The Brit Oval (as it is currently known) is one of England's leading international cricket grounds and the home of Surrey County Cricket Club.
The land is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall and the cricket ground was first set up in 1845. It is today one of the most advanced grounds in the country, the OCS stand (completed in 2005) being one of the finest around.
The Oval is known for its large boundaries, the nearby gasworks, and the flat 'shirtfront' wicket. Along with Old Trafford, the Brit Oval traditionally has the best pace and bounce in England, but generally takes turn on days four and five: see for example Phil Tufnell's heroic exploits in the 1997 Ashes.
The Brit Oval traditionally holds the last Test of the English summer and whilst tickets to Tests and One Day Internationals can be very expensive (around £40-50) a day at a county match is a much quieter and cheaper affair. With a bit of sun and a picnic there are few more enjoyable days out, even for non-cricket lovers.