Manchester: A Tale of Two Football Teams
For football enthusiasts, a pilgrimage to Manchester is akin to stepping into the heart of football history. The city is home to two footballing giants - Manchester City and Manchester United - and embarking on behind-the-scenes tours of Etihad Stadium and Old Trafford offers a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of legends.
Etihad Stadium - The Blue Heart of Manchester
Silent Magic: The 120-minute tour of Etihad Stadium provides a rare glimpse into the inner sanctum of the Manchester City football club. It starts by absorbing the tranquil silence of the field on non-match days, where thoughts wander to players like Haaland and Dr Bruyne igniting the crowd with breathtaking goals, creating memories etched into the very turf stretched out before you.
Explore the Inner-Sanctum: Wander through impressive dining rooms where fans, sponsors, and VIPs mingle on match days, eager to catch a glimpse of their favourite players. Then, step into the famous circular change room adorned with Tommy Walsh’s poignant words - ‘some are born here, some are drawn here, but we all call it home’ as you learn more about the team’s match-day rituals and renowned camaraderie.
Virtual Press Conference: A highlight of the Etihad Stadium tour is the virtual press conference with coach Pep Guardiola. Through the magic of technology, experience a unique photo opportunity with the man himself, capturing a moment that will forever connect you to the heartbeat of Manchester City.
Fan Store: The tour concludes in the Manchester City Fan Store, where completing the journey earns you a discount on merchandise, allowing you to take home a piece of the Sky Blue magic.
Learn more and book a tour of Etihad Stadium here.
Old Trafford - The Theatre of Dreams
Manchester United Museum: Before delving into the inner workings of Manchester United, spend some time exploring the Club’s museum. Whilst included in your ticket, this experience is not part of the tour itself, so make sure you allow yourself at least 30 minutes to discover the Club’s rich history through unique memorabilia and displays.
Wander Through History: Spanning 80 minutes, the Old Trafford tour offers a unique glimpse into Manchester United’s innermost workings. Explore the ground from the stands and VIP seating, then venture into the change rooms to learn more about the team’s match-day preparations and take photos among the lockers and replica jerseys.
The Old Tunnel: Discover the old tunnel, the sole survivor from the original 1910 stadium, miraculously spared during the Second World War bombing and brilliantly incorporated into the new stadium build. Wander down to the dugout to stand on the edge of the field, gaining a unique perspective of this iconic stadium that has witnessed decades of football glory.
Fan Store: The tour concludes in the Manchester United Fan Store, where completing the journey earns you a complimentary certificate, the chance to purchase official photographs taken throughout the experience and a discount on merchandise. Revel in the legacy of the Red Devils as you leave with cherished mementos.
Learn more and book a tour of Old Trafford here.
The National Football Museum - A Family-Friendly Experience
For families with little ones, The National Football Museum in Manchester is also a must-visit. Explore the world’s greatest sport through interactive exhibitions, spread across multiple floors and put your skills to the test as you experience the joy of football in a fun and engaging way.
Learn more about The National Football Museum here.
Whether you’re a devoted Sky Blue, a passionate Red Devil or just a fan of the game, the behind-the-scenes tours of Etihad Stadium and Old Trafford offer an intimate connection to the spirit of football. As the final chapter, The National Football Museum ensures that the love for the beautiful game is shared and celebrated by fans of all ages. Come, immerse yourself in the footballing magic of Manchester, where every step tells a story of passion, triumph, and the enduring legacy of two footballing giants.