A Brief History of Celtic Park
Celtic Park opened its doors in 1892, just four years after the club’s founding. The original site, however, wasn’t the current location – Celtic Park initially sat a short distance away but was quickly moved to accommodate the club’s rapid growth. Since then, it has become Scotland’s largest football stadium, boasting a capacity of just over 60,000, with a legacy steeped in football history and cultural significance.
Over the years, Celtic Park has undergone significant renovations, reflecting the club’s ambition and desire to offer fans a world-class venue. One of the most transformative periods came in the 1990s, when major renovations were completed to expand the stadium’s capacity and modernise its facilities. This update was driven in part by UEFA regulations, which required clubs in European competitions to upgrade their stadiums for fan safety and comfort. During this time, the iconic North Stand was constructed, bringing the stadium to its current capacity.
The most recent renovations have focused on enhancing the fan experience, with improved seating, updated facilities, and expanded hospitality options. Celtic Park also prides itself on being accessible, with dedicated sections for disabled supporters and state-of-the-art facilities to ensure all fans feel welcome.
Celtic Park is a space where tradition and modernity converge, offering an unforgettable experience for fans and visitors alike. It’s a place of pilgrimage, not just for Celtic fans but for football enthusiasts worldwide, and continues to set the standard for football stadiums across Europe.
Celtic Park, affectionately known as “Paradise” by fans, is one of Europe’s most revered football venues and a must-visit for football enthusiasts visiting Glasgow. Nestled in the East End of Glasgow, it’s a beacon of Scottish football history, drawing thousands of fans and tourists eager to experience its electric atmosphere, explore its rich heritage, and walk in the footsteps of Celtic greats. Whether you’re here for a game or a stadium tour, here’s everything you need to know about visiting this iconic ground.
Getting to Celtic Park
By Public Transport:
The stadium is well-connected by public transport. The most straightforward route from Glasgow city centre is by train, with Dalmarnock Station and Bellgrove Station both within a 15-minute walk from the stadium. Services from Glasgow Central Station to Dalmarnock take around 10 minutes, and trains run frequently on matchdays, making it a smooth and efficient option. Alternatively, buses from the city centre, such as the 61, 62, or 240, drop fans off close to the stadium.
By Car:
For those driving, Celtic Park is accessible via the M8 motorway. There is limited parking near the stadium, and surrounding streets fill up quickly on matchdays. To avoid the hassle, some fans opt to park in the city centre and take a train or bus to the ground. Note that parking restrictions are in place during events, so planning ahead is advised.
By Bicycle:
For the eco-conscious or those looking to see more of Glasgow, cycling to Celtic Park is a great option. There are cycling paths that connect the stadium with the city centre, and bike racks are available near the entrance.
Experiencing Matchday at Celtic Park
Attending a Celtic match at Celtic Park is an experience like no other. The roar of the 60,000 fans singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” is something that reverberates through the stadium and the surrounding area. Fans are passionate, and the atmosphere in Paradise is electrifying, particularly during league-defining games or European nights, where the stadium truly comes alive. For those looking to capture the full Celtic Park experience, key matches against rivals like Rangers are highly sought-after, offering an atmosphere that’s second to none.
Best Times to Visit:
The Scottish Premiership season runs from August through May, with fixtures every other weekend, typically on Saturdays or Sundays. While any game at Celtic Park is bound to be memorable, attending evening European matches offers an extra sense of magic. For a quieter experience, early weekday games or friendlies offer an equally exciting atmosphere, minus the intense crowds.
Getting Tickets for Matches
Celtic FC is one of the most popular clubs in the UK, so securing tickets for big matches, especially those against Rangers or during European competitions, can be a challenge. Tickets are available on Celtic’s official website, with priority given to season ticket holders. Membership packages are also available, granting early access to tickets and additional perks. For those unable to grab a ticket directly, hospitality packages offer an upscale matchday experience and are easier to secure, especially for high-demand games.
Pricing and Availability:
Match ticket prices vary depending on the competition and seating location within the stadium, ranging from £30 to £55 for standard tickets. European games and Old Firm matches tend to be pricier and require early booking.
Celtic Park Stadium Tours
When there’s no match scheduled, a stadium tour offers a behind-the-scenes look into the heart of Celtic Park. These tours are a brilliant way to experience the club’s rich history and access areas usually off-limits to the public, including the dressing rooms, pitchside, and the famous tunnel that’s seen countless players walk through it over the years.
Tour Details:
Tours last about an hour and a half, led by knowledgeable guides who are often lifelong fans, offering fascinating insights into the club’s history, from its founding in 1888 to its modern-day successes. Highlights include the Boardroom, where Celtic’s honours are proudly displayed, the dressing room, and pitchside, where you can step into the technical area and view the field from the manager’s perspective.
Best Time for Tours:
Tours run on non-matchdays, with several slots available daily. The quieter weekdays allow for a more intimate experience, while weekends can be busier with fans from all over the world. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak football season and around holidays, when the club welcomes fans from far and wide.
Tips for a Memorable Visit
- Arrive Early: Matchdays at Celtic Park draw huge crowds. Arriving early lets you soak up the atmosphere, grab a bite from local food vendors, and maybe even pick up some memorabilia from the Celtic Store.
- Stay Nearby: For those travelling into Glasgow specifically for a Celtic game, several hotels in the city centre offer quick access to Celtic Park via public transport. The Radisson Blu and Moxy Glasgow Merchant City are popular picks.
- Join in the Chants: Celtic Park is known for its vibrant singing culture. Don’t be shy about joining in with “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and other club anthems – it’s all part of the unforgettable matchday atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
From its rich history to the passion of the fans, Celtic Park offers a true pilgrimage for football lovers. It’s more than a stadium; it’s a place of stories, of heroes past and present, and a cornerstone of Scottish football. Whether you’re attending a high-stakes game or taking a leisurely tour through its storied halls, Celtic Park promises an unforgettable experience for all who enter its gates.
Contact Details
- Visit website
- stadiumtours@celticfc.co.uk
- Celtic Park,
Glasgow,
City Of Glasgow,
G40 3RE