Salford Quays
A modern waterfront hub blending arts, media, and leisure with striking architecture and scenic views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds
Salford Quays
Best Time
Lively atmosphere, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern waterfront hub blending arts, media, and leisure with striking architecture and scenic views.
"Beautiful location, don't be in a rush to pick a spot for food as there are hidden gems all over."
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls are Safe
Salford Quays is a safe and well-lit area, perfect for evening walks along the docks.
🍽️ Discover Hidden Eateries
Don't rush for food; explore the quays to find delightful, lesser-known dining spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lowry Theatre
Pier 8
Catch world-class theatre, dance, and exhibitions in this stunning performing arts venue.

Imperial War Museum North
Trafford Wharf Road
Explore powerful exhibits on conflict and its impact, housed in an iconic, angular building.
MediaCityUK
Salford Quays
A vibrant hub for media, innovation, and entertainment, with BBC and ITV studios.

Waterfront Boat Trips
Salford Quays Docks
Enjoy scenic views and learn about the area's history on a relaxing boat tour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfront Vibe
Plan Your Arts & Culture Fix
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls are Safe
Salford Quays is a safe and well-lit area, perfect for evening walks along the docks.
🍽️ Discover Hidden Eateries
Don't rush for food; explore the quays to find delightful, lesser-known dining spots.
🎟️ Book Theatre Tickets Early
For popular shows at The Lowry, booking in advance is highly recommended.
🅿️ Affordable Parking
Parking is accessible and reasonably priced, around £2.30 for 1-2 hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Evening Strolls are Safe
Salford Quays is a safe and well-lit area, perfect for evening walks along the docks.
🍽️ Discover Hidden Eateries
Don't rush for food; explore the quays to find delightful, lesser-known dining spots.
🎟️ Book Theatre Tickets Early
For popular shows at The Lowry, booking in advance is highly recommended.
🅿️ Affordable Parking
Parking is accessible and reasonably priced, around £2.30 for 1-2 hours.
🚤 Scenic Boat Tours
Boat trips offer great views and historical insights into the quays.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Salford Quays is praised for its modern waterfront appeal, vibrant arts scene at The Lowry, and the impactful Imperial War Museum North. Visitors enjoy the easy transport links and the lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings. However, some reviews note that the outlet mall could use more attention and upkeep.
"We came to the Lowry on the Quays to watch DERREN BROWN only human show live. What an incredible show.would highly recommended the show and the theatre was brilliant. Sorry limited photos here as there was no filming or photography allowed when the performance was underway. You need to see this show it was mindbending."
Michael Collins
"Boat ride was very good , enjoyable seeing the sites and learning history of the place.
The mall was outdated needed more tlc the weeds on the entrance steps let's it down and general untidiness. Feel sorry for shop owners feel like they on last legs ! Beautiful area let down by funding ?"
jo Mellors
"Visited here during a weekend away in Manchester to go on a river boat 'cruise'. The whole quays area is great, it's clean and modern with lots of eataries, hotels, a great theatre (Lowry) and a small outlet shop area. There is also the Imperial War Museum and the ITV studios which we plan to visit another time."
Tracey B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach Salford Quays from Manchester city centre via the Metrolink tram system, which is frequent and efficient. Alternatively, it's a pleasant walk along the canal, taking about 30-40 minutes.
Yes, Salford Quays is very walkable. The entire area is designed for pedestrians, with wide promenades along the waterfront, making it ideal for exploring on foot.
There are several parking facilities available at Salford Quays, including multi-storey car parks and on-street parking. Prices are generally reasonable, with some offering hourly rates.
Yes, there are cycle paths leading to and around Salford Quays, making it accessible for cyclists. You can also find cycle hire schemes in the vicinity.
Absolutely! Salford Quays is very well-connected by public transport, primarily through the Metrolink tram network, with its own dedicated stop. Buses also serve the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Salford Quays itself is a public area and does not require an entry ticket. However, attractions within the Quays, such as The Lowry or the Imperial War Museum North, will have their own admission fees and ticketing requirements.
The Quays area is generally accessible at all times, but individual attractions like The Lowry, museums, and shops have specific opening hours. It's best to check the individual websites for the most up-to-date information.
Entry to the galleries at The Lowry is typically free, but tickets for theatre performances, exhibitions, and other events vary in price. Check The Lowry's official website for current pricing and booking information.
Yes, the galleries at The Lowry often offer free admission, and simply exploring the waterfront, MediaCityUK, and the general ambiance of the Quays is a free experience.
Yes, booking tickets for shows and events at The Lowry online through their official website is the most convenient way to secure your seats, especially for popular performances.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Salford Quays offers a diverse range of activities, including visiting The Lowry arts centre, exploring the Imperial War Museum North, enjoying boat trips, dining at various restaurants, and experiencing the vibrant MediaCityUK.
Absolutely! The modern architecture, waterfront views, and iconic landmarks like the Imperial War Museum make Salford Quays a fantastic spot for photography.
Yes, Salford Quays boasts a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, from casual eateries to more upscale dining options, catering to various tastes and budgets.
MediaCityUK is a dynamic media and digital hub at Salford Quays, home to BBC and ITV studios, along with numerous creative businesses, residential areas, and public spaces.
Yes, Salford Quays is family-friendly, with attractions like the Imperial War Museum North offering engaging exhibits, and plenty of open space for children to explore.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include the striking architecture of the Imperial War Museum North, the waterfront views with the Manchester skyline in the distance, and the modern structures around MediaCityUK. The Lowry's exterior also offers great photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light for photography. However, the area is also vibrant at night with its illuminations, providing a different photographic appeal.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, within specific venues like The Lowry during performances or inside the Imperial War Museum, photography might be restricted. Always check signage.
A versatile lens, such as a wide-angle to capture the expansive architecture and waterfront, is recommended. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography, especially at night.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and near media hubs like MediaCityUK due to safety and privacy concerns. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as while there are many eateries, they can get busy. The ease of access via the Metrolink also makes it a stress-free journey for families traveling with young children. Look out for specific family events or workshops that might be running during your visit.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Utilizing the Metrolink tram for transport from Manchester city centre is generally more cost-effective than taxis. Look out for any special offers or discounts on attractions if available, and prioritize free activities like exploring the waterfront and enjoying the public art installations.
couples
Consider visiting during the evening when the lights reflect on the water for a particularly picturesque experience. The area is safe for evening strolls, allowing you to soak in the ambiance together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Arts and Culture Scene
Visitors often praise the quality of performances at The Lowry, with many recommending specific shows. The museum, while somber, is frequently cited as being incredibly impactful and educational. It's worth noting that while gallery access at The Lowry is often free, booking tickets in advance for popular theatre productions is highly advised to avoid disappointment.
For those interested in media, the MediaCityUK complex offers a glimpse into the world of broadcasting, with the BBC and ITV having a significant presence. While public tours might be limited, the area itself is a hub of innovation and modern design, contributing to the dynamic atmosphere of the Quays.
Navigating Salford Quays: Transport and Accessibility
Once you're at the Quays, the area is designed with pedestrians in mind. Wide promenades and well-maintained pathways make it easy to explore the waterfront, shops, and attractions on foot. Parking is also readily available in various car parks and on-street locations, with reasonable rates making it a viable option for visitors arriving by car.
Accessibility is a key feature of Salford Quays. The modern infrastructure ensures that most areas are easily navigable for individuals with mobility challenges. Public transport options are also generally accessible, further enhancing the ease of visiting for everyone.
Dining and Shopping Delights
The shopping experience at Salford Quays is centered around the outlet mall and various independent boutiques. While some reviews suggest the mall could benefit from updates, it still provides a good selection of shops. The overall atmosphere of the Quays, with its blend of modern architecture and waterfront charm, makes for a pleasant shopping and dining excursion.
Consider planning your visit around meal times to fully enjoy the gastronomic offerings. Whether you're looking for a pre-theatre meal or a relaxed dinner after exploring the museums, Salford Quays has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit