If you’ve ever stood in Croke Park squinting at your ticket, trying to figure out whether section 315 is closer to the pitch or the bar, you’re not alone. The stadium’s multi-level layout and the way rows jump from single letters to double letters can catch even seasoned matchgoers off guard.

4 related posts

Ground Level Sections: 301 to 336 · Row Range: A (pitch side) to Z · Official Map Source: Croke Park Official (stadium management) · Interactive Viewer: MapaPlan (detailed seating charts)

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
  • Exact coverage per individual seat varies by stand configuration
  • Concert layouts may differ slightly from match-day plans
  • Current premium pricing beyond the sold-out status
3Timeline signal
  • Davin Stand premium sold out: Feb 2014 (MayoClub51 fan guide)
  • Season ticket holders restaurant announced behind 404–407: Aug 2015 (MayoClub51 fan guide)
  • Premium seats confirmed sold out: current status per official site (MayoClub51 fan guide)
4What’s next
  • Use the official interactive map to verify your specific section and row
  • Cross-reference with third-party charts for seat view photos
  • Check availability in upper Level 7 if premium and lower levels are sold out

The table below summarizes the key structural details that define how Croke Park organizes its 80,896 seats across multiple tiers and stand configurations.

Attribute Details
Capacity 80,896 seats (MapaPlan comprehensive seating charts)
Levels Multiple tiers including ground Level 3, Level 5 premium, Level 6 corporate, Level 7 upper
Ground Level Sections 301–336
Premium Sections 501–536
Upper Sections 701–718
Wheelchair Sections 402–424 (Cusack and Davin Stands)
Rows A to Z (pitch side first), then AA to WW in lower sections
Average Seats per Row 27
Corporate Suites 89 suites on Level 6, accommodating 12–33 people each

How are rows numbered in Croke Park?

Croke Park uses a two-phase row lettering system that reflects the stadium’s geometry rather than simple alphabetical order. Rows begin at the pitch side with the letter A and progress toward the back of each section, reaching Z before switching to double letters.

Ground level row starts

  • Row A: The front row closest to the pitch or playing surface. This is the starting point for numbering in all ground-level sections.
  • Row progression: Rows continue through the alphabet to Z, then switch to double-letter combinations.
  • Double letters AA to WW: After Z, rows continue as AA, BB, CC, and so on through WW. These double-letter rows mark the back half of each lower section.

Upper level row progression

  • Level 7 upper sections: Rows run A to Z only, without double letters. These sections are notably higher and steeper than lower tiers.
  • Level 5 premium: Premium sections typically follow a similar row structure but with enhanced amenities and positioning.
The catch

Rows LL begin at the top of entrance steps in lower sections. If you enter through the main concourse, you’re likely walking into the middle of the row lettering system rather than starting at A.

How do seat numbers work in Croke Park?

Understanding Croke Park’s seat numbering convention helps you locate your exact position before you arrive. The system follows standard stadium practice with some Ireland-specific details.

Seat numbering direction

  • Seat 1 convention: Seat 1 in any section sits on the aisle next to the previous section number. This means seat numbering increases as you move away from that aisle, toward the center of the section (Barry’s Tickets stadium seating guide).
  • Standard progression: Seats are numbered left to right when viewed from below, following the section’s orientation.

Section and block identifiers

  • Section numbers: Ground level sections are numbered 301 through 336. Premium sections run 501–536, and upper sections span 701–718.
  • Stand names: Croke Park has four main stands: Hogan Stand, Cusack Stand, Davin Stand, and Nally Terrace.
  • Average row width: Most rows contain approximately 27 seats, though some rows narrow to as few as 2 seats in sections with unusual geometry.
What to watch

The lowest row count is 2 seats in Row KK Section 331, while the highest reaches 33 seats in Row 1 Section 635. Section geometry varies significantly across the stadium’s curved design.

What are the row and seat numbers?

A practical breakdown by tier helps you understand what to expect when you locate your specific section and row on match day.

Lower tier details

  • Level 3 (ground level): Sections 301–336 form the main lower tier. Rows A through Z occupy the front half nearest the pitch, with AA through WW filling the back portion.
  • Covered rows: From approximately row EE back is covered in Cusack and Davin Lower Stands (Irlandando.it match and concert plans). Double-letter rows AA to WW are all under cover.
  • Season ticket sections: Season tickets are typically allocated in sections 304, 305, 306, and 307, varying by the teams playing.

Upper tier details

  • Level 7: Upper sections 701–718 have rows A to Z only. These seats are described by fans as “very high and very steep” (MayoClub51 fan guide).
  • Vertigo warning: For anyone with vertigo or fear of heights, Level 7 sections are not recommended as they are described as “very high and very steep.”

The implication for match-goers is that upper tier seats sacrifice proximity and comfort for accessibility and price, so weigh your priorities before purchasing.

Which seats are covered in Croke Park?

Weather protection varies significantly across Croke Park’s levels and stands. Knowing which sections offer cover can make a substantial difference to your match-day experience in Ireland’s variable climate.

Covered sections by stand

  • Cusack Stand and Davin Stand: Rows EE and back are covered, providing shelter from rain. Double-letter rows AA through WW are entirely under cover in these stands.
  • Hogan Stand: Coverage patterns differ from Cusack and Davin. The Ard Chomhairle Section occupies the back of Hogan Stand Lower between sections 430–433.
  • Level 5 Premium: Premium sections generally offer covered seating with enhanced facilities, though all premium seats are currently sold out.

Weather protection overview

  • Full cover zones: Double-letter rows (AA–WW) in lower sections provide the most reliable weather protection.
  • Partial cover zones: Rows EE through DD in Cusack and Davin stands mark the transition from uncovered to covered seating.
  • Upper Level 7: These sections are not covered, adding to the exposure factor alongside their significant height.

What this means for your planning: prioritize double-letter rows in Cusack or Davin stands if rain is likely, and budget extra layers if you’re in Level 7.

What are the best seats in Croke Park?

“Best” depends on what you value most: proximity to the action, sightlines, cover from weather, or atmosphere. Here’s how to match your priorities to specific sections.

Pitch-side preferences

  • Row A: The closest seats to the pitch. If you want to feel the intensity of play and potentially catch a stray ball or clash of bodies, front-row pitch-side offers unmatched proximity.
  • Sections 304–307: These are popular season ticket areas, positioned centrally with good sightlines to both goal ends.

Central view seats

  • Mid-tier sections: Rows in the middle of lower sections (around rows K through S) often provide the best balance of proximity, angle, and comfort.
  • Avoid far corners: Corner sections can result in a skewed viewing angle toward the opposite end of the field.
  • Premium Level 5: If available, these sections offer premium positioning with additional amenities, though they are sold out.
The upshot

For GAA matches, central sections around the halfway line give you the full tactical picture. Corner sections save you steps getting to the bar but sacrifice viewing angles.

Finding your seat: step-by-step guide

Follow these steps to locate your seat efficiently on match day, reducing the time spent navigating unfamiliar sections.

  1. Identify your level: Check whether your ticket says LOWER (Level 3, sections 301–336), PREMIUM (Level 5, sections 501–536), or UPPER (Level 7, sections 701–718).
  2. Locate your section: Use the stadium map to find your section number. The official Croke Park interactive stadium map shows facilities and seating by level.
  3. Find your row: Rows A–Z are front to middle, AA–WW are in the back covered area. Remember that seat 1 is always on the aisle nearest the previous section number.
  4. Enter at the correct gate: Hogan, Cusack, and Davin stands have dedicated entry points. Nally Terrace has its own access arrangements.
  5. Check for accessibility needs: Wheelchair-friendly viewing is available on Level 4 of Cusack and Davin Stands with lifts, escalators, stairs, and ramps. Wheelchair sections are 402–424.

Upsides

  • Ground level sections 301–336 cover the widest range of price points
  • Double-letter rows AA–WW are fully covered from rain
  • Central sections offer excellent sightlines to the full pitch
  • Official interactive maps available from Croke Park Official

Downsides

  • Premium Level 5 seats are sold out with no current availability
  • Level 7 upper sections are steep and not recommended for those with vertigo
  • Corner sections have limited viewing angles
  • Exact coverage per individual seat varies by stand

Confirmed facts versus rumors

Bottom line: Croke Park’s seat numbering follows a logical system once you understand the two-phase row lettering. Match-goers who master the A–Z then AA–WW pattern can navigate directly to their covered row without trial and error. The official interactive map is the most reliable tool for verifying your exact position before arrival.

The following claims have been verified against multiple sources or official stadium documentation.

Confirmed facts

  • Ground level sections range from 301 to 336 (MayoClub51 fan guide)
  • Rows start pitch side from A and progress to Z, then AA to WW (MayoClub51 fan guide)
  • Wheelchair seating is available in sections 402–424 (Irlandando.it match and concert plans)
  • Covered rows in Cusack and Davin stands begin at approximately row EE (Irlandando.it match and concert plans)
  • All Croke Park Premium seats are currently sold out (Croke Park Official facilities page)
  • Official interactive stadium map shows facilities and seating by level (Croke Park Official)

What’s still unclear

  • Exact coverage mapping for individual seats varies by stand configuration
  • Whether concert layouts differ significantly from match-day plans beyond stage positioning
  • Current premium pricing structures for any future releases

What people say

For anyone that suffers from vertigo or with any fear of heights, we would not recommend these seats as these sections are very high and very steep!

— MayoClub51 (fan site author)

All Croke Park Premium seats are currently sold out, we will re-open enquiries when seats become available again.

— Croke Park Official (stadium management)

Related reading: The Telegraph Building Belfast – Events, Tickets, Capacity Guide · Country Music Dancing Dates – Upcoming Events and Venues Guide

Additional sources

tickpick.com, crokepark.ie

Planning your visit to Cusack or Davin stands? The Premier Inn near Croke Park offers convenient stays just minutes from ground level entrances.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I find my seat number on Croke Park tickets?

Your ticket displays the section number, row letter, and seat number. Section numbers 301–336 are ground level, 501–536 are premium, and 701–718 are upper level. Seat 1 in any section is on the aisle next to the previous section number.

What does row A mean in Croke Park seating?

Row A is the front row closest to the pitch or playing surface. Rows progress alphabetically through Z, then switch to double letters AA through WW in lower sections.

Where can I view the Croke Park seating plan PDF?

The official Croke Park stadium map page provides interactive facilities views. Third-party sources like Irlandando.it offer downloadable PDF plans for match day and concerts.

Are there covered seats in Croke Park for rain?

Yes. In Cusack and Davin stands, rows EE and back are covered. Double-letter rows AA through WW in lower sections are entirely under cover. Level 7 upper sections are not covered.

What are the worst seats in Croke Park?

Level 7 upper sections (701–718) are considered the least desirable for those with vertigo or fear of heights due to their height and steepness. Far corner sections can also offer compromised viewing angles toward the opposite end of the pitch.

How does Croke Park seating differ for concerts?

Seating charts for match day and concerts show similar covered row positions and wheelchair sections, according to Irlandando.it plans. The main difference is typically stage placement, which may block some sections.

Can I see Croke Park seats on Ticketmaster?

Ticketmaster typically integrates Croke Park’s seating chart when tickets go on sale. For seat view photos and user reviews, MapaPlan and SeatPick offer detailed interactive charts.

For match-goers holding tickets to Croke Park, the seat numbering system rewards a bit of upfront preparation. Know your section, understand your row’s position relative to cover, and you’ll spend less time navigating and more time watching the game. Those with accessibility needs should aim for sections 402–424 in Cusack or Davin stands, where dedicated wheelchair platforms and assisted viewing areas await.