History

The Reebok is a modern, all-seater stadium with a capacity of 28,373 which was completed in 1997, replacing the club’s old ground Burnden Park. Despite the improved facilities and larger capacity (and resultant larger ticket revenues), this move was unpopular with many of the club’s fans. This was partly due to the new stadium being built out-of-town, and partly due to sentimental attachment to the old stadium and its history. In recognition of this, the street on which the stadium is situated is called Burnden Way.

The stadium is named for long-time team sponsor, Reebok. Again this was unpopular with many fans, as it was considered too impersonal, and that too much emphasis was being placed on financial considerations. This opposition has considerably lessened since the stadium was built, however, as fans have grown accustomed to the name.

The food inside the ground varies from average pies to awful hot dogs which I don't recommend unless you are to expire as the bread roll is never fresh. Hot drinks are Ok so long as they remember to add the hot chocolate/coffee!

General Ground Information

The stadium is quite remote so can be seen for miles around. Each stand has a conventional rectangular lower tier, with a semi circular upper tier. This is then topped with diamond-shaped floodlights that sit above the supporting tubular steel supporting structures. The ground is completely enclosed and has a large video screen in one corner, which replays goals from the game. The most unusual feature is that the teams emerge from separate tunnels at either side of the half-way line.

The stadium houses a 2,000 capacity car-park including a section for away fans (section A). Cost per car is £5. There are very few roads to park around the stadium because of its out-of-town location so there are very few alternatives to park elsewhere. Private businesses are likely to clamp you if you use their car parks.

Turnstiles are open 90 minutes before kick-off.

Matchday security is operated by both police and stewards. Some stewards appear to have had a personality bypass operation and are totally uncooperative, whilst others are quite willing to do their utmost to help you, although it is trial and error finding those ones. Some stewards are over-zealous and will eject you from the stadium for issues like standing up.

Programmes are available from the Club’s Superstore and inside the ground for £3. They also run a Programme Subscription service whereby supporters can have every home and away programme delivered to their home. If you subscribe you will automatically receive complementary editions of the FA Cup, Carling Cup and UEFA Cup programmes, dependant on which subscription they choose. Details of the various subscriptions are available on the BWFC website.

The club has a ‘Walkway of Fame’ whereby fans can purchase an inscribed brick on the walkway with their name/details on £45 per brick. Details can be found on the website.

The club also runs an official travel club for away games. Details and prices are available on the website.

The club offer regular tours of the stadium every day. Check club website for the various times of tours.

Tours are charged at £4 for adults and £2 for concessions. Also available are family tours charged at £10 inclusive of 2 adults and 2 children. Groups of 10-25 people will be charged at £2 per person and groups of over 25 people will be charges at £1 each. Bookings can be made by telephoning 01204 673650 or at the BWFC Superstore.