Coventry vs Sunderland: getting from Sunderland to the CBS Arena

Coventry City host Sunderland at the Coventry Building Society Arena (CV6 6GE), just north of the city centre off Jimmy Hill Way. Best of all for away fans, the ground sits right next to Coventry Arena railway station, so the train drops you almost at the turnstiles.

How to get from Sunderland to Coventry by train

For a trip this long the train is the sensible choice. There is no direct service, so you will change at least once, often at York or Birmingham, with the fastest journeys taking around four hours 15. The reward at the end is the location: Coventry Arena railway station sits right next to the ground, a five-minute walk from the turnstiles.

• The usual route: Sunderland to York or Newcastle, then a CrossCountry service down through Birmingham to Coventry. Book the long leg in advance to keep the fare sensible.

You arrive at Coventry city-centre station. From there, hop on a local train one stop to Coventry Arena station right by the ground (extra services usually run on matchdays), or take a taxi in about 10 to 15 minutes. Book advance tickets to keep the cost down.

How to get from Sunderland to Coventry by car

By car it is around 200 miles and about four hours, so plan a break. The route is the A1(M) south, then the A19 or A1 to the M1, and down to the M42, M6 and Coventry. Traffic builds around Birmingham, so leave plenty of time on a matchday. Put CV6 6GE into your sat nav to bring you straight to the arena.

The one thing worth sorting before you set off is parking, because this is where away fans lose the most time on the day. Spaces close to the ground fill up fast and cost more last minute, so booking a guaranteed space in advance means you drive straight in, park and walk to the turnstiles rather than circling nearby streets.

How to get from Sunderland to Coventry by coach

National Express runs coaches from Sunderland to Coventry, but they take a large chunk of the day, so the train is far better for a matchday unless you are staying over.

Getting to the ground once you arrive

However you travel, the finish is easy. Coventry Arena railway station sits right next to the stadium, about a five-minute walk away, so the train is the closest you can get without driving. If you come by car, park in a pre-booked space by the arena and walk in. From the city centre, a taxi to the ground takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes.

Making a day of it in Coventry

With the travel sorted, the rest is the fun part. Get there early, find a spot for a pre-match drink and time your walk to the turnstiles so you are not rushing:

• Pubs and bars near the CBS Arena, with walking distance from the ground.
• Where to park and how far it is from the arena on foot.
• The matchday timetable, from gates opening to full time.

First time at the ground? Our Coventry City matchday guide for away fans covers everything else around your visit.

Frequently asked questions