Salford Quays Millennium Footbridge
A unique pedestrian swing bridge in Salford Quays, offering stunning views of modern architecture and connecting key cultural sites.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Salford Quays Millennium Footbridge
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique pedestrian swing bridge in Salford Quays, offering stunning views of modern architecture and connecting key cultural sites.
"It's a well-maintained pedestrian swing bridge that adds a bit of character to the area."
📸 Best Photo Spot
Capture the bridge with the Lowry and MediaCityUK for iconic shots. Sunset is magical!
🚶♀️ Walk Across
Enjoy the unique perspective of the Quays and surrounding architecture from this pedestrian bridge.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Marvel
Salford Quays
A unique pedestrian swing bridge offering striking views of the Quays and surrounding modern architecture.
Sunset Photo Opportunity
Connecting Lowry to IWM North
Capture stunning sunset vistas with the Lowry, BBC buildings, and MediaCityUK as your backdrop.
Iconic Landmark
Salford Quays
A distinctive landmark linking Salford Quays and the Imperial War Museum North across the canal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Etiquette & Views
Accessibility & Condition
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spot
Capture the bridge with the Lowry and MediaCityUK for iconic shots. Sunset is magical!
🚶♀️ Walk Across
Enjoy the unique perspective of the Quays and surrounding architecture from this pedestrian bridge.
⚠️ Check Glass Condition
Some visitors note issues with the glass panels; inspect before relying on them for views.
🌉 Connects Key Sites
Perfect for linking your visit between The Lowry and the Imperial War Museum North.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spot
Capture the bridge with the Lowry and MediaCityUK for iconic shots. Sunset is magical!
🚶♀️ Walk Across
Enjoy the unique perspective of the Quays and surrounding architecture from this pedestrian bridge.
⚠️ Check Glass Condition
Some visitors note issues with the glass panels; inspect before relying on them for views.
🌉 Connects Key Sites
Perfect for linking your visit between The Lowry and the Imperial War Museum North.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Salford Quays Millennium Footbridge is praised as a great connector and a landmark with impressive architectural views, especially at sunset. However, some recent additions of glass panels have been criticized for poor installation and condition, detracting from the overall aesthetic for some visitors.
"The bridge is nice but now after adding glass on the sides is awful. Someone made it so bad glass is not in line or straight not even levelled! Most are chipped. Good spend of public Money indeed"
Rafal G (Maledictus Pictures)
"Great bridge, highly recommend"
Conor Flanagan
"The Millennium Bridge near the Lowry links Salford Quays to the Imperial War Museum North and offers impressive views of the water and surrounding architecture. It's a well-maintained pedestrian swing bridge that adds a bit of character to the area. Walking across it gives you a great perspective on the Quays, especially at sunset or when events are happening nearby. It’s a practical crossing but also a good photo spot, especially with the Lowry, BBC buildings, and MediaCityUK in the background. It's a small but memorable part of a visit to this part of Greater Manchester."
Patrik Krizek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The bridge is easily accessible on foot within Salford Quays. You can reach Salford Quays via the Metrolink tram system, with stops like 'MediaCityUK' or 'Harbour City' being very close. Driving is also an option, with several car parks available nearby.
Yes, there are multiple car parks around Salford Quays and MediaCityUK, including multi-storey options. Parking fees apply, so check local signage for rates.
As a pedestrian bridge, cycling is generally discouraged or may require dismounting and walking your bike to ensure safety for all users.
The Metrolink tram is the primary public transport, connecting Salford Quays to Manchester city centre and other key areas. Numerous bus routes also serve the Quays.
The bridge is generally flat and wide, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. However, some reviews mention uneven glass panels which might require extra caution.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking across the Salford Quays Millennium Footbridge is completely free and open to the public. It serves as a public walkway.
The bridge is a public walkway and is generally accessible 24/7, though lighting may vary at night. Access might be restricted during maintenance or special events.
There is no admission fee. The bridge is a piece of public infrastructure connecting different parts of Salford Quays.
Yes, like any infrastructure, the bridge may be temporarily closed for maintenance or repairs. It's advisable to check local council updates if you plan a specific visit around its unique swing function.
No booking is required to simply walk across the bridge. It's a public amenity for everyone to enjoy.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset offers the most dramatic lighting, casting a warm glow on the surrounding architecture. Weekday mornings can provide fewer people for unobstructed shots.
You can capture The Lowry arts centre, the BBC and ITV studios at MediaCityUK, the Imperial War Museum North, and the waterfront of Salford Quays.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always be mindful of private property and individuals.
Wide-angle shots showcasing the bridge's unique design against the modern skyline are popular. Also, consider capturing reflections in the water, especially after rain.
During peak times, it can be challenging to get shots without people. Visiting early in the morning or late in the evening can help minimize crowds for cleaner compositions.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Its primary purpose is to provide a pedestrian link between Salford Quays, including The Lowry and MediaCityUK, and the Imperial War Museum North, facilitating easy access for visitors and locals.
Yes, it's a pedestrian swing bridge designed to open and allow boats to pass through the Manchester Ship Canal. It rotates on a central pivot.
Some recent reviews mention that the glass panels added to the sides are not well-aligned, chipped, or unevenly leveled, detracting from the aesthetic.
It offers a pleasant walk with views of the water and surrounding modern architecture. It's a key part of exploring the Salford Quays area.
The bridge itself is a walkway. However, The Lowry, MediaCityUK, and the Imperial War Museum North are all located very close by, offering cafes, restaurants, and facilities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the bridge itself is accessible, be aware that some recent reviews mention issues with the glass panels. It's still a pleasant stroll, and the surrounding area of Salford Quays has plenty of open space for children to explore. Consider combining a walk across the bridge with a visit to the nearby playgrounds or the interactive exhibits at the museums.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The best times for photography are undoubtedly during golden hour (sunrise and sunset) for dramatic lighting, or during twilight for capturing the illuminated cityscape. Be mindful of potential crowds during peak hours, which might make capturing unobstructed shots challenging. Some visitors have noted that the recently added glass panels are not perfectly installed, which might be a minor detraction for some shots, but the overall vista remains impressive.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Explorers
Take your time to appreciate the design and the surrounding environment. The bridge is a great spot to pause, take photos, and simply soak in the atmosphere of this revitalized urban area. It’s a relatively short walk, but it offers significant scenic and practical value for your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Engineering of the Bridge
While praised for its design and connectivity, recent additions have drawn criticism. The installation of glass panels on the sides, intended to improve safety and views, has been noted by some visitors as being poorly executed. Issues such as misaligned, chipped, or unevenly leveled glass have been reported, leading to disappointment regarding the public spending on these enhancements. Despite these critiques, the bridge remains a significant landmark for its innovative engineering and its role in connecting key cultural and media hubs.
Connecting Key Salford Quays Attractions
Walking across the bridge is often highlighted as a memorable part of a visit to Salford Quays. It offers a unique perspective on the area's modern architecture, including the BBC and ITV studios. Many visitors find it to be a perfect spot for photography, especially during the golden hour of sunset, when the light beautifully illuminates the surrounding buildings and the water. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your exploration of this dynamic part of Greater Manchester.
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