For more than a century, Griffin Park was Brentford’s home. Opened in 1904, it was a compact, characterful ground famous for having a pub on every corner and a tight-knit atmosphere that made life uncomfortable for visiting teams. It saw the club’s highest-ever attendance in 1949, when almost 39,000 packed in for an FA Cup tie. But as football moved into the modern era, it became clear that the ageing ground couldn’t meet the demands of top-flight football.
The Gtech Community Stadium opened its doors in September 2020, less than a mile from Griffin Park, marking a huge step forward. Although the opening season was played largely behind closed doors due to COVID-19 restrictions, it quickly became a new focal point for fans once crowds returned.
The Current Stadium
Situated between railway lines and the River Thames, the Gtech Community Stadium makes clever use of a very awkward triangular site. It has a capacity of 17,250, with four distinct stands wrapped in an angular design that gives the ground a unique character. While smaller than many Premier League venues, it’s modern, comfortable, and purpose-built to meet both Premier League and UEFA standards.
The design prioritises sightlines and atmosphere, keeping fans close to the pitch. Safe-standing areas have been incorporated with an eye on future legislation, and sustainability was a key part of construction — with reduced concrete and steel use compared to similar builds.
Matchday Atmosphere
For a relatively small Premier League ground, the Gtech makes a lot of noise. Brentford’s fans are close to the action, which means chants like “Super Brentford” and their adapted version of “Hey Jude” carry around the stadium. The West Stand, home to many of the loudest supporters, sets the tone, while the family areas offer a more relaxed experience. When the Bees score, the surge of sound is immediate and intense — and on big days, it feels like every single voice joins in.
How to Get There
The Gtech is one of the more accessible London stadiums by public transport.
- Train: Kew Bridge station is just a few minutes’ walk from the ground. Gunnersbury station (Overground and District line) is also within walking distance.
- Bus: Several routes serve the area, including the 237 and 267, which stop close to the stadium.
- Car: There’s no general matchday parking at the ground, so most fans are better off using public transport or parking further out and walking in.
- Cycling: Bike racks are available at the stadium for those riding in.
Pre- and Post-Match Pubs & Food
While the Gtech doesn’t have Griffin Park’s “pub on every corner” magic, there are still good options nearby. The Express Tavern on Kew Bridge Road is a popular pre-match spot, while the Steam Packet and One Over the Ait both offer riverside views. For food, the surrounding streets and concourses inside the ground serve everything from burgers to more modern street-food style dishes, so you won’t go hungry before kick-off.
Seating Guide
The stadium is compact, so there aren’t really any bad seats.
- West Stand: Main stand with hospitality areas and plenty of vocal fans.
- Ealing Road Stand: Traditionally one of the most passionate sections, with safe-standing areas.
- East Stand: Offers a good side-on view of the pitch.
- North Stand: This is where away fans are housed, creating a clear line of noise between home and visiting supporters.
Accessibility
Brentford have made accessibility a core part of the Gtech’s design. There are wheelchair bays throughout the ground, companion seating, lifts to all levels, and accessible toilets. The club also offers a sensory room for supporters who need a calmer environment to enjoy the game, with trained staff on hand to assist.
Notable Games at the Gtech
Despite only opening in 2020, the stadium has already seen its share of memorable moments.
- The first ever Premier League match here — a 2-0 win over Arsenal in August 2021 — was an unforgettable night for the club and its fans.
- The 4-1 victory over Chelsea in April 2022 stunned the football world.
- The stadium also hosted the celebrations that followed Brentford’s promotion via the 2021 Championship play-off final.
Hospitality and Premium Seating
For those looking to enhance their matchday, the stadium has an impressive hospitality offering. Around 3,000 premium seats are spread across lounges and boxes, ranging from relaxed sports bar-style spaces to formal dining experiences. Packages often include pre-match meals, padded seating, and exclusive access areas, giving fans a choice of how to enjoy the game.
Future Plans
While the Gtech is still brand new, Brentford planned for growth from the start. The design allows for expansion if demand increases, though no concrete plans have been announced.
The club’s old home, Griffin Park, is set for redevelopment into 149 new homes, with public spaces and a memorial area called “The Hive” marking the site of the old centre circle. If all goes to plan, construction could begin in winter 2025, ensuring the club’s history remains a visible part of the local area.