|  | | Last Updated: Sunday, 25 August, 2002, 14:46 GMT 15:46 UK |
Bristol: The Memorial Ground
Memorial Ground
Capacity: 11,400 |
 The Memorial Ground, or 'stadium' to Bristol Rovers fans, has been the home of the club since 1921. The ground lies in the northern suburbs of the city, near to the lively - if rather run-down - Gloucester Road. To a newcomer it's all but lost in Bristol suburbia, but a trained eye will spot the blue roof of the centenary stand, an incongruous if imposing structure. Unlike west country rivals Gloucester and Bath, Bristol is not a rugby mad city, but the club's fans are passionate, and never tire of explaining that Bristol is rugby's sleeping giant. Disagree at your peril. Where to stand/sit?Most Bristol Rovers fans think the Memorial ground is rather a poor excuse for a football ground, but by rugby's standards it's really rather plush. Most fans can watch the game without getting wet, with easy access to the bars and toilets. For sheer noise and banter, the Blackthorn terrace is a good place to stand, with a decent view from behind the posts. The Centenary stand gives good views, but on wet days its large roof can be surprisingly ineffective. Overall, the smart new clubhouse is the place to be seen, and also boasts good disabled facilities. Pubs to visit:The Beehive (Wellington hill West). A a favourite with many. Richard the landlord is a big club fan, so you can be sure of a warm welcome. (10mins) The John Cabot (383 Gloucester rd). The Cabot is a dark but cosy pub, adorned with seafaring artefacts with a good selection of beers and the option of food. (10 mins) Naval Volunteer (King St - City centre). One of Bristol's more famous establishments, the Volunteer is an old and welcoming drinking hole covered with golden oak panelling, two minutes walk from the bus to the ground. Restaurants:The Blue Goose. This Egon Ronay blessed eating-house do a fine line in new world food, in light and airy surroundings. (344 Gloucester rd) 0117 9420940. The Firehouse Rotisserie is based near the docks, in Bristol City centre. The west-country based chain (they have a restaurant in Bath) specialise in their highly acclaimed American cuisine. (Anchor Square, Harbour side) 0117 9157323. Bristol Rugby's pasties. A strange choice we grant you, but the pasty shop next to the Centenary stand makes a terrific Cornish meal. Top tip?Try to secure to yourself a parking space in the area 20 minutes before the match. Finding a pub in Tehran would be easier. Directions:Car: Exit the M4 at J19 and take the M32 to Bristol, until you reach J2. Take the exit for Southmead and Horfield, following the road till you reach a roundabout. The Memorial Ground is signposted from here. Either arrive early or be prepared to spend a good half hour looking for a parking space. Rail: Take the Rail Link bus from Temple Meads station to the city centre. From here you can catch a bus to the ground. Bus: Numbers 73,X73,75,76, and 77 all pass the Memorial Ground, and can be caught either at the main bus station or opposite the Cenotaph in the centre. Get off at Churchways Avenue on the Gloucester rd, the trip should take 20mins. Did you know?Bristol Rovers FC bought the Memorial Ground from the Rugby Club for �10,000. What to do with the other half who hates Rugby?After years of neglect, Bristol has been busy restyling itself as the culture capital of the west country, so there is plenty to do on a day out. The Arnolfini gallery is a leading centre in the contemporary arts, hosting collections, film previews and live performance, while the Explore museum is worth a visit with the kids. Park St. is a popular shopping destination, whilst Broadmead hosts all the big names in fashion. Prices:Contact details:
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