Everton Fans Prepare for Emotional Goodison Park Farewell
As the 2022/23 football season kicks off, Everton fans are gearing up for a bittersweet farewell to their beloved Goodison Park. The historic stadium has been the home of the Toffees since 1892, making it a cherished landmark in English football. However, the upcoming season marks the beginning of the end for Goodison Park, as the club prepares to move to a new state-of-the-art stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock in 2025/26. This transition will bring an emotional conclusion to 133 years of memories and traditions at the iconic ground.
For Everton supporters, Goodison Park holds a special place in their hearts. The stadium is renowned for its passionate atmosphere and rich history, making it one of the last great traditional arenas in English football. As fans prepare to bid farewell to Goodison, they are faced with a mix of excitement and nostalgia, knowing that the end of an era is fast approaching.
The Ultimate Matchday Pub Crawl for Everton Fans
For many match-going fans, the area surrounding the stadium is an integral part of the matchday experience. The pubs and bars in the vicinity of Goodison Park serve as gathering spots for supporters to come together, share pre-match rituals, and celebrate the highs and lows of the beautiful game. As Everton fans embark on their final season at Goodison, a pub crawl through the matchday establishments in the area becomes a fitting tribute to the stadium’s legacy.
Starting the Journey: The Denbigh Castle
The Denbigh Castle, located on Hackins Hey in Liverpool’s Beer Quarter, sets the stage for Everton fans to begin their matchday pub crawl. This traditional wet-led pub has undergone a rebranding in recent years, becoming a popular haunt for discerning Toffees supporters. With a history dating back over 200 years, the Denbigh offers a blend of old-world charm and contemporary appeal, making it a favorite spot for pre and post-match gatherings.
Here, fans can enjoy a warm welcome and a selection of quality beverages, setting the tone for an unforgettable matchday experience. As the ‘Spirit of the Blues’ echoes through the streets, Evertonians can savor the anticipation of the game ahead while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the Denbigh Castle.
The Leigh Arms: A Traditional Boozer with a View
As fans make their way from Kirkdale Station to Goodison Park, the Leigh Arms beckons with its charm and character. Situated on the corner of Chirkdale Street at Barlow Lane, this small, traditional boozer offers a prime vantage point for observing the sea of Blue descending on the stadium. With a reliable pint of Guinness in hand, supporters can bask in the pre-match buzz and camaraderie that permeates the air outside the Leigh Arms.
A recent renovation has given the pub a fresh look, complete with a new green frontage that resonates with Evertonians. The Leigh Arms stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of matchday traditions, providing a welcoming haven for fans to come together and share in the excitement of the game.
The Royal Oak: A Pre-Match Oasis on County Road
For many Everton supporters, the Royal Oak on the corner of Spellow Lane and County Road serves as a cherished pre-match ritual. With the Park End of Goodison Park in view, the pub offers a sunny spot to enjoy a pint and soak up the pre-game atmosphere. Whether rain or shine, Toffees fans gather at the Royal Oak to prepare for the 90 minutes of action ahead, sharing in the collective anticipation and optimism that comes with a new season.
As the future of businesses on County Road remains uncertain, the Royal Oak stands as a steadfast beacon for passionate Blues to come together and revel in the traditions that define matchday culture. With Goodison Park bidding its final farewell, the Oak remains a constant presence for fans to gather and celebrate the enduring legacy of the Toffees.
The Brick: A Community Hub for Evertonians
Nestled on County Road, the appropriately named Brick pub stands out as a vibrant hub for Everton supporters. With its Victorian Gothic style and Everton regalia adorning the interior, the pub exudes a sense of history and tradition that resonates with fans. Despite the bustling crowd and lively atmosphere, the Brick maintains a sense of community and camaraderie, making it a favorite spot for post-game celebrations and discussions.
As fans gather to share predictions, analyze the game, and revel in the highs and lows of matchday, the Brick embodies the true spirit of an Everton pub. Whether celebrating a victory or commiserating a defeat, supporters find solace and connection in the shared experience of being part of the Everton family.
The Winslow Hotel: A Legendary Matchday Pub
Arguably Everton’s most famous matchday pub, the Winslow Hotel stands as a landmark in the shadow of Goodison Park. Known as the People’s Pub, the Winslow has long been a favorite gathering spot for Toffees fans, voted the best match-day pub by ECHO readers in 2017. As fans flock to the pub on matchdays, the atmosphere buzzes with excitement and anticipation, creating a vibrant backdrop to the journey into the stadium.
With a recent refurbishment adding a fresh touch to the iconic pub, the Winslow Hotel remains a cherished destination for fans to come together and celebrate the spirit of Everton. As the club embarks on its final season at Goodison, the Winslow stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of matchday traditions and the unwavering loyalty of Everton supporters.
The Black Horse: A Local Favorite for Pre and Post-Match Gatherings
Located near Goodison Park on County Road, the Black Horse pub has become a fixture for Everton supporters seeking a pre or post-match watering hole. With its traditional charm and diverse drink selection, the pub offers a warm welcome to fans looking to immerse themselves in the matchday experience. The large beer garden and outdoor TV screen provide a perfect setting for supporters to gather, watch live games, and revel in the electric atmosphere of matchdays.
As fans celebrate victories and commiserate defeats, the Black Horse serves as a communal space where Evertonians can come together to share in the highs and lows of supporting their beloved club. With classic Everton songs ringing out in the beer garden, the pub embodies the passion and camaraderie that define the matchday spirit for Toffees fans.
In Conclusion, as Everton fans prepare to bid farewell to Goodison Park, the matchday pub crawl offers a poignant tribute to the legacy and tradition of the iconic stadium. From the historic Denbigh Castle to the legendary Winslow Hotel, each pub along the journey represents a chapter in the rich tapestry of Everton’s matchday culture. As the club looks towards a new era at Bramley-Moore Dock, the memories and traditions of Goodison Park will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Toffees fans, who have shared in the joys and sorrows of matchdays for generations.