Key facts
| Address | Aylestone Road, Leicester, LE2 7TR |
| Capacity | 25,849 seats |
| Build Date | 1892 |
| Who is the owner of Welford Road Stadium? | Leicester Tigers |
| Surface | Eclipse Turf System Grass |
Description
Welford Road, the home of Leicester Tigers consits of three stands, the newest of the three is the ‘Alliance & Leicester Stand’ which is situated behind the posts adjacent to Welford Road and was opened in 1995 with a game against ‘The Lions’ of South Africs. The other two stands, running either length of the pitch are somewhat tired looking.
Leicester Tigers are now planning to move to the Walkers Stadium for the start of the 2005 season. Welford Road home of the tigers for 113 years, will demolished as a consequence.
In 1891 the tigers accepted an offer for a 10 year lease on an acre of land between Aylestone Road and Welford Road within the city of Leicester from the Leicester Corporation. The ground was officially opened on 10th September 1892 with a game againt the Leicestershire Rugby Union. By 1893 the first stands had been built, with the Pavilion accomodating 500 on one side of the pitch and a 45 x 30ft stand built opposite to seat a further 600 spectators and a year later a scoreboard was bought at a cost of £5.
The next major developments of Welford Road were a clubhouse that was built in 1909 and the current Members’ Stand and Crumbie Stand that were erected in 1918 and 1920 respectively. The Crumbie Stand was named after Tom Crumbie when he died in 1928 – he was an honorary secretary of the club.
The first floodlit game was played against a midlands XV on October 8th 1964.
Pubs
There are a few pubs around, Shifty O’Shea’s was pretty good for the Rugby although it has changed its name now.
Refreshments
There are 19 bars situated around the ground and a number of food stalls as well, the prices are quite reasonable.
How to get to
By car. From M1 (North and South) and M69 (East) Exit the motorway at Junction 21 (M1). Follow the signs for the city centre via Narborough Road (A5460). After 3 miles, at the crossroad junction with Upperton Road, turn right. The stadium is 1/2 mile ahead (past Leicester City Football ground on the right).
From A6 (South). Follow the signs for the city centre, coming in via London Road. At the main set of lights opposite the entrance to the railway station (on the right), turn left onto the Waterloo Way. The stadium is 1/2 mile further on.
From A5199 (South). Follow the signs for the city centre, coming in via Welford Road.
From A426 (South). Follow the signs for the city centre, coming in via Aylestone Road.
From A47 (East). Follow the signs for the city centre, coming in via Uppingham Road. At the St Georges Retail Park roundabout, take the second exit into St Georges Way (A594). Carry on past the Leicester Mercury offices on the right, and then filter off right into Tigers Way (formally known as Waterloo Way) just before the Railway Station. The stadium is 1/2 mile further on.
By rail. Leicester Station is a ten minute walk away, along Tigers Way (formally known as Waterloo Way). Tigers Way is directly opposite the train station.
By air. The nearest Airport is East Midlands, if you are traveling directly to the stadium a taxi is recommended. East Midlands Airport has no direct rail link.
FAQ
Welford Road Stadium was opened in 1892. It has been the home ground of Leicester Tigers rugby club since its inception.
The stadium is named after its location on Welford Road in Leicester, England.
As of 2024, the stadium has a capacity of 25,849 spectators, making it one of the largest purpose-built club rugby union grounds in England.
Welford Road is primarily the home of Leicester Tigers, one of England’s most successful rugby union clubs. The stadium is used for their home matches in domestic and European competitions.
Yes, the stadium has seen several renovations and expansions over the years. A significant redevelopment took place in 2015 with the construction of a new stand, increasing the stadium’s capacity.
One of the most notable features is the famous ‘Crumbie Stand’, named after Tom Crumbie, a former secretary of the club. This stand is known for its passionate supporters and atmosphere during matches.
While primarily used for rugby, the stadium has occasionally hosted other events, including concerts and community gatherings. However, its main purpose remains as a rugby union venue.
