Nottingham, England
City Ground
Premier League
Planning a trip to see Nottingham Forest play at the iconic City Ground is an exciting experience for any football fan. On this page, we compare different travel agencies and ticket companies that offer Nottingham Forest match tickets and package deals. Some companies offer just the match tickets, while others provide complete packages including hotel accommodation and even flights. The comparison makes it easy to find options that suit your preferences and budget. Remember that during high-profile matches, such as derbies against Derby County or visits from top Premier League teams, demand increases significantly, so booking well in advance is recommended. The atmosphere at City Ground is legendary, especially when the Reds are in good form.
When comparing football trips to see Nottingham Forest, it's important to look beyond just the price. Different providers offer various seating categories at City Ground, and the location of your seat can significantly impact your matchday experience. Some packages include guided tours or pre-match events with former players, while others focus on providing premium accommodation close to the stadium. Check what's included in each package - meal options, stadium tours, or transportation between hotel and stadium might be important factors for your decision. Each provider has different cancellation policies and payment terms, which could be crucial if your plans change. The comparison on this page helps you understand these differences to make an informed choice.
Securing tickets to watch Nottingham Forest at City Ground can be challenging, especially for high-demand fixtures. While the club sells tickets directly, these are primarily available to members and season ticket holders first, making them difficult to obtain for occasional visitors. The providers listed on this page offer a reliable alternative, with guaranteed tickets in various stadium sections. Prices vary depending on the opposition and the seating category. The Brian Clough Stand offers great views of the action, while the Trent End is known for its passionate atmosphere. For the best experience, consider tickets in the lower tiers which are closer to the pitch. Most providers deliver tickets electronically or arrange collection near the stadium on matchday.
The matchday experience at Nottingham Forest is steeped in tradition and passion. Arrive early to soak in the pre-match atmosphere around City Ground, with many fans gathering at local pubs like the Trent Navigation Inn or Southbank Bar. The stadium is located about a 25-minute walk from Nottingham city center, with good transport links via bus or taxi. Forest fans are known for their passionate support and the famous "Mull of Kintyre" anthem before kickoff creates a spine-tingling atmosphere. The club shop near the stadium offers merchandise and souvenirs to remember your visit. The area around City Ground has good food options, but they get extremely busy on matchdays, so plan accordingly. Wearing red, Forest's traditional color, will help you blend in with the home supporters.
City Ground has been Nottingham Forest's home since 1898 and currently holds approximately 30,000 spectators. The stadium sits beautifully alongside the River Trent, creating a picturesque setting for football. Each stand has its own character – the Brian Clough Stand (named after the legendary manager) is the main stand, while the Trent End houses the most vocal supporters. The Bridgford Stand and Peter Taylor Stand complete the four sides of this traditional English football ground. The stadium has undergone several renovations over the years but retains its classic charm and intimate atmosphere. Plans for further development have been proposed to increase capacity and modernize facilities. The proximity of fans to the pitch creates an immersive experience, with excellent sightlines from most seats. City Ground's location near the river makes for a dramatic approach on matchdays.
When planning your Nottingham Forest experience, you'll need to decide between purchasing just match tickets or opting for a complete package trip. Standalone tickets give you flexibility to arrange your own accommodation and transportation, which might be preferable if you're familiar with Nottingham or have specific preferences. Package trips, on the other hand, provide convenience with everything arranged for you – typically including match tickets, hotel accommodation, and sometimes additional perks like stadium tours or meals. These packages save you time and often secure better hotel rates than booking separately. For first-time visitors to Nottingham, package deals offer peace of mind and a more streamlined experience. Consider your budget, how long you plan to stay, and whether you want to explore more of Nottingham when making your decision.
Nottingham Forest's most intense rivalry is with Derby County in what's known as the East Midlands derby. The proximity of the two cities (just 16 miles apart) and their shared history in English football makes this one of the most passionate fixtures in the calendar. Matches against Derby County have extra significance and an electric atmosphere. Forest also share rivalries with other East Midlands clubs like Leicester City and to a lesser extent Sheffield United. Historically, there has been tension with Liverpool dating back to the late 1970s when both clubs competed for domestic and European honors under Brian Clough and Bob Paisley respectively. In more recent years, matches against local teams like Notts County have been rare due to the clubs competing in different divisions. Attending a derby match provides the ultimate atmosphere but requires early booking.
Nottingham Forest boasts a remarkable history, highlighted by their golden era under Brian Clough when they won back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980 – an extraordinary achievement for a provincial English club. The team has won the English top-flight title once, along with two FA Cups and four League Cups. Forest's return to the Premier League in 2022 after a 23-year absence marked a significant milestone for the historic club. Several English stars have graced the City Ground over the years, including Stuart Pearce, Des Walker, and Stan Collymore. In recent years, the club has featured English talents like Joe Worrall and Brennan Johnson before his move to Tottenham. The club has also had strong Welsh connections, with players like Andy Reid and Chris Gunter representing Forest. The club's rich history is celebrated around the stadium, with tributes to Brian Clough and the European Cup-winning teams.
While visiting Nottingham for a Forest match, take time to explore this historic city with plenty to offer. The legendary Nottingham Castle provides insights into the city's rich history and connections to Robin Hood. Speaking of which, join a Robin Hood-themed walking tour to learn about the famous outlaw's local ties. Wollaton Hall, a stunning Elizabethan mansion surrounded by deer park (and Batman fans might recognize it as Wayne Manor from "The Dark Knight Rises"), is worth visiting. The Lace Market area offers excellent shopping, dining, and nightlife options in beautifully preserved historic buildings. For beer enthusiasts, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem claims to be England's oldest inn (dating from 1189) and is built into castle rock with fascinating cave rooms. Sherwood Forest, the legendary home of Robin Hood, is just a short drive from the city and makes for a perfect day trip before or after the match.