Exeter Chiefs
Exeter Chiefs have come a long way from their humble beginnings as a local rugby club. Once regarded as something of an outsider in the English game, they have established themselves among the country's leading clubs, winning Premiership titles and European honours along the way. Their rise has been remarkable, and Sandy Park has grown alongside them.
Situated on the outskirts of Exeter, Sandy Park is a modern rugby stadium that has managed to retain much of the atmosphere and identity that made the Chiefs special in the first place. It may not have the history of some of the older grounds, but it certainly has character, and on a big matchday it can be a terrific place to watch rugby.
The Ground
Sandy Park has developed considerably since the Chiefs moved there in 2006. What began as a relatively modest ground has been transformed into a stadium capable of hosting top-flight domestic and European rugby, as well as international fixtures.The ground is compact by Premiership standards, with the stands close to the pitch and a layout that helps create an excellent atmosphere. The West Grandstand, Inch's Stand and upper East Stand provide covered seating, while the North Terrace offers covered standing accommodation. The East Terrace, by contrast, is uncovered, something worth remembering if the Devon weather decides not to cooperate.
There is a good mixture of seating and standing, allowing supporters to choose how they prefer to watch the game. Personally, I like a ground where you feel part of the action rather than being marooned several hundred yards from the pitch.
The stadium is modern and well maintained, with good facilities and plenty going on around the ground. It is not the largest venue in the Premiership, but that is part of its appeal. Sandy Park feels like a rugby ground first and foremost, rather than a multipurpose entertainment complex that happens to host the occasional game.
Getting There and Admission Prices
Sandy Park is situated just off Junction 30 of the M5, with the stadium postcode EX2 7NN. For anyone travelling from further afield, it is reasonably straightforward to find, although matchday traffic around the motorway junction can be heavy.By car: This is where a little planning is essential. Unlike some grounds, there is no general on-site parking for supporters attending men's matches. Instead, the club operates an official Park & Change facility at Exeter Science Park, with a free shuttle bus to the stadium. The parking site opens three and a half hours before kick-off, and spaces can be booked in advance for £12 per vehicle. Check the club's instructions before travelling, as overflow arrangements may apply.
By train: Sandy Park is particularly well served by the local railway network. Digby & Sowton station is less than a ten-minute walk from the ground, while Newcourt is another option, approximately 15 minutes away. Both are on the Exeter–Exmouth line. If arriving at Exeter St David's, you can connect to the local service or use one of the matchday buses.
By bus: The club runs dedicated matchday services from various parts of Exeter, including routes serving the city centre and Exeter St David's station. These are well worth considering if you want to avoid the parking arrangements.
Now for the important question: how much will it cost to get through the turnstiles?
Exeter's ticket prices are not particularly cheap, and the club has some of the more expensive seats in the Premiership. For the 2026–27 season, the top-priced seats in the West Grandstand can reach £97, with other seated areas costing around £81–£87 for certain fixtures.
Standing tickets are considerably cheaper, with adult prices from around £33 for the North Terrace, while the East Terrace can cost more depending on the position and fixture. Booking fees apply.
However, there is some welcome news for supporters watching their spending. In October 2026, the Chiefs announced price reductions on many tickets for matches up to Christmas, with discounts of up to 25% on some adult terrace tickets and up to 50% on certain under-18 tickets.
That is a sensible move, particularly given the cost of following a club throughout the season. Check the official ticketing website for the precise price of your chosen game, as prices vary by opponent, seating position and any applicable promotions.
Food and Drink
Food and drink are an important part of the Sandy Park experience, and the Chiefs have developed a reputation for doing the matchday side of things rather well.There are bars and food outlets around the ground, offering the usual stadium favourites alongside a few local touches. One of the best-known items is the Chiefs' giant pasty, which is practically compulsory for anyone visiting Devon and looking for a substantial matchday snack.
There is also a good social atmosphere before kick-off, with supporters gathering in the bars and entertainment areas. Live music is often part of the pre-match build-up, and the entertainment continues after the final whistle.
Prices are, inevitably, higher than you would pay in your local pub, but the choice is reasonable and the overall setup is better than at some older grounds.
Atmosphere
This is where Sandy Park really comes into its own.
Exeter supporters are passionate about their club, and the famous Chiefs identity has helped create a distinctive matchday atmosphere. The songs, the noise from the terraces and the general enthusiasm make it a lively place to watch rugby.
The ground's relatively compact design helps concentrate the noise, particularly when a big European side or one of the Chiefs' domestic rivals comes to town. There is a strong sense of community, and visiting supporters are generally made welcome.
The Chiefs' rise from the lower divisions to the top of English rugby has also given the club a special place in the hearts of its followers. There is genuine pride in what has been achieved, and that history adds something to the experience.
The atmosphere is particularly good when the team is playing well, although, as any rugby supporter knows, the noise can become a little more subdued when the scoreboard is going the wrong way!
The Verdict
Sandy Park is one of the better modern rugby grounds in England. It has good facilities, a distinctive identity and an atmosphere that makes it enjoyable to visit. The food offering is decent, the transport links are good, and the covered terrace is a welcome feature for those who prefer to stand.
The main drawback is the cost. The most expensive seats are difficult to justify for anyone who simply wants an afternoon of rugby, and the parking arrangements require a little more planning than at some grounds. Thankfully, the recent ticket discounts show that the club is at least conscious of the financial pressures facing supporters.
For me, Sandy Park is a ground that gets most things right. It combines modern facilities with the character of a proper rugby club, and it is easy to understand why the Chiefs have built such a loyal following.
Old Moaner's verdict: A cracking rugby ground with a great atmosphere, decent food and a club that has earned its place among the country's elite. Just check the ticket prices before booking, and don't forget to arrange your parking. The Chiefs may be famous for their rugby, but they certainly aren't giving their tickets away!
Prices correct as at September 2026
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