Old Trafford: Practical Matchday Guide and Visitor Tips
Old Trafford is Manchester United’s famous home ground, holding over 74,000 fans. Whether you’re coming for a league match, a cup tie, or a stadium tour, a little planning makes the day smoother and more fun. This guide tells you what to do, where to go, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Matchday essentials
Buy tickets only from official sources. The club site, official resale platforms, and trusted ticket partners are safest. Avoid street sellers—fake or duplicated tickets cause the most headaches at the turnstiles.
Arrive early. Gates usually open 90 minutes before kick-off; getting there at least 60 minutes early gives you time to find your seat, buy food, and soak up the atmosphere. If you want photos or to spot players arriving, aim for 75–90 minutes before kick-off.
Pack light and follow stadium rules. Large bags may be searched or refused entry. Check the club’s website for prohibited items and photography policies if you plan to film.
Food and drink: there are kiosks for hot food, burgers, pies and drinks. Prices are higher than off-stadium options, so eat beforehand if you’re on a tight budget. If you prefer a pre-match pint, head to nearby pubs—they fill fast, so get there early.
Getting there and around
Public transport is usually the best option. The nearest tram stop is Exchange Quay and the closest train station is Manchester United Football Ground (only on match days). Trams from the city centre run frequently on matchdays. Plan your route with local transport apps or the club’s travel page.
Driving is possible but parking is limited and pre-booking is often required. If you must drive, book an official car park in advance and allow extra travel time for post-match traffic.
Walking routes from nearby areas are easy and often quicker than buses. Use well-lit main roads, especially at night, and follow the crowd flows—there are usually stewards guiding exit routes after the game.
Stadium tours and the museum are great if you want history and behind-the-scenes access. Tours sell out on weekends and during school holidays—book ahead online. The museum has trophies, match kits, and interactive displays that explain Manchester United’s history.
Accessibility: Old Trafford offers wheelchair bays, accessible toilets, and step-free entry points. Book accessible seating and parking through the club’s official accessibility service to ensure help on arrival.
Last-minute tickets: check the club resale platform or verified partner apps for returns. If you try last-minute, use official resale only—social media bargains are risky.
Staying nearby: there are several hotels within 10–20 minutes by tram or car. If you want to make a football weekend of it, choose central Manchester for nightlife and transport links, then travel to Old Trafford on matchday.
Want live updates or traffic changes? Follow Manchester United’s official channels and local transport services on matchday. A quick check before you leave can save you time.
If you have any specific plans—group visit, hospitality tickets, or a coach party—contact the club in advance. They’ll confirm entry times and special arrangements so your visit goes smoothly.
Manchester United Stunned by Crystal Palace with Decisive 2-0 Upset at Old Trafford
In a surprising turn of events, Manchester United suffered a damaging 2-0 defeat to Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. This match was crucial for United, poised to continue their winning streak, but Crystal Palace's dominance threw a spanner in the works. The game highlighted key issues for United, including injury woes, home form struggles, and a need for strategic reassessment, as noted by manager Ruben Amorim.