As the largest football stadium in South East England outside of London, St Mary’s Stadium is the proud home of Southampton FC, known affectionately as “The Saints.” Since opening in 2001, the all-seater stadium has become a focal point of the city’s sporting culture, located just a short walk from the historic site of St Mary’s Church where the club was originally founded in 1885.
With a capacity of over 32,000, the stadium offers a modern, bowl-shaped design that ensures excellent sightlines from every seat, creating an electric atmosphere on matchdays in the Premier League and for major international fixtures.
Stadium Highlights and Experiences
Beyond the 90 minutes of football, St Mary’s offers several attractions for fans and visitors throughout the week:
- The Saints Store: The flagship retail outlet located at the stadium, stocking the latest kit, training wear, and a vast range of club memorabilia.
- Stadium Tours: Guided tours take fans behind the scenes, including the home dressing room, the tunnel, the dugout, and the trophy cabinet. In 2026, these tours often feature interactive digital elements showcasing the club’s history.
- Hospitality Suites: The stadium boasts high-end hospitality options such as the Halo and The Aspire, offering fine dining and panoramic views of the pitch.
- The Ted Bates Statue: Standing outside the main entrance, this monument commemorates the man known as “Mr. Southampton,” who served the club for over 60 years as a player, manager, and director.
Matchday in Southampton
On matchdays, the area surrounding the stadium transforms into a sea of red and white. Visitors in 2026 can enjoy the expanded Fan Zone, which features live music, outdoor bars, and local street food vendors, opening three hours before kick-off.
Getting to St Mary’s Stadium
The stadium is located on Britannia Road (SO14 5FP), near the Itchen Bridge and the Northam area.
- By Foot: A 15-20 minute walk from Southampton Central Station or the city centre. A dedicated pedestrian “footbridge” link connects the station directly to the stadium area.
- By Train: Southampton Central is the nearest main station. On matchdays, shuttle buses often run from the station to the stadium.
- By Bus: The Bluestar and First Bus networks provide frequent services to the Northam and St Mary’s areas.
- Parking: There is no parking available at the stadium on matchdays for the general public. Fans are encouraged to use city centre car parks (like Westquay or Six Dials) or “Park and Ride” services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I buy match tickets at the stadium?
While the ticket office is open on matchdays, most Premier League games at St Mary’s sell out in advance. It is highly recommended to book tickets via the official Southampton FC website well ahead of your visit.
Is the stadium accessible for disabled supporters?
Yes, St Mary’s is widely regarded for its accessibility. It offers designated wheelchair bays in all stands, accessible toilets, and “Easy Access” seating. The club also provides a sensory room for supporters with neurodiverse needs.
Are there tours available on matchdays?
No, stadium tours do not run on matchdays or during major stadium events. It is best to check the official tour calendar for available dates, which are usually mid-week or during the off-season.
What is the bag policy for the stadium?
Small bags (smaller than A4 size) are permitted but will be subject to security searches. Large backpacks and suitcases are not allowed inside the stadium, and there are no public storage facilities on-site.