A classic ground (Arsenal Stadium (Highbury))

Member Name: somersetsaint

Product:	Arsenal Stadium (Highbury)
Date:	28/09/00 (43 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Accessible, attractive; atmospheric

Disadvantages: Old, too small

The Arsenal stadium may have the facilities of more modern stadia, nor perhaps is it large enough - but there is no question that the close atmosphere is helping Arsenal in the European matches this season. Playing Champions League matches at Wembley was all very well in theory, but the performances in the UEFA Cup on returning to Highbury proved how much of an advantage being at home can be. It is just a shame that the atmosphere can't be brought over into league matches - for the 'less important' matches the stadium often seems like a morgue with away supporters easily outsinging the home fans.

Externally, Highbury is one of the most attractive stadia in the Premiership - particularly the main entrance - and parts are listed. Walking around the ground is a rather surreal experience, the ground side of the roads alternating between terraced housing (mostly converted now to offices or similar) and entrance/exit areas, but this only adds to the character.

Once inside the ground you find a strange combination of old and new. The stands themselves are old, though adapted for seating since the Taylor Report, in stark contrast to the jumbo screens and security boxes in corners of the ground. Facilities for the disabled are also limited (though this can be expected in an old stadium) and wheelchairs have to be wheeled around pitchside.

Public transport to the ground is probably the best of any ground in the country - the Arsenal underground station is directly opposite the ground and is ideal for arriving fans. After the match it can be quicker to make the short walk to Finsbury Park however, since the queues at the Arsenal station are huge. A number of buses also run near the ground.

Arsenal have plans in the pipeline for a new ground, not too far away. Perhaps this will be necessary to allow many more fans to see the team, but most supporters will be unhappy about any move.

And besides, how many football grounds h
ave a movie named after them?

Summary: