This week the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 kicks off, which will see the Greater Manchester region of Salford host some of the tournament‘s group matches. But the rugby action doesn’t stop there, as Manchester will be hosting a fan zone for the Women’s Rugby World Cup offering plenty of atmosphere and fun for locals and visitors alike.
The tournament – the biggest celebration of women’s rugby ever staged – will run from August 22 to September 27, with matches played across eight cities. Salford will host four matches at the Salford Community Stadium, welcoming fans from near and far to be part of the global sporting event.
To mark the tournament, fan zones will be popping up across the country, with free events, entertainment and activities for residents, visitors and fans. Each host city is planning something unique, celebrating the local community and creating a vibrant space to enjoy matchday buzz.
Where is the fan zone located?
A fan zone will be located at Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester offering fans even more ways to get involved and experience the tournament atmosphere. There will also be an official fan zone at the Salford Community Stadium on matchdays.
What to expect at the Women’s Rugby World Cup fan zone in Manchester
The Manchester Fan Zone at Piccadilly Gardens is set to be another summer highlight to the MCR Live event series, designed to celebrate community spirit, local culture, and active participation. Fans can expect a wide range of family-friendly, sport-themed activations organised in collaboration with MCRactive, Manchester City Council’s dedicated sport and wellbeing partner.
Rugby fans are welcome to bring a picnic to the fan zone, however there will be plenty of food choices at the nearby MCR Live Hub, which has popped up for the summer. At the Hub, you can grab a drink at the bar, sample some of the best street food in the North West, catch surprise acts and DJ takeovers on the outdoor stage, or bring the family along during the day for relaxed, music-inspired fun.
When will the fan zone be open?
The fan zone will be open at Piccadilly Gardens at the following times:
- Saturday 23rd August – 11am – 4pm
- Sunday 24th August – 11am – 4pm
- Saturday 30th August – 11am – 4pm
- Sunday 31st August – 11am – 4pm
Are there toilets and drinking water at the fan zone?
Toilets are available in nearby retail units or at the MCR Live site, including accessible toilets and baby changing places. There will be on-site drinking water available throughout the day.
Which teams are playing at Salford Community Stadium?
A number of the tournament’s group stage matches will be held at Salford Community Stadium including Australia vs Samoa and Scotland vs Wales on August 23 as well as Canada vs Wales and Scotland vs Fiji on August 30.
How to get tickets to see the Women’s Rugby World Cup
Over 330,000 tickets have already been sold, but if you’re quick you might be able to see the matches live. Tickets are still available, starting from just £5 for children and £10 for adults. To find out more and secure your seat, visit the official Women’s Rugby World Cup website.
Plus you can choose to enjoy the best seats in the house with RWC Experiences, the official hospitality programme by World Rugby and STH Group, which includes access to an exclusive private suite, drinks reception, complimentary bar and post-match food and drinks services.
