A tour of the 5 biggest football stadiums in England

The English Premier League is the biggest and most exciting football league in the world, with millions of people tuning in to matches from across the globe. But it is the thousands of fans who pack the iconic football stadiums around the country every week that help to make the atmosphere of English football special. Some stadiums have hosted matches for well over a century although most have enjoyed extensive facelifts to offer modern comforts for fans and VIP guests.

For football supporters, nothing beats cheering on their team from the terraces while stadium tours and football experience days offer people the chance to go behind the scenes and follow in the footsteps of their footballing heroes. Whether you want to experience your first taste of Premier League football, or simply enjoy a close look behind the scenes at the football grounds where superstars are made, here are England’s biggest stadiums to choose from:

1. Wembley Stadium: London, home of the England national team, capacity 90,000. The demolition of the original Wembley Stadium and its landmark twin towers may have broken the hearts of many a football purist, but what has replaced it is a truly breathtaking, modern footballing arena. The iconic arch has turned it into a new landmark visible from across London, while the facilities for supporters rival those of any stadium in the world.

2. Old Trafford: Manchester, home of Manchester United, capacity 75,811. England’s most successful football club has understandably created the largest club ground in the country, with extensive redevelopment having taken place in recent years at what has been the club’s home since 1910. Plenty of traditional features are still in place, including the statue of former manager Sir Matt Busby outside, while the glittering trophy room is the envy of clubs around the world.

3. Emirates Stadium: London, home of Arsenal, capacity 60,361. One of the newest and plushest Premier League stadium, the Emirates Stadium became Arsenal’s home after they outgrew their traditional Highbury ground. Their modern, new arena boasts cushioned seating, luxurious corporate areas and unhindered views.

4. Sports Direct Arena: Newcastle, home of Newcastle United, capacity 52,409. Traditionally known as St James’ Park, this 120-year-old ground was controversially renamed the Sport Direct Arena for sponsorship reasons but is still an impressive footballing venue, with its fully-enclosed, cauldron-like atmosphere and imposing setting overlooking Newcastle city centre.

5. Stadium of Light: Sunderland, home of AFC Sunderland, capacity 48,707. Newcastle’s north-east neighbours Sunderland moved into their new home in 1997 after nearly a century at former home Roker Park, with the increased capacity of the Stadium of Light putting them on a par with their rivals. The name was chosen as a tribute to the area’s mining heritage, with a Davy Lamp tribute on display in front of the ticket office.