Metrolink (Manchester’s Light Rail System)
The Metrolink is the most efficient public transport option for reaching Old Trafford on matchdays. The stadium is served by two dedicated stops: Old Trafford (closest to the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand) and Exchange Quay (a 10-minute walk to the South Stand). Trams run from Manchester city centre (Piccadilly Gardens, St Peter’s Square, and Deansgate-Castlefield) with a journey time of approximately 15–20 minutes. On matchdays, services are significantly increased, with trams operating every 6–12 minutes from two hours before kick-off until one hour after the final whistle. The Metrolink network also connects to park-and-ride sites across Greater Manchester, including Sale Water Park, Altrincham, and Bury, where supporters can park for free and take a direct tram to the stadium. It’s worth noting that the Old Trafford stop can become extremely congested after matches; many regulars recommend walking one stop to Wharfside or Exchange Quay to board a less crowded tram.
Rail Services: Manchester United Football Ground Station
Old Trafford has its own dedicated railway station, Manchester United Football Ground, located on the Liverpool–Manchester line. This station is only open on matchdays and major event days, with services running from Manchester Piccadilly (journey time: 5–7 minutes) and Liverpool Lime Street (journey time: approximately 45 minutes). The station is a short 5-minute walk from the stadium’s East Stand. However, capacity is limited—trains typically carry around 600 passengers per service—and queues can build rapidly after the final whistle. Supporters traveling from outside the North West should note that connecting from Manchester Oxford Road or Deansgate stations may require a change at Piccadilly. For those coming from the south, Stockport station offers regular services to Manchester Piccadilly, where the tram or rail connection to Old Trafford can be made.
Bus Services
Several bus routes serve the Old Trafford area, though they are generally less reliable on matchdays due to road closures and traffic congestion. Key routes include:
- Route 53: Runs from Manchester city centre (Piccadilly Gardens) to the Trafford Centre, stopping near the stadium on Sir Matt Busby Way.
- Route 250: Connects Manchester city centre with Altrincham, passing along Chester Road (A56), a 10-minute walk from the ground.
- Route 255: Similar to the 250 but with additional stops in Stretford and Old Trafford.
Road Access and Parking
Driving to Old Trafford is possible but requires careful planning. The stadium is located off the A56 (Chester Road), with access from the M60 motorway (junctions 7 and 9). On matchdays, Sir Matt Busby Way (the road directly outside the main entrance) is closed to general traffic from two hours before kick-off until one hour after the final whistle. There are no official car parks at the stadium itself, but several privately operated matchday parking lots operate in the surrounding area, including:
- Trafford Park (industrial estate): Multiple lots within a 15–20 minute walk, prices vary depending on proximity and matchday demand.
- Salford Quays: Parking at The Quays or MediaCityUK (approximately 20-minute walk), though spaces are limited on event days.
- Old Trafford Cricket Ground: Occasionally opens its car park for football matches (10-minute walk).
Cycling and Walking
For those staying in central Manchester or Salford, cycling to Old Trafford is a viable option. The stadium is connected to the city centre via the Bridgewater Canal towpath (a 30-minute cycle from Piccadilly Gardens) and the Trafford Park cycle network. Bicycle racks are available outside the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand and the East Stand, though they fill quickly on matchdays—arriving at least 45 minutes before kick-off is recommended. Walking from Manchester city centre takes approximately 45–60 minutes along the A56 or through Salford Quays, but it’s a pleasant route on a dry day, passing MediaCityUK and the Lowry Theatre. Many local supporters combine walking with a pre-match pub stop in the Old Trafford or Stretford areas.
Accessible Transport
Old Trafford is committed to providing accessible transport options for supporters with disabilities. The Metrolink network is fully step-free, with low-floor trams and ramps at all stops serving the stadium. The Old Trafford tram stop has a lift to the platform, and the Exchange Quay stop is ground-level. For rail users, Manchester United Football Ground station has step-free access via a ramp, but assistance may be required for the steep incline. The club operates a dedicated accessible shuttle bus from the stadium’s accessible parking area (located at the Sir Bobby Charlton Stand) to the main entrance, which can be booked through the club’s accessibility team. Blue Badge holders can apply for matchday parking permits through the club, though spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
What to Check Before You Travel
- Matchday service changes: Always verify tram, train, and bus schedules on the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) website or app, as services can be altered or cancelled at short notice.
- Road closures: Sir Matt Busby Way is closed on matchdays; check the club’s official website or local council updates for alternative routes.
- Parking restrictions: Residential parking zones are enforced on matchdays; avoid parking in permit-only areas to prevent fines.
- Accessible booking: Contact the club’s accessibility team at least 48 hours before the match to arrange shuttle bus or parking permits.
- Weather conditions: Canal towpaths and walking routes can become slippery in wet weather; allow extra time if walking or cycling.
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