Although it is fair to say the Leichhardt Oval needs a bit of a makeover, it is still a much-loved venue to watch sports.
For almost 90 years it has been a heartland for rugby league. Famously hosting the ‘greatest ever NRL grand final’ in 1989 when the Balmain Tigers came from behind to beat the Canberra Raiders.
An indelible part of Sydney’s sporting and cultural landscape, it holds a special place in the hearts of everyone who has played and watched a game there.
But what do you know about this iconic stadium?
As part of our review of professional sports stadiums in Australia, here is some more information about it.
About the Leichhardt Oval
The Leichhardt Oval is a multi-purpose stadium located in the inner-western suburbs of Sydney. It has a capacity of approximately 20,000 spectators and has a rich history that dates back to 1934.
Located in an area known for its strong rugby league culture and passionate fans, the stadium is named after Ludwig Leichhardt. A German naturalist and explorer, who famously explored much of central and northern Australia.
Regarded as an intimate, if not a slightly tired venue, the stadium does need its current facilities updated to meet modern standards.
With that in mind, Inner West Council has committed to investing $960,000 towards the upgrading of the playing surface and the amenities for both men and women.
What Sports Are Played at the Leichhardt Oval?
The Leichhardt Oval is primarily used for rugby league and soccer.
The oval is the home ground of the Wests Tigers in the National Rugby League (NRL) competition who play 4 games here every year. Their other home games are played at Campbelltown and Western Sydney Stadium.
It is particularly popular among the club’s fans due to its intimate size and unique atmosphere. Additionally, the oval has also been used as a training ground for other NRL clubs, as well.
The ground is actually one of the most played-on NRL venues in Australia, hosting over 800 professional games since Balmain first took to the field against Western Suburbs in Round 1 of the 1934 NSWRFL season.
As well as NRL, the ground also hosted NSW v Qld ‘State of Residence’ games rules, the precursor to the current State of Origin.
In addition to the rugby league games, the ground has hosted pre-season friendly games for the A-League soccer club, Sydney FC. It also hosts friendly games for the Australian national youth teams and FFA Cup games.
Other sports that have been played at the ground over the years include cricket and rugby union. The latter of which featured the NSW Waratahs.
Other Events
The Leichhardt Oval has always been a sports stadium, so unlike other sports venues in Sydney it has not held any music concerts of note.
Facilities
Unlike some of the other major stadiums in Sydney, the Leichhardt Oval is a traditional suburban rugby league ground that has slightly antiquated facilities.
That said, it is purported to be undergoing significant renovations and upgrades in the not-too-distant future, which will enhance the overall facilities for players and spectators alike.
Currently, the stadium capacity is 20,000, with most home games being pretty much sold out. Featured within the ground is a modern grandstand that has seating for up to 4,000 people. It also has multiple corporate boxes and a large scoreboard. The playing surface, meanwhile, is well-maintained and offers excellent sight lines for spectators.
As well as several food and beverage outlets, there are also numerous merchandise stalls that sell team apparel and other souvenirs. Additionally, the stadium has a range of media and broadcast facilities, as well as VIP and corporate hospitality areas.
How to get to the stadium
The Leichhardt Oval is easily accessible by public transport and cars.
If you are travelling by public transport, you can take a train to either Petersham Station or Lewisham Station and then take a 10-15 minute walk to the stadium. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the city or surrounding suburbs to the Leichhardt Oval bus stop. You will know where this is because all the sports fans will get off there.
If you are driving, there is limited parking available around the stadium, so it is recommended that you arrive early to secure a spot. The Leichhardt Oval is located just off the City West Link, so it is easily accessible from most parts of Sydney.
Additionally, for fans who prefer a more sustainable mode of transportation, the stadium is also located along several bike paths, making it a great option for cycling enthusiasts.
You can also catch an Uber or taxi as well, should you prefer not to drive or take public transport.
Food in ground
The Leichhardt Oval provides guests with several food options, most of which qualify as traditional sports stadium fare.
This includes the likes of burgers, pies, sausage rolls, hot dogs and hot chips, which you can buy at various concession stands and food stalls.
Within the ground, there are also a number of food trucks that sell other items like nachos and pizzas, while there are also several private suites. These allow corporate clients to enjoy a range of gourmet food and drink menus while watching the game.
You can also, of course, bring your own food into the stadium. However, it is important to note that some items may not be allowed, so it’s best to check the event guidelines beforehand.
Accommodation near the ground
If you need somewhere to stay near the ground there are plenty of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences.
An option many sports lovers take up is the Adara Hotels Apartments in nearby Camperdown. These stylish and contemporary apartments provide comfortable and spacious accommodations not too far from the stadium. They come with fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, as well as a range of on-site amenities that include a gym, rooftop terrace, and BBQ facilities.
Another solid option is the Parkview Hotel, which is located in the neighbouring suburb of Newtown. Providing affordable accommodation in an easy-to-get-to location, the hotel has a range of room types available, as well as an on-site bar and restaurant.
For those seeking more upscale accommodation, the Pier One Sydney Harbour Hotel in nearby Walsh Bay is a luxurious option with stunning harbour views. It also has a top-notch restaurant, bar and very good fitness centre.
Alternative nearby options include the Cambridge Lodge Guest House in Glebe, which offers affordable and comfortable rooms, and the Mercure Sydney Hotel in Ultimo. The latter of which presents modern, light and spacious rooms with very good on-site dining options.
Good pubs to visit
If you want to visit the pub before or after a game, there are several good places you can head to in the surrounding area for a drink and a bite to eat.
One of the most popular pubs near the Leichhardt Oval is the Leichhardt Hotel. A historic pub that has been a fixture in the area for over 100 years, it boasts a lively atmosphere, great food, and a terrific selection of beers on tap. It is also just a short walk from the oval.
Another excellent option is the Royal Hotel in Balmain, which is just a short drive or bus ride from the
stadium. Serving up a cosy and relaxed atmosphere, it also presents a good selection of beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as a delicious menu featuring pub classics and modern Australian cuisine. There are also plenty of big screen TVs that show a variety of sports dotted around its various rooms.
A further option that has plenty of big-screen TVs showing live sporting events is the Balmain Leagues Club. Providing a more traditional sports bar experience, it is a popular spot for rugby league fans in particular, boasting several bars and dining options.
Quick Stats
Address: Mary St, Leichhardt, New South Wales 2040
Capacity: 20,000
Opened: 1934
Field size: Not officially recorded
Record attendance: 23,000 – (South Sydney vs Cronulla-Sutherland, 12 August 1981)