Things to do · Football · England
Premier League tickets: how to get into the match
It is ten to three on a Saturday. The pubs empty all at once, the turnstiles click and forty thousand people sing the same song a second out of time. Nothing on television prepares you for the noise when the teams walk out.
In short: Premier League tickets
The big clubs sell most seats to season-ticket holders and paying members, so general sale is rare for the top games. For a visitor the realistic routes are a club membership, official hospitality or a ticket reseller. Resale prices are often above face value, and kick-off times can move a few weeks before the match when TV picks the game. Book flexible flights and hotels.
How to choose the right match
First time: a 3pm Saturday kick-off in London or Manchester. Several clubs, short trips and a city to enjoy afterwards.
For the atmosphere: a derby or an evening game under the lights. Expect higher prices and fewer seats.
On a budget: a mid-table club against a mid-table club. Easier to get into, and often the better match.
Two ways into English football
Both links go to our ticket partner, where you pick the match and the seats.
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The ticket links go to Sports Events 365, an independent ticket reseller, not the clubs. If you book through them, Picolo may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Resale prices can be higher than face value.
Worth knowing
Kick-off times move
TV broadcasters pick games a few weeks ahead, so a Saturday match can move to Sunday or Monday. Wait for the confirmed date before you book anything you cannot change.
Official sales
Most clubs sell to members first. Official hospitality packages are the safest way to a guaranteed seat at the biggest games.
E-tickets
Tickets usually arrive on your phone or by email shortly before the match. Keep your phone charged, many clubs use moving barcodes that do not work as screenshots.
Bags
Most grounds only allow small bags, roughly A4 size. Leave the backpack at the hotel.
Arrive early
Be at the turnstiles an hour before kick-off. Security queues are long and the warm-up is worth seeing.
How Picolo chooses
Our editors pick every hotel and experience themselves, and most of them we have tried. Nobody can pay to be included or ranked higher. When you book through our links, Picolo earns a small commission. It never changes the price you pay, and it never decides what we write.
More football tickets
Premier League tickets: FAQ
How do I buy Premier League tickets as a visitor?
Through the club's own membership or hospitality, or through a ticket reseller. Membership gives access to face-value tickets but costs a fee and does not guarantee a seat at the biggest games. A reseller gives you a confirmed seat, usually at a higher price.
When are Premier League kick-off times confirmed?
The fixture list comes out in June, but TV picks are announced in batches a few weeks ahead. Until then, a match listed for Saturday can move to Friday, Sunday or Monday. Choose a flexible hotel rate if you book early.
Can I sit with my friends or family?
Yes, if you buy the seats together in one order. Our ticket partner says pairs are always seated together. Larger groups may be split into smaller blocks next to each other.
Which Premier League stadium is best for a first visit?
Anfield and Old Trafford have the history, the Emirates and the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium have the comfort, and a smaller ground like Craven Cottage by the Thames has the charm. In London you can fit two matches into one weekend.
Are children allowed at Premier League matches?
Yes. Every child needs their own ticket, and most clubs have family areas. Clubs set their own age rules for some sections, so check the seat details before you buy.
Updated 6 Nov 2026All articles