A refresh of the memory after three years since our last visit.

The Stadium.

I actually like the Ricoh Arena, I think it is one off the better stadiums built over the past 15 years or so, although its rarely been filled since it opened six years ago, it has a good atmosphere due to its steep banks of seats on three sides.

Saints fans will be seated in the South Stand, were normally 3,000 can be accomodated, but more tickets can be offered if neccesary, to a limit of about 6,000.

Due to the steepness of the terracing it offers a great view, whilst underneath the concourses are big with all the facilities you might expect.

Getting There

By Car

The simplest route is to take the A34 to Oxford and then the M40 Northbound, at junction 15 take the A46 signposted Coventry, follow the signs to the M6 on the Coventry ring road and join the M6 northbound for one junction, leaving at Junction 3 taking the A444 towards Coventry, the ground is then on your left after approx 1 mile.

Alternatively as the crow flies you could go through Coventry itself and follow the signs, quick going to the game, not so quick after.

Parking

There are numerous car parks around the ground and both public and private, although some right next to it are peermit only, street parking bans are strictly enforced within a 1 mile radius.

The nearby retail park has a two hour time limit strictly adhered too.

By Train

Coventry train station is about 3 1/2 to 4 miles away so a long walk, however there is a shuttle bus from the station every 10 minutes for £3 return, otherwise its a taxi

Eating/ Drinking Etc.

There is little around the stadium itself, however behind the retail park is Longford Road, this has a number of pubs, including the JK English Pub which doubles as a pub and an Indian Restaurant, you can also park in the car park if your early enough. although sometimes they charge.   

Capacity: 32,500 (all seated)

Address: Phoenix Way, Foleshill, Coventry, CV6 6GE

Main Telephone No: 0844 873 1883

Fax No: 024 7623 4099

Ticket Office No: 0844 873 1883 (Option 1)

Club Nickname: The Sky Blues

Year Ground Opened: 2005

Pitch Size: 105 x 68m

Undersoil Heating: Yes

Home Kit Colours: Sky Blue & White

Away Kit Colours: Green & Black Stripes

Shirt Sponsors: City Link

Kit Manufacturers: Puma

Official Web Sites:

www.ccfc.co.uk

Ricoh Arena Coventry

Photo: Action Images via Reuters