens on matchdays and non-matchdays, selling the full range of Brighton merchandise from replica kits to souvenirs. Most items require card payment. The temporary retail outlet from previous seasons has been replaced by the new permanent megastore building as of 2024.

What to Bring & What Not to Bring

Recommended items to bring include weather-appropriate clothing (layers in winter, waterproof jacket for rain, sun protection for summer), a portable phone charger (network congestion drains batteries), your debit/credit card (stadium is entirely cashless), and any necessary medications in original containers. If you're planning to take photos, a camera is fine, though professional equipment with detachable lenses may be restricted.

Bags are subject to strict size restrictions. Maximum size is A4 (approximately 30cm x 21cm). Anything larger than this will not be permitted entry, and there is no bag storage facility at the stadium. Transparent or small bags are preferable as they speed up security checks. Consider this when packing—leave large backpacks, holdalls, and shopping bags elsewhere.

Outside food and drink policy varies by match, but generally small snacks in transparent containers may be permitted after bag searches. Glass bottles and alcohol are strictly prohibited and will be confiscated. Solid containers and flasks are not permitted. If bringing food, use plastic containers and be prepared for security to inspect contents.

Cameras for personal use are generally allowed, but professional equipment (defined as cameras with detachable lenses or professional video equipment) may be restricted. GoPros and action cameras are typically permitted for personal use. Taking photos and videos for personal, non-commercial use is fine, but broadcasting or commercial use of any footage is prohibited.

Prohibited items include large bags or backpacks over A4 size, glass bottles of any kind, alcohol, umbrellas (safety hazard blocking views), flares or smoke bombs (illegal and dangerous), laser pointers, fireworks, weapons of any kind, and clothing with offensive slogans or imagery. Banners over 150cm x 150cm require written permission from the club—contact them in advance if planning to bring a large banner.

Mobile tickets are the primary ticketing method. You can display tickets directly from the club's email or app—no need to print. Screenshots of tickets work fine. Ensure your phone has sufficient battery to display your ticket at entry, as you cannot enter without valid proof of ticket.

Assistance dogs are permitted with advance notification to the club. Contact the accessibility team to arrange appropriate seating and facilities.

Stadium Entry & Bag Checks

Entry to Falmer Stadium involves a bag search, ticket scan, and sometimes brief personal checks. The process is generally efficient and takes 2-3 minutes per person during normal flow. However, arriving during peak times (30-45 minutes before kick-off) can extend this to 10-15 minutes due to queues.

The stadium uses wide electronic gates rather than traditional narrow turnstiles, making entry faster and more comfortable. Your ticket—whether on your phone, app, or printed—gets scanned at these gates. Ensure your phone screen brightness is adequate for scanners to read QR codes. If you have difficulties, staff are present to assist.

Bag checks involve security staff visually inspecting the contents of any bags you're carrying. Small bags pass through quickly. Anything over A4 size will be refused entry with no exceptions—there is no bag storage, so you'll need to return your oversized bag to your car or accommodation. Pack light and use small, transparent bags if possible to speed up the process.

Metal detectors may be in use for high-profile matches or when threat levels require enhanced security. Expect these devices during derby matches, cup finals, or other significant fixtures. Empty your pockets of metal objects (keys, coins, phones) before walking through to avoid setting off alarms and requiring additional checks.

For high-category matches, security presence increases with more thorough checks. Armed police may be visible, though their presence is professional and non-intimidating. Follow instructions from security staff and be patient—enhanced security exists for everyone's safety.

Once inside the stadium, you cannot re-enter if you leave. There are no re-entry privileges. If you've forgotten something in your car or accommodation, you won't be able to return to the match after retrieving it. Double-check you have everything before passing through security.

Mobile tickets stored in email work perfectly—no need to use the app specifically. However, taking a screenshot of your ticket provides a backup if connectivity is poor at the stadium. Test that your ticket displays correctly before you're at the front of the queue.

Peak entry times create the longest delays. The period 30-45 minutes before kick-off sees the highest concentration of arrivals. If you want smooth, fast entry, arrive either early (60-90 minutes before kick-off) or accept arriving slightly later (15-20 minutes before kick-off when the initial rush has passed, though you'll miss pre-match atmosphere and have less time to settle).

Falmer Stadium's History & Significance

Falmer Stadium, officially known as the American Express Stadium since its opening, represents one of the most remarkable stories in English football. The stadium opened on 30 July 2011 with a friendly match against Tottenham Hotspur, ending Brighton & Hove Albion's 14-year period without a permanent home ground.

The club's journey to this moment began tragically in 1995 when the board sold their historic home, the Goldstone Ground in Hove, to developers without securing an alternative venue. When Brighton were evicted at the end of the 1996-97 season, they faced an uncertain future. For two years (1997-1999), the club shared Gillingham's Priestfield Stadium, 74 miles away by road in Kent—a devastating arrangement that nearly destroyed the club's community connections.

In 1999, Brighton returned to the city, playing at Withdean Stadium, a converted athletics track with temporary seating and no roof. This makeshift home served for 12 years while the club fought a protracted battle for permission to build a new stadium at Falmer. Local opposition, planning disputes, and numerous public inquiries delayed the project repeatedly. Many believed Brighton would never secure their new ground.

Construction finally began in December 2008 at a cost of £93 million, funded largely by chairman Tony Bloom. The design, by KSS Design Group, prioritized blending with the surrounding landscape. The distinctive curved roof that sweeps along each side of the pitch helps the structure sit naturally in the South Downs valley. The stadium utilized 'cut and fill' techniques, sinking the structure into the land to reduce visual impact. During construction, 138,000 cubic metres of chalk were spread on fields south of Village Way, avoiding 22,000 lorry movements.

The first competitive match played at the stadium was the 2010-11 Sussex Senior Cup final between Brighton and Eastbourne Borough on 16 July 2011. The first league match, against Doncaster Rovers on 6 August 2011, carried emotional weight—Doncaster were also the opponents in Brighton's last game at the Goldstone Ground 14 years earlier. Brighton won 2-1.

Initial capacity of 22,374 quickly proved insufficient. By mid-2013, the East Stand upper tier and corner sections increased capacity to 30,750. Current capacity stands at 31,876 after further refinements. The stadium now ranks as the second-largest in South East England and the 30th largest in the United Kingdom.