Selhurst Park tickets

From Central London: The journey from central London typically takes 30-50 minutes depending on your starting point. From Victoria station, direct Southern trains run to Selhurst station every 15-20 minutes, with the journey taking approximately 20 minutes. The walk from Selhurst station to the stadium takes around 10 minutes. Alternatively, from London Bridge, take a Southern train to Norwood Junction (approximately 15 minutes), followed by a 12-15 minute walk to the ground. Both routes cost around £5-7 with an Oyster card or contactless payment during off-peak times.

From Major Airports: From Gatwick Airport, take a Southern train to either East Croydon (25 minutes) where you can change for Selhurst, Thornton Heath, or Norwood Junction, or travel directly to Norwood Junction (35-40 minutes) on selected services. The total journey including the walk to the stadium takes approximately 60-75 minutes and costs £10-15. From Heathrow, take the Piccadilly Line or Elizabeth Line to central London, then follow the routes above from Victoria or London Bridge. The total journey takes 90-120 minutes.

By Car: Driving to Selhurst Park is not recommended. If you must drive, leave the M25 at Junction 7 and follow signs for the A23 towards Croydon. At Purley, bear left onto the A23 at its junction with the A235. Continue through Croydon, passing roundabouts at the A232 and A236. At Thornton Heath roundabout (marked by the Horseshoe pub), the A23 bears left. Go straight over into Brigstock Road (B266), passing Thornton Heath station on your left, then bear right onto the High Street. At the next mini-roundabout (Whitehorse Road/Grange Road), turn left into Whitehorse Lane and the stadium appears on your right. Allow extra time on Saturdays when traffic around Croydon can be particularly heavy.

By Public Transport from Nearby Stations: Selhurst, Thornton Heath, and Norwood Junction are your three options. Selhurst station is served by trains from Victoria, Clapham Junction, London Bridge (every 30 minutes), and East Croydon (every 15 minutes). Thornton Heath offers the same connections as Selhurst. Norwood Junction is served by Victoria, London Bridge, East Croydon, and has a London Overground connection from Highbury & Islington. All three stations have step-free access to at least some platforms—Selhurst and Thornton Heath to all platforms, while Norwood Junction has step-free access only to Platform 1 for northbound stopping services.

Important Note: Do not travel to Crystal Palace station despite the name. This station is approximately 2 miles from Selhurst Park, requiring a 45-minute walk, and is not recommended for matchday travel.

By Taxi or Rideshare: A taxi from central London to Selhurst Park typically costs £25-35 in normal traffic, though this can increase significantly on matchdays, particularly in the hours before kick-off. The best drop-off point is the corner of Park Road and Whitehorse Lane near the away supporters' entrance. Be aware that roads around the stadium close 2 hours before kick-off and remain closed until approximately 1 hour after the final whistle, so plan your pickup location accordingly.

By Bus: Several bus routes serve Selhurst Park. The 468 runs from Elephant & Castle to South Croydon and stops near the ground. Routes 75 (Lewisham to Croydon), 157 (Crystal Palace to Morden), 130, 198, 410, and 50 all stop within walking distance. Use the TfL Journey Planner to find the best route from your location.

Where to Park at Selhurst Park

There is no official parking at Selhurst Park, and this is one of the most challenging aspects of visiting the stadium by car. Several residential streets surrounding the ground operate permit-only parking schemes on matchdays, and Croydon Council actively enforces parking restrictions. You will be fined or have your vehicle relocated if you park illegally.

Healthy Neighbourhood Scheme: Since 2024, vehicle access to Holmesdale Road and Elm Park Road is restricted to public transport and permit holders only. This significantly affects supporters who previously parked near the stadium. The restrictions are in effect from 2 hours before kick-off until approximately 1 hour after the final whistle.

Sainsbury's Car Park: Located directly next to the stadium on Whitehorse Lane, this supermarket car park has a strict 4.5-hour time limit. While free, anyone exceeding this limit will receive a parking fine. On matchdays, this car park fills up quickly, typically within an hour of opening. The catch is that road closures begin 2-3 hours before kick-off, so you must arrive very early to access it.

Disabled Badge Holders: Sixteen parking bays are available in the Sainsbury's car park for disabled supporters on a first-come, first-served basis upon production of a valid Blue Badge. These spaces are shared between home and away supporters and fill up quickly for popular matches.

Alternative Parking Options: Several school car parks offer pre-bookable matchday parking through services like BigParking. St Chad's RC Primary School (75 Alverston Gardens, SE25 6LR) and St Thomas Becket Catholic Primary School (Birchanger Road, SE25 5BN) both charge £20 per car with advance booking required. Harris Academy South Norwood (Cumberland Avenue, SE25 6AL) offers parking from £10-20 depending on the match, typically opening 2-3 hours before kick-off.

Budget Options: Iceland on Whitehorse Lane offers around 20 spaces at £4 for 6 hours parking, but it's first-come, first-served and fills up extremely early. For the budget-conscious, park-and-ride options work well. Purley Oaks station offers all-day parking for £2.15, then take a 15-minute train to Thornton Heath or Selhurst. This option also lets you enjoy the pre-match atmosphere on the train with fellow supporters.

JustPark and Similar Services: Many local residents offer driveway parking through JustPark, with prices typically ranging from £10-20. Book as early as possible for better prices and locations. Some driveways are within a 30-second walk of the stadium, while others require a 15-20 minute walk, but importantly, many are located outside the road closure zones.

Arriving Early: What to Do Around Selhurst Park

Most supporters arrive 60-90 minutes before kick-off to soak up the atmosphere. The area around Whitehorse Lane and Park Road comes alive on matchdays, with a genuine community feel that you won't find at newer, more corporate stadiums. Street vendors set up along the main approaches selling scarves, programmes, and matchday snacks.

Fanzone: The official Selhurst Park Fanzone opens 3 hours before kick-off and is located at Entrance 10. This family-friendly area welcomes fans with valid matchday tickets and features live music, entertainment, and competitions for young supporters. Food and drink are available, and all vendors operate cashless. The atmosphere builds steadily as kick-off approaches, making this an excellent place to start your matchday experience.

Pre-Match Pubs and Bars: The Clifton Arms on Clifton Road is the beating heart of the home support's pre-match routine. Located just a 2-minute walk from the stadium, this pub fills with Crystal Palace fans creating an electric atmosphere. However, it's a home fans only venue, so away supporters should look elsewhere.

For away fans, The Prince George (2 High Street, Thornton Heath CR7 8LE) is your best bet. This friendly family-run pub welcomes visiting supporters and sits approximately 8-10 minutes' walk from the stadium. Despite getting busy, the staff manage the crowds efficiently, keeping queues moving. The beer selection is solid, reasonably priced, and the music helps build matchday excitement. The Selhurst Club in Selhurst and The Railway Telegraph on Brigstock Road (15-minute walk) also welcome away fans and offer more breathing room than The Prince George.

The Pawsons Arms, about 15 minutes from the stadium, is another home fans pub worth visiting if you support Palace. With a central 360-degree bar, queues stay manageable even when packed. It's dog-friendly too, which adds to the local pub charm.

Food Options: Flora Sands, a Wetherspoons directly opposite Thornton Heath station, offers the usual reliable Wetherspoons menu at budget prices. It's practical for away fans looking for a quick, affordable meal before heading to the ground. For something different, Delight Cafe near Thornton Heath receives excellent reviews from visiting supporters for quality food at reasonable prices. Further down Whitehorse Lane towards Thornton Heath, you'll find various takeaways and cafes offering everything from traditional fish and chips to Indian and Turkish cuisine, typically ranging from £5-10 per meal.

Club Shop: The official Crystal Palace club shop opens from 9am-5:30pm on non-matchdays and earlier on matchdays (usually from noon). Located in the Main Stand, it's worth a visit if you want official merchandise, though prices reflect Premier League standards.

Photo Opportunities: The exterior of Selhurst Park might not match modern stadiums for architectural grandeur, but it has old-school charm. The main entrance on the Main Stand side and the Holmesdale Road Stand end both offer good photo spots. Arrive early enough and you'll catch the team buses arriving, which always draws crowds.

Where to Buy Food & Drink Before the Match

Planning your pre-match meal requires consideration of timing and your seating location. Most local establishments get progressively busier as kick-off approaches, so early arrival helps.

Quick Casual Options: Street vendors along Whitehorse Lane and near the stadium entrances offer burgers, hot dogs, and other matchday staples for £5-8. These open about 2 hours before kick-off and provide the quickest option if you're running late. The Sainsbury's supermarket next to the ground is useful for grabbing drinks and snacks before heading in, though it gets busy.

Traditional Pubs with Food: The Prince George serves decent pub food, though the kitchen can get stretched on busy matchdays. Order at least 90 minutes before kick-off if you want to eat there. The Railway Telegraph operates similarly, offering standard pub fare in a welcoming atmosphere for away supporters.

Family-Friendly Spots: The Wetherspoons at Thornton Heath (Flora Sands) provides reliable family-friendly dining with a full menu at reasonable prices. Service is generally quick, but allow 45-60 minutes from ordering to being back at the stadium. Delight Cafe near the station offers an excellent alternative for families wanting quality food without the pub environment.

Sit-Down Restaurants: Options for a proper sit-down meal are limited in the immediate vicinity. Most supporters heading for a restaurant experience do so in central Croydon (15-20 minutes by bus or 10 minutes by train from Thornton Heath or Selhurst), where you'll find chain restaurants, independent eateries, and various cuisines. If taking this option, aim to finish eating 90 minutes before kick-off to allow comfortable travel time to the stadium.

Last Orders Timing: Wherever you eat, aim to head towards the stadium at least 45 minutes before kick-off. This allows time for security checks at the turnstiles and finding your seat. The queues at stadium entrances peak between 30-15 minutes before kick-off.

Stadium Features & Weather Considerations

Selhurst Park is a traditional English football stadium, which means it has character but limited weather protection in certain areas. The four stands were built at different times, resulting in varying degrees of cover.

Roof Coverage: The Main Stand and Holmesdale Road Stand offer the best protection from rain. In the Main Stand, seats from approximately row 10 onwards benefit from substantial roof coverage. The Holmesdale Road Stand (behind the goal) has good coverage in rows 15 and above. The Arthur Wait Stand (away section) has a low-hanging roof that covers most seats, though the front rows and the very back rows can get wet in heavy rain. The Whitehorse Lane Stand provides reasonable cover for most sections.

Exposed Areas: The front rows (1-10) of all stands are most exposed to the elements. Additionally, the corners where stands meet tend to have gaps in roof coverage, making these sections vulnerable to wind-driven rain. If you're particularly concerned about staying dry, avoid these areas.

Weather Through the Season: From August through May, you'll experience the full spectrum of British weather. Early season matches (August-September) can be surprisingly warm, with temperatures reaching 20-25°C on sunny afternoons. Seats on the eastern side of the stadium receive afternoon sun, which can be pleasant but potentially uncomfortable if you're seated low down where there's little air circulation. Winter matches (November-March) can be bitterly cold, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C. The wind whipping through the corners adds to the chill factor. Evening matches in December and January are particularly cold—bring layers.

What to Wear: For matches between November and March, dress in layers. A warm coat, scarf, and gloves are essential for evening matches. Thermal layers work better than one thick jacket. In rain, bring a lightweight waterproof jacket, though umbrellas are banned for safety reasons. For sunny autumn or spring matches, factor in that you'll be sitting for 90 minutes without shade in certain sections. Cap or sunglasses can help.

Wind Exposure: The corners of the stadium, where stands meet, create wind tunnels. This affects the corners of the Arthur Wait Stand (away section) particularly, where the combination of height and open corners makes it noticeably windier than other areas.

Best Time to Enter Selhurst Park by Seating Section

Gates open 90 minutes before kick-off for most matches (sometimes 2 hours before kick-off for bigger games), though the optimal arrival time varies significantly depending on which section you're in.

Away Section (Arthur Wait Stand, Blocks R, S, T): Get there at least 60 minutes before kick-off, especially for well-supported away followings. Security searches are thorough, and there's only one main entrance serving the away section. The turnstiles can create significant queues between 30-15 minutes before kick-off. If you're in the upper rows where restricted views become an issue, arriving early lets you position yourself in the better seats if it's unreserved seating.

Holmesdale Road Stand (Home): This is the traditional home end where the most vocal Palace supporters congregate. The lower tier fills up early with season ticket holders and the Holmesdale Fanatics supporter group. If you're in the lower tier, arrive 45-60 minutes early to enjoy the pre-match atmosphere building. Upper tier supporters can arrive 30-40 minutes before without issues, as this section tends to fill more gradually.

Main Stand: The most relaxed entry experience at Selhurst Park. This section houses corporate hospitality, directors, and more casual supporters. Arriving 30-45 minutes before kick-off is perfectly fine. Concourse access is good, and you'll have time to grab refreshments without stress.

Whitehorse Lane Stand: Similar to the Main Stand, this section rarely experiences entry congestion. 30-40 minutes before kick-off works well. This stand also houses executive boxes, so facilities are generally better maintained.

Peak Crowding Times: Across all sections, the 30-15 minute window before kick-off represents peak entry time. Roads around the stadium close 2 hours before kick-off, so if you're driving or getting dropped off, factor this into your planning. The Information Centre (Entrance 9) opens 3 hours before kick-off and provides free bag storage for oversized items, mobile phone charging, and general assistance.

Early Bird Benefits: Arriving when gates first open has advantages beyond avoiding queues. Selhurst Park operates an Early Bird food offer—for the first 45-60 minutes after turnstiles open (timing varies), you can get a cheeseburger, hot dog, or Tuscan bean pie plus a beer for £7. Standard pricing without this offer runs £4-6 per food item and £5-6 per pint.

Understanding Selhurst Park's Seating Layout

Selhurst Park comprises four distinct stands, each with its own character and built during different eras of the club's history. The total capacity currently stands at 25,486, though this will increase to over 34,000 once the Main Stand redevelopment completes, currently scheduled for 2027.

Holmesdale Road Stand (South End): This double-tiered stand forms the traditional home end and generates the majority of Selhurst Park's famous atmosphere. Built in 1995 after the previous terrace was demolished, it holds approximately 8,329 fans (5,510 in the lower tier, 2,819 in the upper tier). The Holmesdale Fanatics, Palace's organized supporter group, coordinate from sections in the lower tier, particularly towards the eastern side (Blocks E, F, G, H). The steep design of this stand contributes to the intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. Views from the lower tier are excellent, bringing you close to the action behind the goal. The upper tier provides better overall pitch views but sits further back and slightly higher. Facilities under the stand include bars and food kiosks that can get busy at half-time. Entry to the Holmesdale Road Stand is through Entrances 10, 11, and 12.

Main Stand (South-West Side): The oldest part of the stadium, opened in 1924 and designed by legendary architect Archibald Leitch. This stand currently holds approximately 5,200 supporters and includes the Directors' Box, dugouts, and main reception. The exterior retains historical significance, though internal facilities show their age. The Main Stand offers excellent central views of the pitch from higher rows, though some lower rows can have restricted views due to the pitch-side dugouts and advertising boards. This is traditionally the quietest section atmosphere-wise, housing hospitality areas, club officials, and more reserved supporters. The massive redevelopment will see this stand completely rebuilt to hold 13,500 by 2027, transforming it into a glass-fronted modern structure while construction continues around the existing stand to keep it operational during building works. Entry is through Entrances 1, 2, and 3.

Arthur Wait Stand (North-East Side): Opened in 1969 and named after a former club chairman, this single-tier stand holds approximately 7,000 supporters and houses the away section in blocks R, S, and T (approximately 3,000 capacity for away fans). The away section occupies the northern end of the stand closest to the Whitehorse Lane Stand. The stand features supporting pillars that obstruct views from certain seats, particularly in the middle sections (Blocks T, V, X). A large media gantry on the roof restricts views from the uppermost rows—the last 10 rows have significantly compromised sightlines due to this recent addition. Lower rows (1-13) offer better views if you can secure them. The low-hanging roof creates an excellent acoustic environment, making the away section one of the noisier parts of the ground when well-supported. Seats in this stand are traditional wooden benches in the upper rows with limited legroom. Away supporters enter through Entrances 4, 5, 6, and 7. Home supporters in blocks U, V, W, X enter through Entrance 8.

Whitehorse Lane Stand (North-West End): Also known as the AWA Stand or Family Stand, this stand holds approximately 2,219 general admission seats plus 480 executive box seats (24 luxury boxes in total). Originally a standing terrace built in the early 1980s, it underwent redevelopment to its current seated configuration. The stand literally backs onto a Sainsbury's supermarket—the executive boxes were built on the roof of the supermarket in 1991. This creates the unique situation of being able to see the supermarket's signage from certain external angles. Atmosphere here is family-oriented and less intense than other areas. Views are reasonable from most positions, though this stand sits lower than others and can feel distant from the action. Entry is through Entrances 14, 15, and 16.

Notable Features Across All Sections: Selhurst Park is a cashless stadium. All food, drink, and retail purchases require card payment (contactless, Apple Pay, and Google Pay accepted). The steep design throughout creates an intimate atmosphere with supporters close to the pitch. However, this also means narrow concourses and stairways, particularly in the older stands. Disabled viewing platforms are integrated into all stands—see the accessibility section below for details.

Best Seats for Different Viewing Experiences

Choosing the right seat at Selhurst Park depends on what matters most to you—atmosphere, view, or comfort. Here's guidance for different priorities.

Best for Overall Pitch View: The central sections of the Main Stand and Arthur Wait Stand offer the clearest tactical view. In the Main Stand, sections near the halfway line (if you can get them—often season ticket holders or hospitality) provide textbook viewing. Rows 15-25 hit the sweet spot—high enough to see the whole pitch layout but not so far back that you're distant from the action. Similarly, in the Arthur Wait Stand, blocks U, V, and W centrally positioned offer excellent sightlines, though watch out for the supporting pillars in blocks T, V, and X that can obstruct views. Avoid rows higher than 30 in the Arthur Wait Stand due to the low roof and new media gantry blocking sightlines.

Best for Atmosphere: The Holmesdale Road Stand lower tier is where Selhurst Park's famous atmosphere originates. Blocks E, F, G, and H on the eastern side house the most vocal supporters, with the Holmesdale Fanatics organizing displays and chants. Standing throughout the match is common in the lower tier despite allocated seating, creating a terrace-like feel. If you want to be immersed in noise and passion, this is your section. Be aware that views of play at the opposite end can be limited from behind-the-goal positions. The Holmesdale Road Stand upper tier provides a more seated atmosphere while still benefiting from the noise generated below. For away supporters, the Arthur Wait Stand away section can generate tremendous noise when the visiting team has strong support, helped by the low roof amplifying sound.

Best for Seeing Goals Up Close: Behind-goal sections provide the ultimate experience when your team scores at your end. The Holmesdale Road Stand (for home fans) and the Whitehorse Lane Stand offer this, as does the Arthur Wait Stand for away supporters at the opposite end. However, remember the trade-off—goals at the far end will be distant and harder to celebrate. Many supporters prefer halfway line seating for this reason, accepting that no goal feels distant but none feels as viscerally close as standing directly behind the net.

Best for Families: The Whitehorse Lane Stand serves as the designated Family Stand. The atmosphere here is enthusiastic but family-appropriate, without the standing, constant chanting, or occasional industrial language that characterizes the Holmesdale Road Stand. Alcohol isn't sold in this section. Stewards are trained to help families, and toilet facilities are nearby. For young children who may struggle with sightlines, aim for rows 10-20 where they can see over shorter fans in front rows without being so high that the steep stands become uncomfortable. Some families prefer the Main Stand's quieter sections for a more relaxed experience.

Best for Photography: Elevated central positions in the Main Stand or Arthur Wait Stand upper sections offer the best angles for pitch photography. The Main Stand provides the classic angle looking across the pitch. For capturing the atmosphere and stadium architecture, corners where you can include stands in the shot work well. The player tunnel is located in the Main Stand, so early arrival can yield opportunities to photograph players emerging for warm-ups if you're seated nearby.

Sections to Avoid: The back rows of the Arthur Wait Stand (rows 35 and higher) have severely restricted views due to the media gantry installed above. Supporting pillars in blocks T, V, and X of the Arthur Wait Stand obstruct sightlines. The very front rows of all stands sit low, compromising the overall tactical view. Corner sections where stands meet tend to have more restricted views and are windier.

Best Seating for Kids at Selhurst Park

Taking children to Selhurst Park requires consideration of both physical comfort and atmosphere appropriateness. The club has policies and designated areas to help families.

Designated Family Stand: The Whitehorse Lane Stand (north-west corner, blocks in the Family Stand sections) is specifically designed for supporters with children under 14. This section offers an enthusiastic but family-appropriate atmosphere. Bad language, while never eliminated entirely at football matches, is monitored more carefully here, and stewards are trained to intervene if necessary. Alcohol is not sold in this section. The atmosphere is loud enough to be exciting for kids without being overwhelming or intimidating.

Age Recommendations: Children under 2 require special written authorization from the Matchday Safety Officer before being admitted to any match. Email ben.collins@cpfc.co.uk for this. All children over 2 must have their own valid ticket. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. These policies apply across all stands.

Sightline Considerations: Children under 1.2m (approximately 4 feet) struggle to see from front rows where taller adults block their view. Rows 10-20 in any stand provide the best compromise—high enough that shorter supporters in front don't completely obstruct the view, but not so elevated that young children feel disconnected from the action. Some parents bring booster cushions, though official booster seats are not provided by the club.

Proximity to Facilities: Toilet accessibility matters when attending with children. The Whitehorse Lane Family Stand has toilets located conveniently at concourse level. However, expect queues at half-time. Taking children to the toilet 5-10 minutes before half-time or immediately when the whistle blows helps avoid the worst congestion.

Atmosphere Management: If your children are sensitive to noise or easily overwhelmed, avoid the Holmesdale Road Stand where the intensity is highest. The Main Stand or upper tiers generally provide a calmer experience. However, many children thrive on the electric atmosphere, so gauge your own child's personality.

Junior Programmes: The Fanzone (Entrance 10, opens 3 hours before kick-off) welcomes families with young children and provides entertainment, competitions, and activities specifically for young fans. This helps children burn energy before sitting for 90+ minutes of match time.

Safety Note: The steep nature of Selhurst Park's stands means supervision is essential, particularly in upper tiers. Hold younger children's hands when navigating stairways, which can be narrow and crowded.

Best Seating for Accessibility at Selhurst Park

Crystal Palace provides accessibility provisions across all four stands, though capacity remains limited compared to newer stadiums. Planning ahead is essential.

Wheelchair-Accessible Seating: Wheelchair spaces are distributed across all stands. The Arthur Wait Stand has raised viewing platforms around row 38 providing elevated views. The Holmesdale Road Stand includes accessible positions in both tiers. The Main Stand offers positions, though the aging infrastructure means fewer options here currently. The Whitehorse Lane Stand similarly provides accessible viewing. Specific locations and capacity vary by stand—contact the club directly for current availability and optimal positioning.

Booking Process: Contact the Disability Liaison Officer at dlo@cpfc.co.uk well in advance of your desired match to discuss specific requirements and book accessible seating. For away supporters, contact your own club's accessibility team who will liaise with Crystal Palace. Provide as much detail as possible about your requirements to ensure appropriate accommodation.

Companion Seating: Personal assistants and companions receive a seat adjacent to the wheelchair position at no additional charge, provided appropriate documentation is supplied during booking. This policy applies across all accessible areas.

Accessible Parking: Sixteen dedicated parking bays for Blue Badge holders exist in the Sainsbury's car park directly adjacent to the stadium. These operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early for popular matches as spaces fill quickly despite the limited capacity. Show your Blue Badge upon arrival. Disabled parking must be booked in conjunction with your accessible match ticket—contact the DLO to arrange this.

Accessible Entrances: Designated accessible entrances are clearly marked at each stand, with stewards positioned to assist. The Arthur Wait Stand (away section) has a dedicated accessible entrance. Disabled Supporter Assistants from Crystal Palace are present in accessible areas on matchdays to provide support.

Accessible Toilets: Accessible toilet facilities are located at concourse level in all stands. The Information Centre at Entrance 9 can direct you to the nearest facility based on your seating location.

Lifts and Elevators: Lift access is available in stands with multiple tiers to reach upper-level accessible seating platforms. These can get busy, so allow extra time for movement before kick-off and at half-time.

Sensory Considerations: Selhurst Park does not currently have a dedicated sensory room. However, the club continues to improve accessibility provisions. If you have specific sensory requirements, discuss these with the DLO when booking.

Assistance Dogs: Assistance dogs are welcome at Selhurst Park. Water bowls can be provided upon request.

Audio Description: Check with the club regarding current availability of audio description services for visually impaired supporters.

Additional Support: For any specific requirements beyond standard provisions, email the Disability Liaison Officer at dlo@cpfc.co.uk. The club aims to accommodate individual needs where possible if given advance notice.

Level Playing Field: The Level Playing Field website provides detailed accessibility information and reviews for Selhurst Park from disabled supporters. This peer-reviewed information can be invaluable for planning your visit.

Best Seating to Leave Quickly After the Match

Some supporters need to leave promptly after the final whistle to catch trains or for other commitments. Choosing the right seat significantly impacts your exit time.

Fastest Exits: The Arthur Wait Stand sections nearest to Entrance 4 (blocks R, S, T on the away end) provide the quickest access to Park Road and the exit route towards all three railway stations. From here, the walk to Selhurst or Thornton Heath station takes 10-12 minutes. If you're in these sections and leave right at the final whistle, you can be at Thornton Heath station within 15 minutes.

Main Stand Lower Sections: Seats in the lower rows of the Main Stand near Entrances 1 or 2 allow relatively quick egress onto Whitehorse Lane. This route flows towards Selhurst station (10-minute walk). The Main Stand benefits from a more orderly, less frantic exit process compared to the Holmesdale Road Stand.

Sections to Avoid for Quick Exits: The Holmesdale Road Stand, particularly the lower tier, creates significant congestion at the final whistle as thousands of home supporters leave simultaneously through limited exits. Upper tier corners of any stand funnel through narrow stairways, creating bottlenecks. The back rows of the Arthur Wait Stand face the longest walk down to exit level.

Alternative Strategy: Rather than rushing immediately, waiting 15-20 minutes post-match allows crowds to clear substantially. Many supporters use this time to visit the toilet, grab a post-match pint (bars remain open for 10 minutes after the final whistle with a 50% discount on hot food), or simply discuss the match. This strategy often means you reach your transport method at the same time or even earlier than those who battled through peak crowds.

Public Transport Timing: Trains from Selhurst, Thornton Heath, and Norwood Junction run regularly on matchdays, typically every 10-15 minutes. Missing one train rarely means more than a 10-15 minute wait for the next service. The 5-10 minute post-match window represents the worst time to enter stations—packed platforms and potentially missed trains due to overcrowding. Leaving either immediately at the whistle or waiting until 20 minutes after creates a more comfortable journey.

Road Reopening: Roads around the stadium reopen approximately 1 hour after the final whistle. If you've parked nearby or arranged a pickup, factor this into your timing. Attempting to collect your car or meet a taxi earlier than this means navigating road closures and pedestrian-priority zones.

Best Seating Sections During Bad Weather

British weather can be unpredictable, and Selhurst Park's traditional design means coverage varies significantly across the stadium.

Best Rain Protection: The Main Stand provides the most comprehensive coverage in rows 10 and above. The roof extends well over these sections, and you'll stay dry even in heavy rain with wind. The Holmesdale Road Stand offers similar protection from row 15 upwards. Both stands have robust roof structures that shield from vertical and moderately angled rain.

Moderate Coverage: The Arthur Wait Stand's low-hanging roof covers most of the middle sections (approximately rows 10-30), though front rows and the very back rows (35+) remain exposed. The Whitehorse Lane Stand provides partial coverage, with higher rows generally protected better than lower rows.

Areas to Avoid in Rain: Front rows (1-10) of all stands are most exposed. The corners where stands meet have gaps in roof coverage, making these particularly vulnerable to wind-driven rain. Blocks at the junction points between stands (for example, where the Arthur Wait Stand meets the Holmesdale Road Stand) can get wet even in moderate rain.

Wind Considerations: The corners are notoriously windy at Selhurst Park. The gap where different stands meet creates wind tunnels. On particularly blustery days, rain gets blown into sections that would otherwise be covered. Corner sections of the Arthur Wait Stand away end suffer most from this effect.

Umbrellas Banned: For safety reasons, umbrellas are not permitted inside the stadium. Rain protection must come from personal waterproof clothing and the stadium roof coverage. Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket that can be easily removed if the weather improves.

Cold Weather: In winter, the corners remain coldest due to wind exposure. Central sections of covered stands feel warmest, as body heat from packed supporters generates some warmth and the roof reduces wind chill. Evening matches from November to March can be brutally cold—dress in layers regardless of your seating position.

Stadium Facilities & Amenities

Selhurst Park's facilities reflect its age and traditional design. While not matching modern stadium standards, ongoing improvements continue.

Food & Drink: The concourses throughout Selhurst Park offer traditional football fare. Cheeseburgers, hot dogs, Pukka pies (including Tuscan bean vegetarian options), sausage rolls, chicken goujons, and chips are standard offerings. Prices range from £4-6 per item, with the Early Bird special (available for 45-60 minutes after gates open) offering a burger or pie plus a beer for £7. Goddard's pies, sourced locally, appear across the stadium. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but remain limited—ask concourse staff for current offerings. Gluten-free options may be available on request. The concourses operate entirely cashless—bring your payment card or use contactless/Apple Pay/Google Pay.

Alcohol Policy: Alcohol (beer, cider, wine) is served before kick-off and at half-time from concourse bars. It costs £5-6 per pint of lager or cider. Palace Ale, brewed locally, is available. You cannot take alcohol to your seat—it must be consumed on the concourse. Alcohol is not sold in the Family Stand (Whitehorse Lane). After the final whistle, bars remain open for approximately 10 minutes.

Queuing at Half-Time: Half-time creates intense pressure on concourse facilities. Bars and food kiosks experience 15-minute queues as thousands of supporters descend simultaneously. If you want refreshments, either go immediately when the half-time whistle blows or wait until 5 minutes before the second half starts when queues diminish. Many experienced attendees grab their refreshments 5 minutes before half-time or bring drinks from outside (within permitted limits).

Toilets: Toilet facilities vary by stand age. The Main Stand and Arthur Wait Stand have older facilities that show their age—expect traditional urinal troughs and limited cubicles. The Holmesdale Road Stand, being newer (1995), has somewhat better facilities. Toilet queues peak at half-time. Using the facilities immediately before half-time or in the first 5 minutes of the break avoids the worst congestion. Cleanliness is generally acceptable, though high-traffic matchdays mean facilities deteriorate as the match progresses. Accessible toilets are located at concourse level in all stands.

Mobile Phone Charging: The Information Centre (Entrance 9) provides mobile phone charging facilities. This is particularly useful if you need your phone for digital ticketing access after the match. The service is free but capacity is limited—arrive early if you anticipate needing it.

WiFi: Stadium WiFi availability is limited. Mobile network coverage from major providers (EE, Vodafone, O2, Three) generally works, though congestion during peak times can slow data speeds.

Club Shop: Located in the Main Stand, the official club shop sells Crystal Palace merchandise. Opening hours on matchdays extend from approximately noon until after kick-off. Prices reflect Premier League merchandise standards. On non-matchdays, the shop operates 9am-5:30pm Monday-Friday.

First Aid: First aid facilities and trained medical staff are positioned around the stadium. If you need medical attention, notify the nearest steward who will summon assistance.

Lost Property: Items found in the stadium should be handed to stewards or taken to the Information Centre (Entrance 9). Uncollected items at the end of matchday are transferred to Main Reception. The club cannot accept responsibility for lost items, but genuine attempts are made to reunite owners with property.

ATMs: Limited ATM access exists in the immediate stadium vicinity. The Sainsbury's next door has an ATM, as do locations in Thornton Heath near the station. Since the stadium is cashless, ATM access matters less for in-stadium purchases, but you may need cash for street vendors or local pubs.

Sound System: Crystal Palace invested in a new permanent audio system during 2024, with a phased rollout across stands through the season. The system aims to match Wembley Stadium's audio quality, improving both volume and clarity. Some stands may still use the older system during the transition period.

What to Bring & What Not to Bring

Understanding stadium policies prevents issues at the turnstiles and ensures a smooth entry process.

Recommended to Bring:

• Weather-appropriate clothing: Layers for cold weather (November-March especially), waterproof jacket for rain. No umbrellas allowed inside.
• Payment card: The stadium is entirely cashless for all food, drink, and retail. Contactless, chip-and-pin, Apple Pay, and Google Pay all work.
• Mobile phone with digital ticket: Most tickets are now digital. Ensure your phone is charged and you have your ticket accessible in your Apple Wallet or Google Pay before arriving. Screenshot your ticket as backup in case of connection issues.
• Portable phone charger: If your phone battery tends to drain, bring a portable charger. The Information Centre offers charging but capacity is limited.
• Small bag (if needed): Bags that fit under your seat are permitted but will be fully searched.

Allowed with Restrictions:

• Cameras: Personal cameras and phones for photography are permitted. Professional equipment (large lenses, tripods, stabilizers) requires prior authorization.
• Food and drink from outside: Small amounts of food and non-alcoholic drinks may be allowed at stewards' discretion, but official policy discourages this. Best to check with the club beforehand if you have dietary requirements necessitating outside food.
• Flags and banners: Personal flags and banners require prior approval. Contact clive.mitchell@cpfc.co.uk with description and photo. Large flags require a British Standards fire certificate. Space for displaying flags during the match is extremely limited.

Prohibited:

• Large bags: Bags larger than A4 size (approximately 12"x8"x3") are not permitted. This includes rucksacks, backpacks, briefcases, and suitcases. There is no left luggage facility at the stadium, though the Information Centre (Entrance 9) offers free storage for smaller items.
• Alcohol: No alcohol from outside sources can be brought into the stadium.
• Glass bottles: All glass containers are banned for safety.
• Umbrellas: Not permitted due to obstruction and safety concerns.
• Pyrotechnics: Flares, smoke bombs, fireworks, and any pyrotechnic devices are illegal and will result in ejection, police involvement, and potential criminal charges.
• Illegal substances: Drug-sniffing dogs are positioned at turnstiles. Possession results in police handover.
• Offensive clothing: Items with discriminatory language or imagery are prohibited.
• Laser pointers: Not permitted.
• Air horns and similar noise devices: Banned for safety and nuisance reasons.
• Professional broadcasting equipment: Unless specifically authorized.

Clarification on Bags: If you have a small bag (handbag, small shoulder bag) that fits the A4 size guideline and can sit under your seat, it's permitted but will undergo full search. Many supporters choose to travel without bags to speed up entry. If you arrive with an oversized bag, you can leave it for free at the Information Centre (Entrance 9, open 3 hours before kick-off until 30 minutes after the final whistle).

Stadium Entry & Bag Checks

Entry to Selhurst Park involves security screening for all supporters. Understanding the process reduces anxiety, particularly for first-time visitors.

Security Process: All supporters undergo bag searches and ticket verification. Security staff conduct pat-down searches where deemed necessary. Sniffer dogs are present around turnstile areas screening for drugs and prohibited items. The process typically takes 2-3 minutes per person during quiet periods, but queues form 30-15 minutes before kick-off when most supporters arrive simultaneously.

Bag Searches: If you're carrying a bag, stewards will conduct a thorough manual search, opening all compartments. This adds time to the entry process. Organize your belongings clearly to speed this up—having everything easily accessible helps both you and the stewards.

Oversized Bags: If you arrive with a bag larger than A4 size, you cannot take it into the stadium. Free bag storage is available at the Information Centre (Entrance 9). The centre opens 3 hours before kick-off and remains open until 30 minutes after the final whistle. Uncollected bags are transferred to Main Reception. The club accepts no liability for stored items, though security is taken seriously.

Digital Tickets: Most tickets are now digital, loaded into Apple Wallet or Google Pay. Have your ticket ready on your phone before reaching the turnstile. Stewards scan the QR code on your device. Ensure your phone screen brightness is adequate for the scanner to read. Screenshots work as backup but the live ticket in your wallet is preferred. Mobile phone chargers are available at the Information Centre if your battery dies.

Physical Tickets: Some matches still use physical tickets or supporters prefer collection. Ticket collection for home supporters is at Entrance 9. Away supporters collect at Entrance 4 (Visitors Box Office). Collection typically opens 2-3 hours before kick-off. Bring photo ID and booking confirmation.

Ticket Verification: Stewards check that the name on the ticket matches ID if requested, particularly for away supporters. This prevents ticket touting and ensures only authorized supporters enter their designated sections.

Entry Gate Assignments: Your ticket shows which entrance to use. Don't join queues at the wrong gate—your ticket won't work and you'll waste time. Away supporters use Entrances 4, 5, 6, or 7. Home supporters' gate numbers appear on their tickets based on stand and block allocation.

Timing Recommendations: Arrive at least 45 minutes before kick-off to avoid the worst queues. If you're in the away section or an upper tier corner with a longer climb to your seat, add an extra 15 minutes. Early arrival also qualifies you for the Early Bird food and drink offer.

Re-entry Policy: Once you leave the stadium during a match, you cannot re-enter. Don't go outside for forgotten items or other reasons, as re-entry is strictly prohibited.

Late Arrivals: If you arrive after kick-off, most turnstiles close 10 minutes after the match starts. Some remain open until half-time to accommodate late arrivals, but check with stewards outside if you're arriving late. Late entry means missing the opening period of the match and potentially missing your seat if it's been occupied by others initially.