Leeds Tykes - Headingley

Headingley - this bastion of Rugby League is now witnessing a Union revival

By BBC Sport Online's Ed King

Headingley - Capacity 20000

Headingley is an antique of a ground, with terracing taking up three sides of the ground, and the fourth, which backs onto the cricket ground, comprising of the only seating to be found.

But this bastion of Rugby League has taken well to Union, and when the terraced south stand is full, the stadium shakes.

The atmosphere, combined with the friendliest stewards and staff you are likely to meet, all adds up to an impressive Headingley experience.

Where to stand/sit?

Covered seating is available in the North stand, which provides the best access to the bars and proximity to the voluble 'band in the stand.'

The East terrace offers excellent views, while its western cousin is slightly smaller and awkward. Both are open to the elements.

The Tetley's South stand is where most fans choose to stand, and is also where the Tykes' dancing ladies perform, so is probably worth a spot at the front.

Pubs to visit:

Try Leeds Online's virtual pub crawl

Original Oak. A rambling warren of rooms with at least four different bars, large sports screens and an enormous beer-garden. Always crammed full of fans before the match. (5 mins)

Skyrack. Just across the Otley Rd from the Original Oak, this establishment also serves food, and is a warm and colourful place to enjoy a pint.

Restaurants:

Try Leeds Online's restaurant guide

Top tip

The teams always warm up on the adjoining cricket pitch, and a good number of fans enjoy a pint from the cricket stand before the match, and decide who is going to win.

Directions:

Head for Leeds city centre, and from there follow the signs to the Kirkstall district and Headingley. The Skyrack pub along the Otley Road marks the turning towards the ground.

Train:

Leeds central is well served from Manchester, the Midlands, and London. Buses for the ground leave from near the station.

Bus: Take buses 1 or 95 from the centre, and get off when you pass the Skyrack pub.

Did you know?

Leeds Rugby is the first combined Union and League club, with both codes sharing players in their quest for success.

What to do with the other half who hates Rugby?

Leeds is described by many as the London of the north, and for shopaholics, the fact that it has the only Harvey Nichols outside London is a cause for much delight.

The city is also the proud home to the Middleton railway, which they say is the world's first. 0113 2710320

Leeds Art gallery, acclaimed by The Times as "the best outside London," is a short walk from the city centre. 0113 2478254.

Prices:

Standing (E,W,S) Adult - £10, Concessions - £5

Ratings:

• Atmosphere: 7
• Access: 7
• Toilets: 6
• Location: 8
• Bars: 7
• Pies: 5
• Disabled facilities: 8

Contact details:

Club: 0113 2786181