Old Trafford Stadium Guide: Best Seats, Tickets & Tips

Old Trafford Stadium Guide: Best Seats, Tickets & Tips.
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Old Trafford Details
Home TeamManchester United F.C. (Premier League)
Opened1910 (extensively renovated over the years)
Capacity~74,310
Best Value SeatsSir Alex Ferguson Stand upper tiers for strong views at moderate prices
Premium SeatingExecutive Boxes, International Suite, Evolution Suite, Museum Suite
Top Stadium FoodsSteak pies, sausage rolls, fish and chips, vegetarian pies
Nearby Bars/EatsBishop Blaize, The Trafford, Hotel Football Café
Closest HotelsHotel Football, Premier Inn Old Trafford, Hilton Garden Inn Manchester
Transit AccessMetrolink tram to Old Trafford station, buses from city centre, limited parking
Unique HighlightsKnown as the “Theatre of Dreams”; hosts major football matches and tours year-round

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Old Trafford Seating Plan
Photo Credit Steve Collis Wikipedia

Old Trafford Stadium Seating Plan

The capacity of Old Trafford Stadium is currently 74,197 after recent renovations, making it the largest club football stadium in the United Kingdom and the eleventh-largest in Europe. It is the second-largest football stadium overall after Wembley Stadium. You can find the Old Trafford Seating Plan here.

Manchester United Football Tickets

Getting tickets to Manchester United games can be extremely competitive, but here are several ways to secure tickets:

Official Website: The primary and most reliable source is the official Manchester United website. Tickets are often released for sale online, and members have priority access. Join the official membership program to increase your chances.

Membership Programs: Manchester United offers various membership programs: Premium Membership (£75), Full Membership (£40), Lite Membership (£35), Junior Membership (£20), and Forwarding Membership (£20). Members get priority access to home match tickets and various discounts.

Season Tickets: If you plan to attend multiple games, consider applying for a season ticket. However, note that these are limited, and there may be a waiting list.

Hospitality Packages: Explore hospitality packages offered by the club. While they may be more expensive, they often include premium seating, meals, and other perks.

Away Games: Attend away games, where tickets might be more readily available. Keep in mind that traveling to away fixtures is necessary.

Manchester United’s New Stadium Plans

Manchester United announced in March 2025 their ambitious plans to build a new 100,000-seat stadium next to the existing Old Trafford, designed by renowned architects Foster + Partners. The £2 billion ($2.6 billion) project will create the world’s second-largest football stadium and is expected to be completed in time for the 2030-31 season. The new stadium will be built alongside the current ground, allowing United to continue playing at Old Trafford during construction while preserving the essence of their historic home.

The stadium will serve as the centerpiece of a massive regeneration project for the Old Trafford area, potentially creating 92,000 new jobs and 17,000 new homes while contributing an additional £7.3 billion annually to the UK economy. Foster + Partners describe the design as featuring “a vast umbrella, harvesting energy and rainwater, and sheltering a new public plaza that is twice the size of Trafalgar Square,” making it a sustainable, mixed-use district that Manchester can be proud of. You can see the plans here.

Best Seats at Old Trafford
Photo Credit: WDM 10 Wikipedia

Best Seats at Old Trafford

Known as the “Theatre of Dreams,” this is where Sir Matt Busby built dynasties, where the Busby Babes played before tragedy struck, and where Sir Alex Ferguson won 13 Premier League titles. The stadium sits in Trafford, just outside central Manchester, surrounded by terraced houses and industrial estates—not the glitzy city-center vibe you might expect, but that’s part of its charm. I’ve been here a handful of times, and the walk from the Metrolink with thousands of fans streaming toward those iconic red stands never gets old. The atmosphere when “Glory Glory Man United” echoes through the Stretford End is genuinely spine-tingling, even if you’re not a United supporter.

Overall Seating Guide

Old Trafford is divided into four main stands: Stretford End (West), Sir Alex Ferguson Stand (North, running along the pitch), Sir Bobby Charlton Stand (South, opposite the Stretford End), and East Stand. Each has distinct character, views, and atmosphere.

The Sweet Spot: Sir Alex Ferguson Stand, Lower Tier Around Halfway Line: The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand runs the length of the pitch and offers the best panoramic views at Old Trafford. Lower tier seats around the halfway line (blocks N14-N18) are the ideal balance of view, atmosphere, and price. You’re close enough to see tactics unfold, hear players shout, and feel the energy without being so high up that you lose detail.

The Sir Alex Stand has multiple tiers—Lower, Upper, Tier 2, and Tier 3—with over 25,000 seats total. Lower tier is more expensive but worth it for proximity. Upper tiers are budget-friendly and still offer excellent sightlines, just farther back.

Pricing varies wildly by opponent—expect £50-£150 for lower tier, £35-£80 for upper tiers. Big matches (Liverpool, City, Arsenal) hit the high end; lesser cup games are cheaper.

Best Atmosphere: Stretford End (West Stand): The Stretford End is the home of United’s most passionate supporters—standing, singing, bouncing from kickoff to final whistle. This is behind the goal where you’ll hear the loudest chants, the most abuse directed at opposition keepers, and the rawest emotion when United score.

Blocks W14-W18 in the lower tier are the heart of it, but honestly anywhere in the Stretford End gives you that authentic Old Trafford atmosphere. If you want to experience what it means to be a United supporter, sit here. The tradeoff: behind-the-goal views aren’t ideal for seeing the full pitch, and you’ll be on your feet most of the match.

I sat in W16 once for a Europa League match, and the noise when United equalized late was deafening—grown men screaming, beer flying, pure chaos. It’s not for everyone, but if you want the experience, this is it.

Best Value: Sir Alex Ferguson Stand Upper Tiers (Blocks N24-N34): Upper tiers of the Sir Alex Stand are the budget play—elevated views of the entire pitch at prices that won’t destroy your wallet. You’re farther from the action, but Old Trafford’s steep stands mean you still get decent sightlines. These sections are also calmer, making them good for families or casual fans who don’t want to stand and sing for 90 minutes.

Expect £30-£60 depending on opponent. Corner sections (blocks N11-N13, N22-N24) are even cheaper but have angled views that make it harder to see the far goal.

Family-Friendly: East Stand Upper Tier: The East Stand is quieter and more family-oriented, with good facilities and calmer atmosphere. Upper tier sections (E33-E36) offer decent views without the intensity of the Stretford End or the price tag of premium seats.

The lower tier of the East Stand is mostly disabled seating, so if you’re looking for regular seats, aim for upper tier or Tier 2.

What to Avoid: Corner Sections

Corner blocks where stands meet (South East corner, North East corner) have obstructed views and awkward angles. The South East corner is also where away fans sit, so if you’re a United supporter, you’ll be surrounded by opposition chants.

Deep upper tiers in the corners are the worst combination of bad views, distance from the pitch, and cheap seats that feel cheap. Only go there if you’re desperate for a ticket.

Premium Seating options at Old Trafford
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Premium Seating Options at Old Trafford

Old Trafford’s hospitality packages range from matchday dining to full executive suites with personal concierge service. Some of the finest premium options in Football.​

Executive Suites (15-20 Guests)

Private suites with five-star catering, comfortable seating, high-end decor, and prime views. Pricing runs £2,500-£5,000 depending on opponent and suite location. You get a dedicated suite attendant, complimentary food and drinks, private concierge, and the ability to watch the match from your suite or step out to premium outdoor seats.

Who it’s for: Corporate entertainment, special occasions, or groups splitting costs who want the absolute best Old Trafford experience. Big matches (Liverpool, City) hit £5,000+; lesser games are closer to £2,500.

Club Level Seating

Club seats offer VIP lounge access, complimentary beverages, prime views, and exclusive dining before and during the match. Pricing runs £500-£1,500 per seat. You get padded seats, in-seat wait service, access to climate-controlled lounges, and the ability to escape the crowds at halftime.

This is the mid-tier premium option—better than regular seats, not as expensive as suites. Great for fans who want comfort and amenities without going full VIP.

Matchday Dining Packages: Various hospitality packages include pre-match meals, lounge access, premium seats, and post-match experiences. Pricing runs £300-£800 depending on package and opponent. You’re getting a full matchday experience with food, drinks, and entertainment before kickoff, then moving to your seats for the match.

Good for fans who want more than just a ticket but don’t need a full suite. The meal and lounge time make it feel like an event, not just a football match.

Old Trafford Bag Policy
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Old Trafford Bag Policy

The bag policy for Old Trafford Stadium is that only bags measuring 20cm x 15cm x 5cm (8″ x 6″ x 2″) or smaller are permitted into the stadium. This equates to a small handbag. Exceptions will only be made for bags containing essential medical provisions/equipment or baby changing items.

There are bag drop facilities located in E2 car park (location for away supporters), N2 car park, W2 Cosgrove car park, and the Manchester United Foundation car park accessed off Railway Road. There is a £5 charge to leave an item at a ‘Bag Drop’, with proceeds going to the Manchester United Foundation.

Matchday at Old Trafford

As you step into the iconic Old Trafford Stadium, familiarity with the stadium policies is key to ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. From the stringent bag policy to specific guidelines on restricted items, Old Trafford prioritizes the safety and well-being of its visitors. The Man United website has a section on policies, and here are some commonly asked questions below:

Restricted Items: Apart from the bag policy, certain items are restricted from entering the stadium including flags or banners larger than 2m x 1m, all national flags (except those representing teams playing), and items deemed dangerous or hazardous.

Cashless Stadium: Old Trafford is a cashless stadium. All major debit and credit cards are accepted.

No Smoking Policy: Old Trafford is a no smoking stadium, this includes the use of electronic cigarettes.

Security Searches: All bags will be physically and/or visually searched at the stadium entrance. Everyone entering the stadium will be subject to a physical search or screening procedure.

Disabled Access: Old Trafford Stadium is committed to inclusivity and accessibility for all audience members. Manchester United have a total of 278 wheelchair positions and 278 designated amenity seats across Old Trafford, including lift access, Blue Badge parking, and Access Stewards to help throughout your visit.

Top Tips for Old Trafford
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Top Tips for Old Trafford

This is one of the best matchday experiences in all of sport. Old Trafford has plenty of insider secrets that can make or break your matchday experience. These are the tips that seasoned United fans have learned through years of trial and error – from avoiding costly mistakes to maximizing your time at the Theatre of Dreams

Matchday Atmosphere

Old Trafford’s atmosphere has been criticized in recent years for being quieter than it used to be—corporate seats, tourists, and high ticket prices have diluted the intensity. But on big nights (Liverpool, City, European matches), the place still roars. The Stretford End carries the noise, and when United score, the entire stadium erupts. And check out our section on Pubs below, so you know how to properly get ready for Matchday.​

Money-Saving Insider Tips

  • Old Trafford serves the cheapest pint in the Premier League at £3.40 for a Madri, and pies are decent value at £4.40
  • There’s no limit on carrier bags from the Megastore as long as they contain items purchased on matchday and fit under your seat
  • Cup matches (Carabao Cup, FA Cup early rounds) and friendlies offer significantly cheaper tickets across all areas
  • If your programme doesn’t fit in your pocket and it’s raining, ask for a free Megastore bag

Technology and Connectivity

  • Old Trafford has stadium-wide Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected throughout your visit
  • Don’t press the disc on the bottom of new pint glasses in the Main Stand – it’s designed to spray beer everywhere (learn from others’ mistakes!)
  • The stadium is fully cashless, so ensure your contactless payment methods are working before you arrive

Timing and Crowd Management

  • Use the toilets just before half-time rather than at half-time to avoid massive queues
  • The Megastore closes during the game and reopens 1 hour after the final whistle – plan your shopping accordingly
  • On matchdays, bag drop opens 4 hours before kick-off and closes 2.5 hours after the final whistle
  • If you’re in the away end, get to the concourse as little as possible – it’s notoriously cramped

Food and Drink Strategies

  • Cash is still needed at some kiosks despite the stadium being officially cashless
  • The Red Cafe offers members discounts and is located in the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand for a proper sit-down meal
  • If you have medical dietary requirements, bring necessary food/drink – it will be allowed through security

Weather and Seasonal Tips

  • Upper tier seats may have the roof in your eyeline, but views are still unrestricted
  • The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand offers the best facilities and is ideal for families or those wanting comfort
  • Safe standing is available in the away end, making for a more authentic atmosphere experience

Stadium Navigation

  • The stadium entrance shows both letter and number (e.g., Entrance E4) – memorize this before arrival
  • Lifts and escalators provide easy access from car parks directly to the stadium
  • Accessible lifts are available throughout the stadium – no need to struggle with stairs if you have mobility concerns

Communication and Safety

  • To report an incident, text HELP with your stand, row, and seat details to 84222
  • There are detection dogs working around the stadium – remember they’re working dogs, so don’t attempt to pet or feed them
  • Security is everyone’s responsibility – report anything that doesn’t feel right to security teams

Post-Match Strategy

The atmosphere spills onto the streets after matches – this is part of the Old Trafford experience, so soak it in

Don’t rush to leave immediately – traffic is awful for ages anyway, so grab a post-match pint and let crowds disperse

If you used bag drop, factor in collection time after the match – facilities are staffed but can get busy

Old Trafford Stadium Tours

Old Trafford Stadium is open for stadium and museum tours from 9:30am-4pm Monday-Sunday. The Old Trafford Tour & Museum is not open on home matchdays unless you’ve booked Matchday Hospitality, but is open the day before and the day after. To book a tour or find out more, you can visit the Manchester United website or call 0161 676 7770.

Traditions and Stadium Quirks

Munich Tunnel: The tunnel players walk through to reach the pitch has a memorial plaque for the Busby Babes who died in the 1958 Munich air disaster. It’s a somber, powerful reminder of United’s history.

“Glory Glory Man United”: The anthem plays before kickoff, and the entire stadium sings along. Even if you’re neutral, it’s an incredible moment.

Sir Alex Ferguson statue: Outside the stadium, pay your respects to the greatest manager in football history. Great photo op.

Getting to Old Trafford
Photo Credit: Joe Yong Wikipedia

Getting To Old Trafford

To reach Old Trafford Stadium in Manchester, you have several convenient transportation options:

Metrolink (Tram): The Altrincham Line (Green and Purple), but you can also get within walking distance on the Trafford Park Line (Red) and Eccles Line (Blue). Old Trafford stop is directly outside the ground. A Metrolink off-peak travelcard costs £3.50 and will cover your journey between Old Trafford and Manchester city centre.

Bus: The Bee Network buses all serve Old Trafford from Piccadilly Gardens: Services run every 12 to 20 minutes, and you can tap in and out with contactless payment.

Train: Manchester’s main railway station is Manchester Piccadilly. Found south-east of the city centre, this is one of the busiest interchanges outside of London. From there, take the Metrolink tram to Old Trafford station.

From Manchester Airport: For the most direct option you can catch the Metrolink Tram from the airport to Trafford Bar, which is a 15-minute walk from Old Trafford. You can also switch lines and travel one stop on the Altrincham line to the Old Trafford stop for a shorter walk.

Taxi: Taxis are readily available from the city center to Old Trafford, typically costing between £10-£15 from the city center, with a travel time of around 15-20 minutes.

Driving To Old Trafford

If you’re planning to drive to Old Trafford in Manchester, consider the following tips:

Use GPS: The stadium is conveniently situated near major motorways. Use the postcode M16 0RA for matchdays, and M17 1FP for non-matchdays.

Plan Your Route: Roads around Old Trafford and the surrounding areas – including the local motorway network – are extremely busy on match days. Please plan your route to the stadium in advance and allow more time than usual for your journey.

Official Parking: To book Official Car Parking, visit www.manutd.com/tickets. Access to car parks E1 & E2 can only be gained via Wharfside Way with the relevant permits on matchdays.

Parking Costs: Official MUFC car parks now charge between £12 and £20 depending on the match, and private driveways booked through services like Stashbee typically range from £7 to £20.

Avoid Residential Areas: Parking enforcement has tightened even more in 2025. Trafford Council does not employ attendants to collect cash on the street, and Greater Manchester Police are urging fans to avoid any parking spot where the attendant can’t show official ID.

Always check for updates or changes to parking and driving options before heading to the stadium.

Hotels Near Old Trafford
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Hotels Near Old Trafford

Old Trafford sits on the western edge of Manchester, approximately 3 miles from the bustling city center, in an area that’s undergone massive transformation in recent years. The immediate stadium vicinity offers a mix of traditional Manchester housing and modern developments, while nearby Salford Quays has evolved into a vibrant waterfront district housing BBC Sport, ITV’s Coronation Street studios, and MediaCityUK. This regenerated area buzzes with bars, restaurants, and contemporary hotels, making it an excellent base for visitors.

Best Areas to Stay:

  • Immediate Old Trafford Area: Perfect for matchdays with walking distance to the stadium, but limited nightlife options
  • Salford Quays/MediaCity: 10-15 minutes from the stadium with excellent dining, waterfront views, and modern amenities
  • Manchester City Center: 15-20 minutes by tram, offering the full Manchester experience with world-class restaurants, shopping, and nightlife
  • Trafford Centre Area: Good for families and shoppers, with easy transport links to the stadium

The key is balancing proximity to Old Trafford with access to Manchester’s broader attractions – while staying right by the stadium is convenient for matches, you might prefer the vibrancy of Salford Quays or city center for a complete Manchester experience.

Best Hotels Overall (Luxury & Premium)

Stock Exchange Hotel, Manchester (City Center) Manchester’s most prestigious hotel, this Autograph Collection property sits in a stunning converted Victorian building in the heart of the city. Located about 15 minutes from Old Trafford by tram, it offers luxury accommodations with a restaurant, bar, and impeccable service. Perfect for those wanting five-star luxury with easy access to both the stadium and Manchester’s finest dining and shopping.

The Midland Manchester (City Center) Perhaps Manchester’s most iconic hotel, The Midland has been a city landmark for over a century and was a favorite of Winston Churchill. Following a multi-million pound renovation, this four-star hotel represents the pinnacle of Manchester hospitality. While a tram ride from Old Trafford, it places you in the heart of Manchester’s cultural and business district.

Manchester Marriott Victoria & Albert Hotel (City Center) A reliable luxury option with excellent facilities including restaurant, bar, and room service. The Marriott brand ensures consistent high standards, and the central location provides easy access to both Old Trafford and Manchester’s attractions.

Mid-Range & Nice Hotels Near Old Trafford

Hotel Football, Old Trafford The crown jewel for United fans – literally opposite the stadium and owned by the Class of ’92 legends. This Tribute Portfolio hotel offers 133 football-themed rooms, many overlooking Old Trafford, plus a rooftop pitch and Café Football restaurant. It’s pricier than budget options but offers an unmatched United experience with stadium views and memorabilia throughout.

AC Hotel Manchester Salford Quays A sleek, modern Marriott property in the heart of Salford Quays with contemporary design and excellent facilities. Features a fitness center, bar, and restaurant, with easy tram access to Old Trafford. The waterfront location offers scenic views and puts you near MediaCity’s dining and entertainment options.

Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford Situated within the cricket ground complex, this hotel offers good value with parking available and tram links to the city center. Many rooms overlook the cricket pitch, and it’s an 11-minute walk to the football stadium. Solid Hilton standards with reasonable pricing.

Copthorne Manchester Salford Quays A well-positioned hotel on the waterfront with rooms overlooking the water and visitor parking. Short walk to Old Trafford with good value pricing and proximity to Salford Quays’ bars and restaurants.

Budget-Friendly Options

Holiday Inn Express Manchester – Salford Quays Excellent budget choice just 10 minutes walk from Old Trafford with free breakfast, modern facilities, and the reliability of the IHG brand. Great value for money with easy stadium access.

ibis budget Manchester Salford Quays Basic but clean accommodations within a 5-minute drive of Old Trafford. Offers the essentials at competitive prices with parking available and breakfast options.

Premier Inn Manchester Old Trafford About half a mile from the stadium, this budget chain offers their trademark comfortable beds and good value pricing. Reliable choice for those prioritizing location and value over luxury.

easyHotel Manchester City Centre Located in the Northern Quarter, about 20 minutes from Old Trafford by public transport. Ultra-budget option that’s further from the stadium but places you in Manchester’s trendy cultural quarter.

Apartment and Alternative Stays

Old Trafford Stay with Free Parking Self-catering apartments less than 1km from the stadium with city views, free Wi-Fi, and crucially, free parking. Perfect for families or longer stays wanting more space and cooking facilities.

Various Salford Quays Apartments Multiple apartment options in the waterfront area offering more space than hotels, often with kitchen facilities and parking. Good for groups or families wanting flexibility.

The key is matching your priorities: stadium proximity, Manchester city experience, budget constraints, and length of stay. While Hotel Football offers the ultimate United experience, city center luxury hotels provide a more complete Manchester visit, and Salford Quays properties offer an excellent middle ground. Book well in advance for big matches (Liverpool, Arsenal, European matches).

Restaurants. andPubs Near Old Trafford Photo Parrot of doom wikipedia

Restaurants and Pubs Near Old Trafford

The area surrounding Old Trafford transforms into a sea of red on matchdays, with traditional boozers, modern gastropubs, and authentic eateries all playing their part in the pre-match ritual. The immediate stadium vicinity along Sir Matt Busby Way and Chester Road houses some of Manchester’s most storied football pubs, where generations of United fans have gathered to sing, drink, and debate. Just a short tram ride away, Salford Quays offers a more contemporary dining scene with waterfront restaurants and upscale bars, while the broader Manchester area serves up everything from legendary curry houses to canal-side gastropubs.

Matchday Areas to Know:

  • Sir Matt Busby Way & Chester Road: Traditional United pubs with decades of history and proper matchday atmosphere
  • Salford Quays/MediaCity: Modern bars and restaurants with waterfront views, perfect for a more upscale pre-match experience
  • Castlefield: Canal-side pubs offering scenic dining a short journey from the stadium
  • City Center: World-class restaurants and bars accessible via the Metrolink for those making a full day of it

The beauty of Old Trafford’s dining scene is its diversity – you can grab a proper pint and pie at a traditional boozer steps from the stadium, or enjoy sophisticated dining with a view before catching the tram to the match.

Essential Old Trafford Pubs

The Trafford The closest traditional pub to the stadium, The Trafford is an explosion of Manchester United memorabilia where every surface tells a story of the club’s history. Located on Chester Road, it fills rapidly on matchdays with passionate Reds creating an electric atmosphere. When the weather’s nice, they open the beer garden to ease the congestion, but arrive early if you want to get served quickly. It’s the quintessential United pub experience.

Bishop Blaize Steeped in history, this traditional English pub has been welcoming United fans for generations. With its rustic, cozy atmosphere and first-rate beer selection, the Bishop Blaize offers authentic pub grub alongside the matchday buzz. On busy match days, you’ll need to show your ticket to secure your spot among the lively crowd – it’s that popular with the locals who’ve been drinking here for decades.

Café Football A cutting-edge sports bar that oozes football passion, Café Football sits within Hotel Football and offers a more sophisticated matchday experience. The menu features cleverly named dishes like the Scholesy, Veganaldo, and Messi Fries, surrounded by memorabilia from legendary players. While more upmarket than traditional pubs, it provides an immersive football-themed dining experience steps from the stadium.

The Quadrant Located about a 5-minute walk from Old Trafford, The Quadrant offers the perfect balance of proximity and atmosphere. This Joseph Holt pub features a beer garden, live music, and live sports coverage, making it ideal whether you’re staying to watch the game or heading into the stadium. The pub offers an excellent selection of drinks and has become a favorite among fans looking to soak up the matchday buzz.

Tollgate Situated next to Trafford Bar Metrolink Station, Tollgate is perfectly positioned for fans arriving by tram. While about a 20-minute walk from the stadium, it’s known for its lively matchday atmosphere and strong selection of beers and IPAs. For those with a sweet tooth, there are always great cocktails on offer, making it a versatile choice for different tastes.

Popular Restaurants in Greater Manchester

Akbar’s (Liverpool Road) A Manchester institution, Akbar’s is famed throughout the region for its authentic Indian cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. Located a short journey from Old Trafford, their signature dishes include chicken jalfrezi and lamb rogan josh, but it’s their enormous naan bread – served on a skewer – that steals the show. The chicken tikka masala here is considered among the best in Manchester, making it perfect for pre-match dining with a uniquely British twist.

The Wharf (Castlefield) Situated about 30 minutes walk from Old Trafford in the picturesque Castlefield area, The Wharf offers traditional British pub experience with scenic canal-side views. The menu features classic pub grub including excellent sausages and mash, fish and chips, and a well-regarded Sunday roast. Their ale selection is second to none, and the waterside setting provides a more relaxed atmosphere before heading to the match. The steak sandwich and chipolatas with honey mustard are particular crowd-pleasers.

Hawksmoor Manchester (City Center) For those wanting to make a proper occasion of matchday, Hawksmoor is Manchester’s premier steakhouse, renowned for its ethically sourced British beef cooked to perfection. Located in the city center with easy tram access to Old Trafford, this restaurant offers the full Manchester fine dining experience. Whether you opt for the rib-eye or tender fillet, Hawksmoor delivers impeccable service and top-notch quality that makes it worth the splurge for special occasions.

The Dockyard (Salford Quays) This modern gastropub in MediaCity offers the perfect blend of convenience and quality, being easily accessible from Old Trafford via tram. The menu caters to all tastes with British pub classics alongside international options, and the outdoor space includes its own bar and BBQ. With ITV and BBC based nearby, you might even spot familiar faces while enjoying your pre-match meal in this buzzing waterfront location.

Things to do in Manchester
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Things To Do In Manchester

Immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy of Manchester with our list of the city’s best activities:

Cultural Attractions:

Music and Entertainment:

Shopping:

Parks and Recreation:

  • Heaton Park – One of the largest municipal parks in Europe
  • Fletcher Moss Park – Beautiful botanical garden and park
  • Platt Fields Park – Popular park for recreation and events

Experience the passion, embrace the history, and let the spirit of Manchester United resonate as you embark on this unforgettable journey in this vibrant city. You’re not just visiting a stadium; you’re stepping into the Theatre of Dreams. Welcome to Old Trafford. Glory Glory Man United!

Here are some other matchday guides:

Anfield

Etihad Stadium

Emirates and Tottenham

Wembley

Written by Brad Richards, Founder of Gameday Guides. This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your matchday.

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