Home Turf: Tightness, tradition and honesty at Burnley FC

Words: Nathan Rogers

Images: Nathan Rogers

I found myself back home at Turf Moor for a Saturday 12 o’clock kickoff—a Lancashire Derby, with Preston North End the visitors.

It’s not the fiercest of rivalries, but it’s one that has often delivered some memorable matches.

We’ve seen 4-3 thrillers, last-minute winners, and gritty 0-0 stalemates. This one, was that latter and a goalless draw, which fizzled out after an initial spark.

But let’s leave that where it belongs.

Turf Moor matches are something special—sacred, even. There’s an atmosphere around Burnley on matchdays that’s hard to find anywhere else.

It feels like the entire town comes to a halt. Shops empty, pubs fill to the brim, and more than 30% of the town’s population descends on the famous old ground.

Situated right on the edge of the town centre, Turf Moor is just a short walk away, nestled under the watchful gaze of the rolling Lancashire hills.

Those lucky enough to peer over the small Bob Lord Stand are treated to one of the most breathtaking views in English football. Visitors often comment on it, but I’ll leave the judgement to others.

©Nathan Rogers/ Terrace Edition. Burnley FC vs Preston North End.

Turf Moor itself is the epitome of a traditional English football ground. Two of the stands may have been rebuilt in the mid-90s, but the other two have stood since the 1960s, holding onto a charm that’s hard to replicate.

I’m not a fan of the term ‘old school,’ but if there’s a ground that fits the description, it’s this one. It’s tight, traditional, and honest.

It’s not trying to be fancy or modern, and it certainly doesn’t go out of its way to offer comfort. Turf Moor serves one purpose: to be a difficult place for away teams to visit.

When the crowd is in full voice, the atmosphere can be intimidating—a real test for opposing players.

As for my photography, I like to capture what usually goes unnoticed. I see hundreds of photos of Turf Moor every week, and they’re often the same. But for such a compact ground, it offers so many unique angles and hidden details.

People pass by these elements all the time, yet they’re part of what makes Turf Moor iconic

I plan to push my photography even further this season, especially with more away days. I want to capture not just the ground, but the fans—the heart and soul of the club.

Burnley’s fanbase is like a family, vibrant and passionate, and documenting that over the years to come is something I’m excited about.