"Venue that has lost its way."

From the outside, Villa Park looks the part. Big Stands that still retain the character of the traditional big English top flight grounds. Numerous FA Cup Semi-Finals suggests that this was once a top venue. Unfortunately, the past has caught up with this stadium as, compared with the facilities and room in the newer (but characterless) structures, the inside of the Stands look jaded and shoddy.

Location

Easily accessable by train from Birmingham New Street to Witton Station, located just around the corner from the ground. By car, easily found off the A38 (Aston Expressway - the main dual carriageway into Birmingham from the M6) or, if coming in from the north, down the Walsall Road, past the main Athletics Stadium (Alexandra Park). then behind the Perry Bar Greyhound Stadium. Loads of car parks can be found around the ground, which is advisable due to having observed car thefts in the vicinity.

View

Generally good view of the playing area from the Doug Ellis Upper (Away Stand). Standard plastic seats and decent legroom. Exiting from the ground after the final whistle can be painfully slow as there are not that many exits for the number of seats should the away support fill its allocation.

Facilities

Abysmal and antiquated. Not much room on the concourse to move around in and minute toilet area.

Food & Drink

Poor show. Typical prices for football ground (ie double what you would pay in a shop). £3.20 for a pie and £1 for chocolate bar a bit extreme.

Police & Stewards

Back to the 70's and 80's here. Way over the top searching by the stewards on entry. Police presence not heavy.

Atmosphere

Should be better for the size of ground. The Holte End used to be awesome when it was all standing, but the seating policy implemented years ago put paid to the atmosphere, which is a great shame.

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