The National Football Museum is the world's leading museum dedicated to the history and culture of association football. Located in the Urbis building in Manchester, England, it houses an extensive collection of memorabilia, including the FIFA Collection, the Football Association Collection, and the Harry Langton Collection. The museum aims to preserve the heritage of the sport while exploring its social impact on local and global communities.
The museum features interactive exhibits, historical displays, and rotating temporary exhibitions that cover various aspects of the game, from its origins in the 19th century to the modern professional era. It serves as a center for research and education, highlighting the sport's role in shaping cultural identity and its evolution as a global phenomenon.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Glass, Steel, Concrete
- Civilization
- British
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible with lift access to all floors
- Date(s)
- 2001 (Urbis building), 2012 (Museum opening)
- Condition
- Active museum
- Original Function
- Exhibition center
- Key Figures
- Sir Bobby Charlton, Kevin Moore
Founding and Early Years
2001-2010The museum was originally established in Preston at Deepdale, the home of Preston North End FC, in 2001. It was founded by Kevin Moore, who sought to create a permanent home for the sport's historical artifacts.
Relocation to Manchester
2012Following financial challenges and the need for a more central location, the museum relocated to the iconic Urbis building in Manchester city center. The new facility provided significantly more exhibition space and improved public access.
Modern Development
2012-PresentSince its move, the museum has expanded its collection and digital archives. It continues to host major exhibitions focusing on the history of the women's game, the impact of football on social justice, and the evolution of football technology.
Cultural Significance
The museum acts as a custodian of football heritage, emphasizing the sport's deep roots in British working-class culture and its subsequent global expansion. It plays a significant role in Manchester's cultural tourism, reflecting the city's status as a major hub for international football.
Interpretive Notes
Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty
There is ongoing academic discussion regarding the museum's role in balancing the celebration of football's commercial success with the critical examination of issues such as hooliganism, corruption, and the socio-economic disparities within the modern game.
Visiting Information
Entry Rules
Open daily. Tickets are required for entry and can be purchased online or at the door. Manchester residents may be eligible for discounted or free entry with proof of residency.
Best Times to Visit
Weekdays outside of school holidays offer the quietest experience. The museum is busiest during weekends and major football tournament periods.
Photography
Personal photography is permitted in most galleries. Flash photography and tripods are prohibited. Commercial photography requires prior written permission.
Nearby POIs
14 shownSources & Further Reading
- [1]
- [2]Football and the City: Manchester's Sporting Heritage — Gary James. Manchester University Press (2018)
Key Facts
- Materials
- Glass, Steel, Concrete
- Civilization
- British
- Accessibility
- Fully wheelchair accessible with lift access to all floors