The Spartans FC Ground & Tickets
Ground: Ainsley Park
Capacity: 3,612
Location: Pilton Drive, Edinburgh
Country: Scotland, United Kingdom
The Ground
Ainslie Park, tucked away in the north of Edinburgh at Pilton Drive, has quietly established itself as one of the city’s most versatile and community-focused sporting venues. Opened in 2008 as the home of Spartans FC, the ground quickly became known for its modern facilities, its welcoming atmosphere, and its role as a hub for football development across all ages and levels. For a period, it also served as the temporary home of Edinburgh City FC, further cementing its reputation as a ground of significance within the capital’s football landscape.
While modest in scale compared to Edinburgh’s larger stadiums, Ainslie Park carries a character rooted in accessibility and grassroots values. With a capacity of around 3,600 (including a covered seated stand) it offers excellent sightlines and a close connection between players and supporters.
The stadium’s facilities are modern and adaptable, featuring changing suites, meeting rooms, and social spaces that reflect its dual identity as both a senior football ground and a community resource. Beyond Spartans’ Lowland League fixtures, Ainslie Park regularly hosts youth tournaments, women’s football, and local events, embodying a spirit of inclusivity and service to the city.
Set within a residential area, Ainslie Park feels very much a neighbourhood club venue, accessible, friendly, and closely tied to its community. Just a short bus ride or drive from Edinburgh’s city centre, it benefits from nearby transport links and on-site parking, making it straightforward for both home and visiting supporters to attend.
On matchdays, the ground buzzes with an intimate energy. Families, locals, and devoted fans fill the stand, creating a supportive and welcoming atmosphere where the lines between players and supporters blur. For many, Ainslie Park is more than a football ground; it is a beacon of grassroots ambition, a symbol of how modern facilities can serve both club and community, and a reminder that football’s heart often beats strongest at the local level.
Official Tickets
Head to the Spartans website under “Tickets” for home matches.
Matchday / Club Office
For many tickets or season passes, you can pick them up at the matchday merchandise stall or directly from the club office.
Fixtures
Fanshop
How to get to the Stadium
Via Train
Train to Edinburgh Waverley. On foot: It’s about 3 miles (5 km) from Waverley, so just over an hour’s walk. By taxi / rideshare: Roughly 15 minutes depending on traffic.
By Car
Via the A1./M8 Official car parks: At the stadium: Ainslie Park has a modest-sized car park at the stadium. On busy matchdays, it can fill quickly. Alternative: Park near Ferry Road or Morrisons Granton and walk a few minutes to the ground.
Airport
EDI (Edinburgh Airport)
Distance: 7 miles (11 km) west of Ainslie Park. By car/taxi: 20–25 minutes (traffic-dependent). By public transport: Take the Airlink 100 bus or Edinburgh Trams to the city centre (Waverley / Princes Street), then connect with a bus (27, 19, or 21) up to Pilton Drive.
GLA (Glasgow Airport)
Distance: Airport → Glasgow city: Airport Express 500 bus (from 15 min, 24/7) to Buchanan Bus Station / city centre. Glasgow → Edinburgh: ScotRail from Queen Street → Waverley (fastest about 50–60 min; typical 1h05–1h15; very frequent).
Around the Stadium
Before and After the Match
The Orchard Bar & Restaurant (Canonmills). A stylish gastropub about 15 minutes’ walk from Inverleith Park, this is a favourite stop for Spartans fans making their way north. Good food, a wide beer range, and plenty of space for groups before heading up to Ainslie Park.
The Blue Bear Café (Canonmills). For those who prefer a coffee or a bite to eat before the game, The Blue Bear is a cosy brunch spot en route to Pilton. Ideal for families or early arrivals.
The Ferry Boat (Granton). Down by the waterfront, this traditional pub has a loyal local following. It’s a short drive or bus ride from the stadium and makes a good stop for fans wanting a quieter, old-school pint before or after the match.
The Starbank Inn (Newhaven). Overlooking the Firth of Forth, the Starbank combines cracking views with hearty pub food. About a 20-minute walk from the ground, it’s popular with both locals and visiting fans who fancy a seaside stroll.
The Beehive Inn (Davidson’s Mains). Closer to the stadium, this welcoming pub in the nearby village-style suburb offers a relaxed, community feel. A good option if you want something low-key and friendly right before kick-off.
The Shore (Leith). For those coming from the city centre, Leith’s Shore area offers a variety of pubs and bars, The King’s Wark and Teuchters Landing among them, perfect for a pre-match drink before hopping on a bus to Ainslie Park.
The Goldenacre (Inverleith). A cosy local just off Ferry Road, this pub attracts a steady stream of matchday goers. With a traditional look and good ale selection, it’s a solid choice within easy reach of the ground.
Ainslie Park is set within a residential area, so there aren’t many pubs right on its doorstep. The best plan is to stop at Canonmills, Davidson’s Mains, or Newhaven before walking or bussing to the stadium. On sunny days, plenty of fans combine a pub visit with a walk along the waterfront before heading inland to the match.
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