Riverside Ground also known as Emirates Riverside, is a premier cricket venue located in Chester-le-Street, England. It is the home ground of Durham County Cricket Club and has hosted international matches, including Tests ODIs, and T20s. The stadium is famous for its scenic backdrop with Lumley Castle nearby offering fans a memorable match-day experience.
The ground features modern facilities such as hospitality suites food courts family stands and accessible seating. It has a seating capacity of around 17,000 for international games and provides easy access via train bus and car. Riverside Ground is ideal for both local county matches and major international fixtures making it a hub for cricket enthusiasts.
Fans visiting Riverside Ground can expect exciting matches detailed pitch reports ticketing options upcoming fixtures, and nearby attractions. The stadium also hosts concerts and community events adding to its versatility. With balanced pitches and engaging atmosphere it offers an unforgettable cricketing experience.
Key Highlights:
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Overview of Riverside Ground and its history
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Pitch reports and average scores for T20, ODI, and Test matches
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Seating capacity, facilities, and hospitality options
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Tickets, booking methods, and match-day guidance
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Upcoming fixtures, events, and travel tips
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Weather conditions and impact on matches
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Fun facts, records, and landmark moments
Riverside Ground Chester-le-Street Complete Guide for Cricket Fans
Riverside Ground, located in Chester-le-Street England is one of the most scenic cricket stadiums in the country, offering breathtaking views of Lumley Castle in the background. It serves as the home ground of Durham County Cricket Club and frequently hosts international matches including England’s Test ODI and T20 games. Its modern seating, excellent pitch conditions and picturesque location make it a favorite among cricket fans.
Whether you’re planning to watch a county match or a high-profile international fixture the Riverside Ground has plenty to offer. With facilities like family stands food courts hospitality suites and easy parking fans can enjoy a smooth match-day experience. Its location in Chester-le-Street provides convenient access by train bus or car making it a great venue for both local and traveling supporters.
Key Highlights:
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🏟️ Home ground of Durham County Cricket Club
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🏰 Stunning views of Lumley Castle from the stands
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🎟️ Hosts Test, ODI, and T20 internationals
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🚉 Easy access via train, bus, and car
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🍔 Modern facilities including food courts and hospitality boxes
Overview of Riverside Ground
Riverside Ground, also known as Emirates Riverside is the home of Durham County Cricket Club and one of the most picturesque stadiums in England. Located in Chester-le-Street, it has hosted international cricket since 1999 and earned Test match status in 2003.
This ground is famous for its scenic backdrop, with Lumley Castle overlooking the field, making it one of the most iconic cricket venues in the UK. It’s popular among both local fans and international visitors.
Whether you are planning to watch a domestic County Championship game or an international ODI or T20, Riverside Ground offers a unique cricket experience.
- Location: Chester-le-Street, County Durham, England
- Home team: Durham County Cricket Club
- International debut: 1999 World Cup
- Test status: Since 2003
- Known for: Beautiful Lumley Castle backdrop
In short: Riverside Ground blends history, beauty, and world-class cricketing action.
Pitch Report & Average Scores
The pitch at Riverside Ground is known for offering assistance to both batters and bowlers. Early on, seamers get movement, while later in the day, batters enjoy value for their shots.
T20 matches at this venue generally see moderate totals, with the average first-innings score ranging between 150–160. Spinners also come into play as the match progresses.
Knowing the pitch conditions helps fans and fantasy cricket players make better decisions on game day.
- Pitch type: Balanced with early swing
- Average T20 score: 150–160
- Batting-friendly in mid overs
- Spinners effective in second innings
- Good for competitive, low-to-mid scoring games
Summary: Riverside offers a fair contest between bat and ball, perfect for thrilling matches.
Average Scores Table
| Format | Average 1st Innings Score | Highest Team Total |
|---|---|---|
| Test | 350+ | 568 (England vs WI) |
| ODI | 250–270 | 314/4 (England vs NZ) |
| T20 | 150–160 | 199/3 (England vs Australia) |
Weather & Conditions
Weather is a crucial factor at Riverside Ground, especially given the typical English climate. Matches are often influenced by overcast skies, which favor swing bowlers.
Fans planning to attend should always check the Met Office or BBC weather forecast for Chester-le-Street before heading out. Rain delays are possible but drainage at the stadium is excellent.
Sunset views from the ground are breathtaking, making evening matches a treat.
- Best months: May to September
- Weather impact: Cloud cover aids swing
- Check BBC or Met Office updates
- Excellent drainage reduces delays
- Cooler evenings during night games
Summary: Stay prepared for changing weather, and keep a jacket handy for evening matches.
Seating Capacity & Facilities
Riverside Ground has a capacity of around 17,000 for international matches, offering multiple stands with excellent views. Finchale End and Lumley End provide unique perspectives of the game.
The stadium is equipped with modern facilities including hospitality suites, food stalls, and accessible seating. Parking is available but limited, so early arrival is recommended.
Fans often praise the venue for its family-friendly atmosphere and open spaces.
- Capacity: 17,000 (international), 5,000 (domestic)
- Stands: Lumley End, Finchale End, Don Robson Pavilion
- Hospitality: Suites and corporate boxes available
- Parking: Limited – pre-book if possible
- Facilities: Food courts merchandise shops, accessibility seating
Summary: Riverside Ground is comfortable, well-maintained, and perfect for all types of fans.
Seating & Facilities Table
| Stand/Section | View Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Lumley End | Castle backdrop | Photographers & Fans |
| Finchale End | Behind bowler’s arm | Tactical view |
| Members Pavilion | Premium | Members & VIPs |
| General Stands | Side-on view | Family seating |
| Hospitality Boxes | Private & catered | Corporate groups |
Tickets & Booking
Tickets for Riverside Ground can be purchased online through Durham CCC’s official website or authorized ticketing partners. Match-day sales are subject to availability.
Hospitality packages offer premium seating, catering, and drinks for a luxury experience. Group and family packages are available at discounted prices.
Booking early ensures the best seats, especially for international games.
- Book online: Official Durham CCC site
- Options: Single match, season passes, VIP boxes
- Hospitality: Catering, lounge access
- Family packages: Discounted rates available
- Refund policy: Available if matches are canceled
Events & Fixtures
Riverside Ground hosts domestic County Championship matches, ODI and T20 internationals, and special events like concerts and charity games.
Chester-le-Street has become a regular venue for England’s limited-overs games. Fans can check the fixtures list for upcoming matches on the official site.
During off-season months, the ground is often used for community events and local cricket tournaments.
- Hosts: Tests, ODIs, T20Is, County games
- Concerts: Big music events in summer
- Charity matches: Local fundraising games
- Community events: Family days, festivals
- Fixture list: Available on Durham CCC site
Travel Guide & Nearby Attractions
Reaching Riverside Ground is easy via train, with Chester-le-Street station just a short walk away. Car parking is available but can fill quickly.
Fans can also enjoy nearby attractions like Lumley Castle or spend time exploring Durham City before or after the match.
Pubs and restaurants near the ground make matchday a great social experience.
- Train: Chester-le-Street station (10 min walk)
- Parking: Pre-book for match days
- Nearby hotels: Lumley Castle Hotel, Premier Inn
- Restaurants: The Lambton Worm, Red Lion
- Tourist spots: Durham Cathedral, Riverside Park
Fun Facts & History
Riverside Ground was one of the newer Test venues in England but quickly became a fan favorite. It was first used for first-class cricket in 1995.
The ground has hosted memorable moments, including England’s victories over Australia in ODIs and a thrilling Test win against West Indies.
Its backdrop of Lumley Castle makes it a standout venue for photographers and fans alike.
- Opened: 1995 for first-class cricket
- International debut: 1999 World Cup
- Test highlight: England vs West Indies 2007 win
- ODI highlight: England vs Australia high-scoring thriller
- Landmark: Lumley Castle view
FAQs
Q1: What is the capacity of Riverside Ground?
A: Around 17,000 for international matches, 5,000 for domestic.
Q2: What is the average T20 score here?
A: Around 150–160 runs for the first innings.
Q3: How do I buy tickets for Riverside Ground?
A: Purchase online via Durham CCC’s official website or authorized partners.
Q4: Is parking available at Riverside Ground?
A: Yes, but spaces are limited and should be pre-booked.
Q5: What is the weather usually like?
A: Cool and breezy with occasional showers, especially in early season.
Q6: Are concerts held at Riverside Ground?
A: Yes, major concerts and events take place in summer months.
Q7: How do I get to Riverside Ground from Newcastle?
A: Take a direct train to Chester-le-Street and walk to the ground.
Conclusion
Riverside Ground is more than just a cricket venue it’s an experience. From its scenic location and balanced pitch to its excellent facilities and vibrant events calendar, it has everything a cricket fan could ask for.
Plan your visit by checking the fixtures booking your tickets early, and keeping an eye on the weather. Whether you’re attending for a high-stakes England match or a local County Championship game, Riverside Ground promises an unforgettable day of cricket.
Ready to experience cricket at Riverside Ground? Book your tickets today and be part of the action!