Landmark

The Kia Oval

4 · 445 reviews
The Kia OvalMark Percy · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.0
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The Kia Oval, often simply called The Oval, is one of the world's most famous cricket grounds and a cherished London landmark. Located in Kennington, it has been the home of Surrey County Cricket Club since 1845 and regularly hosts Test matches, one-day internationals, and major tournaments. Visitors can take guided tours of the pavilion, dressing rooms, and the famous gasometer – a striking industrial relic that looms over the ground. The on-site museum displays historic cricketing memorabilia, including Ashes urns and bats from legendary players. On match days, the atmosphere is electric, with passionate crowds filling the stands. The ground also offers fine dining at the OCS Stand and a lively bar scene. Beyond cricket, The Oval has hosted football FA Cup finals and even rugby league matches. Its central location makes it easy to combine with a visit to the nearby Imperial War Museum or a stroll along the South Bank.

Don't miss

  • Guided tour of the historic pavilion and players' dressing rooms
  • View the iconic gasometer, a listed structure adjacent to the ground
  • Explore the museum with Ashes memorabilia and Surrey County Cricket Club archives
  • Attend a Test match or T20 game for an authentic sporting atmosphere
  • Dine at the OCS Stand restaurant overlooking the pitch

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The Kia Oval

You can visit on your own (match tickets vary by event – book online in advance. ground tours are available on non-match days; check the official site for schedules and prices). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.

Good for

BusinessCouplesSolo travelFamilyFriends getaway

How travelers rate it

5 star
226
4 star
140
3 star
41
2 star
15
1 star
23

Know before you go

  • Book tours in advance as they can sell out, especially during summer.
  • Oval tube station is step-free from street to platform; check for lift outages.
  • On match days, food and drink are available inside; picnics are not allowed in stands.
  • Bag searches are conducted on match days; avoid large bags to speed entry.

A bit of history

Opened in 1845, The Oval is the oldest Test cricket ground in England, hosting the first Test match on home soil in 1880. It also staged the first FA Cup final in 1872 and was used as a prisoner-of-war camp during World War I.

Common questions

Can I visit The Oval when there's no match?

Yes, ground tours are offered on most non-match days. Check the official website for tour availability.

Is there parking at The Oval?

No public parking on site. Limited street parking is available but restricted on match days. Use public transport.

Are cameras allowed inside?

Yes, personal cameras are permitted. Professional photography requires prior permission.

Can I bring children?

Absolutely. Children are welcome; family zones are available on match days. Tours are suitable for all ages.

What is the dress code?

Casual attire is fine for tours and most matches. Some hospitality areas may require smart casual.

How do I get to The Oval from central London?

Take the Northern line to Oval station, then a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, buses from Waterloo or Victoria.

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