First Time at Anfield: Complete Matchday Guide
Liverpool
← Back to all articlesFirst Time at Anfield: The Complete Matchday Guide
Anfield is one of stadiums where national transport links doesn't conveniently stop like some of the other Premier League grounds, and that's one thing to consider for first-time visitors out. Plan around Liverpool Lime Street without knowing the distance, and you'll be arriving stressed rather than early.
This guide covers exactly what a first-time visitor needs to know and where to eat.
How do you get to Anfield
Liverpool Lime Street is the main train station most visiting fans arrives at, and it's roughly 2.5 miles from Anfield. For most people this is an hour walk, but not the most practical route. It is recommended to catch a bus, taxi, or ride-share from Lime Street, several bus routes run directly toward the stadium and take about 20–25 minutes depending on traffic.
Kirkdale station, on the Merseyrail Northern Line, is technically closer at around a mile out, but it's a much less obvious route for visitors unfamiliar with the city and isn't the station most locals default to. Unless you specifically know the walk from Kirkdale, budgeting time from Lime Street by bus or taxi is the fan's choice.
What time should you arrive on Matchday
The Anfield gates generally open around two hours before kickoff, though guidance varies by source and some entry points open closer to 90 minutes out. Allow at least one hour just for getting from Lime Street to the ground, then add time to actually get through the turnstiles.
For a first visit, aim to be in the area at least 90 minutes before kickoff, it gives you some time to explore the stadium, visit the LFC Store and soak in the matchday experience by grabbing something to eat before you're inside.
Anfield Seating: The Basics for First-Timers
Anfield holds 61,276 seats following the Anfield Road End expansion. The stand known to the footballing world is the Kop, the heart and soul of Anfield, holding over 12,300 supporters, widely considered one of the loudest single stands in world football and the source of "You'll Never Walk Alone" ringing out before kickoff. The Main Stand sits opposite, also single-tier, with the Anfield Road Stand and the stand facing the Kop completing the stadium also houses away fans.
If you're looking for the most scouse experience, choosing seats in the Kop or closer to it gives you the atmosphere you'll remember for years and years.
Read our guide on the best seats at Anfield
Stadium Tour vs Matchday: What to Do If You Can't Get Tickets
Every ticket also includes the free, self-guided Anfield Origins Tour around the stadium exterior. One thing worth knowing: Anfield closes to tours on matchdays and frequently the day before, so this only works as a plan for a non-matchday visit.
Where to Eat and Drink Before Kickoff
The Sandon, on Oakfield Road about five minutes from the ground, is the birthplace of Liverpool FC and still the most famous pre-match pub in the area. They often run a BBQ, so a burger or hot sausage sandwich comes with your pint. The Albert and The Park Pub, both just two minutes from the stadium and right by the Kop, are the classic last-stop options before the turnstiles.
For food specifically, Homebaked, directly opposite the Kop, is known for pies named after Liverpool legends. Cabbage Hall has a large outdoor garden and a full menu if you're arriving early and want to sit down properly.
What to Expect Inside Anfield
The concourses at Anfield are more compact than some of the newer Premier League grounds, particularly around the Kop, so allow in extra time if you're planning to grab food or use the toilets at half-time. Many fans will begin to disperse ahead of the half-time whistle to get their mid-match break in without queing. Card and contactless payments only at the bars and kiosks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the nearest station to Anfield?
Liverpool Lime Street is the main station visiting fans use, around 2.5 miles from the ground. Plan to board a bus, taxi, or rideshare from there, roughly 20–25 minutes. Kirkdale station is technically closer at about a mile out but is a less obvious route for first-time visitors.
How early should I arrive at Anfield?
At least 90 minutes before kickoff once you factor in the journey from Lime Street. Gates generally open around two hours before kickoff.
What's included in the Anfield Stadium Tour?
The roughly 90-minute tour includes the Press Conference Room, the "This Is Anfield" sign, the players' tunnel, the managerial dugout, and the home dressing room, plus entry to the LFC Museum. It runs from around £25–35 for adults and is not available on matchdays or the day before.
Can I do the Anfield tour on a matchday?
No. Anfield closes to tours on Liverpool's home match days and frequently the day before as well, so plan a separate visit if the tour is part of your trip.
How big is Anfield?
Anfield holds 61,276 seats following the Anfield Road End expansion, with the famous Kop holding over 12,300 fans.
Book the Match before you plan the rest fo your day trip.
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Image By Vojta.zurek - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=138132869
