Ashton Gate – stadium description

Ashton Gate Stadium was built at the turn of the 19^th century, but inhabited by Bristol City FC after several years, in 1904. First revamp came in 1928 with a new covered terrace being added at the south-eastern side. 30 more years passed before another big change – erection of a new main stand with press and executive seats. Then in 1970 another one was mounted on the opposite side of the pitch. Last new section came in 1994, when uncovered terraces behind one goal were replaced with a new seated stand. Also around that time came other changes forced by the Taylor Report.

Glory years have already passed at Ashton Gate. Bristol City could not dream of a crowd similar to the record attendance from 1930’s, so no wonder plans for relocation were put in place along with England's efforts to host the 2018 World Cup. Eventually they fell through, forcing City to consider expansion of Ashton Gate.

The venue is also important for British rugby – since 1920 it’s used regularly by Bristol Rugby club and is also the place where largest rugby crowd in Britain outside Twickenham was seen.   

In 2014-2016 the above-mentioned expansion of Ashton Gate finally came to fruition, becoming the single most expensive (and extensive) operation to ever be carried out at the stadium. Massive new main grandstand and south end were both built, while the east stand was improved, altogether giving the stadium a new, modern look and prolonging its lifespan by no less than 2-3 decades.

How Ashton Gate compares to other Championship venues?