OLD TRAFFORD: GROUND & SPECTATOR GUIDE

Built: 1857

Its namesake might host one of global sport's most revered institutions, but there is no doubting Old Trafford's place on the landscape of English sport.

The second oldest ground in England and an Ashes venue since 1884, some of international and domestic cricket's finest moments have taken place at the Gorse Hill venue.

Thanks to the recent redevelopment, two all-red premium standing and hospitality areas provide another defining feature either side of the inconspicuous pavilion.

After being used by Manchester Cricket Club for eight years, it was not until 1965 that current incumbents Lancashire moved began using the site as their home.

In 1884 it became the second English ground to host a Test match when Australia played England. The entire first day was lost to rain.

In the second world war the venue was turned into a holding camp for those returning from the evacuation of Dunkirk. During the conflict many of the stands were destroyed by air raids.

But just weeks after the war ended it was used as the fifth venue in the Victory Tests between England and an Australian Services team.

Recent history has been dominated by Old Trafford becoming a constant presence during Ashes clashes. In 1993, Shane Warne bowled Mike Gatting with what would later be dubbed the "Ball of the Century".

Twelve years later, thousands of fans were locked out of the fifth day of the third Test of the 2005 series with England chasing victory as cricket's popularity boomed.

England cricketers Maurice Tate and Maurice Leyland coming out to bat in the Test against Australia at Old Trafford in 1930

In 1956, Jim Laker became the first bowler to take all 10 wickets in a Test innings when he took 10-53 against Australia.

Indeed, Laker had already taken nine in the first innings, to finish with match figures of 19-90.

India's Anil Kumble is the only other player to have dismissed an entire line-up when he bowled out Pakistan in 1999.

Address: Talbot Rd, Stretford, Manchester M16 0PX

By car: Parking is available at the stadium and is accessible from the Talbot Road entrance. Can be bought in advance but on the day tariffs begin at £3 for two hours. Costs are likely to rise for the World Cup 

By public transport: Metrolink trams are the best way to get around the Manchester area. Old Trafford is the nearest stop to the ground, which is less than 15 minutes from the city's main overground station, Manchester Picadilly.

Alternatively, bus numbers 53 from the centre, or 250, 255 or 291 also serve the stadium.

Platzki

Polish-based restaurant who change their menu twice a week. Standard dishes also available. (£20-£30 per head)

255 Deansgate, Unit F, Deansgate Mews, The Great Northern Building, Manchester, M3 4EN

Website

MyLahore

Specialising in Asian cuisine but standard restaurant food also available. (£4-£12 per head)

14-18 Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M14 5TQ

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The Pasta Factory

Independent Italian providing authentic, affordable dishes from the region. (£8-£30 per head)

77 Shudehill, Manchester, M4 4AN

Hawksmoor Manchester

Seafood and steak take priority in this Deansgate establishment, where you can even bring your own alcohol. (£8-£40 per head)

184-186 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3WB

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The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar

Described as a "modern food lovers paradise", British food is the order of the day here. (£14-£30 per head)

108 High Street, Manchester M4 1HT,

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The Quadrant

Pleasant atmosphere before sports events with screens readily available.

67 Great Stone Road, Stretford M32 8GR

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The Bishop Blaize

A retreat for some Manchester United fans but certainly cheap and cheerful.

708 Chester Road, Stretford, M32 0SF

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Hotel Football Old Trafford

Located in the shadow of the football stadium but a welcoming bar good for large groups

99 Sir Matt Busby Way, Stretford, M16 0SZ

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Gorse Hill

Rough and ready British pub located close to the ground. Quick service guaranteed.

886 Chester Road, Stretford, M32 0PA

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The Toll Gate

Another good value pub with character and atmosphere. 

Seymour Grove, Manchester, M16

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Though Old Trafford has hosted several music events, they unknowing played host to royalty when they employed The Smiths singer Morrissey in their box office before he rose to fame.