Great British Tailgate Party: What Is GBTP?

What is GBTP?

Back in February 2007 the NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell, made the announcement that The National Football League would be sending the Miami Dolphins and the New York Giants to play a regular season game at the newly rebuilt Wembley Stadium in London England for the 2007 / 2008 season.

The news was greeted with joy by all American Football fans in Britain and many more from all over Europe. However, because of the regulations in Britain and the fact that Wembley has very few car parking spaces, it was apparent that the traditional tailgate party was not going to be possible.

Within a few days of the announcement, the management committee of the Colchester Gladiators had discussed the possibility of holding a large party in an attempt to ensure that fans would have somewhere to meet and chat prior to attending the big game. After some initial research it was very soon realised the best place that could accommodate the numbers they were planning on was the Green Man Hotel, on Dagmar Avenue. A meeting was arranged with the management and a plan was put in place.

What resulted was to become known as the “fan’s favourite” place to meet up and talk football - the Great British Tailgate Party (GBTP).

By the time the Saints and the Chargers arrived in London during 2008, the news of the party had spread across the pond and saw a welcome influx of American fans joining the festivities on the Saturday and the Sunday.

2009 saw the Patriots and Buccaneers visit London with football fans enjoying an even bigger GBTP at the Green Man and record numbers of fans visited the event.

For 2010 the event continued with an excellent Saturday Halloween themed party at GBTP. For the main event the weather wasn't kind to GBTP on the Sunday, but it didn't dampen the fans spirits, as the festivities continued for the 4th straight year before and after the 49ers Vs Broncos game.

GBTP for the 2011 game saw the ever popular animated Snail Racing returning for the Saturday night and GBTP 5 on the Sunday continued to be as popular as ever with fans preparing for the Bears Vs Buccaneers game.

As more games are announced, the continuing efforts of the Colchester Gladiators ensure that fans will have somewhere to come and make the day extra special.

Thank you for your continued support.

Questions?

Check out our Common Questions / 'FAQ' page here.

Event Address: GBTP, The Green Man Hotel, Dagmar Avenue, Wembley, Middlesex, HA9 8DF.