The Complete Guide to Old Trafford, the Theatre of Dreams

Introduction

Old Trafford is more than just a football stadium. It is an icon, a symbol, and a place steeped in the history of both triumph and tragedy that has shaped one of the world’s greatest clubs: Manchester United. Nicknamed “The Theatre of Dreams” by the legendary Sir Bobby Charlton, this ground has witnessed over a century of footballing evolution and has been home to generations of legendary players. For fans across the globe, a visit here is akin to a pilgrimage to a cathedral of football.

This guide has been created to be the most comprehensive source of information on Old Trafford available online. You will find everything you need here, whether you are a Manchester United supporter planning your first visit, a fan of an opposing team seeking practical advice, or simply a football enthusiast curious about the history of this venue. We cover its detailed history, technical specifications, an in-depth guide for away fans, travel and parking information, local pubs, and the stadium tour.

History and Key Facts: The Birth of a Legend

The history of Old Trafford is intrinsically linked with the history of Manchester United. It’s a story of ambition, destruction, rebuilding, and the relentless pursuit of glory.

The Early Days and the “Theatre of Dreams”

In the early 1900s, Manchester United, then known as Newton Heath, played their matches at the modest ground of Bank Street. As the club’s popularity grew, chairman John Henry Davies decided a stadium befitting their aspirations was needed. In 1909, a plot of land was purchased for around £60,000. The design was entrusted to the famed Scottish architect Archibald Leitch, who was responsible for many of Britain’s most famous grounds, including Anfield, Stamford Bridge, and Ibrox. At the time, the construction cost of £90,000 was a staggering sum. The inaugural match was held on February 19, 1910, with United losing 3-4 to Liverpool. The stadium featured one covered, seated stand (the present-day South Stand) and open terraces on the other three sides.

Wartime Destruction and Rebuilding

During the Second World War, Old Trafford’s proximity to Trafford Park—a key industrial area—made it a target for Luftwaffe bombing raids. The stadium was severely damaged twice, with the heaviest raid on March 11, 1941, destroying the main stand, dressing rooms, and the pitch. For nearly a decade, Manchester United was forced to play its home games at Maine Road, the stadium of their local rivals, Manchester City. Thanks to funds from the War Damage Commission, the stadium was rebuilt and officially reopened on August 24, 1949.

The Busby Babes Era and the Munich Air Disaster

The 1950s were dominated by Matt Busby’s legendary team, known as the “Busby Babes.” Old Trafford became the stage for their incredible success. It was one of the first grounds in England to install floodlights, making it possible to play European cup games in the evening. The Munich Air Disaster in 1958, which claimed the lives of many players from that great team, left a deep scar on the club and the stadium. The subsequent rebuilding of the team by Matt Busby, culminating in the European Cup victory in 1968, became one of the most emotional chapters in Old Trafford’s history.

The Sir Alex Ferguson Era and the Modern Fortress

The arrival of Sir Alex Ferguson in 1986 marked the start of a new era of unprecedented success. Following the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, the Taylor Report mandated that all top-flight stadiums become all-seater venues. Old Trafford underwent a massive transformation. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the stadium was continuously expanded. The giant, three-tiered North Stand (later renamed the Sir Alex Ferguson Stand) was built, and the corners were filled in, increasing the capacity to what it is today. The stadium became a modern fortress where Manchester United built its Premier League dominance.

Technical Data and Architecture

Capacity and Record Attendances

Old Trafford is the largest club football stadium in the United Kingdom, with an official capacity of 74,310 for Premier League matches. However, the record attendance was set long before it became an all-seater venue. On March 25, 1939, an FA Cup semi-final between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Grimsby Town was watched by 76,962 spectators.

The Four Stands

Old Trafford is comprised of four main stands, each with its own unique character:

  • The Sir Alex Ferguson Stand: The largest stand, holding around 26,000 spectators across three tiers. It houses many of the stadium’s executive boxes, hospitality suites, and the club museum.
  • The Sir Bobby Charlton Stand: The only single-tiered stand, it contains the changing rooms, media facilities, and the managers’ dugouts. It is the oldest remaining part of the original stadium, and its expansion is logistically complex due to the railway line that runs directly behind it.
  • The West Stand (Stretford End): The legendary stand traditionally occupied by Manchester United’s most hardcore and vocal supporters. It is considered the beating heart of Old Trafford’s atmosphere.
  • The East Stand: This stand also houses home supporters but contains the dedicated section for away fans in its corner. The club’s Megastore is also located here.

Pitch Dimensions and Surface

The pitch dimensions at Old Trafford are 105 by 68 metres (115 by 74 yards), which adheres to UEFA’s standard recommendations. The pitch is a Desso GrassMaster hybrid surface, consisting of natural grass reinforced with synthetic fibres. This ensures the playing surface is exceptionally durable and of high quality throughout the season.

The Away Fan’s Guide (Priority Section)

Visiting Old Trafford as a supporter of the away team is a unique experience. The following information will help you prepare for your visit.

Location and Allocation

The away section is located in the South-East corner of the stadium, occupying a portion of the East Stand and the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand. The standard ticket allocation for Premier League fixtures is approximately 3,000. The section is split across two levels: the Lower Tier and the Upper Tier.

View from the Away Section

The view is generally good, particularly from the Upper Tier, which offers a panoramic perspective of the entire pitch. However, it should be noted that seats in the lowest rows of the Lower Tier can have a slightly restricted view due to the shallow gradient of the stand. The Upper Tier is quite steep, which provides excellent sightlines but may be a challenge for those with a fear of heights.

Tickets – Prices and Distribution

Tickets for the away section are NEVER sold directly by Manchester United. They are distributed exclusively by the visiting club to their own supporters (typically season ticket holders and those with a high number of away credits). Premier League ticket prices are capped at £30 for away fans. For domestic cups and European competitions, prices may be higher.

Security, Searches, and Safety

Expect thorough security searches upon entry to the stadium. A standard list of prohibited items applies (pyrotechnics, bottles, large bags, professional cameras, etc.). Buffer zones staffed by stewards are typically in place between the away section and home supporters.

Catering in the Away End

The concourses in the away section have food and drink outlets offering a standard stadium menu: beer (e.g., Carling, Heineken – often de-alcoholised for high-risk matches), soft drinks, hot dogs, burgers, and famous British pies. Prices are typical for Premier League grounds: a pint costs around £5–£6, and a hot dog is about £4–£5. Queues at half-time can be very long.

Practical Information – Travel and Parking

Getting to Old Trafford on a matchday requires planning. The stadium is located outside of Manchester’s city centre.

Public Transport – The Best Choice

  • Metrolink (Tram): This is by far the most popular and convenient option. From the city centre (e.g., Piccadilly or Victoria stations), take the Altrincham line. The closest stops are Old Trafford (approx. 10-minute walk) and Exchange Quay (also approx. 10 minutes, often less crowded). The journey time from the city centre is about 15 minutes.
  • Train (National Rail): There is a small railway station, Manchester United Football Ground, adjacent to the stadium, but services are infrequent and do not run for all matches. A better option is to travel to Manchester Piccadilly station and change onto the Metrolink tram.
  • Bus: Several bus services run from the city centre (Piccadilly Gardens) towards Old Trafford and Trafford Park, including the 250, 255, and 256 routes. However, the journey can be significantly delayed by matchday traffic.

Arriving by Car and Where to Park

Driving near the stadium on a matchday is strongly discouraged. Roads around Old Trafford are closed, and traffic is extremely heavy.

  • Official Car Parks: The club operates official car parks, but spaces must be pre-booked well in advance and are expensive. They sell out quickly.
  • Unofficial Car Parks: Numerous unofficial, paid car parks are operated by local businesses, schools, and warehouses around the stadium. The cost is typically £10–£20. They are generally secure, but exiting after the match can take up to an hour.
  • Park & Ride: This is the best option for those driving. Leave your car at one of the free Park & Ride car parks on the M60 motorway (e.g., East Didsbury, Ashton Moss) and complete your journey by Metrolink tram.

The Stadium Area: Pubs, Food, and Atmosphere

The atmosphere around Old Trafford on a matchday is electric, but it’s crucial to know where to go, especially as an away fan.

Home Fan Pubs (To Be Avoided by Away Fans)

There are several pubs in the immediate vicinity of the stadium that are strictly for home supporters only. Attempting to enter while wearing away colours is a very bad idea. These include The Bishop Blaize, The Trafford, The Matchstick Man, and Sam Platts.

Away Fan Friendly Pubs

Visiting supporters have a few safer options:

  • Salford Quays / MediaCityUK: A 15-20 minute walk from the stadium, the modern Salford Quays area has pubs like The Lowry and Lime Bar, which are far more neutral and welcoming. This is a popular meeting point for away fans.
  • City Centre: Many away fans choose to drink in Manchester’s city centre (e.g., the Northern Quarter or the Printworks), where the choice of pubs is vast, before taking the short tram ride to the ground.
  • The Tollgate: A pub located slightly further from the ground which is known to be “mixed” but generally accepts away fans. Discretion is still advised.

Pre-Match Food Options

The area immediately surrounding the stadium is dominated by mobile food vans serving classic burgers, kebabs, and fish and chips. More restaurant options are available in Salford Quays. A full spectrum of culinary choices can be found in Manchester city centre.

The Museum & Stadium Tour

To fully appreciate the magic of the venue, a stadium and museum tour is highly recommended.

What You See on the Tour

A standard tour includes a visit to the key areas that are off-limits on a matchday:

  • The club museum (three floors of history and trophies)
  • The home team dressing room
  • The players’ tunnel (with the “This is the One” anthem playing as you walk out)
  • The managers’ dugouts
  • A walk along the touchline of the hallowed turf

Opening Hours and Prices

The museum and tours are available on most days of the year but do not run on matchdays. Always check availability and book tickets in advance on the club’s official website, as tours are extremely popular. Tickets for the standard Museum & Stadium Tour cost approximately £25–£30 for an adult, with concessions for children and seniors. Booking online is virtually essential, especially during holidays and on weekends.

Summary: Key Tips for Your Visit

  • Plan Ahead: Old Trafford draws huge crowds. Book your match tickets, stadium tour, and any parking well in advance.
  • Use Public Transport: The Metrolink tram is the quickest and easiest way to get to the stadium from the city centre.
  • Arrive Early: Give yourself at least 90 minutes before kick-off to get to the ground, go through security, and find your seat.
  • Away Fans – Be Aware: Avoid the home-only pubs near the stadium. Head to Salford Quays or stay in the city centre for a drink.
  • Check the Weather: Manchester is famous for its rain. A waterproof jacket is often a wise choice.
  • Soak in the History: If you have time, the stadium tour is absolutely worth the price and provides a deep understanding of why Old Trafford is such a special place.

Key Visitor Information