Old Trafford, the iconic home of Manchester United, attracts fans from all over the world. While experiencing a match or stadium tour is a thrilling experience, finding the right parking spot can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best places to park at Old Trafford, ensuring your visit is stress-free and enjoyable.
Where to Park at Old Trafford?
Finding parking near Old Trafford depends on your priorities and budget. Here’s a quick breakdown:
On-site:
- Official club car parks: Convenient but expensive, especially on matchdays. Pre-booking recommended.
- Third-party car parks: Often cheaper, but further away. Consider distance and security.
Off-site:
- Street parking: Free options available, but limited and competitive on matchdays.
- Apps/Websites: Book parking in advance near the stadium or in nearby neighborhoods.
Pre-booking a parking space is an excellent choice, and I’ll walk you through some options.
1. Old Trafford Parking:
You can conveniently pre-book parking for match days on the Old Trafford website. Prices usually hover around £12 for the duration of the game. I recommend checking early, as these permits can sell out quickly due to their proximity to the stadium.
2. RingGo App
Consider downloading the RingGo app, a fantastic tool for on-street parking. Trafford Council offers various nearby spots that you can pay for as you park. Keep in mind that these spots fill up rapidly, so feel free to park a bit further away and use the public transportation options available to you.
3. JustPark Website
Explore JustPark, a website that informs you about available parking spots in the area that you can reserve. This is an excellent alternative if both Old Trafford and Trafford Council spots are fully booked.
4. Incom Group Manchester United Car Park
This CCTV-supervised car park is just a short 200 meters’ walk from the stadium. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is vital. I’ve personally used this car park and had a positive experience. Here’s the address: Incom Group, Incom House, Waterside, off Trafford Wharf Road, Manchester M17 1WD. Visit their website for more information before heading to the game.
Suppose you’re looking for free parking options. You should park a bit further from the stadium and be prepared for a longer walk or utilize the Metrolink system.
5. Metrolink Manchester
Utilize Manchester’s Metrolink system by parking farther from the stadium and taking a cheap tram ride to Old Trafford. This can save you money, and it’s a convenient option if you’re physically able to walk.
6. Lancashire Cricket Club
The Old Trafford CricketGroundd offers parking on match days, and there are additional parking lots in the vicinity if you’re willing to hop on a tram.
7. The Trafford Centre
If you plan to visit the Trafford Centre Retail Park before the match, attempt to find parking there. Keep in mind that spaces fill up early, but if you secure a spot, it’s a short tram ride to Old Trafford.
8. Park and Ride
Consider using one of the Park and Ride locations around Manchester. While these aren’t free, you can usually find a spot and then take a bus to Old Trafford. This is a good option if you are okay with a bit of hassle, especially on chaotic match days.
9. St Teresa’s School
For added peace of mind, consider pre-booking a parking space at St Teresa’s School on St Teresa Road, just a 15-minute walk from the stadium. Spaces are regularly patrolled during the game, offering security and convenience. Although not the cheapest option at £15 per space, it’s a reliable choice. Book your space at thebigparking.co.uk.
When to Arrive at Old Trafford?
Based on my personal experience, I recommend arriving at Old Trafford about 3 hours before kick-off. This allows you to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the surroundings before entering the stadium, which you can do approximately 30 minutes before kick-off.
For away fans or those traveling from a distance, consider spending the day in Manchester or booking a hotel for the night. The city offers a wide variety of pubs and dining options. Manchester is one of my favorite cities for food; you can savor the delights of places like Salt & Pepper in the Northern Quarter or opt for something simpler like McDonald’s.
In summary, here are all the parking options we’ve discussed for your convenience. Plan, and you’ll have a stress-free parking experience at Old Trafford.
FAQs
Q1: Are there any free parking options near Old Trafford?
While there are limited free parking options on nearby streets, it’s recommended to use one of the official parking facilities to ensure a secure spot.
Q2: Can I pre-book parking at Old Trafford?
Yes, it’s advisable to pre-book parking, especially for high-demand matches. Most official parking facilities offer online booking services.
Q3: Are there disabled parking facilities available?
Yes, Old Trafford provides designated accessible parking areas. Make sure to display your blue badge to access these spaces.
Conclusion
Finding parking near Old Trafford doesn’t have to be a headache. With these convenient options, you can focus on enjoying the match or stadium tour without worrying about where to park. Whether you choose the proximity of Sir Matt Busby Way or the convenience of park-and-ride at Trafford Centre, your Old Trafford experience will be unforgettable. Plan, book your spot, and let the excitement of this legendary stadium take center stage!
