Known across the globe (although not to be confused with the football ground up the road), Old Trafford Cricket Ground has a rich history with international cricket. It hosted the first Ashes test in England back in 1884, and was also the site of Shane Warne’s historic “Ball of the Century” in 1993.
Best spots for food and drink near Old Trafford
As a hub of sporting activity, the streets of Old Trafford are lined with takeaways and burger vans, but nearby Salford Quays has plenty to offer for sit-down meal options. About a 10-minute walk from Old Trafford Cricket Ground, Salford Quays is home to numerous trendy pubs, bars and eateries. Stop by The Dockyard for street food style meals and pints, or enjoy an exciting mix of British cuisine and sushi at Lime.
Sports fans will want to make time for Café Football too. Located opposite Manchester United’s iconic Old Trafford, Café Football has stunning views of the ground’s exterior with sporting memorabilia and artwork lining the walls. The food isn’t your standard match-day fare either; fresh pizzas, burgers and healthy ‘eat like a pro’ options ensure you’ll leave full and satisfied.
Looking for a more formal option? Housed within Manchester’s Lowry Theatre on Salford Quays, Pier Eight is a sophisticated, stylish restaurant and bar serving fresh British flavours with locally sourced produce.
Best hotels near Old Trafford
For the closest option to Old Trafford Cricket Ground, book into the on-site Hilton Garden Inn. This luxury hotel was built into the ground during a redevelopment, and most of the rooms have balconies with stunning views across the ground.
Another great option is Hotel Football, just across the road from Old Trafford football stadium (and about a five-minute walk from the cricket ground). Owned by Manchester United legends Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Phil Neville, the hotel is far more than a cash-grab for ex-footballers; the quality décor and award-winning service make it a real champion.
Salford Quays is also home to a number of quality hotel chains, including Premier Inn, Travelodge and ibis.
Things to do near Old Trafford
A sporting trip to Old Trafford isn’t complete without a visit to the world famous Theatre of Dreams – Manchester United’s home ground. Tours of the ground, including exclusive looks at the dressing rooms and dugout areas, can be booked nearly every day during the summer, and includes access to the club’s museum as well.
The Trafford Centre is about 15 minutes from Old Trafford via bus, and as one of the largest shopping centres in the UK, it’s an essential visit for those looking for some retail therapy. Browse the immense number of designer outlets or relax with a bite to eat in The Orient, Europe’s biggest food court!
Of course, Manchester city centre is just a short journey away too. With a variety of museums and art galleries, there’s plenty to see and do in the area. Explore Manchester’s achievements in technology and science at the Science and Industry Museum, or view one-of-a-kind football memorabilia at the National Football Museum.
Getting to Old Trafford
By rail: Manchester Piccadilly is the city’s primary railway station, due to its links to prominent cities like London and Birmingham. Travel to Manchester Piccadilly and then board Manchester’s tram system to get to Old Trafford; travel between Manchester Piccadilly and Old Trafford Cricket Ground will take approximately 20 minutes via tram.
By car: Manchester is about 4hr30mins from London by car, with the M40 and M6 providing the primary routes between the two cities. Parking at the ground will be at a premium, but there is plenty of street parking and secure car parks in the area.
By air: Manchester Airport is found to the south of the city, and is the biggest airport in the UK outside London. It serves as a great gateway destination for Old Trafford and Manchester City Centre, along with several other host grounds in the Cricket World Cup, including Edgbaston and Headingley.