England Vs. Australia ODI’s, The Riverside
If you didn’t get your Ashes tickets, watch England and Australia compete in ODI, One Day International matches this September. The final ODI match will be played at the Riverside in Durham September 20, 2009. The Riverside is a relatively new stadium, established in 1995, and holds 17,000 fans especially for international matches like ODI. It is located along the River Wear and has a view of Lumley Castle.
Where to Stay
Staying within walking distance of the Riverside is also a convenient treat, especially since the Lumley Castle is the nearest hotel. This magnificent 4-star hotel overlooks the stadium, and the castle has been part of this countryside for over 600 years. Each of the 74 luxurious rooms are en suite and have complimentary WiFi. The Black Knight restaurant is so popular that you will need reservations.
Within 5 miles of the stands you will find several other quality hotels to accommodate different budgets and tastes. The Ramside Hall Classic Hotel and Golf Club has buildings dating back to 1820 on their 220-acre estate. The Ramside Golf Course boasts a 27-hole course, three loops of 9 holes, 14 lakes, and is known as one of the best courses in the area. The hotel offers babysitting, currency exchange, laundry and medical services, and has ample free parking. Close to Durham’s city center is the Hotel Bannatyne Durham. Guests enjoy complimentary use of the health club, with gym, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and sauna.
Larger parties might enjoy a stay at the Radisson SAS Durham. All of the 207 guestrooms are air-conditioned and offer modern amenities like wireless internet and satellite TV. Complimentary newspapers are available in the lobby, where the multi-lingual staff will be happy to get you a taxi to the Riverside. No matter where you stay to watch the ODI at Riverside, you will enjoy the tradition and comfort of the English countryside.
How To Get there
Drivers to the Riverside are advised to get there early and carpool as parking is limited. You can also ride your bike as there are secured cycle racks. Several forms of public transportation are also available if you prefer to skip all those parking hassles. The local bus service is extensive, and easy to find your way to the stop only a few minutes walk from the stadium, at the Black Horse. Rail is also a convenient way to get to the match, especially if you are coming from farther away. The Chester-le-Street station is a 15-20 minute walk, sometimes there is a shuttle that takes fans to the stadium.
