Thursday 30 May 2013

Playing Away in Huddersfield


On Sunday 17th February 2013 I’m sure you will all know that Wigan Warriors are playing away against Fartown, sorry I mean Hudderfield Giants at the Alfred McAlpine Stadium, no the Galpharm Stadium, sorry what ed it’s now called the John Smith’s Stadium.  Oh I give up but you get the idea.

But what else is there to do in Huddersfield before we watch the Warriors slay the Giants I hear you ask.  Well let me tell you.

Rugby League was born in Huddersfield in 1895 at the George Hotel.  Within the hotel you can visit the Rugby League Heritage Centre which displays rare rugby league memorabilia including shirts, medals, trophies, caps, programmes, pictures and photographs.

Whilst in Huddersfield you can also visit Castle Hill and Victoria Tower.  Castle Hill stands over 900 feet above sea level and houses one of Huddersfield's most noticeable landmarks Victoria Tower.  The tower officially opened in 1899 and is still open to the public on certain days of the year. Castle Hill is worth a visit, particularly on a clear day when the Huddersfield skyline can be seen for miles. There are free spaces to park cars beside the tower and several public footpaths connected to the local countryside.  It’s not exactly the Angel of the North but it’s free!

You could also visit Greenhead Park which is Huddersfield's main park.  It might be a bit cold in February but it’s ideal for picnics, sporting activities and quiet walks.  Facilities include 5-aside football, band stand, basketball and tennis courts, bowling greens, cafe, children's playground, donkey rides, miniature railway, ornamental gardens, paddling pool, public toilets and skate park.  I bet it doesn’t have a statue with a shoe to rub like in our very own Mesnes Park.

Last but by no means least where can you have a good drink in Huddersfield I hear you ask.  Well let me tell you.  

The Rope Walk - This is by far the closest pub to the ground, situated in the UCI cinema complex next to the stadium. There's usually a friendly atmosphere in here. Mainly home fans drink here, but some away fans pop in for a drink as well. This place is perfect for a few drinks before the game or for a meal to calm your nerves. 

Slubbers Arms - Situated just off Bradford Road, this place is great for a nice, peaceful drink before the game. This is a real ale pub, so the beer is of a very high quality. 

Head of Steam - This pub is situated actually in the train station itself, so it nearly always has a few in before the game. It has a friendly atmosphere and away fans are always welcome. 

The Crescent - A bit rough but aren’t all the best pubs.  The pub is situated on Northumberland Street in the town centre. A bit of a walk to the ground but ideal if you are going to the game on the train.

The Peacock - Situated on Leeds Road, within 5 to 10 minutes of the ground, this pub is ideal to go to for a quick drink before the game. They have a large screen TV with Sky Sports available.

The stadium is shared with Huddersfield Town Football Club which holds 24,500 fans under one roof, oh I do love playing away!  Ohhhhhhh, bouncy, bouncy!!!

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