The Bantams kickstart their preparations for the 2023/24 campaign this afternoon against Bury at Gigg Lane in their first pre-season friendly.
Mark Hughes’ men will be the first visitors at Gigg Lane since its reopening, and the Shakers’ revival.
We have compiled a handy Away Day Guide - packed full of useful information ahead of the first match of a brand-new campaign.
STREAMING
With today’s clash being a momentous occasion in the Shakers’ history and the capacity restrictions for both sides, Bury will be broadcasting the game live for free on the club’s YouTube channel.
Roch Valley Radio will also be providing commentary and analysis for today’s encounter.
For more information on streaming, please CLICK HERE.
TICKETS
Tickets for this afternoon's encounter are SOLD OUT, with over 1,100 Bantams making the trip to Lancashire. Capacity restrictions are in place for both sides
STADIUM ADDRESS
Gigg Lane
Bury
BL9 9HR
ABOUT THE GROUND
Today’s clash will be a historic moment in the Shakers’ history as they return to Gigg Lane for the first time since their expulsion from the EFL in 2019.
Built specifically for Bury Football Club in 1885, the Shakers enjoyed early life at Gigg Lane, winning their first league game against current European and English champions Manchester City 4-2.
Housing over 12,500 spectators, the Shakers will contest in step nine of the football pyramid next season (North West Counties Football League), as they look to climb the divisions since financial mismanagement saw them removed from the football league five years ago.
CAR PARKING
Car parking spaces around Gigg Lane are difficult to find, so setting off early is advised to avoid disappointment.
There is street parking on Gigg Lane and Radcliffe Road which you can reserve for £10. Supporters are reminded to be respectful and courteous when parking on local residential roads and to adhere to all parking/permit measures.
For a cheaper alternative, Travelodge Bury will cost £3 to house your car here, but this is a 20-minute walk from the ground.
ENTERTAINMENT AND REFRESHMENTS
To drink:
Bury is described to be a colourful and atmospheric town to enjoy a drink in, so travelling supporters can make the most of the first away trip in the sunshine.
A selection of hot and cold snacks will be sold at the stadium this afternoon - with Bury allowing the sale of alcohol.
The club have urged supporters that the consumption of alcohol must take place away from the pitch - in order to follow regulations. Please respect the advise from stewards and club officials who are tasked with this process.
The Swan & Cemetery has a large beer garden, welcomes both home and away fans and is only a five-minute walk from the stadium.
There is a Wetherspoon’s a 10-minute walk from Gigg Lane named the Art Picture House, with usual cheap food and drink on offer - though all supporters are advised not to stare at the carpet for too long!
To eat:
The Swan & Cemetery and the Art Picture House sell food which provide a good option while grabbing a drink.
Aside from traditional pub grub or matchday snacks, there is a fish and chip shop called Mansons a five-minute walk from Gigg Lane.
GETTING THERE
By car:
Leave the M66 at Junction Three and follow signs towards Bury. Heading into Bury, you will see signs for Gigg Lane, which will lead you to the ground.
Alternatively, leave the M60 at Junction 17, and get onto the A56 towards Bury and eventually you merge onto Manchester Road where Gigg Lane will appear on the right.
By train:
Bury does not have its own train station, so heading towards Manchester Piccadilly or Manchester Victoria is the only viable option. Once in Manchester, you will need to get the tram towards Bury, where the ground is 15 minutes away.
By bus:
The 135 bus leaves the Metrolink Tram Stadium in Bury every 15 minutes or so and drops off on Manchester Road, near to the ground.
WEATHER
City fans should prepare for a warm afternoon in Lancashire with temperatures hitting over 20°C.
To read Bury's matchday guide, please CLICK HERE.
For information on how you can help this weekend, please CLICK HERE.