Old Trafford is one of the most decorated and historic football stadiums in the UK, if not the world. Home to Manchester United since 1910, today Old Trafford offers 74,310 football fans the chance to cheer on the Red Devils - as they fight for Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and League cup glory.
Old Trafford attracts millions of visitors a year - from United fans attending matches, away fans travelling to support their own team, and football tourists taking a tour of the stadium and Manchester United’s impressive Trophy Room. A crucial part of any visit to Old Trafford Stadium is finding a suitable and budget-friendly parking space. In this article, we'll delve into the best and cheapest methods to park near the stadium, saving you money and time in the process for a stress-free visit.
Rent a private parking space near the stadium
Homeowners near Old Trafford often rent out their driveways and parking spaces at a fraction of the cost of official stadium parking schemes, acting as a win-win for the local community. You save money by booking alternative parking options while local residents make a healthy side income from their earnings. Reserving a space should take no longer than a few minutes online or via the JustPark app — simply enter where you’re going, filter for any additional requirements such as vehicle size or accessibility, select your perfect space then pay; we take care of everything else for you.
JustPark also offers a Best Price Guarantee, so you can rest assured that you’re getting the lowest price available on spaces around Old Trafford.
Official stadium parking
While Old Trafford does offer official parking for matchdays, finding a space on the day of a major event can be challenging and costly. The South Stand Car Park is the often cited as one of the most convenient on-site options for fans, but it might not always be the cheapest way to access the stadium.
The stadium has some official advice for parking on or near the grounds:
Non-Matchday: From 12th April 2021, visitors to the stadium should use car park E2 only, which can be accessed from Wharfside Way West. Accessible parking spaces are available in this car park.
Matchday: Access to car parks E1 & E2 can only be gained via Wharfside Way with the relevant permits. Anyone attempting to access via Chester Road will be directed around the traffic system which will cause further delays. Where acting upon Police instructions, supporters parking on E1 & E2 may be held back after the game and we apologise for any such delays.
When parking at the stadium, please ensure that you follow the below instructions:
- Follow the directions given by the Stewards
- On car parks with marked bays, please park between the lines
- Do not park in any hatched or restricted areas
- Adhere to our car park speed limit of 10 mph
- Allow yourself additional time for searches and ticket checks if you are parking on matchdays
- Please be patient and expect delays to your entry or exit at busy periods
- Be aware of pedestrians and cyclists
Nearby street parking
If you’ve ever tried to find parking in the surrounding area of a venue or stadium on a busy day, you already know the pain points: overcrowding, not enough spaces, possibly even running late or missing the start of your event due to circling around trying to find an open spot.
It can be a more budget-friendly option to consider parking on the nearby residential streets, but remember it requires some patience and good timing.We recommend checking the parking restrictions in the area ahead of time so you don’t have any last minute surprises, and always follow local rules and regulations. Keep an eye out for "Residents Only" zones and time-limited parking to avoid penalties as well.
Popular roads to find parking near Old Trafford include Wright Street, White City Way, Turner Street and Trafford Bank Road, where you can book a convenient and cheap parking space well in advance to avoid risking any inconvenience.
Park and ride
A cost-effective and convenient way to park near Old Trafford is to use Park and Ride facilities. You can park your car in designated areas outside the city centre and then use public transportation to reach the stadium. The Old Trafford Metrolink tram station is a great option for this purpose, and it's only a short walk from the stadium. Check the official Metrolink website for parking locations and ticket options.
Walk a little longer (to save a lot)
If you're open to a little exercise, there are areas within walking distance of Old Trafford where you can park for free or at a very low cost. Explore the neighbourhoods around the stadium and take a leisurely walk to the venue. Not only will you save money, but you'll also get to experience the local atmosphere and help out a local resident.
This can be especially useful if you’re not overly pressed for time; there’s plenty of opportunity to explore the area through arena tours and museum visits, or visit one of the local pubs or restaurants ahead of the match to get into the team spirit (responsibly if driving, of course). Get an advance view of the stadium tour through one of the walkthroughs shown below,.
Cycle to the match
For those who prefer eco-friendly and inexpensive options, and who live within a manageable distance, consider cycling to the grounds. The stadium provides secure bicycle racks at no additional cost — you just may want to arrive a bit earlier than normal to ensure you get a spot. Be sure to bring a good quality lock and bring any valuables with you; while the grounds are typically safe and well secured, you should be diligent about taking a few anti-theft measures in public venues.
Finding affordable parking near Old Trafford doesn't have to be a daunting task. By exploring the options mentioned above, you can secure a convenient and budget-friendly parking space for your visit. Whether you choose the official stadium parking, nearby street parking, pre-booking on JustPark, or other methods, planning ahead is key to a successful parking experience. Enjoy your time at Old Trafford without the worry of parking hassles, and cheer on your team with peace of mind.
