Bridge Road

Bridge Road in Impington stands just east of Cambridge beside the small village’s main road. It is a football ground owned by a local trust and rented free by Histon Football Club. The stadium has grown from a modest ground with only 350 covered seats in the 19th century to a modern venue holding 4,300 spectators. Two main grandstands flank the pitch at the entrance, while smaller covered stands and terraces run along the far sides. Behind one goal is the ‘Bridge Road’ terrace, used by away fans when segregation is needed. The opposite end is called the Rec End and is mainly for home supporters. Histon’s rise from the Cambridgeshire League to Conference National was matched by improvements at Bridge Road. In 2007 the Cambridgeshire FA chose the ground for its new headquarters, bringing extra facilities. A 500-seat stand was added and the stadium was judged ready for Football League Two in 2008. Further work finished in April 2008 added 800 seats and covered terracing, bringing the seated total to over 1,700. The record attendance of 4,103 came for an FA Cup tie against Leeds United in November 2008. Visitors find two grandstands at the entrance, a smaller stand opposite and covered terraces behind each goal. The Steve Fallon Stand on one side now bears the name of the man who guided the club to the Conference National. The pitch is surrounded by low earth banks that once grew roses, recalled in the club’s crest. Away fans enter through the Bridge Road terrace, while home supporters fill the Rec End when segregation is in force. The ground’s modest scale and recent upgrades make it a clear example of how a village club can build a stadium to national standards.