The Old Trafford Stadium, home of Manchester United FC, stands as a symbol of football history and passion. Often nicknamed “The Theatre of Dreams” — a phrase reportedly coined by Sir Bobby Charlton — it captures the emotion and pride of generations of fans.

Key Facts & History

• Club: Manchester United FC

• Opened: February 19, 1910

• Location: Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England

• Capacity: Approximately 74,197 – 75,811 seats (the largest club football stadium in the UK)

• Architect: Archibald Leitch (famous for designing many classic British stadiums)

• Initial Construction Cost: £90,000 (1909)

• Record Attendance: 76,962 (FA Cup semi-final between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Grimsby Town, 1939)

A Brief Look at Its Story

The inaugural match was held against Liverpool in 1910, where Manchester United lost 3–4. During World War II, the stadium was heavily damaged by German air raids, forcing Manchester United to share Maine Road with Manchester City from 1941 to 1949 while Old Trafford was rebuilt.

Extensive modernization in the 1990s and 2000s transformed Old Trafford into a fully seated, state-of-the-art venue, reaching its current capacity. Each stand has its own tribute:

• North Stand: Sir Alex Ferguson Stand (renamed in 2011)

• South Stand: Sir Bobby Charlton Stand

• West Stand: The Stretford End — home of the most passionate supporters.

Major Events Hosted

Old Trafford has hosted a wide array of major football tournaments, including:

• Matches for the 1966 FIFA World Cup

• Matches for UEFA Euro 1996

• The 2003 UEFA Champions League Final (AC Milan vs. Juventus)

• Football matches during the 2012 London Olympics

Beyond football, the stadium has also welcomed concerts and global sporting events, reinforcing its title as a cultural and sporting icon.

Today, visitors can enjoy an immersive Stadium Tour — walking through the players’ tunnel, the dugouts, the dressing rooms, and the Manchester United Museum, which showcases the club’s rich heritage, trophies, and legends.

• By Tram: Take the Metrolink to Old Trafford Station (Altrincham line) or Exchange Quay Station (MediaCityUK line).

• By Train: From Manchester Piccadilly, trains run to Trafford Park Station, around a 15-minute walk from the stadium.

• By Bus: Routes 255, 256, and 263 stop nearby.

• By Car: Roughly 10 minutes from Manchester city centre; parking available on non-match days.

• Book your stadium tour online in advance, particularly during weekends and match days.

• Visit the Red Café or the Megastore for official Manchester United merchandise.

• Arrive early to experience the vibrant fan atmosphere before kickoff.

• Man United fans: Don’t miss the full stadium + museum tour.

• Visit on non-match weekdays for fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.

• Combine with nearby attractions like MediaCityUK and The Lowry (15–20 min walk).

Admission Fee:

• Stadium Tour & Museum:

  • Adults: £28

  • Children: £18

  • Family Ticket: £80
    (Prices vary depending on tour type and match schedules.)

Opening Time:

• Museum & Stadium Tour: 09:30 – 17:00 (Closed on match days)

• Match Days: Entry opens around 2 hours before kickoff.