Old Trafford: The Theatre of Dreams and Home of Manchester United
Experience the legendary 'Theatre of Dreams,' home to Manchester United since 1910, where football history and passion come alive.
Old Trafford, located on Sir Matt Busby Way in Manchester, is the iconic home stadium of Manchester United Football Club since 1910. Known as the 'Theatre of Dreams,' it boasts a seating capacity of around 74,000 and has witnessed historic football moments, legendary players, and continuous evolution through renovations and technological upgrades. The stadium blends rich heritage with modern amenities, making it a must-visit landmark for football fans worldwide.
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 museum.
- Visit on match days to soak in the electrifying atmosphere, but arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Check the official Manchester United website for ticket availability and special events.
- Explore the surrounding area on Sir Matt Busby Way for memorabilia shops and fan zones.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Metrolink tram to Old Trafford station from Manchester city center, with a journey time of approximately 20-25 minutes. Trams run frequently, but expect higher passenger volumes on match days. A single ticket costs around £3-£5 GBP.
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Bus
Several bus routes, including numbers 250 and 255, serve the Old Trafford area from central Manchester. Travel times range from 25 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. Buses operate regularly but check schedules for match days. Tickets cost approximately £3 GBP.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Manchester city center to Old Trafford takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Prices typically range from £10 to £15 GBP. Note that traffic congestion can increase travel time on match days.
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Walking
For active travelers, walking from Manchester city center to Old Trafford takes about 60-75 minutes along mostly flat urban terrain. Suitable for those comfortable with longer walks and urban environments.
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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Manchester United
Origins and Architectural Heritage
Old Trafford was conceived in the early 20th century to accommodate Manchester United’s growing fan base. Designed by the renowned architect Archibald Leitch, the stadium was constructed between 1909 and 1910 and officially opened on 19 February 1910 with a match against Liverpool. Originally, it had a capacity of approximately 80,000, featuring a covered seating stand and open terraces on the other sides. Its classic rectangular layout with curved corners and multi-span stands reflected the architectural style of early football grounds, setting a precedent for stadium design in England.Resilience Through History
Old Trafford’s history is marked by resilience and renewal. During World War II, the stadium suffered severe damage from German air raids, particularly in 1940 and 1941, which destroyed much of the main stand. For eight years, Manchester United played their home matches at rivals Manchester City's Maine Road while Old Trafford was rebuilt. The stadium reopened in 1949 with a smaller capacity but retained its historic essence. Over the decades, it has hosted not only football matches but also significant events such as World Cup games and major concerts, cementing its status as a cultural landmark.Modernization and Expansion
From the 1960s onwards, Old Trafford underwent several expansions and renovations. Notable developments include the addition of roofs over terraces, the construction of the ultra-modern two-tiered United Road Stand in the 1960s, and the introduction of executive suites. The 1990s saw a major transformation to an all-seater stadium, including the replacement of the famous Stretford End terraces. By 2006, the stadium reached its current capacity of around 74,000 seats with the addition of upper-tier corners. The North Stand was renamed the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand in 2011 in honor of the legendary manager.Legacy and Cultural Significance
Nicknamed the 'Theatre of Dreams' by Sir Bobby Charlton, Old Trafford embodies the spirit and legacy of Manchester United. It has witnessed the careers of football legends such as George Best, Eric Cantona, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Bobby Charlton himself. The stadium is not only a sporting venue but also a symbol of community pride and football heritage. Its location on Sir Matt Busby Way honors the transformative manager who led the club to its first league title in 1952 and the European Cup in 1968.Fan Experience and Innovations
Old Trafford continually enhances the fan experience through technological upgrades like floodlights, digital screens, Wi-Fi connectivity, and improved hospitality suites. Despite its historic fabric, the stadium integrates modern comforts and accessibility features. Future plans aim to expand seating capacity further and incorporate sustainable practices, ensuring Old Trafford remains at the forefront of football venues worldwide.Atmosphere and Visitor Appeal
Visiting Old Trafford offers an immersive experience into football culture and history. The stadium’s grand scale, passionate crowds, and iconic status create a unique ambience. Beyond match days, tours and events allow visitors to explore behind the scenes, deepening appreciation for the club’s heritage and the stadium’s architectural grandeur. Old Trafford stands as a living monument to the enduring allure of football and Manchester United’s global influence.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
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
