Klokke Stadion

Klokke Stadion Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide for Bruges’ Historical Football Site

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction to Klokke Stadion in Bruges

Klokke Stadion, originally known as the Albert Dyserynck Stadion, is a storied name in the football heritage of Bruges, Belgium. Established in the early 20th century and affectionately called “De Klokke” after a local pub with a prominent clock, the stadium served as Club Brugge K.V.’s home ground for more than six decades. Although the physical stadium was demolished after the club’s move to Olympia Park (now Jan Breydel Stadium) in 1975, Klokke’s cultural and sporting legacy remains deeply embedded within Bruges’ community and football culture.

Today, while you cannot visit Klokke Stadion as a functioning venue, you can explore its historic site in the Sint-Andries district and immerse yourself in Club Brugge’s ongoing traditions at Jan Breydel Stadium. Whether you’re a football enthusiast, a history lover, or a cultural traveler, this guide provides comprehensive insight into Klokke Stadion’s history, practical tips for visiting the area, and a look at Bruges’ broader attractions. For the latest on visitor information, guided tours, and updates on Bruges’ football culture, consult the official Club Brugge website, the Visit Bruges tourism portal, and the historical overview at DBpedia’s Klokke Stadion page.

History and Legacy of Klokke Stadion

Origins and Construction

Klokke Stadion, later known as Albert Dyserynck Stadion, was constructed in the early 1900s to provide Club Brugge with a permanent home. Previously, the club had played at various sites across Bruges. The stadium was located in the Sint-Andries district and quickly became synonymous with football in the city. The nickname “Klokke” (“clock” in Flemish) was inspired by a pub across from the entrance—a beloved gathering place for fans (DBpedia’s Klokke Stadion page).

Naming and Dedication

The official name, Albert Dyserynck Stadion, honors the club’s president from 1919 to 1931, who generously donated the land for the stadium. Despite the formal renaming, locals and fans continued to refer to the ground as “De Klokke,” reflecting the deep community ties and traditions associated with the venue.

Architectural Features and Capacity

With a peak capacity of 25,000, Klokke Stadion was one of Bruges’ largest sporting venues. Its design included open terraces and a sheltered main stand for VIPs, typical of early 20th-century European football grounds. Fans were situated close to the pitch, fostering an intense matchday atmosphere and giving Club Brugge a notable home advantage.

Role in Local and Sporting Culture

Klokke Stadion was more than just a football ground—it was a cultural and social hub for the Sint-Andries district and the wider Bruges community. It hosted domestic league matches, cup ties, international friendlies, and even community events, further embedding itself in the city’s social fabric (DBpedia’s Klokke Stadion page).

Notable Events and Milestones

The stadium was the scene of many significant moments in Belgian football, including Club Brugge’s first Belgian Championship win in 1920 and countless local derbies, especially against rivals Cercle Brugge. The post-World War II era saw sell-out crowds and unforgettable matches that cemented the stadium’s legendary status.

Evolution and Transition

Growing demands for modern facilities led Club Brugge to relocate in 1975 to the new Olympia Park, now known as Jan Breydel Stadium. Following the move, Klokke Stadion was demolished, and the site was redeveloped. However, its memory endures through commemorations and the continued use of its nickname within the local football culture (DBpedia’s Klokke Stadion page).

Visiting Klokke Stadion Today

Location and Accessibility

The former Klokke Stadion site is in the Sint-Andries district along Torhoutse Steenweg, about a 30-minute walk from Bruges’ city center. The area is easily accessible by public transport (local buses), bicycle, or car. Bruges’ compact and walkable layout makes getting there simple and enjoyable.

What Remains on Site

While the original stadium structure has been replaced by residential and community buildings, the legacy of Klokke Stadion lives on in subtle ways. The preserved façade of the herberg “De Klokke” remains as a historical marker, and occasional plaques or street names reference the site’s sporting past.

Visiting Hours and Tickets

There are no official visiting hours, entrance fees, or tickets required to explore the former stadium area. The site is open to visitors at all times, but it is primarily residential, so be respectful of local privacy.

Visitor Experience and Photographic Spots

Although there are no formal tours or exhibits, football fans can walk the area, view the herberg façade, and compare current views with historic photographs available through online archives. For a more immersive experience, guided tours and museum visits at Jan Breydel Stadium are recommended.

Touring Jan Breydel Stadium

Location and Getting There

Jan Breydel Stadium, Club Brugge’s current home, is located at Olympialaan in Sint-Andries, a short walk from the former Klokke Stadion site. The stadium is accessible via local buses from Bruges’ main train station (lines 5 or 15, stop at ‘Sint-Andries Kerk’).

Visiting Hours and Guided Tours

The stadium is open primarily during match days and for guided tours, which provide access to the pitch, dressing rooms, and club museum. Tour availability varies, so check the Club Brugge official website for current schedules and bookings.

Tickets and Prices

Club Brugge Matches: Tickets can be purchased online, with prices ranging from €20–€55 depending on the opponent and seating.
Cercle Brugge Matches: Tickets are typically €15–€40 and are available via the Cercle Brugge website.
Guided Tours: Bookings should be made in advance through the club’s official channels.

Match Day Experience

Jan Breydel Stadium seats over 29,000 spectators and is known for its lively “spionkop” (fan section). Facilities include food stands, accessible seating, and modern amenities. The atmosphere is especially electric during derbies.

Facilities and Accessibility

The stadium offers accessible entrances and seating for visitors with mobility challenges. Contact the club ahead of your visit for special accommodations or parking arrangements.

Nearby Attractions in Bruges

While exploring Klokke Stadion’s site and Jan Breydel Stadium, consider visiting these nearby attractions:

Boudewijn Seapark: A family-friendly amusement and marine park.
Tillegem Castle, Poertoren, Kasteel de la Faille: Historic landmarks within walking distance.
Bruges’ Medieval Center: UNESCO-listed, featuring the Belfry, Markt Square, and canals.

For more on Bruges’ highlights, see the Visit Bruges tourism website.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Getting There: Walk, bike, or use public transport from the city center to Sint-Andries.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, a camera, a rain jacket, and a guidebook or mobile app.
Safety: Sint-Andries is a safe, quiet neighborhood—respect local privacy and follow stadium policies on match days.
Food and Drink: Enjoy traditional Belgian snacks at the stadium or visit local pubs and cafés for an authentic fan experience.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Insights

Respect the spirited rivalry between Club Brugge (“Blauw-Zwart”) and Cercle Brugge (“Groen-Zwart”).
Dutch (Flemish) is the main language, but English is widely spoken.
Join in chants in the “spionkop” for a true match day experience, but be mindful of local customs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does Klokke Stadion still exist?
A: No, the stadium was demolished in 1975. Only subtle commemorations and the herberg façade remain.

Q: Can I visit the Klokke Stadion site?
A: Yes, the area is open to the public, but there are no guided tours or museum exhibits on-site.

Q: Where can I learn more about Club Brugge’s history?
A: The Club Brugge Museum at Jan Breydel Stadium and local Bruges museums offer memorabilia and exhibits about the club’s history.

Q: How do I buy tickets for Jan Breydel Stadium matches or tours?
A: Purchase tickets online via the official Club Brugge website or Cercle Brugge website.

Q: Is Jan Breydel Stadium accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Yes, accessible entrances and seating are available. Contact the club for details.

Q: Are there commemorative events for Klokke Stadion?
A: Occasionally, Club Brugge organizes events or exhibits remembering Klokke Stadion’s legacy. Check their official channels for updates.