National Football Museum

Overview

Housed in the dramatic glass Urbis building near Manchester Cathedral, the National Football Museum claims to be the world's largest and most comprehensive football museum. It celebrates the beautiful game's history through interactive displays and iconic memorabilia.

Highlights

• Football Plus+: An interactive zone where visitors can test their skills with penalty kicks, heading challenges and commentary booths.
• Hall of Fame Gallery: Featuring the 1966 World Cup crossbar, the first-ever FA Cup and Diego Maradona's shirt.
• Match Gallery: Story of football from medieval mob games to the modern Premier League era.

History

The museum originated in Preston before relocating to Manchester's Urbis building in 2012. Its collection of over 140,000 items makes it the world's biggest football archive.

Visitor Tips

• Admission: Free; the Football Plus+ interactive zone costs £5.
• Best for: Football fans of all ages — allow extra time for the interactive exhibits.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.