Top Things To Do In National Football Museum (Manchester) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in National Football Museum

1. 1. Hall of Fame

   The National Football Museum's Hall of Fame celebrates the talents and merits of individuals who have contributed significantly to the English game, with inductees having demonstrated exceptional skill, flair, and distinction on the football field. Visitors to the Hall of Fame can expect to journey through the storied careers of legendary players, managers, and teams that have graced English football. The exhibit pays homage to their contributions, memorable moments, and impact on the sport. Interactive displays and an array of memorabilia transport guests back in time as they relive the triumphs and challenges that these football icons have faced. The Hall of Fame is continually updated, with new inductees added yearly to ensure the museum reflects ongoing contributions to the sport.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Included in admission fee

2. 2. Football Plus+ Experiences

   Football Plus+ Experiences at the National Football Museum are interactive challenges designed to test the skills of football fans of all ages. Visitors can immerse themselves in the game by participating in activities such as penalty shootouts, commentating challenges, and even testing their reaction speeds in goalkeeping trials. These exhibits are enhanced with cutting-edge technology, providing instant feedback on performance and offering a fun, engaging way to compare skills with friends and family. These experiences are not only entertaining but educational, revealing the science and nuances behind the beautiful game. Football Plus+ Experiences require credits, which are available for purchase at the museum, making this an exciting addition to the museum’s offering and an interactive way for fans to engage with football's rich history and test their own abilities.

   Duration: Varies · Price: Additional cost for credits

3. 3. Match of the Day

   The 'Match of the Day' exhibit at the National Football Museum provides a multimedia experience that brings the history and excitement of football to life. Visitors can relive some of the most memorable matches through a collection of broadcasts, commentaries, and highlights from the iconic BBC television program. The exhibit showcases the evolution of football broadcasting, with various iterations of Match of the Day captured through the decades. Each screening takes fans back to those nail-biting moments on the pitch, offering insight into the changing landscape of the sport. Alongside the screenings, fans can dive into analysis and behind-the-scenes footage, making this a must-see for anyone interested in the televised portrayal of football.

   Duration: 30 minutes · Price: Included in admission fee

4. 4. Discovery Zone

   Aimed at younger visitors, the Discovery Zone at the National Football Museum offers a vibrant and interactive space to learn about football. Activities are designed to be educational and engaging, providing fun learning opportunities for children and families. The zone features interactive games, puzzles, and creative tasks that connect with the sport while fostering a spirit of participation and teamwork. Elements such as dressing up as a favorite football player or engaging in interactive touch-screen activities help to stimulate the imagination and create an inviting environment for children to explore the museum's themes. This space encourages kids to delve deeper into the game’s history and their love for the sport in a hands-on manner.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Included in admission fee

5. 5. Guided Tours

   The National Football Museum's guided tours offer a comprehensive look at the exhibits and collections, providing context and stories that bring the artefacts to life. Led by knowledgeable guides, visitors can learn about football's history in-depth, from its humble beginnings to the global phenomenon it is today. The tour delves into the stories behind the objects on display, from the history of the World Cup to the evolution of football kits. Furthermore, the guides share fascinating anecdotes, lesser-known facts, and answer questions, making for a thoroughly engaging and personalised museum experience. Whether you are a lifelong fan or new to the world of football, a guided tour adds depth and perspective to your visit.

   Duration: 1.5 hours · Price: Additional cost; booking required

6. 6. The Pitch Gallery

   The National Football Museum's Pitch Gallery is a visually striking exhibition space that showcases the artistic and cultural side of football. Here, visitors can peruse a variety of installations, photographs, and artworks that are inspired by the sport and reflect its impact on society. Exhibits range from contemporary art pieces to historical images, each telling a unique story about football's role in communities, politics, and personal identity. This gallery often includes temporary exhibitions that rotate throughout the year, featuring works by local and international artists. The artistic interpretations provide a fresh perspective on the sport, illustrating its ability to inspire creativity and passion beyond the pitch.

   Duration: 45 minutes · Price: Included in admission fee

7. 7. The Game Exhibition

   The Game Exhibition at the National Football Museum explores football's development throughout the years, encompassing its origins, the codification of the rules, and its spread across the globe. With an extensive collection of artefacts, documents, and memorabilia, the exhibition takes visitors on a journey through time, showcasing how the game has evolved and influenced culture. Highlights include early equipment, vintage match programs, and historic trophies, offering a tangible link to the game's past. Informative displays and interactive touch points provide context to the exhibits, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the milestones that have shaped football as we know it today.

   Duration: 1 hour · Price: Included in admission fee

8. 8. Stadium Photography Exhibition

   The Stadium Photography Exhibition at the National Football Museum captures the architectural grandeur and emotional resonance of football stadiums around the United Kingdom. This exhibit features a rich collection of photographs showcasing various stadiums in all their glory—from the historic grounds steeped in tradition to the modern arenas equipped with the latest technology. Visitors can explore the character and atmosphere of each stadium through these stunning visuals, which highlight not just the physical structures but also the matchday experience that they house. This exhibition is an homage to the venues that provide the stage for the drama of football, creating lasting memories for fans.

   Duration: 30 minutes · Price: Included in admission fee

9. 9. Media Experience

   The Media Experience at the National Football Museum is an immersive exhibit that puts visitors in the shoes of the sports media professionals. Guests have the chance to sit behind a news desk, present match analysis, and experience the rush of a post-match interview. It's an interactive way to understand the pressures and excitement involved in football reporting and punditry. Participants can test their skills in front of the camera, with prompts and footage to help them craft their own narrative, making them feel like a part of the football media industry for a day.

   Duration: Varies · Price: Included in admission fee

10. 10. Football Art and Memorabilia

    This activity offers museum-goers a chance to view an exceptional collection of football art and memorabilia. The exhibits include rare items like historic match balls, unique jerseys, and personal objects from football legends. Each item is carefully preserved and displayed with information about its history and significance. Art enthusiasts can appreciate the blend of sports and artistic expression through various mediums, including paintings, sculptures, and prints. This collection not only celebrates the aesthetic aspects of football but also recounts the emotional stories linked with these cherished relics of the sport's history.

    Duration: 1 hour · Price: Included in admission fee