Kassam Stadium

Kassam Stadium Oxford: Visiting Hours, Tickets & Complete Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Kassam Stadium, situated in the Minchery Farm area on the outskirts of Oxford, is not only the proud home of Oxford United Football Club but also a distinctive feature in the city’s sporting and cultural landscape. Since opening in 2001, the stadium has blended modern football culture with Oxford’s rich history, offering fans and visitors an engaging experience. Whether you’re attending a match, exploring Oxford’s attractions, or interested in the stadium’s unique architecture and history, this guide provides in-depth, practical information for planning your visit.

Origins & Construction
Naming, Ownership & Controversies
Architectural Features & Stadium Layout
Sporting Milestones & Community Role
Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Getting There: Transport & Parking
Facilities & Matchday Experience
Nearby Attractions & Leisure
Future Developments & Legacy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visuals & Media
Key Visitor Tips & Summary
References

Origins & Construction

Kassam Stadium was conceived in the mid-1990s to replace Oxford United’s historic but outdated Manor Ground. Construction began in 1996, but financial challenges halted progress in 1997. The project resumed in 2000 after intervention by businessman Firoz Kassam, who provided essential funding. The stadium officially opened in August 2001 with a friendly match against Crystal Palace, marking a new era for the club (Football-Stadiums.co.uk; Stadium Guide; Wikipedia).

Naming, Ownership & Controversies

Named after its developer and former club owner, Firoz Kassam, the stadium’s title sparked debate among fans, many of whom preferred to call it “The United Stadium” to emphasize unity over individual recognition. Despite these sentiments, “Kassam Stadium” remains the dominant name in media and public discourse (Football-Stadiums.co.uk).

Architectural Features & Stadium Layout

A hallmark of Kassam Stadium is its incomplete, three-sided design: the North, East, and South Stands enclose the pitch, while the West End remains open, facing the car park and leisure complex. This layout—initially a cost-saving measure—has become a quirky and defining feature (Stadium Guide; FootballGroundGuide).

Stand Breakdown

South Stand: Two-tiered, houses hospitality suites, executive boxes, and directors’ areas.
East Stand: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly section.
North Stand (Planet IT North Stand): Shared by home and away supporters, with the away section at one end.
West End: Open area with views of the car park; plans for a fourth stand have not materialized as of 2025.

The stadium’s capacity is approximately 12,500, offering an intimate yet lively matchday environment (Stadium Journey; RugbyStadiums).

Sporting Milestones & Community Role

Kassam Stadium has been central to Oxford United’s journey, witnessing both challenging periods (including relegation out of the Football League) and triumphant moments like promotions and cup runs (Wikipedia). Beyond football, Kassam Stadium has hosted rugby union matches, community events, and concerts, including a notable Elton John performance in 2006 (Oxford Magazine).

The stadium is also a focal point for community outreach through Oxford United in the Community, promoting social inclusion and well-being. The bronze ox statue, unveiled in 2008, stands as a symbol of local pride (Berkshire and Beyond).

Visiting Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility

Visiting Hours

Matchdays: Stadium and ticket office open from 10:00 am until kick-off. The ticket office remains open for one hour post-match.
Non-Matchdays: Access is limited; guided tours and special events are held occasionally. Check the official site for current schedules.

Ticketing

Purchasing: Buy tickets online via the official Oxford United website, at the stadium box office, or through authorized resellers.
Pricing: Adult tickets generally range from £15 to £30, with concessions for children, seniors, and disabled supporters. Family packages and special offers are available.
Away Fans: Advance sales are handled by visiting clubs; remaining tickets are sold at the North Stand ticket office from 1:30 pm (or 6:45 pm for evening games).

Accessibility

Wheelchair Bays: Thirteen raised-platform bays in the away section, with excellent sightlines.
Disabled Facilities: Accessible toilets (RADAR key), low-level counters, blue badge parking, and a sensory room for young visitors with sensory needs.
Assistance: Contact the club in advance for tailored support (OUFC Visiting Supporters Guide).

Getting There: Transport & Parking

By Car

Address: Grenoble Road, Oxford, OX4 4XP.
Parking: Approximately 2,000 free spaces on matchdays; early arrival is recommended. Blue badge bays are near each stand.
Parking Tips: Avoid grass verges, double yellow lines, and Residents Only zones. Overnight parking is not permitted (Oxford Mail).

By Train

Oxford Station (OXF): Four miles from the stadium. Take a taxi (£10–£15) or connect via bus.

By Bus

Regular Services: City 5, Stagecoach 1, Stagecoach 600, and 3A buses connect the stadium with Oxford city centre and Park & Ride sites.
Matchday Specials: Extra buses run from Didcot, Carterton, Bicester, Kidlington, and Thame (Oxford United FC - Getting to Kassam Stadium).

Facilities & Matchday Experience

Seating & Atmosphere

All seats offer unobstructed views, with the East Stand famed for its passionate supporters. The open West End provides a unique matchday feel and panoramic views.

Hospitality & Retail

Executive Suites & Lounges: Premium hospitality in the South Stand.
Food & Drink: Matchday kiosks serve classic football fare, with both cash and card payments accepted.
Club Shop: Official merchandise and souvenirs.

Family & Accessibility

Family Stand: Located in the East Stand.
Sensory Room: For visitors with sensory needs.
Restrooms: Ample and accessible throughout the stadium.
First Aid & Stewarding: Staff and stewards on hand for assistance and safety.

Security

Expect bag checks and standard security procedures at entry. Prohibited items include large bags, bottles, and flares.

Nearby Attractions & Leisure

The adjacent Kassam Leisure Complex features a cinema, bowling alley, restaurants, and pubs. The stadium is also just a short drive or bus ride from Oxford’s city centre, home to the University of Oxford, Ashmolean Museum, and historical sites (Trip.com).

Future Developments & Legacy

Oxford United’s lease at Kassam Stadium is due to expire in 2026, with a short-term extension possible until 2028. Plans are underway for a new, all-electric 16,000-seat stadium in Kidlington, reflecting the club’s ambitions for modern facilities and improved transport links (StadiumDB.com; FootballGroundGuide).

Despite its unique three-sided design and past controversies, Kassam Stadium remains a symbol of Oxford United’s resilience and the city’s sporting passion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours?
A: Primarily open on matchdays (ticket office from 10:00 am), with occasional tours and events on non-matchdays—check the official website for updates.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Online via the Oxford United website, at the stadium ticket office, or through authorized resellers.

Q: Is Kassam Stadium accessible for disabled visitors?
A: Yes. Facilities include wheelchair bays, accessible toilets, and blue badge parking. Contact the club for tailored assistance.

Q: Can I park at the stadium?
A: Yes, free parking is available, but spaces fill quickly on matchdays.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Offered occasionally; check the website for updates.

Q: What public transport options are there?
A: Buses run from the city centre and Park & Ride sites; taxis are available from Oxford Station.

Q: Can I leave my car overnight?
A: No, overnight parking is not allowed.

Q: What are some nearby attractions?
A: Kassam Leisure Complex, and Oxford’s city centre with its colleges, museums, and historic sites.

Visuals & Media

Interactive Map of Kassam Stadium and Surroundings

Virtual Tour of Kassam Stadium

Key Visitor Tips & Summary

Arrive early for parking and to avoid queues.
Check the weather and dress appropriately; the stadium is partially open.
Most vendors accept cards, but carrying a small amount of cash is helpful.
Respect parking restrictions and local residents.
Consult the official site for the latest updates on tickets, events, and travel.

Kassam Stadium stands as a testament to Oxford United’s ambition, community engagement, and adaptability. While its future may soon involve a new, state-of-the-art ground, the stadium’s legacy as a hub for sport and culture will endure. Use the Audiala app or follow Oxford United on social media for real-time updates and exclusive content.

References

For the latest updates, download the Audiala app and follow Oxford United FC online. We look forward to welcoming you to Kassam Stadium for an unforgettable experience!