AFC Bournemouth vs Liverpool FC: Vitality Stadium, 24 Jan 2026

Introduction

Prepare yourselves for an enthralling Premier League showdown as AFC Bournemouth welcomes Liverpool FC to the south coast for a highly anticipated fixture on Saturday, 24th January 2026. The Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth will be the battleground for this exciting encounter, pitting the Cherries' tenacity against the Reds' relentless pursuit of glory. This match promises to be a captivating display of top-flight football, filled with tactical intrigue, passionate performances, and the electric atmosphere that only a Premier League fixture can deliver. Whether you're a die-hard fan of either club or simply an admirer of the beautiful game, this is a date circled in the calendar for football enthusiasts across the globe. The unique charm of the Vitality Stadium, combined with the pedigree of these two teams, sets the stage for a memorable day out.

About the Cherries: AFC Bournemouth

AFC Bournemouth, affectionately known as the Cherries, have carved out a reputation as a club that consistently punches above its weight in the Premier League. Their journey in the top flight has been characterised by resilience, smart recruitment, and a never-say-die attitude that endears them to their loyal fanbase. Playing at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth transform into a formidable unit, drawing strength from the fervent support that surrounds them. Their home ground, while intimate, amplifies the noise and intensity, making it a challenging environment for any visiting team. Expect a side that plays with a high work rate, pressing their opponents aggressively and looking to exploit spaces with quick, incisive attacks. Their ability to adapt their game plan and their tactical flexibility often makes them a tricky opponent, capable of causing upsets against even the most established clubs. The Cherries represent the spirit of a community club fighting for its place on the grandest stage of English football.

About the Reds: Liverpool FC

Liverpool FC need little introduction. A club steeped in history, success, and a global legion of devoted supporters, the Reds are a perennial force in English and European football. Their Anfield heritage is legendary, but their ability to perform consistently on the road, especially in front of passionate away crowds, is a testament to their enduring strength. Liverpool are renowned for their high-octane, attacking brand of football, characterised by relentless pressing, swift counter-attacks, and a wealth of individual talent. Their squad is typically a blend of seasoned internationals and emerging stars, all driven by a shared ambition to add more silverware to the club's illustrious trophy cabinet. When Liverpool arrive at the Vitality Stadium, they will be focused on imposing their style of play, controlling possession, and ultimately, securing the three points that will aid their league ambitions. The sheer quality and attacking firepower within the Liverpool ranks make them a constant threat.

The Vitality Stadium: A Complete Venue Guide

Location and Capacity: The Vitality Stadium, home to AFC Bournemouth, is located in the Kings Park area of Bournemouth. It’s a compact and intimate venue, with a current capacity of around 11,000 spectators. This size contributes to its reputation for having a fantastic atmosphere, as the stands are relatively close to the pitch, creating a sense of closeness between the fans and the players. It’s one of the Premier League’s smaller grounds, but this is often seen as a positive for creating a passionate and vociferous environment.

Stands: The stadium typically consists of several stands, including the Main Stand, the East Stand, the South Stand (which often houses the away supporters), and the smaller Steve Cook Stand. Each stand offers a unique perspective of the pitch, with the Main Stand usually providing the most comprehensive facilities.

Facilities: Inside the stadium, supporters can expect a range of amenities. There are numerous concourses offering hot and cold food and beverages, including the usual match-day fare like pies, burgers, and chips, alongside alcoholic and soft drinks. Several merchandise shops are located within the stadium, allowing fans to purchase official AFC Bournemouth gear. Toilets are plentiful, though queues can form during peak times. For supporters with accessibility needs, the Vitality Stadium provides dedicated seating areas and accessible facilities, with information available from the club's ticketing office.

Atmosphere: The Vitality Stadium is renowned for its passionate atmosphere, particularly when Bournemouth are playing well or facing a high-profile opponent. The proximity of the stands to the pitch means that crowd noise is amplified, creating a vibrant and energetic backdrop to the match. Expect singing, chanting, and a strong sense of community among the home supporters.

Historical Significance: While not as historically grand as some of the Premier League’s oldest stadiums, the Vitality Stadium has witnessed Bournemouth's remarkable rise from non-league football to the Premier League. It holds significant sentimental value for the club and its supporters, representing their journey and achievements.

Getting There & Transport

By Car: The Vitality Stadium is situated off the main A3047 road. For those travelling from further afield, the M3 and M27 motorways provide primary access to the Bournemouth area. Postcode for Sat Nav: BH7 7AF. However, parking directly around the stadium is extremely limited on match days due to its residential location. It is strongly advised to pre-book parking if available or utilise park and ride services if offered by the club or local council. Expect significant traffic congestion in the hours leading up to kick-off.

By Train: Bournemouth Railway Station is approximately 2-3 miles from the Vitality Stadium. Regular services run from London Waterloo and other major cities. From the station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to the ground. Taxis are usually readily available outside the station.

By Bus: Several local bus routes serve the areas around the Vitality Stadium. Services such as the Morebus routes 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, and 50 pass close to the stadium. It’s advisable to check the Morebus website or app for the most up-to-date timetables and routes specific to match days. Buses are often a convenient option for getting to and from the stadium, especially for those staying within Bournemouth or nearby towns.

Park and Ride: If available, park and ride services are often the most stress-free way to reach the stadium on a match day. These services typically operate from designated car parks on the outskirts of the town, offering shuttle buses directly to the ground. Information on whether a park and ride will be in operation for this fixture should be sought from AFC Bournemouth’s official website closer to the date.

Where to Eat & Drink

Near the Vitality Stadium: The immediate vicinity of the Vitality Stadium has a limited number of dedicated food and drink establishments. However, you can find local pubs and cafes within a 15-20 minute walk, particularly as you head back towards the town centre or closer to Bournemouth's main shopping areas. These often offer pre-match meals and drinks for fans.

Bournemouth Town Centre: For a wider selection, the main town centre of Bournemouth offers a plethora of options. You'll find everything from traditional pubs serving classic British fare to international cuisine, trendy cafes, and chain restaurants. Areas like The Triangle and the main high street are packed with choices.

Seaside Options: Given Bournemouth's status as a seaside resort, don’t miss the opportunity to sample some fish and chips near the pier, or enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and restaurants along the promenade. These can offer a fantastic pre-match or post-match experience, combining the football with the charm of the town.

Inside the Stadium: As mentioned, the Vitality Stadium concourses offer standard match-day food and beverage options. These include hot pies, pasties, burgers, hot dogs, crisps, confectionery, and a range of alcoholic and soft drinks. While convenient, expect stadium prices.

Where to Stay

Bournemouth Town Centre: Staying in the town centre provides the most convenience, with easy access to public transport links, numerous restaurants, bars, and attractions. You’ll find a wide range of accommodation, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and more luxurious options.

Near the Stadium: Accommodation immediately surrounding the Vitality Stadium is sparse, given its location within a residential and park area. However, some smaller guesthouses or bed and breakfasts might be available within a mile or two, offering a quieter stay.

Southbourne/Christchurch: For those seeking a slightly quieter atmosphere or potentially more affordable options, the neighbouring areas of Southbourne or Christchurch are worth considering. These areas are easily accessible to Bournemouth and offer their own selection of accommodation, including hotels and self-catering apartments.

Coastal Areas: Depending on your preference, staying along the coast in areas like Boscombe or even further afield towards Poole can provide different experiences. These areas offer hotels, apartments, and holiday rentals, often with sea views.

Booking: It is highly recommended to book accommodation well in advance, especially for a Premier League fixture involving a popular club like Liverpool. Popular booking sites and direct hotel websites will offer the best availability and rates.

Ticket Information

Securing tickets for AFC Bournemouth vs Liverpool FC at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday, 24th January 2026, is essential for experiencing this high-profile Premier League clash. Given the demand associated with a fixture of this magnitude, tickets are expected to sell out rapidly. AFC Bournemouth season ticket holders and club members will typically have priority access. For general sale and resale tickets, the most reliable and secure platform to explore is StubHub. StubHub is the go-to destination for fans looking to buy and sell tickets for a vast array of sporting events, including Premier League matches. It is advisable to regularly check StubHub for ticket availability in the weeks and months leading up to the match. Be prepared for tickets to be in high demand, and ensure you act quickly when they become available on StubHub to avoid disappointment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**When is the AFC Bournemouth vs Liverpool FC match? ** The match is scheduled for Saturday, 24th January 2026.
**Where is the match being played? ** The game will take place at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth.
**How can I buy tickets? ** Tickets can be purchased through StubHub.
**What is the capacity of the Vitality Stadium? ** The stadium has a capacity of approximately 11,000 spectators.
**What are the best transport options to the stadium? ** Options include train to Bournemouth station followed by bus/taxi, local buses, or potentially a park and ride service if available. Driving is possible but parking is very limited.
**Are there food and drink options inside the stadium? ** Yes, concourses inside the Vitality Stadium offer a range of food and beverage options.
**What time is kick-off? ** The exact kick-off time will be confirmed closer to the date, but it is typically an afternoon fixture for Saturday matches.
**Is the Vitality Stadium easily accessible for disabled fans? ** Yes, the stadium provides accessible seating and facilities. It’s best to contact the club directly for specific arrangements.
**What is the atmosphere like at the Vitality Stadium? ** It is known for being intimate, loud, and passionate, especially with strong home support.
**Can I expect a high-scoring game? ** Both teams possess strong attacking capabilities, so it has the potential to be an exciting, goal-filled match.
**Where is the best place to stay if I'm travelling for the match? ** Bournemouth town centre offers the most convenience and variety of accommodation.
**Will tickets be hard to get? ** Yes, due to the popularity of both clubs, tickets are expected to be in very high demand and likely to sell out quickly.

Top Tips for Attendees

Arrive Early: Especially if travelling by car or using public transport, arriving early allows you to avoid the worst of the traffic and crowds, and soak up the pre-match atmosphere.
Check Transport: Always check the latest travel updates from National Rail, local bus operators, and road networks before you set off.
Book in Advance: Whether it's accommodation, parking, or tickets, booking as far in advance as possible is highly recommended.
Download Stadium App: Many clubs have apps that provide live scores, stadium information, and even mobile ticketing. Check if AFC Bournemouth offers one.
Respect the Rules: Familiarise yourself with the stadium's regulations regarding bags, prohibited items, and fan behaviour.
Stay Hydrated: Especially if the weather is warm, ensure you drink plenty of fluids. Water is usually available for free in refillable bottles or can be purchased.
Learn the Chants: Immerse yourself in the match-day experience by learning some of the AFC Bournemouth chants beforehand.
Explore Bournemouth: If you have time, make a day of it and explore Bournemouth's famous beaches, gardens, and town centre.

Conclusion

The Premier League clash between AFC Bournemouth and Liverpool FC on 24th January 2026 at the Vitality Stadium is set to be a highlight of the season. It represents a fantastic opportunity for fans to witness a compelling contest between two teams with distinct styles and ambitions. The intimate setting of the Vitality Stadium promises a close-up and intense experience, amplified by the passionate Bournemouth faithful. Liverpool will undoubtedly bring their star quality and drive for success, setting the stage for a classic Premier League encounter. Whether you're travelling from afar or a local supporter, ensure you plan your journey, secure your tickets via StubHub well in advance, and prepare for an unforgettable day of football on the south coast.