Selhurst Park Seating Chart, Sections & Best Seats
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 field 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 fans 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 field from higher rows, though some lower rows can have restricted views due to the field-side dugouts and advertising boards. This is traditionally the quietest section atmosphere-wise, housing hospitality areas, club officials, and more reserved fans. 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 fans 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 stadium when well-supported. Seats in this stand are traditional wooden benches in the upper rows with limited legroom. Away fans enter through Entrances 4, 5, 6, and 7. Home fans 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 fans close to the field. 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 Field 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 field 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 fans, with the Holmesdale Fanatics organizing displays and chants. Standing throughout the game 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 fans, 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 fans at the opposite end. However, remember the trade-off, goals at the far end will be distant and harder to celebrate. Many fans 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 restroom 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 field photography. The Main Stand provides the classic angle looking across the field. 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 fans with children under 14. This section offers an enthusiastic but family-appropriate atmosphere. Bad language, while never eliminated entirely at soccer games, 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 Game day Safety Officer before being admitted to any game. 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 fans 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 restrooms located conveniently at concourse level. However, expect lines at half-time. Taking children to the restroom 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 kickoff) 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 game 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 game to discuss specific requirements and book accessible seating. For away fans, 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 parking lot directly adjacent to the stadium. These operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early for popular games as spaces fill quickly despite the limited capacity. Show your Blue Badge upon arrival. Disabled parking must be booked in conjunction with your accessible game 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 game day to provide support.
Accessible Toilets: Accessible restroom facilities are located at concourse level in all stands. The Information Center 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 kickoff 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 fans.
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 fans. This peer-reviewed information can be invaluable for planning your visit.

