Riverside Ground, Chester-le-Street

The Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street is the home of Durham County Cricket Club and the most northerly Test match venue in the world. Set against the spectacular backdrop of the 14th-century Lumley Castle, it offers one of the most picturesque settings in English cricket and has established itself as a firm favourite among players and supporters since opening in 1995. Durham's elevation to first-class status in 1991 was granted on the condition that the county build a purpose-built ground, and work on the Riverside site began in 1990. The venue hosted its first competitive match on 18 May 1995 when Durham took on Warwickshire. What was once open farmland on the banks of the River Wear was transformed into a modern cricket ground that would go on to stage World Cup matches in 1999 and earn Test match status in 2003. The ground's first Test saw England face Zimbabwe in June 2003, marking the beginning of a proud international history. Since then, the Riverside has hosted Tests against Bangladesh, the West Indies, Australia, and Sri Lanka. Perhaps the most memorable was the 2013 Ashes Test, when England's pace attack exploited helpful conditions to bowl Australia out cheaply and strengthen their grip on the series. Paul Collingwood's century against the West Indies in 2007, scored on his home ground, remains a cherished moment for Durham supporters. The venue also hosted three matches during the 2019 Cricket World Cup. Conditions at the Riverside tend to reward seam and swing bowling. The green-tinged pitches and the northern climate combine to offer pace bowlers genuine assistance, particularly under overcast skies. Batsmen who survive the new ball, however, often find the surface settles and rewards patience. The outfield is generally quick and true. With a capacity of around 17,000 for international matches — boosted by temporary stands — the Riverside creates an intimate yet lively atmosphere. The permanent seating wraps around the ground with excellent sightlines, while Lumley Castle perched on the hill behind provides a dramatic and uniquely English backdrop that visiting players rarely forget. Chester-le-Street is well connected by rail and road, sitting just south of Newcastle and north of Durham city. The ground is a short walk from Chester-le-Street railway station, making it accessible for day-trippers from across the North East.