New Islington Marina - Image 1
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New Islington Marina Manchester

4.5
·46 reviews·, United Kingdom

A vibrant urban oasis with tranquil canals, modern architecture, and a lively dining scene. Perfect for walks, picnics, and dog-friendly outings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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New Islington Marina - Image 1

New Islington Marina Manchester

Best Time

Sunny afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant urban oasis with tranquil canals, modern architecture, and a lively dining scene. Perfect for walks, picnics, and dog-friendly outings.

4.5
(46 reviews)

"Calming location around 15 minutes walk from Manchester Piccadilly station and on the edge of the Northern Quarter."

Vertical photo
TIP

Watch for Goose & Dog Mess! 💩

Be mindful of your footing, especially near the water and grassy areas. It's a common tip from visitors!

Picnic by the Ducks 🦆

Bring a blanket and enjoy a casual picnic with the resident ducks. A lovely, budget-friendly option.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterside Dining

Waterside Dining

Along the canals

Enjoy a meal or drinks with scenic canal views. A perfect spot to relax and soak in the city's vibe.

Dog-Friendly Haven

Dog-Friendly Haven

Throughout the marina

A paradise for pets! Many eateries welcome dogs, making it an ideal outing for you and your furry friend.

Urban Nature Escape

Urban Nature Escape

Canal paths

Experience a surprising touch of nature within the city. Great for walks, jogs, and peaceful contemplation.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Marina

New Islington Marina is a vibrant waterside spot, perfect for a stroll or a meal. Keep an eye out for construction as the area is still developing, which can sometimes mean temporary disruptions. It's a popular spot for dog walkers and joggers, so be mindful of shared spaces.

Photoshoot & Etiquette

Planning a photoshoot? While the marina is a public space, large-scale commercial shoots might require permissions. Be aware of other visitors enjoying the area, and remember to watch your step for goose and dog droppings, especially near the water's edge.

Best Times

When
Sunny afternoons
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Quieter, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

New Islington Marina. A public place?

Watch for Goose & Dog Mess! 💩

Be mindful of your footing, especially near the water and grassy areas. It's a common tip from visitors! Reddit

Picnic by the Ducks 🦆

Bring a blanket and enjoy a casual picnic with the resident ducks. A lovely, budget-friendly option. Reddit

reddit.com

Parking PSA for Old Mill Street and New Islington Marina

Walk from Piccadilly 🚶‍♀️

It's just a 15-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly station, making it easily accessible. Reddit

Budget-Conscious Dining 💰

While some spots can be pricey, exploring the eateries offers options for various budgets. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Watch for Goose & Dog Mess! 💩

Be mindful of your footing, especially near the water and grassy areas. It's a common tip from visitors! Reddit

Picnic by the Ducks 🦆

Bring a blanket and enjoy a casual picnic with the resident ducks. A lovely, budget-friendly option. Reddit

Walk from Piccadilly 🚶‍♀️

It's just a 15-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly station, making it easily accessible. Reddit

Budget-Conscious Dining 💰

While some spots can be pricey, exploring the eateries offers options for various budgets. Reddit

Construction Zones 🚧

The area is still developing, so expect some ongoing construction which might cause noise or temporary access issues.

What Travellers Say

4.5
(46 reviews)

Reviews Summary

New Islington Marina is praised as a calming and scenic waterside location, perfect for walks, dining, and socializing. Its dog-friendly nature and proximity to the city centre are major draws. However, ongoing construction can sometimes detract from the experience, and some visitors note that dining can be on the pricier side.

"Calming location around 15 minutes walk from Manchester Piccadilly station and on the edge of the Northern Quarter. Extremely dog-friendly with many eateries and restaurants dotted around the area."

Waled Khaled Al-Koud

"Calming location around 15 minutes walk from Manchester Piccadilly station and on the edge of the Northern Quarter. Extremely dog-friendly with many eateries and restaurants dotted around the area."

J Carter

"Good place on the side of Manchester City Centre to enjoy few drinks or a meal on one of the Manchester canals. Good also for a walk around the City which gives a sense of feeling in nature. Many use this area for jogging took. Much more enjoyable when the sun is out. The area is still under construction therefore you might encounter road works which make the place a bit 'dirty' and loud during working days."

Andreas Chioppa

What People Like

Calming waterside atmosphere
Dog-friendly environment
Convenient city access

What People Dislike

Ongoing construction
Can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

New Islington Marina is conveniently located about a 15-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly station and on the edge of the Northern Quarter. You can also access it via public transport routes that serve the New Islington area. Reddit

While specific dedicated parking for the marina itself might be limited due to its urban setting, there are several car parks and on-street parking options in the surrounding Northern Quarter and Piccadilly areas. It's often recommended to use public transport or walk if possible. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great option! The marina is part of Manchester's expanding cycle network, and there are often bike racks available near the eateries and public spaces. Reddit

The paths around the marina are generally flat and paved, making them accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. However, some of the eateries might have steps, so it's worth checking in advance if you have specific accessibility needs. Reddit

If coming from outside Manchester, arriving at Manchester Piccadilly station is your best bet. From there, it's a short and pleasant walk to the marina. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, New Islington Marina is a public space and does not require an entrance ticket. You are free to wander and enjoy the atmosphere. Reddit

As a public outdoor space, the marina is accessible at all hours. However, individual restaurants and bars will have their own operating hours, typically from late morning through to late evening. Reddit

There are no fees for walking around, picnicking, or enjoying the general public areas of New Islington Marina. You only pay for food, drinks, or services at the establishments located there. Reddit

Yes, it is highly recommended to book tables, especially during peak times like sunny afternoons or weekend evenings, as the area can get busy. Reddit

The marina itself is an open public space and does not close. However, individual businesses operating along the waterfront will have their own closing times. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy waterside dining, take a leisurely walk or jog along the canals, have a picnic, or simply relax and people-watch. It's also a popular spot for dog owners. Reddit

Absolutely! The combination of modern architecture, water reflections, and greenery offers great photographic opportunities. It's a popular spot for fashion shoots. Reddit

It has a vibrant and modern urban vibe, especially when the weather is nice. It's a place where people come to socialize, dine, and enjoy the waterside setting. Reddit

The marina primarily features a selection of eateries and bars. While there aren't extensive retail shops, the surrounding Northern Quarter offers plenty of boutiques and independent stores. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to stroll along the canals. Casual attire is suitable for most visits, but check with specific restaurants if you plan a more formal meal. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The marina boasts a variety of eateries and restaurants, many offering canal-side seating. Options range from casual dining to more upscale experiences, catering to different tastes. Reddit

Yes, the area is known for being extremely dog-friendly, with many of the eateries welcoming well-behaved dogs, especially in outdoor seating areas. Reddit

Definitely! Many visitors enjoy having picnics by the canal, often accompanied by the local ducks. It's a great way to enjoy the scenery on a budget. Reddit

Prices can vary. Some reviews suggest it can be a bit pricey, so it's wise to check menus beforehand if you're on a tight budget. However, there are options to suit different financial plans. Reddit

Most modern eateries in Manchester, including those at the marina, typically offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to check the specific restaurant's menu or call ahead. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The reflections on the water, the modern architecture contrasting with the canal, and the general waterside ambiance make for great shots. The area is popular for fashion photoshoots. Reddit

While it's a public space, for commercial or professional photoshoots, it's advisable to check if any permits or permissions are required from the local council or marina management to avoid any issues. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, the marina has a lively atmosphere during the day, which can also be captured effectively. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for professional or commercial shoots, especially those involving large equipment or models, it's wise to inquire about any specific regulations. Reddit

It's excellent for urban landscapes, lifestyle shots, fashion photography, and capturing the city's modern development alongside its waterways. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

New Islington Marina offers a pleasant outing for families. The flat, paved paths are great for strollers and little legs, and the open spaces provide room to move. While there aren't dedicated playgrounds, the novelty of watching the boats and ducks can be entertaining for children. Many of the eateries are casual and can accommodate families, and the dog-friendly nature means well-behaved pets can join the fun too. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the water for a relaxed and budget-friendly meal option. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This is a fantastic spot for dog owners! New Islington Marina is renowned for being extremely dog-friendly. You'll find plenty of space for your furry friends to walk and explore along the canals. Crucially, many of the cafes and restaurants welcome dogs, often with outdoor seating available, making it easy to enjoy a meal or a drink without leaving your pet behind. Just remember to be mindful of other visitors and potential hazards like goose and dog mess. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

For those looking for visually appealing content, New Islington Marina is a gem. The modern architecture, water reflections, and urban-canal aesthetic provide a diverse range of backdrops. It's a popular location for fashion shoots and lifestyle content. The area offers good lighting, especially during golden hours. While personal photography is fine, remember to check for any permit requirements if planning a professional or commercial shoot to ensure a smooth experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Waterside Charm

New Islington Marina offers a refreshing urban escape, blending modern city living with tranquil waterside views. It's a relatively new development, meaning you'll find contemporary architecture alongside the canals. The area is popular for its dog-friendly atmosphere, with many eateries and open spaces welcoming pets. Visitors often enjoy leisurely walks, jogging, or simply relaxing by the water, appreciating the sense of nature within the city.

The marina is also a hub for dining and socializing. Numerous restaurants and bars line the canals, providing a vibrant backdrop for meals and drinks. While some establishments can be on the pricier side, the overall vibe is lively, especially when the weather is good. It's a place that attracts both locals and visitors looking for a pleasant spot to unwind or meet friends.

It's worth noting that the area is still undergoing development, so you might encounter some construction. However, this also signifies a growing and evolving destination. The proximity to Manchester Piccadilly station makes it easily accessible for day-trippers and those exploring the city.

Photography Opportunities

For photographers, New Islington Marina presents a compelling mix of urban aesthetics and natural elements. The reflections on the water are a key feature, creating dynamic and often symmetrical compositions. The modern buildings surrounding the marina offer clean lines and interesting architectural details that contrast beautifully with the softer textures of the canal and any surrounding greenery.

This location has become a popular spot for fashion and lifestyle photoshoots, thanks to its contemporary feel and scenic backdrop. The interplay of light on the water throughout the day can create varied moods, from bright and energetic in the afternoon to soft and atmospheric during golden hour. Be mindful of other visitors, as the marina is a public space enjoyed by many.

When planning a shoot, consider the time of day for optimal lighting. Early mornings or late afternoons can provide softer, more flattering light. While personal photography is generally welcomed, it's always prudent to check if any specific permits are needed for commercial or large-scale professional shoots to ensure a smooth experience.

Dining and Socializing

New Islington Marina is a prime spot for enjoying Manchester's culinary scene with a view. The selection of eateries and bars offers a diverse range of options, from casual bites to more refined dining experiences. Many establishments feature outdoor seating, allowing patrons to soak in the waterside ambiance, especially on pleasant days.

The marina's reputation as a dog-friendly destination extends to its dining options, with numerous places welcoming canine companions. This makes it an ideal location for a relaxed outing with pets. Visitors often highlight the enjoyable experience of dining or having drinks while watching the boats and the general activity along the canal.

While the atmosphere is generally vibrant and social, especially during peak times, some reviews suggest that prices can be a consideration. It's advisable to research the specific venues or check menus beforehand if you're looking for budget-friendly options. Nevertheless, the overall consensus is that the marina provides a delightful setting for socializing and enjoying good food and drink.

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