We want your visit to Old Trafford to be as memorable as possible. Make sure you’re prepared for your London 2012 experience by reading the information below – and don’t forget to plan and book your travel in advance.
When to arrive
Arrive early so you have plenty of time to get through security checks and to your seat. Gates will open two hours before kick-off of the first match in your session.
Plan your journey to Old Trafford
Please note that recommended arrival times are for guidance only.
Collecting tickets from this venue? See the latest London 2012 box office information
Safety and security
When you get to Old Trafford, you’ll be asked to go through security checks. With so much going on and thousands of people arriving at the same time, you should expect to wait.
We strongly suggest you do not bring a bag – if you do, your entry will be delayed and you may miss your event. Please note that large bags (over 25 litres) are prohibited and there are no storage facilities available.
Before you go through security, you’ll need to empty your pockets and place your belongings, such as keys and mobile phones, into a provided A4 sized plastic bag.
Due to Old Trafford's ground regulations and London 2012 venue regulations, there are some things that you can’t bring into the venue.
Download the list of prohibited and restricted items for Old Trafford
Find out more about safety and security at the Games
Services and facilities
Old Trafford has a wide range of services and facilities, including plenty of food and drink stands, toilets and baby changing facilities, plus the London 2012 Shop.
'Spectator medical' icon: The icon for 'Spectator medical' on the venue map resembles the red cross emblem. The red cross emblem is a protective symbol and its use is restricted by law. The sign used to signify first aid and other health care services at the venue is a white cross on a green background.
Download a map of Old Trafford
Food and drink
There’s a great variety of affordable food and drink available to buy inside Old Trafford, from filling meals to tasty treats.
Read about our commitment to providing sustainably, locally sourced food
Payment
The only way to pay is by Visa (debit, credit or prepaid card) or cash. Food and drink outlets at Old Trafford accept cash only, and there are no ATM cash machines available inside the venue.
Recycling
Help us make London 2012 the first zero-waste Games – please recycle while you’re at the Games.
Recycling in venues couldn’t be easier. All food and drink packaging will feature a green, orange or black symbol – so all you have to do is put your packaging in the matching coloured bin.
Lost property
If you find something that doesn't belong to you, please hand it to a member of staff. If you lose something during your time at Old Trafford, call 0161 868 8000 to see if it was handed in, and to arrange delivery or collection.
Any questions?
If you’ve got a question about your visit to Old Trafford, ask our virtual agent
On the day, you can visit an information point for venue and sports information, transport updates, lost and found services, pushchair and wheelchair storage and more. Our Games Makers are always happy to help.
If you have a ticketing query, please go to the ticket resolution office at the venue or visit the London 2012 Ticketing website
*Please note that the shuttle bus running from Manchester city centre to Old Trafford is free of charge for London 2012 ticket holders. All other bus routes must be paid for, in contrast to the statement in the guide.
