Between January and March, the sporting action doesn’t stop in Manchester. From Premier League football to rugby, ice hockey, basketball, and interactive sports museums, there’s plenty to keep fans cheering through the winter months.

Whether you’re staying in Manchester for the weekend or just for a midweek trip, this guide highlights everything you need to know to make the most of the city’s winter sporting scene.

Football: Manchester City & Manchester United

Football is Manchester’s heartbeat, and January to March is prime time in the season. Both Premier League giants battle for points, cup progression, and glory.

At the Etihad Stadium, watch the treble champions, Manchester City, play at their state-of-the-art ground, where the famous 'Blue Moon' anthem fills the stands. Catch Manchester United at Old Trafford in their world-famous 'Theatre of Dreams,' which offers an electric atmosphere. Visiting with the away crowd? Both stadiums have dedicated sections for travelling supporters, with easy access, fan-friendly pubs nearby, and plenty of atmosphere to soak up. Just arrive early - matchdays in Manchester get busy fast.

Manchester also boasts a thriving women’s football scene. Manchester City Women play home matches at the Academy Stadium, while Manchester United Women host games at Leigh Sports Village. Both clubs compete in the Women’s Super League, offering fast-paced, top-tier football throughout the winter months. Matches are family-friendly, showcase the city’s rising stars, and provide fans with an exciting addition to Manchester’s sporting calendar.

Explore Our Detailed Guides to the Clubs

Stadium Tours

If you can’t make it to a match, midweek visits are a perfect way to soak up the football atmosphere with year-round stadium tours in Manchester. At the Etihad Stadium, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at City’s top-notch facilities. Over at Old Trafford, you can walk through the players’ tunnel, explore the dressing rooms, and step out onto the pitch. Even if you don’t support blue or red, these tours are a real treat for any football fan - rival supporters often leave genuinely impressed. 

Book Your Experience Now

Beyond Manchester’s Big Two

Greater Manchester is packed with historic clubs like Bolton Wanderers, Wigan Athletic, Rochdale AFC, Oldham Athletic, and Salford City. Their winter fixtures offer an authentic, affordable football experiences for all fans.

Rugby: Sale Sharks in Action

Rugby fans are in for an action-packed winter in Manchester. Sale Sharks, one of England’s top Premiership Rugby clubs, bring thrilling scrums, dramatic tries, and passionate support to their home games at the Salford Community Stadium. From January through March, every men’s fixture is high-stakes, with league tables shaping up and rivalries heating up.

Meanwhile, Sale Sharks Women showcase elite women’s rugby at Heywood Road, offering fast-paced matches that highlight the growing strength of the women’s game in Greater Manchester.

Visiting supporters are welcomed with open arms, with convenient transport options to and from the city centre making it easy to enjoy matchday atmosphere both on and off the pitch. 

Ice Hockey: Manchester Storm

For fast-paced action on the ice, head to Altrincham Ice Dome, home of Manchester Storm. Competing in the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL), their matches are some of the most exciting on the winter calendar. Expect big hits, high-speed skating, and an unbeatable atmosphere. Their great for groups and families.

EIHL away fans often travel well, and Storm’s rink is set up to welcome visitors. Expect plenty of banter whether you’re cheering for the Storm or against them.

Manchester Basketball

Manchester has a proud basketball tradition, and the city is now represented by Manchester Basketball, competing in the British Basketball League (BBL Super League). Home games take place throughout winter, giving fans another indoor sporting option.

Basketball fans can get excited as the NBA is bringing a regular-season game to Manchester for the very first time in 2027. Announced together with Co-op Live and Manchester City Council, it’s a huge moment for the city, the arena, and UK sport.

Museums & Sporting Experiences in Manchester

When you’re not soaking up the thrill of a live match, Manchester offers plenty of ways to explore its rich sporting heritage indoors. The National Football Museum in the city centre is a must-visit, packed with interactive exhibits, legendary memorabilia, and fun experiences for all ages. Football fans can also head to the city’s club museums and fan shops for unique souvenirs, replica kits, and exclusive merchandise.

Explore more of Manchester's sporting experiences below:

Flight Club

Flight Club

Flight Club is the home of Social Darts. They’ve taken the traditional game of darts and…

Total Ninja

Total Ninja

Total Ninja – unleash your inner warrior The UK’s first ninja park is open in Manchester…

Eat & Drink Like a Local Fan

No sporting day is complete without food and drink. Head to classic fan favourites like Mulligans for live football screenings. Also, it's a great spot to catch GAA Football fixtures and Six Nations Rugby while you’re visiting the city. Manchester’s dining scene is world-class, with plenty of venues showing live sports.

Many pubs and bars around the stadiums welcome visiting fans, especially in the city centre - just be sure to check ahead on matchdays, as some can be home-fan only.

Mulligans

Mulligans

Widely hailed as serving the best pint of Guinness in Manchester, with many even saying the best…

Mackie Mayor

Mackie Mayor

Cosmopolitan food hall in an 1858 Grade II listed market building, on the edge of Manchester's…

Printworks

Printworks

Printworks is a buzzing, entertainment and leisure complex located in the heart of Manchester City…

Crown & Anchor

Crown & Anchor

The Crown and Anchor is a welcoming pub located near the Joseph Holt brewery in Manchester, offering…

Lass O'Gowrie

Lass O'Gowrie

One of the city's most famous, traditional pubs still standing in Manchester, the Lass provides nine…

Practical Tips for Sports Fans

  • Tickets: Book football, rugby, and ice hockey tickets well in advance. Only use official club websites.
  • Transport: Trams, buses, and trains connect stadiums to the city centre. Plan extra time on matchdays.
  • Accessibility: All major venues offer accessible seating and family-friendly facilities.
  • Winter Weather: Wrap up warm for football and rugby; indoor sports are perfect for colder days.

Plan Your Winter Sports Break in Manchester

From Premier League showdowns to rugby clashes, ice hockey battles, and basketball nights, Manchester in January–March is packed with world-class sporting action. Pair it with stadium tours, the National Football Museum, and some classic Mancunian hospitality, and you’ve got the ultimate sports city break.

Start planning now: check fixture lists, book your tickets, and get ready to experience Manchester’s legendary sporting spirit.

Top Budget Hotels in Manchester for Sports Fans

Manchester isn’t just about the action on the pitch, staying in the right spot makes your trip even better. Budget-friendly hotels and serviced apartments near the city centre or transport links put the Etihad, Old Trafford, and Salford Community Stadium just minutes away. Many offer fan-friendly perks like early breakfasts and comfy rooms, so even on a budget, you can enjoy top-tier sports without compromise.

Gardens Hotel

Gardens Hotel

Situated at the heart of Manchester, overlooking the famous Piccadilly Gardens the hotel provides an…

Whilst You’re Here, Get to Know Manchester a Bit More

Manchester Northern Quarter Walking Tour

Manchester Northern Quarter Walking Tour

Discover Manchester’s quirky Northern Quarter on this 1.5-hour small group walking tour through the city’s most creative neighbourhood. Join your local guide to discover the area’s iconic street art, from large-scale commissioned works to surprising hidden gems, and learn more…

Guidance for Your Stay

Metrolink tram in St Peter's Square

Getting Around

Explore Manchester easily with our travel guide on getting around. Find practical tips, transportation options, and maps for a seamless city exploration. Whether by tram, bus, or foot, our guide ensures you make the most of your visit, navigating Manchester with convenience.

Find Your Corner in Manchester This Winter

Whatever brings you to Manchester this winter, you’ll find a city alive with creativity, culture, and warmth. Wrap up, head out, and experience everything that makes Manchester so special in the first months of the year. From cosy coffee shops to cutting-edge exhibitions, there’s always something to make even the chilliest days feel worthwhile.

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