BBC Dock House: Media Hub and Waterfront Landmark in Salford
Explore the heart of northern UK broadcasting at BBC Dock House, a modern media landmark set on the scenic Salford Quays waterfront.
The BBC Dock House in Salford is a dynamic media and cultural landmark located at The Quays, serving as the headquarters for BBC North. This modern building offers visitors a unique insight into television and radio production, set against the scenic backdrop of Salford Quays’ waterfront. It is a key part of the vibrant MediaCityUK precinct, blending cutting-edge broadcasting facilities with public engagement and stunning architecture.
A brief summary to BBC Dock House
- Dock House, The Quays, Salford, M50 2LH, GB
- +441618360020
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 7 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
- Thursday 7 am-8 pm
- Friday 7 am-8 pm
- Saturday 7 am-8 pm
- Sunday 7 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Book a guided tour in advance to experience behind-the-scenes access to TV and radio studios.
- Visit on weekdays during opening hours (7am–8pm) for the best chance to see live broadcasts.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Salford Quays waterfront to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
- Photography is allowed in designated areas—bring a camera to capture the modern architecture and studio sets.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus numbers 50 or 100 from Manchester city center to the 'MediaCityUK' stop. The journey typically takes 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. From the stop, enjoy a 10-minute scenic walk along the waterfront to the BBC Dock House.
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Tram
Use the Metrolink tram service from Manchester city center to MediaCityUK station. The tram ride takes approximately 15 minutes. From the station, it is a short walk to the Dock House through pedestrian-friendly paths.
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Walking
If you are already in Salford Quays, a pleasant 15-minute walk from The Lowry Theatre along the waterfront leads directly to the BBC Dock House. The route is flat and accessible, offering scenic views of the canal and surrounding architecture.
BBC Dock House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about BBC Dock House
A Center of Broadcasting Excellence
The BBC Dock House stands as a prominent symbol of the BBC’s presence in northern England, housing major departments such as sports news, children’s programming, and the flagship morning show, BBC Breakfast. This facility is integral to the UK’s broadcasting landscape, combining advanced production studios with offices and technical spaces. Visitors can explore parts of the building to gain a behind-the-scenes look at how popular television and radio programs are created, including interactive exhibits and occasional studio tours.Architectural and Waterfront Setting
Situated on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal at Salford Quays, the Dock House is part of a striking modern waterfront development. The building’s sleek, contemporary design complements the surrounding area’s blend of industrial heritage and modern regeneration. The Quays themselves offer scenic walking paths, bridges, and reflective waters that create a tranquil atmosphere contrasting with the bustling media hub. This setting makes the BBC Dock House not only a workplace but also a visual landmark within the vibrant MediaCityUK precinct.MediaCityUK and Cultural Context
The Dock House is a key component of MediaCityUK, a 36-acre media and creative industries complex that opened in 2011. MediaCityUK hosts a range of broadcasters, production companies, and cultural venues, including theatres, galleries, and restaurants. This precinct is a magnet for creativity and innovation, attracting professionals and visitors alike. The BBC Dock House contributes to this dynamic environment by offering public tours and events that connect audiences with the media production process.Visitor Experience and Engagement
Visitors to the BBC Dock House can expect a blend of educational and immersive experiences. Tours often include visits to radio studios, television sets, and interactive areas where guests can try reading news or weather reports. Photography is permitted in designated areas, allowing visitors to capture memories of their visit. The calm waterfront surroundings provide a pleasant environment for reflection and relaxation after exploring the bustling media spaces.Local Significance and Accessibility
Located in Salford M50 2LH, the Dock House is easily accessible by public transport, including buses and trams connecting it to Manchester city center. The surrounding Salford Quays area is rich with cultural attractions such as The Lowry theatre, Imperial War Museum North, and various watersports facilities. The Dock House thus serves as both a media landmark and a gateway to the wider cultural and recreational offerings of the Quays.Future and Community Role
As part of the ongoing development of MediaCityUK, the BBC Dock House is positioned to remain a cornerstone of northern UK media production. It supports a vibrant community of media professionals and creatives, while also fostering public engagement through tours, events, and educational programs. The building and its precinct continue to evolve, balancing technological innovation with cultural enrichment in one of the UK’s most exciting waterfront destinations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sky Hook Statue 1
1.3 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
1.4 km
Old Trafford, the legendary Theatre of Dreams, is Manchester United’s iconic home since 1910, blending rich football history with modern innovation.
Salford Lads Club
1.6 km
A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.
LS Lowry birthplace
2.7 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
Bahnhof Manchester
2.7 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
2.8 km
Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall
2.9 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Roman Gardens
2.9 km
Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
3.0 km
Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Castlefield historical zone
3.0 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Friedrich Engels Statue
3.4 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Free Trade Hall
3.4 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Sightseeing Manchester
3.5 km
Explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and iconic landmarks of Manchester, England—where every corner tells a unique story.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
3.5 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Hotspur House
3.5 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Unmissable attractions to see
Quayside Tours Meeting Point
0.0 km
Start your journey through Salford’s rich heritage and vibrant Media City at the iconic Blue Tower meeting point.
Media City Footbridge
0.2 km
An elegant cable-stayed swing bridge linking MediaCityUK with cultural landmarks across the Manchester Ship Canal.
The Lowry
0.3 km
A dynamic cultural landmark in Salford Quays, The Lowry offers world-class theatre, galleries, and vibrant arts experiences on Manchester’s waterfront.
Pier Eight Restaurant
0.3 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Modern British cuisine at Pier Eight Restaurant, set against the stunning backdrop of The Quays in Manchester.
IWM North
0.3 km
Discover powerful stories of war and peace in Manchester’s iconic deconstructivist museum overlooking the Ship Canal.
The Quays
0.3 km
A regenerated waterfront of museums, media studios, shopping and waterside dining that fuses dockland history with contemporary city life.
Quayside MediaCityUK
0.4 km
Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.
Salford Riviera
0.5 km
Salford Riviera: Where historic docks meet vibrant culture and scenic waterfront living in the heart of Salford Quays.
Salford quay’s
0.5 km
Discover Salford Quays, Greater Manchester’s vibrant waterfront with iconic culture, sport, shopping, and stunning architecture all within a walkable urban oasis.
Salford Quays Community Gardens
0.6 km
A peaceful community-driven garden oasis offering seasonal beauty and sustainable urban gardening in the heart of Salford Quays.
Salford Watersports Centre
0.6 km
Urban watersports hub offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and year-round open water swimming on Salford Quays.
Gnome Island
1.0 km
Discover the enchanting miniature world of Gnome Island, a playful gnome colony perched on a historic concrete island in Salford Quays.
Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour
1.0 km
Step inside Old Trafford to explore Manchester United’s legendary museum and stadium in an immersive football journey.
Manchester United
1.2 km
Experience the legendary 'Theatre of Dreams,' home to Manchester United since 1910, where football history and passion come alive.
Old Trafford
1.2 km
Explore Old Trafford, the iconic 'Theatre of Dreams' and largest football club stadium in the UK, home to Manchester United's legendary legacy.
Essential places to dine
The Botanist Media City
0.1 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
The Alchemist MediaCity UK
0.2 km
Experience innovative cocktails and global cuisine in a striking futuristic setting overlooking Salford’s historic quays at MediaCity UK.
Nando's Salford Quays
0.3 km
Savor flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken in a lively, accessible setting at Nando's Salford Quays, where Portuguese and South African flavors meet Manchester’s vibrant quayside.
Lime
0.3 km
Savor grilled delights and Asian fusion by Salford Quays' waterfront, where relaxed lunches flow into lively nights in a spacious, vibrant venue.
Unagi
0.3 km
Experience the North West’s largest sushi bar with vibrant pan-Asian street food, crafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere at MediaCityUK’s Unagi.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
0.3 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Bella Italia - Salford Quays
0.4 km
Casual Italian dining with diverse menu options in Manchester’s vibrant Salford Quays waterfront setting.
Turtle Bay Salford Quays
0.4 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
Quay House Beefeater
0.7 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly pub offering scenic waterside dining with a cosy, modern atmosphere in Salford Quays.
The Banyan Tree
2.5 km
Bohemian bistro in Castlefield serving fusion bites, brunch, cocktails, and live events amid murals and canal vibes—Manchester's go-to for eclectic dining.
Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester
2.8 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
Dukes 92
2.9 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Dom's Italia
3.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Manchester at Dom's Italia, where tradition meets vibrant city dining.
Tattu Manchester
3.1 km
Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant
3.1 km
Cozy British dining with eclectic charm and seasonal flavors in Manchester’s lively Spinningfields district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Works
0.3 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
Next Outlet
0.4 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
The Body Shop
0.4 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
M&S Outlet
0.4 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Flock and Gaggle
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artistry in MediaCity UK's creative gem, where independent makers shine amid Salford's quayside buzz.
The Sweet Emporium
0.4 km
Discover UK's vastest sweet collection at The Sweet Emporium in MediaCityUK—a family-run paradise of nostalgic candies, retro treats, and global confections that sparks joy for every sweet tooth.
SPAR Salford Quays
1.1 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
Salford Shopping Centre
1.9 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
3.0 km
Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
INFINITE RUNNING
3.1 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
ItsFetch
3.1 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
3.1 km
Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
3.1 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Branded Like A Boss
3.1 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
Catch my Thrift
3.2 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dockyard
0.0 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
0.1 km
Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.
Craftbrew
0.3 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
11 Central
0.5 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
0.7 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
Matchstick Man
1.0 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
The Wharf
2.8 km
Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.
Bar Eight
2.8 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
2.8 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
cask
3.1 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
Atlas Bar
3.1 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
The Deansgate
3.1 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Lock 91
3.1 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Cloud 23
3.2 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
The Alchemist Spinningfields
3.2 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Minimalist Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
