Score big at the home of the beautiful game with this 2026 guide to ticket prices, penalty shootouts, and the best exhibits at Manchester’s National Football Museum.
When I walked into the Urbis building in Manchester, I expected a dry collection of old shirts and boots. Instead, I found a shrine to the game that feels surprisingly emotional. Seeing the actual ball from the 1966 World Cup Final — scuffed and orange — gave me goosebumps. The National Football Museum is not just for die-hard fans; the interactive games on the upper floors turn the visit into interactive fun.
To skip the detail and just book a ticket, head this way.
Quick overview
The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Entry costs £15.00 if you book online, and your ticket acts as a “Season Pass” for 12 months. City of Manchester residents enter for free.
| Price | Opening hours | Address | Free for | Last entry |
| £15.00 (Online) | Daily: 10:00 – 17:00 | Urbis Building, M4 3BG | Under 5s & Residents | 16:00 |
How much does the National Football Museum cost?
Prices are cheaper if you book in advance online. The standard ticket is excellent value because it allows unlimited return visits for a full year.
| Ticket type | Online Price | Walk-up Price | Who qualifies |
| Adult | £15.00 | £17.00 | Aged 16+ |
| Child | £9.00 | £11.00 | Aged 5–15 |
| Family Saver | £39.00 | £45.00 | 2 Adults + 2 Kids |
| Concession | £13.00 | £15.00 | Students, Seniors (65+) |
Note: The interactive Penalty Shootout game costs an extra £3.00 for three kicks. You buy tokens for this inside the museum.
Is the National Football Museum free to enter?
It is free for specific local residents and very young children.
- Under 5s: Free entry.
- City of Manchester Residents: Free if you pay Council Tax to Manchester City Council. You must bring proof of address (e.g., Council Tax bill or driving licence) and live in eligible postcodes (e.g., M1, M2, M3, M4, M14).
- Carers: One carer enters free with a disabled visitor.
What time does the National Football Museum open?
The hours are very consistent year-round, which makes planning easy.
- Daily: 10:00 – 17:00
- Last Admission: 16:00 (They are strict about this).
- Closures: 24–26 December and 1 January.
These National Football Museum ticket prices and opening times were checked and verified in January 2026.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It is highly recommended. Booking online saves you money (£2 per person) and guarantees entry during busy school holidays. However, if you are a local resident claiming free entry, you can usually just walk up with your ID.
History of the museum
The collection was originally housed at Deepdale stadium in Preston, opening in 2001. However, it struggled with visitor numbers and moved to Manchester’s centrally-located glass “Urbis” building in 2012. It now holds the world’s finest collection of football artefacts, with over 40,000 objects in its archives.
Inside: What to see
- The 1966 World Cup Ball: The actual orange leather ball used in England’s 4-2 victory over West Germany.
- Jules Rimet Trophy: A replica of the original World Cup trophy, made in secret by the FA after the original was stolen (and found by a dog named Pickles) in 1966.
- Lily Parr Statue: A tribute to the pioneer of women’s football who scored nearly 1,000 goals in her career.
- Penalty Shootout: Located on the Play Gallery (Level 2). You kick a real ball against a virtual goalkeeper. It is harder than it looks on TV.
- Tactics Board: An interactive screen where you can move players around to understand famous tactical formations.
What’s included with your ticket?
A standard entry ticket includes:
- Unlimited entry for 12 months (Season Ticket).
- Access to all four floors of galleries (Pitch, Match, Play, and Score).
- Guided tours (subject to availability).
- NOT Included: The Penalty Shootout game (£3) and guided stadium tours of nearby grounds (Old Trafford/Etihad).
Things to do near the National Football Museum
Manchester Cathedral (100m, 2 min walk)
Directly opposite the museum. A stunning medieval church with a history dating back to 1421.
The Printworks (200m, 3 min walk)
A massive entertainment complex housing a cinema, mini-golf, and numerous chain restaurants. Good for a quick family meal.
Chetham’s Library (150m, 3 min walk)
The oldest public library in the English-speaking world. Marx and Engels studied here. Check opening times as they can be restricted. Don’t get it mixed up with the John Rylands Library, which is arguably more beautiful, but is part of the University of Manchester.
Manchester Arndale (300m, 5 min walk)
The city’s main shopping centre. It connects directly to the area near the museum via the Exchange Square entrance. There are better places to shop in Manchester, though.
Corn Exchange (100m, 2 min walk)
A historic building converted into a dining hub. It offers higher-quality dining options than the Printworks, with Italian, Indian, and Vietnamese restaurants.
If your budget is tight, good free attractions elsewhere in the city include the Science and Industry Museum and People’s History Museum.
Practical tips
- Lockers: There are lockers available on the ground floor. Small bags cost £3 and large bags £5. You cannot take large backpacks into the galleries.
- Food: The Dugout Cafe on the ground floor serves coffee and sandwiches.
- Parking: There is no on-site parking. The nearest car park is Q-Park Deansgate North or the AO Arena car park.
- Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building.
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
| Can I re-enter on the same day? | Yes, your ticket is valid all day and for the rest of the year. |
| Is it suitable for toddlers? | Yes, there is a “Discovery Zone” on Level 2 specifically designed for under-5s. |
| How long does a visit take? | Allow about 90 minutes to 2 hours. |
| Can I take photos? | Yes, photography is allowed for personal use. |
| Is the Penalty Shootout refundable? | No, tokens are non-refundable, so make sure you are ready to play. |
More North-West England travel
Other North-West England travel articles on Planet Whitley include
- Prices, opening hours and visitor tips for Beeston Castle in Cheshire.
- Practical guide to visiting Carlisle Castle in Cumbria.
- Plan your visit to Chester Zoo.
- A first-time visitor’s guide to Blackpool Zoo.
