Old Trafford: The Theatre of Dreams and Manchester United's Historic Home
Experience the legendary home of Manchester United where football history, passion, and iconic moments come alive in the Theatre of Dreams.
Old Trafford, located on Sir Matt Busby Way in Old Trafford, Manchester, is the iconic home stadium of Manchester United Football Club. Opened in 1910 and nicknamed the 'Theatre of Dreams,' it has a seating capacity of around 74,000 and has witnessed legendary players and historic matches. The stadium blends rich history with modern facilities, offering a compelling experience for football fans and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Manchester United
- Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester, Old Trafford, Stretford, M16 0RA, GB
- +441616767770
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book stadium tours in advance to explore behind-the-scenes areas including the players’ tunnel and trophy room.
- Visit on match days to soak in the electric atmosphere but arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Check the official Manchester United website for ticket availability and event schedules.
- Explore the nearby Manchester United Museum and megastore for memorabilia and history.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to Manchester Piccadilly, then transfer to a tram on the Metrolink Altrincham line towards Old Trafford. The tram ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes with stops near the stadium. Trams run frequently, and a single ticket costs around £3-£5.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Old Trafford area from Manchester city center, including routes 250 and 255. The journey takes about 25-35 minutes depending on traffic. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4 per trip.
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Car
Driving to Old Trafford is possible but parking is limited on match days. Nearby public car parks are available with fees around £10-£20. Expect heavy traffic on event days, and consider arriving early to secure parking.
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Walking
If staying in central Manchester, walking to Old Trafford is feasible in about 45-60 minutes. The route is mostly flat and urban, suitable for most fitness levels, but not recommended for those with mobility issues.
Manchester United location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Manchester United
Origins and Architectural Vision
Old Trafford was conceived in the early 20th century as Manchester United sought a larger venue to accommodate its growing fan base. Designed by the renowned architect Archibald Leitch, construction began in 1909 near the Trafford Park industrial estate and was completed by early 1910. The stadium opened officially on 19 February 1910 with a match against Liverpool. Originally, it featured one covered stand and open terraces on the other three sides, boasting a capacity of just over 80,000, making it one of the largest and most advanced stadiums of its era.Trials, War Impact, and Rebirth
Old Trafford’s history was dramatically affected during World War II when German air raids heavily damaged the stadium. From 1941 to 1949, Manchester United played their home games at rivals Manchester City's Maine Road while the stadium underwent extensive rebuilding. The reopening in 1949 marked a new chapter, though with a reduced capacity and without full cover initially. The post-war years saw incremental improvements and expansions, restoring Old Trafford’s status as a premier football venue.Evolution Through the Decades
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Old Trafford underwent numerous renovations. The 1960s brought a sleek cantilever stand replacing the United Road side, introducing private boxes and modern facilities. The stadium adapted to changing safety regulations after the Hillsborough disaster, converting to an all-seater stadium in the 1990s. This involved demolishing the famous Stretford End terraces and adding tiers to the North, East, and West stands, gradually increasing capacity to around 68,000. Further expansions in the early 2000s added upper-tier corners, reaching the current capacity of approximately 74,000.Legacy, Culture, and Iconic Moments
Nicknamed the 'Theatre of Dreams' by club legend Bobby Charlton, Old Trafford has been home to football icons such as George Best, Eric Cantona, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson’s managerial era. It has hosted significant events beyond club football, including World Cup matches, European finals, and major concerts. The stadium embodies the passion, resilience, and global appeal of Manchester United, symbolizing football heritage and community spirit.Modern Amenities and Future Prospects
Today, Old Trafford combines historic charm with modern amenities such as advanced digital screens, Wi-Fi, hospitality suites, and enhanced seating comfort. Despite physical constraints like the railway line behind the South Stand limiting expansion, plans remain to further modernize facilities, improve accessibility, and adopt sustainable practices. These efforts ensure Old Trafford remains a leading football venue and a must-visit destination for fans worldwide.Experiencing Old Trafford
Visitors to Old Trafford can immerse themselves in the rich atmosphere of the stadium, whether on match days or through guided tours that showcase trophies, dressing rooms, and the pitch. The surrounding area on Sir Matt Busby Way is steeped in football culture, making it a pilgrimage site for enthusiasts eager to connect with the legacy of one of football’s greatest clubs.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
0.2 km
Old Trafford, the legendary Theatre of Dreams, is Manchester United’s iconic home since 1910, blending rich football history with modern innovation.
Sky Hook Statue 1
0.5 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
Salford Lads Club
1.9 km
A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.
LS Lowry birthplace
1.9 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
St Clement's Parish Church
2.5 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece with five centuries of spiritual heritage in Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
2.7 km
Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
Bahnhof Manchester
2.7 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall
2.8 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Roman Gardens
2.8 km
Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.
Castlefield historical zone
2.8 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
2.8 km
Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Stretford Weir
2.8 km
Historic riverside weir on the Mersey offering scenic walks, flood management insight, and a peaceful nature escape near Manchester.
Friedrich Engels Statue
3.1 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Hotspur House
3.3 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Free Trade Hall
3.4 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old Trafford
0.0 km
Explore Old Trafford, the iconic 'Theatre of Dreams' and largest football club stadium in the UK, home to Manchester United's legendary legacy.
Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour
0.1 km
Step inside Old Trafford to explore Manchester United’s legendary museum and stadium in an immersive football journey.
Gnome Island
0.5 km
Discover the enchanting miniature world of Gnome Island, a playful gnome colony perched on a historic concrete island in Salford Quays.
Salford Riviera
0.8 km
Salford Riviera: Where historic docks meet vibrant culture and scenic waterfront living in the heart of Salford Quays.
Salford Quays Community Gardens
0.8 km
A peaceful community-driven garden oasis offering seasonal beauty and sustainable urban gardening in the heart of Salford Quays.
Salford Watersports Centre
0.9 km
Urban watersports hub offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and year-round open water swimming on Salford Quays.
Pier Eight Restaurant
0.9 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Modern British cuisine at Pier Eight Restaurant, set against the stunning backdrop of The Quays in Manchester.
IWM North
0.9 km
Discover powerful stories of war and peace in Manchester’s iconic deconstructivist museum overlooking the Ship Canal.
The Quays
0.9 km
A regenerated waterfront of museums, media studios, shopping and waterside dining that fuses dockland history with contemporary city life.
The Lowry
0.9 km
A dynamic cultural landmark in Salford Quays, The Lowry offers world-class theatre, galleries, and vibrant arts experiences on Manchester’s waterfront.
The Quays Practice
0.9 km
A trusted community medical practice offering comprehensive healthcare services in Salford’s vibrant Lowry complex.
Quayside MediaCityUK
0.9 km
Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.
Media City Footbridge
1.1 km
An elegant cable-stayed swing bridge linking MediaCityUK with cultural landmarks across the Manchester Ship Canal.
Ordsall Hall
1.1 km
Discover Ordsall Hall, a stunning Tudor manor in Salford where history, architecture, and culture come alive in a captivating urban oasis.
BBC Dock House
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant BBC Dock House at Salford Quays, where cutting-edge broadcasting meets stunning waterfront views and cultural energy.
Essential places to dine
Turtle Bay Salford Quays
0.8 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
Bella Italia - Salford Quays
0.9 km
Casual Italian dining with diverse menu options in Manchester’s vibrant Salford Quays waterfront setting.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
0.9 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Unagi
0.9 km
Experience the North West’s largest sushi bar with vibrant pan-Asian street food, crafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere at MediaCityUK’s Unagi.
Lime
0.9 km
Savor grilled delights and Asian fusion by Salford Quays' waterfront, where relaxed lunches flow into lively nights in a spacious, vibrant venue.
Quay House Beefeater
0.9 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly pub offering scenic waterside dining with a cosy, modern atmosphere in Salford Quays.
Nando's Salford Quays
0.9 km
Savor flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken in a lively, accessible setting at Nando's Salford Quays, where Portuguese and South African flavors meet Manchester’s vibrant quayside.
The Alchemist MediaCity UK
1.0 km
Experience innovative cocktails and global cuisine in a striking futuristic setting overlooking Salford’s historic quays at MediaCity UK.
The Botanist Media City
1.1 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
The Banyan Tree
2.3 km
Bohemian bistro in Castlefield serving fusion bites, brunch, cocktails, and live events amid murals and canal vibes—Manchester's go-to for eclectic dining.
Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester
2.7 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
Dukes 92
2.7 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Dom's Italia
2.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Manchester at Dom's Italia, where tradition meets vibrant city dining.
Italiana Fifty Five Liverpool Road
3.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.
Podium
3.0 km
Sophisticated Modern British dining with inventive flavors and sleek modernist style in Manchester’s iconic Hilton Deansgate.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Body Shop
0.8 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
Flock and Gaggle
0.9 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artistry in MediaCity UK's creative gem, where independent makers shine amid Salford's quayside buzz.
SPAR Salford Quays
0.9 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
M&S Outlet
0.9 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Next Outlet
0.9 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
The Sweet Emporium
0.9 km
Discover UK's vastest sweet collection at The Sweet Emporium in MediaCityUK—a family-run paradise of nostalgic candies, retro treats, and global confections that sparks joy for every sweet tooth.
The Works
0.9 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
INFINITE RUNNING
2.8 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
ItsFetch
2.8 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
2.8 km
Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
2.8 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Branded Like A Boss
2.8 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
Salford Shopping Centre
2.8 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
2.9 km
Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
Catch my Thrift
3.1 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
11 Central
0.8 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Matchstick Man
0.9 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
Craftbrew
0.9 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
1.1 km
Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.
The Dockyard
1.2 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
1.3 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
Bar Eight
2.6 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
The Wharf
2.6 km
Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
2.7 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
Atlas Bar
2.9 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
cask
2.9 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
Lock 91
3.0 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
The Deansgate
3.0 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Cloud 23
3.0 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
Three Little Words
3.2 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ark Manchester
3.0 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
3.0 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Royal Vida Night Club
3.1 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Bliss Club Manchester
3.2 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
History Nightclub
3.2 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
42's
3.3 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Venue Nightclub
3.4 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Viva Manchester
3.4 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Kable
3.5 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Club Liv Manchester
3.5 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
3.8 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
Satans Hollow
3.8 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Club Tropicana
3.9 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Bijou Club
3.9 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
The Cockatoo Club
4.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
