Manchester United Stadium Tour

Anything from two to five tours an hour. Reasonably strong security—don’t take bags. Tour lasts 80 minutes. You get a walk round the stadium, lead by a guide. See the dressing rooms, walk to the pitch (though not on it), sit in minor VIP seats and the press rooms. Be dumped into the MegaStore. You can visit the museum and cafe before and after the tour. Verdict? If you’re a fan, or want to check major tourist destinations, this is the most famous thing in Manchester. My guide was good, and elsewhere the guides have an good reputation. The museum is packed with contributions which give it weight—could be available as a visit, but isn’t. The photography policy is open, and there’s trophies to photograph. The cafe is reasonable but segregated. But then… if you’re not a fan, the online booking system is basic and forces you to register with the club. Signposting is non‐existent virtually, on the road and in the stadium—the staff cover for it. The tour is rushed. Opportunities to talk about community and the stadium are ignored. Instead, the richest club in the world assumes you’re a fan and chuckles at it’s money. And, if you’re not interested, there’s nothing near the Old Trafford stadium—without a car you’re stuck.