Stadium of Light

The ground of Light was erected in the mid 1990s as a replacement for Sunderland's old Roker Park, which lacked the possibilities for further enlargement and modernisation.

The ground of Light was constructed at a site a few hundred metres away from Roker Park and initially had a capacity of 42,000 seats.

The ground was formally inaugurated on the 31st of July with a friendly fixture between Sunderland and Ajax (0-0)

The ground of Light was further expanded in 2002 to a capacity of 49,000 seats. The ground's design allows for further expansions to a maximum capacity of 66,000 seats, though no plans for such enlargement exist at the moment.

The ground of Light stands on the north bank of the River Wear. Sunderland's downtown area, located on the south bank, is just a 15-minute walk away, as is Sunderland's main railway station.

One can also arrive at the ground by metro. Both the metro stations St. Peter's and Stadium of Light are within short a short walk of the ground. After the match northbound (Newcastle) going supporters are required to board at Stadium of Light station, whereas southbound supporters need to board at St. Peters.

In addition, buses 2, 3, 4, 12, 13, 15 and 16 all stop within a short walk of the ground.

Address: Stadium of Light, Sunderland, SR5 1SU

The ground of Light is situated in a typical British urban area, and while Several places around to get a drink or something to eat, e.g. At North Bridge St., you can just as well do this in Sunderland's downtown area. Which is a short walk away.

There are not many hotels in Sunderland, and none in the immediate vicinity of the ground. In the downtown area Mowbray Guest House seems a very good alternative. Theoretically at a short walk, but also close to the metro.

Alternatively, you can also pick one of the hotels on the North Sea coast, from where it is a 20 to 30-minute walk to the ground. The Best Western Tavistock Roker Hotel and Roker Lodge are two options. The Balmoral & Terrace Guest Houses gets strong reviews, but require at minimum a three-night stay.

To browse hotels close to the ground of Light use the linked guides. Of course, if you do not care about regional rivalries, you can also stay in nearby Newcastle and catch a metro to the ground. Visitors will find the options in Newcastle's downtown area here.

Admission for Sunderland games can be purchased online, by phone + 44 (0) 871 911 1973, or in person at the ground of Light ticket office.

Tickets are also available at the ticket office before kick-off. Sunderland usually only sell out the Tyne-Wear derby and possibly one or two other high-profile matches per season.

Tickets fall into three pricing categories. Admission for category C matches, the cheapest, range from £25.00 for a seat behind the goal or in the corners to £30.00 for a central seat at one of the long sides. Admission for category A matches, the most expensive, range between £32.00 and £40.00.

Visitors will find a stadium plan here. Additional information call the ticket office at +44 (0) 871 911 1973.

Sunderland offer guided venue tours round the ground that include a visit to the players' lounge, dressing room, players' tunnel, and dugouts. The tours last just over 60 minutes.

Tours run roughly once a month and more frequently throughout the summer holidays. For exact dates, availability, and bookings check the Sunderland website or call the Tours Hotline +44 (0) 191 551 5055.

The tour is priced at £10.00.