Welford Road Stadium, located in the heart of Leicester, is one of the most iconic and historic rugby grounds in the world. As the passionate home of the Leicester Tigers, it is a venue steeped in tradition and legendary moments. More than just a sports arena, it is a landmark that symbolizes the city’s deep-rooted passion for rugby union and is celebrated for its famously loud and intimidating atmosphere.
History and Design
The stadium has been the home of Leicester Tigers since 1892, making it one of the oldest and most revered club rugby grounds in the world. The ground’s name, Welford Road, comes from the street it is situated on. Over the years, the stadium has undergone numerous redevelopments to grow with the club’s success, transforming from a simple pitch with a grandstand to a modern, state-of-the-art facility.
The most recent major reconstruction was completed in 2009, with the construction of the new Caterpillar Stand and the refurbishment of other parts of the stadium. This has elevated its capacity and amenities, while retaining its traditional feel. The design ensures fans are close to the action, creating a cauldron-like atmosphere that Tigers supporters are famous for.
Major Events Hosted
While its primary purpose is to host Leicester Tigers’ home matches, Welford Road has a history of hosting major international events, cementing its status as a key venue in world rugby.
- 1991 Rugby World Cup: The stadium hosted a single pool stage match, where New Zealand defeated Italy.
- 1999 Rugby World Cup: The stadium hosted a group stage match between Italy and Tonga.
- International Matches: Welford Road has hosted a number of international fixtures, including England Saxons games and matches for England’s women’s team.
- European Rugby: The venue has been a regular host for knock-out fixtures in both the European Rugby Champions Cup and European Rugby Challenge Cup.
- Other Sporting Fixtures: The venue has also been used for other sports, including football and American football.
Key Information
Official Name: Mattioli Woods Welford Road (for sponsorship reasons)
Location: Leicester, UK
Opened: 1892
Capacity: 25,849
Primary Tenant: Leicester Tigers (Premiership Rugby)
Address: Welford Rd, Leicester LE2 7TR, UK
Getting to Welford Road Stadium
The stadium is located in the heart of Leicester and is easily accessible via public transport and on foot.
- By Air: For visitors traveling from out of town, the nearest airport is East Midlands Airport (EMA), approximately 30 km away. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Leicester city centre.
- By Train: The most recommended way to get to the venue is by train. The stadium is a 15-20 minute walk from Leicester Railway Station, which has regular services from London St Pancras and other major cities across the country.
- By Bus: There are a number of bus routes that serve the area, with stops on Welford Road and the city centre.
- 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 & Tours at Welford Road Stadium
Leicester Tigers Tickets
Tickets for Leicester Tigers’ home matches can be purchased through the official Leicester Tigers tickets website. It is highly recommended to book in advance, especially for high-profile matches or derby games, as tickets can sell out quickly.
Tours
Guided stadium tours are a great way to experience Welford Road up close. They offer a behind-the-scenes look at the changing rooms, hospitality areas, and the pitch itself. Tour information and booking can be found on the official club website.
Where to Stay Near Welford Road Stadium
The best area to stay is in the city centre of Leicester. From here, you are within walking distance of all the major attractions, restaurants, and bars, and you’ll have easy access to public transport for getting to and from the stadium.
- Booking Tips:
- Plan Ahead: Book your accommodation and tickets well in advance, especially during major events, as demand can be very high.
- Check Transport: Ensure your hotel has convenient access to public transport, as it is the most efficient way to get to the stadium on event days.
- 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 Welford Road Stadium
We hope this guide helps you have an incredible experience at Welford Road Stadium!
Last Updated on September 24, 2025 by Sports Tourist