National Football Museum, Manchester
Explore football’s rich heritage and interactive thrills at Manchester’s premier National Football Museum, open daily and free to visit.
The National Football Museum in Manchester is a premier destination celebrating the rich history and cultural impact of football. Located on Todd Street, it houses over 140,000 football-related items, including trophies, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that engage visitors of all ages. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, this free museum offers a deep dive into the sport’s origins, iconic moments, and legendary players, making it a must-visit for football fans and cultural enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to National Football Museum
- Todd St, Manchester, M4 3BG, GB
- +441616058200
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan for at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the exhibits and interactive zones.
- Visit on weekdays or early in the day to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Check the museum’s website for any special exhibitions or events during your visit.
- Some interactive games in the Football Plus+ area may require a small additional fee.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From Manchester Victoria station, it is a 2 to 5-minute walk to the museum. Trains from across the region arrive frequently, making this a convenient and accessible option with no additional cost beyond your train fare.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near the museum on Todd Street. Travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point within Manchester. Tickets typically cost between £2 and £4 for a single journey.
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Car
Drivers can use nearby city centre car parks within a 10-minute walk of the museum. Parking fees vary but expect to pay around £2 to £4 per hour. Note that city centre traffic and limited parking may affect convenience.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Manchester, walking to the museum is a pleasant option, with typical walking times ranging from 10 to 20 minutes over flat, urban terrain.
National Football Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about National Football Museum
A Celebration of Football’s Legacy
The National Football Museum in Manchester stands as a tribute to the world’s most beloved sport. Situated in the city centre on Todd Street, the museum showcases an extensive collection of over 140,000 football-related artifacts. These include historic trophies, shirts worn by legendary players, and balls from pivotal matches, such as the 1966 World Cup Final at Wembley. Visitors can explore how football evolved from its origins to become a global phenomenon, tracing its cultural and social significance through compelling exhibits.Immersive Exhibits and Iconic Memorabilia
The museum’s displays feature some of football’s most treasured items, including the Jules Rimet Trophy and Geoff Hurst’s iconic shirt. Art inspired by football also enriches the experience, with works like L.S. Lowry’s 1953 painting "Going to the Match" and a Renaissance-style portrait of Eric Cantona alongside other football legends. The England on the World Stage exhibit highlights the national team’s history and achievements, providing context and celebration of England’s football heritage.Interactive Experiences for All Ages
Beyond static displays, the museum offers engaging interactive zones that invite visitors to test their skills and knowledge. The Football Plus+ area includes a full-size penalty shoot-out zone, goalkeeping reaction games, and a Pass Master challenge to hone ball passing skills. Visitors can also try their hand at football commentary using an autocue screen, adding a dynamic and playful element to the visit. These interactive features make the museum an enjoyable experience for families, football fans, and casual visitors alike.Architectural and Cultural Setting
Housed in the striking Urbis building, the museum benefits from a modern and accessible location in Manchester city centre. Its proximity to Manchester Victoria train station and several bus routes makes it easy to reach. The museum’s architecture and layout complement the exhibits, creating a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the energy and passion of football culture.Visitor Amenities and Practical Information
The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, except on major holidays such as Christmas and Easter Sunday. Admission is free, though some interactive games in the Football Plus+ experience may require a fee. Facilities include restrooms, seating areas, and information boards to enhance visitor comfort. The museum is family-friendly and suitable for visitors of all ages, with particular appeal to football enthusiasts.Football’s Enduring Impact and Community Role
The National Football Museum not only preserves football history but also fosters community engagement and education. Through exhibitions, events, and interactive programs, it highlights football’s role in shaping social identity and cultural heritage in the UK and beyond. It remains a dynamic space where the sport’s past, present, and future converge, inspiring visitors to appreciate football’s universal appeal and significance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Owen Statue
0.1 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.3 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Dalton Entry
0.7 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.7 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.7 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
John Bright Statue
0.7 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Albert Memorial
0.7 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Manchester City Council
0.8 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Connaught Building
0.8 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
St. Peter's Square
0.9 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Arch of Chinatown
0.9 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Free Trade Hall
1.0 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Landmark, St Peter's Square
1.0 km
Discover the architectural marvel of Landmark at St Peter's Square, where modern business meets Manchester’s rich historical tapestry.
Murrays' Mill
1.0 km
Explore Murrays' Mills, the world’s oldest urban steam-powered cotton mill, where industrial heritage meets modern living in Manchester’s historic Ancoats district.
The Beacon Of Hope
1.1 km
A powerful and serene memorial in Manchester honoring resilience, hope, and the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cathedral Gardens
0.1 km
A vibrant green oasis in Manchester’s medieval quarter, blending history, culture, and nature in the city centre.
Chetham's Library
0.1 km
Explore England’s oldest public library, a medieval architectural gem and historic hub of revolutionary ideas in Manchester’s heart.
Corn Exchange Manchester
0.1 km
A historic Manchester landmark blending global dining, unique entertainment, and vibrant social experiences in a stunning Edwardian setting.
Manchester Cathedral
0.2 km
Explore the captivating beauty and rich history of Manchester Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture situated in the heart of Manchester.
Exchange Sq
0.2 km
Manchester’s bustling Exchange Square blends historic resilience with vibrant shopping, seasonal markets, and cultural buzz in the city centre.
The Mitre Hotel
0.2 km
Historic Victorian charm meets central Manchester convenience at The Mitre Hotel in Shambles Square.
AO Arena
0.3 km
Manchester’s largest indoor arena, AO Arena hosts world-class concerts, sports, and family events in a vibrant urban setting.
Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Manchester’s largest indoor shopping centre, with over 200 stores, restaurants, and leisure options in the heart of the city.
Manchester Buddhist Centre
0.4 km
A serene urban sanctuary in Manchester’s Northern Quarter offering meditation, wellness, and a unique sober bar experience.
Market St
0.4 km
Manchester’s bustling pedestrian retail street linking major stations with iconic shops and vibrant city life.
NQ Mural
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant NQ Mural, a colorful centerpiece of Manchester's Northern Quarter renowned for its dynamic street art and creative energy.
Barton Arcade
0.4 km
Step into Barton Arcade, a Victorian marvel of glass and iron, where historic elegance meets boutique shopping in the heart of Manchester.
Once Upon a Smile
0.5 km
A dedicated Greater Manchester charity base providing child-centred bereavement support, counselling and creative memory-making programmes in a compassionate, private setting.
St Anns Square
0.5 km
Historic heart of Manchester blending 18th-century charm, architectural heritage, and vibrant retail life in an elegant urban square.
The Makers Market
0.5 km
Discover Manchester’s creative pulse at The Makers Market, where artisan crafts, street food, and live music unite in the vibrant Northern Quarter.
Essential places to dine
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
0.1 km
Contemporary Italian dining with cocktails in Manchester's vibrant Corn Exchange.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Eclectic British dining and vibrant bar in Manchester’s historic Corn Exchange with stylish 1970s flair and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trof Northern Quarter
0.3 km
A multi-level Northern Quarter gem serving hearty British comfort food, craft beers, and rare bourbons in a lively, rustic setting.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Liquor and Burn
0.4 km
Experience bold Mexican street food and vibrant cocktails in Manchester’s artistic Northern Quarter at Luck Lust Liquor & Burn.
TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
A beloved Northern Quarter gem serving seasonal British cuisine with award-winning roasts and warm, attentive service in a relaxed brasserie setting.
63 Degrees
0.4 km
Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
Yard & Coop Manchester
0.4 km
Savor the best buttermilk fried chicken in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with bold flavors, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Cane & Grain
0.4 km
Discover Cane & Grain: where traditional American cuisine meets Manchester's vibrant nightlife scene in an unforgettable dining experience.
Annies
0.5 km
Experience hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the stylish, cozy setting of Annie's on Old Bank Street, Manchester.
Almost Famous NQ
0.5 km
Bold, indulgent burgers and vibrant vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, a must-visit for burger lovers and casual diners alike.
Climat
0.5 km
Sophisticated rooftop dining in Manchester with panoramic views, a Burgundy-focused wine cellar, and inventive seasonal sharing plates.
Sam's Chop House
0.5 km
Experience traditional British chophouse dining with locally sourced ingredients in Manchester’s cozy, historic atmosphere.
The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
0.5 km
Cozy railway-arch eatery in Manchester serving authentic handmade spätzle and Central European pasta with a lively, buzzy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hoot
0.3 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Rams Gift World
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Menkind
0.3 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Amazonas Gifts
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Søstrene Grene
0.4 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
&made
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Deadstock General Store
0.5 km
Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Pulse
0.5 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Jessica6 Designs
0.5 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
0.5 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
Annea Veleta
0.5 km
A curated, maker-focused gift boutique in Ancoats offering handcrafted homewares, stationery and tasteful Manchester-themed keepsakes.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.5 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.6 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Wellington
0.2 km
Step into The Old Wellington, a historic Manchester pub blending centuries-old charm with hearty ales and classic British fare in the city centre.
The Washhouse
0.2 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
Wolf at the Door
0.4 km
A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
Science And Industry
0.4 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a stylish vibe await you at Science and Industry, the first-floor bar of Cane & Grain in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Be At One - Manchester
0.5 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
Corbieres Bar
0.5 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.5 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
The Daisy
0.5 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
All Bar One Manchester
0.6 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
Behind Closed Doors
0.6 km
Descend into debauched delight at this Northern Quarter speakeasy, where retro telephones summon saucy cocktails amid erotic art, neon booths, and funky DJ beats until 4am.
Night & Day Cafe
0.6 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
Wilson's Social
0.6 km
All-day Northern Quarter hub: brunch by day, cocktails and beats by night in a multi-level party palace with pool, courtyard, and private den.
Bar Fringe
0.6 km
A cozy Northern Quarter bar with quirky charm, top Belgian beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for relaxed socializing.
Mean Eyed Cat Bar Manchester
0.6 km
Dive into Manchester’s Northern Quarter for rebellious rock ’n’ roll vibes, free pizza, and legendary dice games at Mean Eyed Cat Bar.
Dusk Til Pawn
0.6 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cargo
0.1 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Bijou Club
0.2 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Funkademia
0.6 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Club Liv Manchester
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
0.7 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.7 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Aatma
0.7 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Venue Nightclub
0.8 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
42's
0.9 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Satans Hollow
1.0 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
1.0 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Club Tropicana
1.0 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.
History Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Royal Vida Night Club
1.1 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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
