Craven Cottage — Attraction in London

Craven Cottage, the iconic home of Fulham Football Club, is a football ground steeped in history and charm, located on the banks of the River Thames in West London. For fans seeking an authentic and intimate matchday experience, this stadium offers an atmosphere like no other.

Atmosphere The atmosphere at Craven Cottage is electric, thanks to its compact nature and close proximity of fans to the pitch. The stands are steep, which means supporters are right on top of the action, creating an exciting and passionate environment. The riverside stand offers a unique view of the Thames, adding a picturesque touch to the experience. The energy in the stadium, especially from the Putney End and Johnny Haynes Stand, makes every match feel like a special occasion.

Historic Charm One of the standout features of Craven Cottage is its deep sense of history. Opened in 1896, the ground retains its traditional, old-school charm. While the stadium has undergone modern updates—like the redevelopment of stands to increase capacity—the historic elements, such as the famous "Cottage" at one end of the stadium, remain firmly in place. It’s a refreshing contrast to many of the newer, more commercialised football venues.

Facilities Craven Cottage has seen a series of improvements over the years, bringing it up to modern standards in terms of seating, concourses, and amenities. While it may not match the luxurious facilities of some larger Premier League stadiums, it offers comfortable seating and good facilities, including food and drink stalls and clean restrooms. That said, there are still some older elements that give the stadium a bit of a dated feel in certain areas, but this only adds to its character.

Accessibility Located in a residential area, Craven Cottage is fairly accessible, especially for those coming from central London. It’s a short walk from Putney Bridge Station and is well-connected by bus routes. While matchdays can bring some congestion around the stadium, it’s all part of the charm of visiting a historic ground.

Fan Experience The fan experience at Craven Cottage is second to none. The atmosphere created by the passionate Fulham supporters is infectious, and there’s a strong sense of community around the club. Whether you’re a lifelong Fulham fan or a first-time visitor, the welcoming vibe and exciting atmosphere make it a fantastic place to watch football.

Conclusion While Craven Cottage may not be the largest or most state-of-the-art stadium in the Premier League, its unique blend of history, charm, and intimacy makes it a must-visit for any football fan. The passionate atmosphere, combined with the traditional feel of the stadium, ensures a memorable experience. For anyone visiting London, a trip to Craven Cottage is highly recommended for an authentic...

Fulham are not 'my football club' but I live near the ground and having a membership allows me to go once in a while and (when they were in lower leagues) get to see other football grounds that I wouldn't otherwise see. With that disavowal, let me now say that Craven Cottage is arguably the most beautiful football ground in England. It's the perfect size to get in and out of*, and it's location right on the Thames make it uniquely scenic and serene. The photo associated with this review was taken in late Summer before a night fixture. Craven Cottage also has a 'neutral' section. I think the idea of this is that tourists can buy tickets without being affiliated with the club. This is a good idea, but may lull some into a false sense of 'security'. If you are an American tourist and used to family-friendly sports, I would suggest giving London derby fixtures a wide birth. Most of the neutral or Putney stand will be taken up by supporters of the 'away' team. Since the Fulham area is well served by local pubs, fans can become quite lubricated before a match and the language and passion will be much more intense than what you are used to. But it's a great, historic ground. And a fantastic day or evening out. *Sadly Fulham FC have applied for permission to extend the Riverside Stand into the Thames, to increase capacity and to include, of course, "Luxury Flats". I really wish they would leave...

This place is football heritage wrapped in charm. From the moment you walk through the gates, Craven Cottage feels like a proper ground—not a corporate shell. The riverside setting is stunning, and the Johnny Haynes Stand is a time capsule of football history. You’re close to the pitch, the sightlines are excellent, and the atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and surprisingly loud for a smaller venue. Staff were genuinely friendly—no robotic stewards here. They chatted, helped with directions, and seemed proud of the club. Entry was smooth, queues were short, and the food stalls had decent variety. Prices weren’t outrageous either: £4.50 for a sausage roll and £5 for a pint, both served hot and quick. Accessibility was solid. Plenty of signage, good step-free access, and the Riverside Stand’s new facilities are modern without losing character. Toilets were clean and easy to find, even at peak times. The crowd was mixed—families, older fans, and away supporters all mingling without tension. It felt safe, inclusive, and relaxed. You could bring a squad of mates or a school group and everyone would find something to enjoy. If you’re planning a proper football outing, Craven Cottage is a gem. It’s not flashy, but it’s full of heart. You leave feeling like you’ve been part of...