Groundhopper Guide: Cadbury Athletic at the Recreation Groun
Are you a non-league football enthusiast or a groundhopper looking to explore Birmingham’s rich football heritage? This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Cadbury Athletic FC at the Men’s Recreation Ground in Bournville—a historic football ground with strong ties to the iconic Cadbury chocolate factory.
Getting Here
By Car
The Men's Recreation Ground is located in Bournville, Birmingham, just outside the Grade II listed pavilion. If you’re driving, use postcode B30 1JR for your SatNav. The ground is easily accessible via the A38, with connections to the M5 and M42. Please respect local residents when parking.
Parking
There is limited parking at the ground, but visitors combining their trip with a Cadbury World visit can use their parking facilities. Alternatively, use park and ride options at Selly Oak and Kings Norton train stations, which are just one stop away from Bournville station, a 5-minute walk from the ground.
By Public Transport
We strongly encourage visitors to use Birmingham’s excellent public transport links:
- Train: The nearest station is Bournville, located on the Cross-City Line, just a short 5-minute walk from the ground.
- Bus: Several bus routes, including 11A, 11C, 27, and 48, stop within walking distance of the ground.
Food & Drink
At the Ground
The ground has basic refreshment facilities, offering hot drinks and snacks on matchdays. Please note that alcohol is not available at the ground due to local licensing restrictions.
Pubs, Taprooms & Bars Nearby
For a pre- or post-match pint, head to Stirchley, Birmingham’s go-to destination for craft beer and breweries, just a short distance from Bournville. Popular spots include:
- Attic Brew Co. – A lively independent brewery with a spacious taproom.
- Glasshouse Beer Co. – Known for its excellent selection of craft ales.
- Cork & Cage – A trendy bar with a curated selection of beers.
- The Wildcat Tap – A must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts.
- British Oak & The Bournbrook Inn - if you're after a more traditional pub both also showing sport on TV.
Stirchley has developed a reputation as one of Birmingham’s top beer destinations, making it a perfect stop for visiting football fans. As well as drink, Stirchley is home to a number of street food outlets as well as plenty of Balti Houses serving up the city's favourite dish.
Tickets & Admission
Cabdury Athletic compete at Non-league level, making it afforadable and welcoming for all fans. Tickets for games are priced at £5 for Adults, £3 Concessions and U16s go FREE. Payment is taken on the gate and cash is preferred.
History & Points of Interest
The Men's Recreation Ground
The Rec in Bournville stretches out proudly in front of the world-famous Cadbury factory and has been home to Cadbury Athletic since 1994 and more widely the Bournville Athletic Club for over a 100 years. The Grade II listed pavilion, gifted by the firm in 1902 to commemorate King Edward VII's coronation is one of only few listed buildings still standing on a football ground in the UK; a structure which provides a stunning focal point for Sport in Bournville for over a century. The Ground was constructed as part of the Cadbury family's vision for a model village, the pavilion reflecting their commitment to providing high-quality sporting and recreational facilities for their workers. The pavilion also hosts the Memorial and Club room, a poignant dedication to the those from Bournville who gave their lives in the two world wars.
Cadbury World
A visit to Cadbury World is a must for any football fan with a sweet tooth and the entrance to visitor attraction is accessible from the 'Bird Cage' walk along the back of the terracing running along the side of the pitch. This interactive attraction offers a deep dive into the history of the Cadbury factory and the wider history of Bournville.
Bournville Village
The picturesque village of Bournville built by the Cadbury family for their workers. Take a stroll around Bournville Green, admire the historic architecture and experience the unique charm of this heritage-rich area.
Accomodation
For those making a weekend of it, consider staying at one of these local hotels:
- Old Farm Hotel - Overlooks the ground and offers a charming, relaxed stay in Bournville.
- Bournbrook Inn - Situated in neighbouring Stirchely, comfortable, affordable and well connected to Birmingham City Centre.