Old Trafford tickets

From Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport is approximately 10 miles from Old Trafford. The most economical option is taking the Metrolink tram directly from the airport. Board the tram towards Manchester and change at Cornbrook for the Altrincham line to Old Trafford or Wharfside. Total journey time is approximately 50–60 minutes and costs around £4–5. Trams run every 12 minutes from the airport.

A taxi from Manchester Airport to Old Trafford takes 20–30 minutes in normal traffic but can take significantly longer during rush hour or matchdays. Expect to pay £30–40 for the journey. Uber and other ride-sharing services are available and may offer slightly lower fares. Book ahead if travelling on a matchday, as surge pricing can apply and availability may be limited.

Train services from the airport to Manchester Piccadilly run frequently, taking about 15 minutes. From Piccadilly, you can then take the tram to Old Trafford as described above. This combination takes around 40 minutes total and costs approximately £6–8.

By Train

The nearest mainline station is Manchester Piccadilly, which has direct services from across the UK. From Piccadilly, take the Metrolink tram as described above. Manchester United Football Ground station exists on the Trafford Park line, but it only opens on matchdays and is located outside the away end. It's directly served by special matchday services from Manchester Victoria and other stations.

On matchdays, additional rail services may operate from Manchester Victoria and Oxford Road stations. Check National Rail Enquiries closer to your match date for matchday-specific timetables. The matchday station provides the quickest access if you're arriving by train on event days.

By Car

Old Trafford is well-connected by road, accessible via the M60 motorway (junctions 7, 9, and 10 are closest). From the M60, follow signs for A56 Chester Road or A5081 towards Trafford Park and Old Trafford. The postcode for sat nav is M16 0RA on matchdays. Be warned that roads around Old Trafford become extremely congested on matchdays, typically from 2 hours before kick-off. Allow extra time for your journey and expect delays on the M60, A56, and Chester Road.

Parking is challenging on matchdays due to resident permit zones throughout the area. If driving, pre-book official stadium parking or use one of the nearby car parks (see parking section below). Street parking within 1km of the stadium is largely restricted with permit-only zones operating from 2 hours before until 1 hour after matches. Driving is not recommended unless you have pre-booked parking.

By Taxi or Rideshare

Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Bolt) provide convenient door-to-door service. From Manchester city centre (Piccadilly area), expect to pay £10–15 for a standard taxi, with the journey taking approximately 15 minutes in normal traffic. On matchdays, expect surge pricing and longer journey times due to road closures and traffic. Book in advance where possible.

Drop-off points on matchdays are typically on Chester Road or surrounding streets as Sir Matt Busby Way has restricted access. After the match, the designated taxi pick-up point is on White City Circle or Chester Road. Expect to wait 20–30 minutes for a taxi post-match as demand is high. Consider walking to a quieter area away from the stadium to reduce wait times.

Where to Park at Old Trafford

Parking at Old Trafford on matchdays requires advance planning and, ideally, pre-booking. Official stadium parking is available in car parks E1 and E2, accessible via Wharfside Way with the relevant permits. These must be pre-booked through the club's official website at www.manutd.com/tickets and typically cost £12–20 depending on the match. Spaces sell out 48–72 hours before popular fixtures, so book as early as possible.

The Trafford Village area of Trafford Park offers matchday parking in designated on-street bays for £5–7. Use postcode M17 1JE to locate the area and pay via the RingGo app (location code 3000) or by calling 0161 634 0340. These spaces fill quickly, so arrive at least 90 minutes before kick-off. The walk to the stadium from here takes approximately 15 minutes.

Alternative parking is available at private car parks and driveways bookable through JustPark and similar platforms, with prices ranging from £6–20. Popular options include car parks on Canalside North (5–10 minute walk), Paragon House, and Wharfside Way. Pre-booking guarantees a space and is essential on matchdays. The cricket ground at Emirates Old Trafford (Lancashire County Cricket Club) offers matchday parking for £15 from 4 hours before kick-off, but you must arrive early as it fills up quickly.

Park and ride is available at Stretford Metrolink stop (Edge Lane, M32 8HN), where you can park for free and take the tram to Old Trafford or Wharfside. This is often the best option for matchday parking, avoiding traffic and parking stress entirely.

Arriving Early: What to Do Around Old Trafford

Most fans arrive 60–90 minutes before kick-off to soak up the pre-match atmosphere. The area around Sir Matt Busby Way comes alive on matchdays with street vendors, music, and thousands of supporters converging on the stadium. This is when Old Trafford truly earns its nickname The Theatre of Dreams – the energy is palpable as fans in red shirts stream towards the ground.

The Manchester United Megastore in the East Stand is worth visiting before the match. As the world's largest football club shop, it stocks everything from replica kits to souvenirs. It gets very busy in the hour before kick-off, so arrive early if you want to browse without queuing. A shirt printing kiosk is available opposite the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand on matchdays.

Photo opportunities abound outside Old Trafford. The Munich Memorial outside the South Stand honours the victims of the 1958 air disaster and is a poignant place to visit. The statues of the United Trinity (Best, Law, and Charlton) outside the East Stand are popular spots for photos. The stadium's red brick exterior and distinctive cantilever stands provide an iconic backdrop.

On matchdays, street food vendors line Sir Matt Busby Way selling burgers, hot dogs, and traditional British fare for £8–12. Food stalls typically open about 2 hours before kick-off. The atmosphere builds steadily as kick-off approaches, with fans singing and chanting on their way to the turnstiles.

Where to Buy Food & Drink Before the Match

The area surrounding Old Trafford has numerous options for pre-match food and drink, ranging from traditional pubs to modern restaurants. Most establishments get very busy on matchdays, so consider booking ahead for sit-down meals or arrive early for walk-ins.

If you're short on time, street food vendors outside the stadium offer quick options from £8–12, typically opening 2 hours before kick-off. Many pubs stop serving food 60–90 minutes before kick-off, so plan accordingly. Last orders for drinks are usually 30 minutes before kick-off if you want to take a drink inside (where permitted in your section).

Stadium Features & Weather Considerations

Old Trafford features a roof covering all four stands, providing shelter for most seats. However, coverage varies by section and row. The lower tiers of all stands are generally well-protected from rain, particularly rows 10 and above. The front rows (1–10) in any section may get wet during heavy rain as the roof overhang doesn't extend far enough to protect them fully.

The upper tiers are more exposed, especially in the corner sections (North East Quadrant and North West Quadrant). These areas can be windy and colder than other parts of the stadium due to their height and the gaps between stands. If sitting in upper tier corners, bring extra layers regardless of the forecast. Wind can make temperatures feel 5–10 degrees colder than ground level.

During Manchester's football season (August to May), expect variable weather. Autumn and spring matches can range from mild and dry to cold and wet. Winter matches (November to March) can be bitterly cold, especially for evening fixtures. Temperatures regularly drop to 0–5°C, and the open corners of the stadium provide little protection from the elements. Layers, hats, and gloves are essential for winter evening matches.

For afternoon matches in autumn or spring, sections on the west side of the stadium (Stretford End) may experience sun in your eyes during the first half if kick-off is between 1–4pm. This is worth considering if you're sensitive to bright light. The East Stand faces west, so evening sun can also affect viewing there.

Rain is common in Manchester year-round, so bring waterproof clothing if the forecast shows any chance of precipitation. Even if you're under cover, rain can blow in at an angle during windy conditions. Umbrellas are not permitted inside the stadium for safety reasons, so waterproof jackets are your best option.

Best Time to Enter Old Trafford by Seating Section

Gates at Old Trafford typically open 90 minutes before kick-off. However, optimal arrival time depends on your seating location and how quickly you want to get settled. Entry queues peak 30–45 minutes before kick-off, so arriving outside this window reduces wait times.

• Upper tier seats (all stands): Arrive at least 60 minutes before kick-off. The spiral staircases and narrow walkways to upper tier sections create bottlenecks, especially in the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand (North Stand) where capacity is highest. If you're in the upper tier of the Stretford End (West Stand) or East Stand, the climb takes 5–10 minutes and becomes congested closer to kick-off.
• Lower tier seats: 40–45 minutes before kick-off is sufficient for most lower tier sections. Access is quicker and queues move faster. The Sir Bobby Charlton Stand (South Stand) has good access given its smaller size.
• Stretford End: This is the busiest stand due to its popularity with United's most vocal supporters. Arrive 50–60 minutes early regardless of tier, as queues form earlier here. The atmosphere builds quickest in this section, so arriving early is part of the experience.
• Away section: Located in the lower tier of the East Stand (sections E131–E135), the away end has its own designated entrance. Arrive 45–60 minutes early as security checks can be more thorough and queues longer.
• Accessible seating: Wheelchair users and those with accessibility needs should arrive 60+ minutes early to allow time for lifts and assistance. Accessible entrances are clearly marked and staffed to help with access.

Gates correspond to your stand and section. Check your ticket for gate information. The busiest entry times are 35–20 minutes before kick-off, so arriving earlier or later than this window will significantly reduce queue time. Once inside, concessions and toilets also get busy 20–30 minutes before kick-off, so factor this into your timing.

Understanding Old Trafford's Seating Layout

Old Trafford's seating is organized into four main stands with distinct characteristics. The stadium's current capacity is 74,197, distributed across the stands with both lower and upper tiers (except the South Stand, which has only one tier due to planning restrictions). Understanding the layout helps you choose the best seat for your preferences and expectations.

Best Seats for Different Viewing Experiences

Best Seating for Kids at Old Trafford

The designated Family Stand in the East Stand lower tier (sections E120–E125) is specifically designed for supporters attending with children under 14. Alcohol is not sold in this section, and the atmosphere is carefully managed to remain family-appropriate. Stewards are trained to assist families, and the environment is enthusiastic without being intimidating. These sections fill up quickly, so book well in advance for popular fixtures.

For sightlines, rows 10–20 work best for children. Lower rows (1–10) put smaller children at eye level with adults in front, limiting their view. Higher rows are better but very young children may struggle with the climb. Children under 1.2m tall may need to stand on their seat periodically to see clearly – row 15 onwards gives them the best chance of seeing over adult heads in front. Booster cushions are not provided by the stadium, so bring one if needed.

The Sir Bobby Charlton Stand is another child-friendly option with a calmer atmosphere than most of the stadium. Its single-tier design means less climbing and all seats are relatively close to exits and toilets – important considerations with young children who need bathroom breaks. Behind-goal views can be more exciting for children as they're closer to dramatic moments.

Avoid the Stretford End with young children under 10–12 years old. The intense atmosphere, standing throughout the match, and occasional rough language make it unsuitable for younger fans. Similarly, avoid sections immediately next to the away supporters (East Stand sections E133–E136) where atmosphere can be heated. Upper tier sections involve significant stair climbing that can be exhausting for small children.

Toilets in family sections are more frequently monitored and tend to be cleaner than other areas. Concessions near family sections offer child-friendly food options. The Megastore is a highlight for children before or after the match – arrive early to avoid crowds. Junior supporter programmes and matchday mascot opportunities are available for young fans – enquire through the club's website when booking tickets.

Best Seating for Accessibility at Old Trafford

Old Trafford provides wheelchair-accessible seating across all four stands, with approximately 170 wheelchair spaces distributed throughout the stadium. Accessible seating is integrated into the stands rather than segregated, allowing disabled supporters to sit among general fans while having appropriate space and facilities. Each wheelchair space includes a companion seat provided free of charge.

The East Stand sections E231–E235 offer some of the best elevated accessible views, positioned in the lower tier but with good sightlines. The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand has accessible seating in sections N1410–N1412 and N1428–N1430, providing excellent central viewing positions. Accessible sections in the Stretford End allow disabled supporters to experience the atmospheric home end if desired.

Booking accessible seating must be done directly through Manchester United's Disabled Supporters Association or the ticket office, not through general sale. Contact them as early as possible, especially for high-demand fixtures. Specify any additional requirements such as ambulant seating (for those who can transfer to a regular seat), audio description services, or assistance dog facilities.

Accessible parking must be booked alongside your match ticket and typically costs £15. Designated parking bays are located close to accessible entrances in car park E2 via Wharfside Way. Parking permits are essential – street parking with a Blue Badge is restricted on matchdays in the area around the stadium.

Accessible entrances are clearly marked at each stand and staffed with trained personnel. Lifts provide access to all levels, though upper tier access may require advance arrangement. Accessible toilets are located at ground level in all stands, clearly signposted and regularly maintained. Some sections also have accessible toilets at concourse level.

Audio description services for blind and partially sighted supporters are available with advance booking. Commentators provide live description of match action through headsets. Hearing loops are installed in accessible seating areas for hearing aid users. Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the stadium and water bowls are provided.

For ambulant disabled supporters who can use stairs but need nearby seating, sections near accessible areas provide regular seats with easier access. The club's Disabled Supporters Association (MUDSA) provides excellent resources and advice for planning your visit. Their website has detailed information about facilities and booking procedures. Contact them at mudsa@manutd.co.uk well before your visit.

Best Seating to Leave Quickly After the Match

If you need to catch a train, have a long drive ahead, or simply want to beat the crowds, seat selection makes a significant difference to your exit time. The fastest exits are from lower tier sections nearest to main gates, particularly those that lead directly toward public transport stops.

East Stand lower tier sections E128–E132 provide the quickest exit to Old Trafford and Wharfside tram stops. These sections have direct access to exits leading to Warwick Road and Sir Matt Busby Way, putting you at the front of the crowd heading to trams. You can realistically reach the tram platform within 5–7 minutes of leaving your seat if you depart at the final whistle.

Sir Bobby Charlton Stand sections S130–S135 offer quick exits toward Chester Road and main road routes away from the stadium. If you're parked in Trafford Village or heading to the park-and-ride at Stretford, these sections provide the most direct route. The South Stand's single tier means no stairs to navigate, further speeding your exit.

Avoid upper tier corner sections (North East and North West Quadrants) if you need a quick getaway. These seats funnel through narrow spiral staircases that become bottlenecks, adding 10–15 minutes to your exit. Upper tier seats in any stand will be slower than lower tier, but corner sections are by far the worst.

The Stretford End, despite its popularity, is slow to empty due to the sheer volume of fans and limited exit points. If you need to leave quickly, this stand is not ideal. The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand is similarly congested post-match given its 26,000 capacity.

Strategic timing matters as much as seat location. Leaving 5 minutes before the final whistle gets you ahead of 70,000 other people but means missing the end of the match. Leaving exactly at the final whistle puts you in the main crowd surge. Waiting 15–20 minutes after the final whistle lets crowds clear significantly – trams and roads are much calmer by this point. Many fans opt for this strategy, grabbing a drink at a nearby pub while crowds disperse. The Bishop Blaize on Chester Road is a popular post-match waiting spot, located conveniently between the stadium and Trafford Bar tram stop.

Best Seating Sections During Bad Weather

Old Trafford's roof provides coverage for most seats, but protection varies significantly by section and row. If rain is forecast or winter temperatures expected, choosing the right section makes the difference between comfort and misery.

For guaranteed rain protection, lower tier central sections in the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand (N1415–N1425, rows 10+) and East Stand (E129–E136, rows 12+) offer the best coverage. The roof overhang fully protects these areas even in heavy, wind-driven rain. Front rows (1–10) in any stand may get wet as the roof doesn't extend far enough to shield them fully.

The Stretford End lower tier (W107–W112, rows 15+) and Sir Bobby Charlton Stand (S129–S133, rows 15+) also provide good rain protection. Behind-goal stands have slightly less overhang than sideline stands, so higher row numbers are important for staying dry.

Upper tier sections are generally well-covered from direct rainfall but can be significantly colder and windier than lower tier. The height and open sides create wind tunnels, particularly in corner sections. North East Quadrant and North West Quadrant upper tiers (sections NE3... and NW3...) are the most exposed areas of the stadium. Avoid these in bad weather unless you're prepared for biting wind and potential rain spray.

Corner sections in both tiers are the coldest spots at Old Trafford due to wind exposure through the gaps between stands. If temperatures are forecast below 5°C, extra layers are essential for corner seats regardless of roof coverage. Evening matches in November through March are particularly brutal in these sections as wind chill factors in.

For more detail on weather conditions at Old Trafford and seasonal expectations, refer back to the Stadium Features & Weather Considerations section above. Remember that umbrellas are prohibited inside the stadium, so waterproof clothing is essential if rain is expected and you're in an exposed section.

Stadium Facilities & Amenities

What to Bring & What Not to Bring

Stadium Entry & Bag Checks

Entry to Old Trafford involves security screening and ticket validation. Understanding the process helps you plan your arrival time and reduces stress, particularly for first-time visitors.

At your designated gate, you'll first encounter a bag search station. Stewards will ask to look inside any bags, checking for prohibited items. This typically takes 30 seconds per person unless your bag is large or contains many items. If you're carrying prohibited items, they'll be confiscated and not stored for collection after the match. Cooperate fully with security staff – they're there for everyone's safety.

After bag checks, you'll proceed to ticket scanners. Mobile tickets work directly from your phone via the Manchester United app or email – no need to print. Simply show the barcode to the scanner. If using a printed ticket, have it ready and visible. Scanning takes 5–10 seconds per person.

Some gates have additional security measures including metal detectors or pat-down searches, particularly at high-profile fixtures. Follow steward instructions and remove metal items (keys, phones) from pockets when asked. This adds minimal time but can create brief queues.

Total entry time from joining the queue to reaching your seat is typically 5–10 minutes if you arrive 45+ minutes before kick-off. In the 30 minutes before kick-off, entry queues peak and wait times can extend to 15–20 minutes or more. Arriving during this window means you'll spend significant time standing in queues rather than enjoying the pre-match atmosphere inside.

Re-entry is not permitted once you've left the stadium. If you forget something in your car or realize you've left an item at your accommodation, you cannot retrieve it and return. Double-check you have everything before joining the entry queue.

If you arrive very late (after kick-off), you'll still be admitted but may miss the opening minutes while going through security. Some sections don't allow seating during active play, requiring you to watch from the concourse until the next break in play. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before kick-off to guarantee you're in your seat for the starting whistle.

For the smoothest entry experience: arrive 45–60 minutes early, have your ticket ready, minimize bag contents, remove prohibited items before arrival, and have metal objects easily accessible for security checks. First-time visitors should budget extra time in case of confusion about finding the correct gate or navigating the stadium.

Old Trafford's History & Significance

Old Trafford opened on 19 February 1910 with a match between Manchester United and Liverpool (United lost 4–3). Built at a cost of £90,000 (over £13 million in today's money), it was designed by Scottish architect Archibald Leitch, who created several iconic British stadiums. The stadium was originally designed with a capacity of 100,000 spectators, featuring seating in the south stand under cover while the other three stands were uncovered terraces.

The stadium earned its famous nickname The Theatre of Dreams from legendary player Bobby Charlton. This poetic description reflects Old Trafford's status not just as a venue but as a stage where football history has been written across more than a century.

World War II brought devastation to Old Trafford. German bombs severely damaged the stadium in March 1941, destroying the main stand and leaving the ground unusable. United were forced to share Maine Road (Manchester City's ground) from 1941 to 1949. Reconstruction took eight years due to post-war material shortages, with the rebuilt stadium officially reopening in August 1949.