Matchdays at Old Trafford have a rhythm that starts long before kick-off. Fans fill the trams, shirts appear across the city centre, and supporters look for the right place to settle in for a pint and some pre-match talk. If you are travelling from Ireland, you may be unsure where supporters actually go, how early pubs fill, or which ones feel friendly and safe. This guide focuses on the pubs that matter on a Manchester United matchday and answers the questions visitors ask most often. 

Many Irish supporters travel through Celtic Horizon Tours with their match ticket, hotel and travel already sorted. Everything else is your own exploration, and knowing where to head before the game saves both time and stress. 

Where Do Manchester United Fans Drink Before a Game? 

Supporters gather in two main areas:

• Pubs close to Old Trafford: Perfect if you want to walk to the stadium within minutes.

• Pubs in Manchester city centre: Ideal if you want atmosphere and food before taking the tram to the stadium. 

Your choice depends on how early you arrive, who you are travelling with, and whether you prefer a noisy or relaxed atmosphere. 

Top Matchday Pubs Near Old Trafford

• The Bishop Blaize (Most Popular For Atmosphere)

It is ideal if you enjoy noise, chants and strong pre-match energy.

Note: This is a strictly controlled venue. You will usually need to show your match ticket to gain entry, and they often charge a small entry fee at the door. It hits capacity very early, so head there as soon as it opens. 

Distance to stadium: about an eight-minute walk.

• The Trafford (Classic United Supporters Pub)

This long-established pub is known for its loyal matchday crowd. There is plenty of standing space, quick service and a predictable atmosphere. You will hear older fans chatting about past teams, line-up predictions and travel stories from across the UK and Ireland. 

Good for: traditional football feel without being too rowdy.

• Hotel Football’s Old Trafford Supporters Club Bar

Located directly beside the stadium, this bar offers large screens, fast service and a more modern feel. It attracts a mix of families, groups and visitors who want convenience. It is a smart choice for a comfortable pint, but it fills fast on major fixtures. 

Ideal for: families, mixed age groups and anyone who prefers seating.

• The Tollgate

With the old Sam Platts gone, The Tollgate (near the Trafford Bar tram stop) has picked up much of the atmosphere. It is rough and ready, loud, and allows fans to spill out into the car park area. A solid choice if the Bishop Blaize is full. 

Best Manchester City Centre Pubs for United Fans 

Some supporters avoid the crowds around the stadium and spend time in the city centre instead. These pubs offer food, screens and space before boarding the tram toward Old Trafford.

• The Oxnoble (Deansgate Area)

A reliable pre-match spot with a mixed group of locals and travelling fans. It offers hearty food, good pints and a friendly atmosphere. Many Irish supporters start their day here because it is close to hotels. 

•  Mulligans 

Located just off Deansgate, Mulligans is legendary among Irish supporters. It is widely rumoured to serve the best pint of Guinness in Manchester. The walls are covered in United memorabilia, and on matchdays, it is packed with fans from across the Irish Sea. It is the perfect spot to feel at home before jumping on the tram. 

•  The Sawyer’s Arms (Classic and Central)

Located on Deansgate, it has a traditional pub feel and a calm crowd even on big match days. A good choice for families and older supporters. 

What Time Should You Arrive at Pubs Before a Manchester United Game? 

Visitors often underestimate how early things fill. Here is what local fans expect: 

• Two and a half to three hours before kickoff: city centre pubs begin to fill 

• Two hours before kickoff: Old Trafford area becomes busy 

• One hour before kickoff: queues form and many pubs reach capacity 

If you want a table or food, arrive earlier than you think. Supporters who travel with Celtic Horizon Tours typically arrive with more time, making it easier to settle in without rushing. 

Is It Safe to Wear Colours in These Pubs? 

Yes, in most United pubs near Old Trafford, you can wear jerseys and scarves without issue. However, avoid wearing rival colours. Away fans in home sections can face entry issues at both pubs and the stadium. If you are unsure where your ticket places you, choose neutral clothing. 

How Do You Get from the City Centre to Old Trafford on Matchday? 

The simplest route is the Metrolink tram from: 

• Deansgate Castlefield 

• St Peter’s Square 

• Piccadilly Gardens 

Trams run frequently, but become very crowded ninety minutes before kickoff. Plan extra time. If you travel through Celtic Horizon Tours, your match ticket and hotel are already arranged, so the only timing decision is how early to leave the pub. 

Where Should Families Go for a Quieter Pre-Match Experience? 

Choose venues with food and seating, such as: 

• Hotel Football 

• The Oxnoble 

• The Sawyer’s Arms 

These locations remain lively, but avoid the most intense chanting. 

Matchdays run smoothly when the basics are handled. You know where to go, you know when to arrive, and you avoid the stress that catches out first-time visitors. If you want a match trip where everything works the way it should, book your Manchester United tickets with Celtic Horizon Tours and make the build-up part of the enjoyment.