Vetch Field

Ground Name: Vetch Field
Capacity: 11,742
Address: Vetch Field, Swansea, SA1 3SU
Main Telephone No: 01792-633-400
Fax No: 01792-646-120
Ticket Office: 01792-633-425
Year Ground Opened: 1912
Pitch Size: 112 x 74 yards

Overview:

A somewhat tired looking ground, however the ground will no longer be in use when Swansea City move to the new “White Rock” stadium at Morfa in August 2005.

The West Terrace at one end is a partly covered terrace (to the rear), given to away supporters.

The other end, the East Stand, is a two tiered, covered, all seater stand, that doesn't run the full width of the pitch (just over half way). I believe the intention was for the whole ground to be similarly developed, but economics have dictated otherwise.

One side is the North Bank, a large covered terrace. Opposite is the smaller, all seated Centre Stand.

Away Fans:

Away fans are housed either in part of the West Terrace where just over 1,000 fans can be accommodated at one end of the ground, which is partly covered (to the rear), or in the Centre Stand, depending on numbers.

The atmosphere inside the ground is quite good. This is helped as the away fans can really make some noise under the cover in the West Terrace.

I have received reports that a day at Swansea City, in line with the general improvement in football, is now far more enjoyable.

However, it is worth bearing mind that the Swansea fans are passionate about their club and this can make for an intimidating atmosphere. Exercise caution around the ground.

Pre-Match Pint:

The Mumbles andThe Swansea Marina areas have plenty to offer, while Wind Street, just 5 mins from the Vetch has a range of places to indulge in a few drinks. There are plenty of pubs such as the Goose and Granite, Yates & the Bank Statement. Ask for Castle Gardens, and you'll see Wind St.

The Garibaldi and the Pantygydwr behind the North Bank are best avoided by away supporters.

Getting There by Road:

The ground is near the sea front, so if you drive along there, you can't miss the floodlights. The A4067 is the main coast road that passes the ground.

From the M4 take the A483 at Junction 42 towards Swansea. Then take the A4067 towards 'The Mumbles' you will eventually see the grounds' floodlights on your right.

Parking:

Street parking or there are council car parks at the Marina on the sea front (which were useful for a quick getaway after the game).

There is a designated "away" supporters' car park at County Hall on the left of the main road coming from the east opposite the prison. It is well signposted and entrance and exit are easy as the junction is controlled by traffic lights. The parking fee for cars is £1.50 and for coaches £4.50
.

By Train:

The train station is about a ten minute walk away. As you leave the station head straight down the High Street for about half a mile. At the traffic lights by Argos turn right. When you get to the roundabout take your first left after the pedestrianised area into Kingsway.

Continue along the Kingsway until you get to the roundabout by the Potters Wheel. Go straight on and take third left and then carry straight on and you get to the West Terrace away end.

Alternatively, avoiding the city centre - exit the station, turn left down the High Street which becomes Wind Street. At the end of Wind Street, turn right at the T junction into Oystermouth Road.

Follow this road past Swansea Museum, Tesco Extra and the Prison. Just past the prison turn right into Argyle Street for the ground.

Admission Prices:

Home Fans:

Centre Stand: Adults £15, No Concessions
East Stand: Adults £14, Concessions £8
Wing Stand: Adults £13, Concessions £8
Family Stand: Adults £13, Concessions £8
North Bank Terrace: Adults £11, Concessions £6
East Terrace: Adults £11, Concessions £6

Away Fans:
West Terrace Adults £11, Concessions £6

*ticket prices may be reduced for cup games.

Attendances:

Record Attendance: 32,796 v Arsenal, FA Cup 4th Round, February 17th, 1968.

Average Attendance:

· 2004-2005: 8,458 (League Two)

· 2003-2004: 6.853 (Division Three)

· 2002-2003: 5,160 (Division Three)

Other places of note:

The Gower peninsula adjoining Swansea is quite picturesque and The Mumbles can be lively on summer weekends. The area has great beaches and several pubs along the sea front and is not a bad place to stay at for the weekend, perfect for making a week of it.