EFL fixtures: I’ve been to all 92 Football League grounds this is every Championship stadium from worst to best, which ones you should visit this season and which to stay well away from: OLIVER HOLT

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The author of this article has completed a journey of a lifetime, visiting all 92 English football stadiums, a feat known as “The 92.” As they reflect on their experiences, they share their thoughts on the grounds in the Championship league, ranking them from worst to best. The author’s love letter to English football takes us on a tour of the country, highlighting the unique character and history of each stadium. From the modern and sleek to the old and nostalgic, each ground has its own story to tell and its own place in the hearts of its community.

The author’s journey takes us to some of the less glamorous grounds, such as The Den, Millwall’s home, which they describe as a place where “being banned from is the football equivalent of being banned from your local abattoir.” The Kassam Stadium, home of Oxford United, is also criticized for its lack of character and atmosphere, with the author noting that the best experience they had there was getting their Covid jab during the pandemic. Other grounds, such as Hillsborough, Sheffield Wednesday’s home, and the Coventry Building Society Arena, home of Coventry City, are also ranked low due to their troubled histories and lack of charm.

However, not all grounds are disappointing. The author finds some hidden gems, such as Loftus Road, home of QPR, which they rank as their favorite. This boutique stadium in Shepherd’s Bush is a “beautiful, steep-sided gem” that is “a place to cherish.” Other grounds, such as Bramall Lane, home of Sheffield United, and St Andrew’s, home of Birmingham City, are also praised for their history, passion, and community spirit. The author notes that these grounds are the “soul of their community” and the “heart of the English game.”

The author’s rankings are not just based on the stadium’s architecture or amenities but also on the atmosphere and experience of watching a match. They recall memorable games and moments, such as the time they sat in the dugout at Bramall Lane or watched Andrea Bocelli sing at the King Power Stadium. The author also acknowledges the importance of the fans and the community in making a stadium special, noting that “each of them holds the soul of their community and the hopes and dreams of the thousands of people who make the pilgrimage there every weekend.”

As the author continues their tour of the Championship grounds, they highlight some of the unique features and quirks of each stadium. The Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion, is praised for its history and atmosphere, while the Riverside Stadium, home of Middlesbrough, is criticized for its bland and unimaginative design. The author also notes the challenges faced by some clubs, such as Hull City and Blackburn Rovers, who have struggled with ownership and financial issues.

In conclusion, the author’s journey to all 92 English football stadiums is a testament to their love of the game and its culture. Through their rankings and descriptions, they share their passion and nostalgia for the sport, highlighting the unique character and history of each ground. Whether it’s the grandeur of a Premier League stadium or the charm of a smaller, community-based ground, each stadium has its own place in the heart of English football. The author’s love letter to English football is a must-read for any fan of the sport, and their rankings provide a fascinating insight into the world of English football stadiums.