Kingsholm Stadium, located in Gloucester, England, is a legendary rugby union stadium and the iconic home of Gloucester Rugby. More than just a sports ground, it is a spiritual home for fans and a landmark that symbolizes the city’s deep-rooted passion for the sport. With its renowned “Shed” stand and an atmosphere that is both intimate and fiercely passionate, Kingsholm has become one of the most revered rugby venues in the world.
History and Design
The stadium’s history dates back to 1891, when Gloucester Rugby played its first match on the ground. Over the decades, Kingsholm has undergone several redevelopments to modernize its facilities while retaining its unique character. The most notable feature is the “Shed”, a standing-only terrace that is famous for its lively atmosphere and passionate chanting, making it a key part of the match-day experience.
Unlike many modern stadiums, Kingsholm has a traditional, four-sided layout that keeps fans close to the action. Recent developments have included new stands and improved amenities, but the stadium has always sought to maintain its historic charm and connection to the club’s loyal fanbase.
Major Events Hosted
Kingsholm is almost exclusively a rugby union venue, having hosted countless matches that have become part of the sport’s history.
- Rugby World Cup: Kingsholm was one of the host venues for the 1991 and 2015 Rugby World Cup. During the 1991 tournament, it hosted a pool stage match between New Zealand and the USA. In 2015, it was a host for four matches: Tonga vs Georgia, Scotland vs Japan, Argentina vs Georgia, and USA vs Japan, drawing fans from around the globe.
- Rugby League World Cup: The venue hosted a match during the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.
- International Fixtures: The venue has also hosted other international matches, including a number of England women’s matches, England ‘A’, and age-grade fixtures.
Key Information
Official Name: Kingsholm Stadium
Location: Gloucester, England
Opened: Rugby has been played here since 1891
Capacity: 16,115
Primary Tenant: Gloucester Rugby (Premiership Rugby)
Address: Kingsholm Road, Gloucester, GL1 3DB, UK
Getting to Kingsholm Stadium
Kingsholm Stadium is centrally located in Gloucester and is easily accessible on foot, especially from the city’s main railway and bus stations.
- By Air: For visitors traveling from out of town, the nearest major airport is Bristol Airport (BRS). From the airport, a frequent shuttle service connects to Bristol Temple Meads railway station, where you can catch a direct train to Gloucester.
- By Train: This is the most recommended way to get to the venue. The stadium is just a short 10-15 minute walk from Gloucester railway station, which has direct train services from London Paddington and major cities across the UK.
- By Bus: Gloucester Bus Station is located in the city centre and is a short walk from the stadium. Stagecoach bus services run regularly from across the city and surrounding areas.
- By Car & Parking: Driving to the stadium on a match day is highly discouraged due to traffic congestion and extremely limited on-site parking. There are a number of public car parks in the city centre within walking distance.
Tickets at Kingsholm Stadium
Gloucester Rugby Tickets
Tickets for Gloucester Rugby matches can be purchased through the official Gloucester Rugby ticket website. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for high-profile matches or derby games, as tickets can sell out quickly.
Where to Stay Near Kingsholm Stadium
Staying in the heart of Gloucester is the best way to experience the city and provides the most convenient access to Kingsholm Stadium. The city centre offers a wide range of accommodation, from well-known hotels to charming guesthouses.
- Booking Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Book your accommodation and tickets well in advance, especially for popular match days or during peak tourist season.
- Check Transport: The city is highly walkable, so staying anywhere in the city centre will likely put you within walking distance of the stadium and all the main attractions.
- Use Reputable Sites: Use well-known and trustworthy booking websites like TripAdvisor to find and compare accommodation options.
Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to Kingsholm Stadium
- Official Gloucester Rugby Website
- Gloucester Rugby ticket website
- Visit Gloucester Tourism Website
- National Rail Enquiries
- Bristol Airport Information
We hope this guide helps you have an incredible experience at Kingsholm Stadium!
Last Updated on September 23, 2025 by Sports Tourist