Leazes End
Home of Newcastle United since 1892.
St. James' Park is a football stadium in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. It is the home of Newcastle United. With a seating capacity of 52,719, it is the 9th largest football stadium in England.
Quick Facts
- Capacity
- Approximately 52,000 (after 2000 corner fill-in)
Lore & Background
The site of St. James' Park was originally a patch of sloping grazing land, bordered by Georgian Leazes Terrace, and near the historic Town Moor, owned by the Freemen of the city. The first football team to play at St. James' Park was Newcastle Rangers in 1880. Newcastle West End took over the ground in 1886. West End were wound up in 1892 and effectively merged into their rivals Newcastle East End, who took over the lease of St. James' Park and became Newcastle United later that year. On 3 September 1892, Newcastle East End played its first game on the football ground.
Reader's Guide
St. James' Park has been the home ground of Newcastle United since 1892. The stadium has a seating capacity of 52,719. It has been used for international football, at the 2012 Olympics, for the rugby league Magic Weekend, rugby union World Cup, Premiership and England Test matches, charity football events, rock concerts, and as a set for film and reality television.
Did You Know?
- Newcastle United actually played in red and white at St. James' Park until 1904.
- The second-ever rugby league test match, and first test victory by Great Britain, was played at the ground in 1908 against the touring Australian Kangaroos side on 23 January 1909.
- The Gallowgate End is named after the gallows of the city, last used in 1844.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Leazes End?
It is a designated stand at St James' Park named after the adjacent public green space known as Leazes Park. This section functions as a key home support area for the club's fans.
When was the current stand constructed?
The original structure was demolished in 1978, but financial struggles delayed reconstruction until it finally opened in 1993. This new build debuted during Newcastle United's first season in the Premiership.
Why did rebuilding take so long after demolition?
Relegation and severe financial difficulties prevented immediate construction of a replacement stand. Consequently, there was a fifteen-year gap before the new seating area rose from the ground.
What is the official name of this stand today?
Upon its completion in 1993, it was officially opened as the Sir John Hall stand. Despite this commercial naming rights, supporters often continue to refer to the location by its traditional geographical title.
How did expansion impact the view from Leazes Terrace?
The physical growth of the ground at the Leazes End has further reduced the sightlines toward Leazes Park from the terrace. The configuration is now all-seater to meet modern safety standards while remaining active.
More in Stadium & Culture
Elsewhere in Newcastle United
Spotted an error? Know more?
Reader corrections go straight into our review queue. Suggest an edit · How this site is sourced