One of the great footballing rivalries is the age-old battle between the two Manchesters: City and United. Naturally, both are featured in this guide, and whether you are a football fan or not, both United’s Old Trafford ground and City’s Etihad Stadium are well worth your time visiting.

United’s Old Trafford ground is known the world over as the ‘Theatre of Dreams’, the nickname given to it by former player Bobby Charlton. One of the largest in the country, the ground has a 74,000-strong capacity.

Now you can walk in the footsteps of greatness and carry the roar of the crowd with you by taking a tour of the stadium and exploring the United museum containing over 2,500 artefacts ranging from the club’s humble beginnings in 1878, through to their unrivalled collection of silverware in the Trophy Room.

The 70-minute tour of Old Trafford takes in the player’s tunnel, a chance to walk next to the world famous pitch and visit the dugouts as well as the opportunity to sit in the seat of your favourite player in the home dressing room. United’s knowledgeable guides will be able to give you stories about the stadium, players and history of the club as well as answer any questions you might have.

After the tour, you can visit the museum with historic jerseys and sporting memorabilia celebrating iconic moments from the club's history. Displays about past and present managers including Sir Matt Busby, Sir Alex Ferguson and current manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer are on show, as well artefacts relating to the tragic Munich Air Disaster in 1958.

You’ll also be able to explore stories behind iconic players such as Sir Matt Busby, David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, George Best and of course, returning legend Cristiano Ronaldo.

Post-visit you can enjoy refreshments in the Red Cafe, or visit the Manchester United Megastore, where United products including shirts, toys and apparel can be purchased.

And there’s more to explore on the outside of the stadium, with statues of Ferguson, Bubsy and Best, Law and Charlton on display on the perimeter of the station as well as the Munich Clock and Memorial Plaque. The stadium is a short walk from Salford Quays, home of the Lowry Theatre, Media:City UK and the Quayside Shopping Centre.

Worth looking out for are special tours including Legends tours which see you take in the stadium accompanied by a former player giving their unique take on playing for the club and giving you insight into the life of a player.

Nearby Hotel Football (99 Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester, M16 0SZ) was founded by former United players, Hotel Football offers afternoon tea, and football-themed bars including the ‘Old Trafford Supporters Club’ and there is even a bookable five-a-side astroturf pitch to enjoy.

Opening times: Monday-Sunday, 10am-4.30pm, pre-booking is advised, no tours on home matchdays. Prices: £25.00 (Adult), Under 16/Seniors (£15.00)

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