Gloucester supporters are set to make the short trip to Cardiff next spring after it was confirmed Bristol Bears will host the West Country derby at the Principality Stadium on Saturday 17 April 2027 with a 3.05pm kick‑off.
What the fixture means for fans
The fixture is the headline match in the third edition of the Bears' Big Day Out, an event that has attracted around 100,000 fans across its first two stagings. For Gloucester fans the game presents a major away day — a single high‑profile venue bringing together two of English rugby’s traditional rivals on a stage normally reserved for internationals and major finals.
- Date: Saturday 17 April 2027
- Kick‑off: 3.05pm
- Venue: Principality Stadium, Cardiff
- Tickets: priority sale from 18 August (see below)
Players and atmosphere
The event promises a strong cast of names. The Bears will bring high‑profile players, while Gloucester can expect to face international talent including Wales star Louis Rees‑Zammit and to match him against Gloucester and Wales internationals such as Jac Morgan and Dewi Lake. The combination of big names and a major stadium will make this one of the season’s standout derby occasions.
"Tickets for Big Day Out 2027 will go on priority sale from Tuesday, August 18th"
Ticketing and season ticket implications
Bristol Bears have confirmed that tickets will go on priority sale from Tuesday 18 August. Season ticket holders at Ashton Gate will again be able to claim their place, with a specific concession for those in premium areas. Following supporter consultation, Season Ticket holders in the Lansdown Stand and Dolman Stand Centre will be able to claim seats in Premium areas at the Principality Stadium, ensuring a like‑for‑like seating experience for those who have purchased premium packages.
Supporters who have not yet bought a 2026/27 Bristol Bears season ticket will still be able to purchase one and guarantee access to Big Day Out as part of the package. Full pricing, seating maps and matchday entertainment details will be released ahead of the August sales launch.
Practical considerations for Gloucester supporters
Local fans should note the likely demand: previous editions have drawn large crowds and the Principality is a major stadium with constrained allocations when clubs share the bill. Travel, coach bookings and accommodation will be in heavier demand than for a regular Premiership away fixture. Supporters groups, travel operators and the club’s supporter services will be the best sources for allocations and coach travel details once ticketing opens.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fixture | Gloucester vs Bristol Bears |
| Date | Saturday 17 April 2027 |
| Kick‑off | 3.05pm |
| Venue | Principality Stadium, Cardiff |
| Priority tickets | From 18 August |
For many Gloucester supporters this will be an opportunity to see their side on one of rugby’s biggest stages. Keep an eye on club communications and supporter channels for details of allocation and coach travel once Bristol Bears publish the full ticketing arrangements.
