Supporting England at the 2012 Olympics: Football

Whether you’re a football fan or not, you’re going to have heard of Old Trafford. One of the most memorable stadiums on English soil and home to Manchester United, it doesn’t just host their home team’s games.

This summer, it’s also playing host to some of the 2012 London Olympics football matches, along with Wembley Stadium, the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff and several other sites all over the UK. As with every Olympic venue, it’s of upmost importance to plan your journey wisely if you’re hoping to catch an Olympic football match at Old Trafford; making sure you have your tickets booked, finding a hotel near Old Trafford (why travel long distances when you don’t have to?) and researching the area for quality food and drink that doesn’t have to break the bank.

Europe Football  Championship  2012.

Luckily, the ground isn’t too far from Manchester city centre, which opens up several options that you wouldn’t ordinarily have, meaning you don’t have to opt for a takeaway if you don’t want to. The Old Trafford metrolink tram stop is less than 10 minutes walk from the stadium which means you have access to hundreds of excellent multinational eateries all over the city.

The University of Manchester  during  my visit last 2008.

Why not try your hand at Japanese cuisine at Sapporo Teppanyaki in Castlefield – there, you can sample sushi, sashimi or one of many flavoursome noodle dishes. For European tastebuds, an Italian restaurant such as Stresa or the Mediterranean fusion restaurant, Twisted Med might be right up your street. For a taste of home, try the Lowry Restaurant – only 15 minutes walk from the ground and offering the chance to catch a theatre production whilst you’re there. Or, for the less adventurous, a good ol’ pub lunch could be more in order. Trusty, wholesome pub grub will never be too far away and even if it is, take a walk up Sir Matt Busby Way for battered fish and chips.