This is a modern stadium, but it should be as it was only opened in July 1997. The stadium is located 2 miles from the town centre, in some of Derby's industrial wasteland.
Excellent venue with no restricted views, good leg room and no smoking in view of pitch, which is very good news if you don't smoke. The main stand is two tiers with executive boxes in between, the roof slopes down to the ends and the opposite side which are a single tier. The corners are filled in to give an enclosed feeling and take the capacity to 33,000, all seated, with up to 4,000 seats for away fans in the Mansfield bitter stand. It is very similar to Middlesboro's Riverside stadium. As with most new stadiums it has been criticised for lack of atmosphere and character, but these can be built over the years by the team and fans. Having been to the old Baseball ground there can be no comparison in facilities, ability to see the game, the pitch and it feels like football has moved into the 20th if not the 21st century.
There is a Baseball grill & bar at the ground, but don't think that as an away fan you can eat at these, as the clientele is limited to members only! The ground also has the traditional superstore, where you can buy all the 'Ram' items you could ever think of! Top marks for the ladies toilets, both cleanliness and number of cubicles (...this report was from my wife, I didn't try them myself). Official catering van outside the away supporters entrance. Inside the ground pies, burgers, beer, tea & coffee are readily available. As smoking is not allowed in view of the pitch, the concourse where toilets & food/drink are can get a bit more smoky than usual.
Data supplied by Dave From Ipswich - 19th May 2001