Celtic Park: The Home of Celtic FC
Celtic Park, affectionately known as “Paradise” by fans, is the iconic home stadium of Celtic Football Club. Located in the East End of Glasgow, Scotland, this legendary ground has been a fortress for Celtic since its opening in 1892. With a current seating capacity of 60,832, it is the largest football stadium in Scotland and the sixth-largest in the United Kingdom.
Capacity and Facilities
Celtic Park boasts a seating capacity of 60,832, making it one of the most significant football venues in the UK. The stadium is divided into four main stands: the North Stand, the Jock Stein Stand, the Lisbon Lions Stand, and the Main Stand. The Main Stand is the oldest part of the stadium, preserving the rich history and tradition of the club.
In addition to the seating areas, Celtic Park offers modern facilities including corporate boxes, hospitality suites, and a state-of-the-art media centre. The stadium also houses the Celtic Superstore, where fans can purchase official club merchandise, and the Number 7 Restaurant, named in honour of legendary player Jimmy Johnstone.
A Brief History of Celtic Park
Early Years (1888 – 1892)
Celtic FC was formed in 1887, and the club’s first ground was at a site nearby to the current Celtic Park. This original ground served the club for four years until a dispute over rent led Celtic to find a new home. In 1892, the club moved to its current location, and Celtic Park was born.
Development and Reconstruction
Over the years, Celtic Park has undergone several redevelopments to expand and modernise the facilities. The most significant of these came in the 1990s, under the chairmanship of Fergus McCann.
The 1990s Reconstruction
In the early 1990s, Celtic Park was transformed from an ageing stadium into a modern football arena. The redevelopment began in 1994 and was completed in 1998, at a cost of around £40 million. The work included the construction of the North Stand, which is now the largest stand at the stadium with a capacity of 26,970.
The Lisbon Lions Stand and the Jock Stein Stand were also rebuilt during this period, replacing the old terraces with all-seater stands, in line with the Taylor Report’s recommendations following the Hillsborough disaster. This redevelopment increased the capacity to its current figure and significantly improved the facilities, ensuring Celtic Park could meet the demands of modern football.
Recent Upgrades
In recent years, Celtic Park has continued to evolve, with upgrades to the stadium’s lighting, PA system, and the introduction of a new hybrid pitch to improve playing conditions. These improvements have maintained Celtic Park’s status as a top-tier football venue, capable of hosting major European fixtures and other events.
The Celtic Park Experience: Tours and Pricing
Celtic Park is not just a place to watch football; it’s a destination for fans and visitors who want to experience the rich history of Celtic FC. The Celtic Park Stadium Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the club, providing an opportunity to explore areas usually off-limits to the public.
Tour Details
The stadium tour includes access to the players’ dressing rooms, the dugouts, and the tunnel area, allowing fans to walk in the footsteps of their heroes. Visitors also get to visit the boardroom and the press conference room, where the club’s managers and players interact with the media.
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories about the club’s history, its iconic players, and memorable matches that have taken place at Celtic Park.
Pricing and Booking Information
As of 2024, the current pricing for the Celtic Park Stadium Tour is as follows:
- Adults: £15
- Concessions (Students and Seniors): £12
- Children (Under 12s): £10
- Family Ticket (2 Adults and 2 Children): £40
Tours run regularly throughout the week, with additional tours available on match days. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak times or around big matches.
To book a tour, visitors can either call the Celtic Park booking office or use the online booking system available on the official Celtic FC website.
Visiting Celtic Park: How to Get There
Celtic Park is easily accessible by various means of transport. It is approximately 2 miles from Glasgow city centre and can be reached by public transport, car, or on foot.
By Public Transport
- Bus: Several bus routes from Glasgow city centre pass near Celtic Park. The most common bus services are the 61, 62, and 240, which drop you off within walking distance of the stadium.
- Train: The nearest train stations to Celtic Park are Dalmarnock and Bridgeton, both approximately a 10-minute walk from the ground.
By Car
For those driving to the stadium, there is parking available, but it can be limited on match days. It is recommended to arrive early or use public transport to avoid congestion.
The Atmosphere of Celtic Park
One of the most remarkable features of Celtic Park is its electric atmosphere, particularly on European nights. The stadium is known for its passionate and vocal support, creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams. The “You’ll Never Walk Alone” anthem, sung by the entire stadium before kick-off, is a spine-tingling experience for anyone in attendance.
Celtic Park is more than just a football stadium; it is a symbol of the club’s history, success, and enduring legacy. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a visitor looking to explore Glasgow’s football culture, a trip to Celtic Park offers an unforgettable experience.
For more information on tours, tickets, and upcoming matches, visit the official Celtic FC website.
