Toon Army "Into The Valley!"

Last updated : 25 March 2006 By Footy Mad - Editor


GROUND
Away fans are housed in the Jimmy Seed (South) Stand at one end of the ground, which is slightly raised above pitch level, making for a generally good view. Up to 3,000 away fans can be accommodated in this end. However, if the visiting team are unlikely to sell their full allocation of 3,000 tickets, then this end may be shared with home fans. This stand being older than the rest of the ground, looks somewhat tired and for those used to other modern premiership grounds, may find it somewhat of a shock.

Peter Inwood a visiting Leeds fan adds; 'There is one solitary supporting column in the entire ground and guess where it is? Right in the middle, behind the goal, in the away supporters end. Very annoying it is as well. However, I would commend the stewards, who took a relaxed attitude to the away supporters who stood throughout the match, although expect to be searched on the way in'. Otherwise the height between rows is good and the stand quite steep, keeping you fairly close to the playing action. It is worth noting that if your team is allocated the whole stand, that there are refreshment areas on either side of the stand. As to be expected those located by the entrance turnstiles, tend to be busiest, whilst those on the other side of the stand are normally less congested. The refreshment kiosks serve the usual array of hot dogs, pasties and burgers. These outlets are supplemented by separate hot dog stalls. There is also a Ladbrokes betting kiosk inside the ground.

I was quite impressed with the atmosphere at the Valley and I can see why many away fans see it as one of their favourite away days to the capital. The Charlton fans are clearly passionate about their team, but in a non-intimidating way. I had pleasant day out and would go again. I was particularly impressed with the loud P.A. system that played some great music before the game commenced and it was no surprise when just before the teams came out onto the pitch that 'Into The Valley....' rocked around the stadium. It is worth noting that you can only gain entrance to the ground by ticket, which you have to buy from a ticket booth beforehand..

PUBS
The Antigallican is near Charlton station is popular with Toon fans. However it can get very busy and this is not helped by the local police not allowing fans to drink outside during hot weather. The Rose of Denmark, on Woolwich Road is a cracking pub for away fans, but is home fans only AFTER the game.
There is also the Charlton Liberal club which can be found if you turn right out of Charlton station and walking 300yds up the hill on the left-hand side of the road, past the shops. But they do charge a small fee to get in. It is only 5 minutes from the away end.

GETTING THERE
Leave the M25 at junction 2 and follow the A2 towards London. When the A2 becomes the A102(M), take the A206 towards Woolwich and you will come to the ground on your right.

TRAIN
The ground is within walking distance of Charlton railway station, which is served by Charing Cross and London Bridge mainline stations. On Saturdays there are also services from Cannon Street station.

TUBE
Although Charlton station is very close to the Valley, many people will find it easier to take the far more reliable tube, using the Jubilee Line to get to North Greenwich station and then take the short ride on buses 161, 472 or 486.