Salford Watersports Centre

Experience thrilling watersports and open water swimming in the heart of Salford Quays with expert coaching and top-notch facilities.

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Salford Watersports Centre

Salford Watersports Centre, located at 15 The Quays in Salford, offers a vibrant hub for water-based activities including open water swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and powerboat training. With excellent facilities, expert coaching, and a safe, welcoming environment, it caters to beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. The centre operates year-round, featuring a unique filtration system ensuring high water quality in the heart of Salford Quays.

A brief summary to Salford Watersports Centre

15 The Quays, Salford, M50 3SQ, GB
+441617780109
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 9:30 am-8 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-8 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-8 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-8 pm
Friday 9:30 am-8 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Book sessions in advance during peak summer months to secure your spot, especially for popular activities like paddleboarding and open water swimming.
Bring swimwear and towels; wetsuits and buoyancy aids are provided with rental equipment included in session prices.
Check the centre’s schedule for cold water swim sessions held from November to March, offering a unique winter swimming experience.
Use the free secure car park behind the centre, but arrive early on busy days as spaces are limited; alternative paid parking is available nearby.
Take advantage of coaching programs if you are new to watersports or want to improve your skills with expert guidance.

Getting There

Public Transport

Take the Metrolink tram to MediaCityUK station, approximately 20 minutes from central Manchester. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk along the waterfront to Salford Watersports Centre. Trams run every 12 minutes during the day, with tickets costing around £3-£4 one way.
Car

Drive to 15 The Quays, Salford M50 3SQ, using the M602 motorway from Manchester city centre. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Free parking is available in a secure barriered car park behind the centre, but spaces are limited during peak times.
Bus

Bus routes 50 and 255 serve Salford Quays from Manchester city centre, with a travel time of approximately 25-30 minutes. The nearest stop is Salford Quays/MediaCityUK, from which the centre is a 10-minute walk. Tickets cost around £2-£3.

Salford Watersports Centre location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Salford Watersports Centre

A Dynamic Urban Watersports Hub

Nestled on the waterfront of Salford Quays, the Salford Watersports Centre is a premier destination for adventure sports enthusiasts and novices alike. It offers a variety of water activities such as stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, open water swimming, and powerboat training. The centre’s location provides a unique urban aquatic playground, combining the excitement of watersports with the scenic backdrop of the Manchester Ship Canal and the regenerated docks.

Outstanding Facilities and Safety Measures

The centre boasts modern, well-maintained facilities including clean changing rooms, showers, and accessible disabled changing areas. Safety is paramount here, with trained lifeguards overseeing all swimming sessions and expert instructors available for coaching. A standout feature is the water quality, maintained by a sophisticated filtration system originally installed for the 2002 Commonwealth Games, ensuring a clean and safe environment for swimmers and paddlers.

Inclusive and Expert Coaching Programs

Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your skills, Salford Watersports Centre offers a range of coaching programs tailored to all levels. Open water swimming sessions include 300m and 500m courses, with special cold water swims during winter months that foster a friendly community atmosphere. Paddleboarding and kayaking lessons are conducted by approachable, knowledgeable instructors who make learning enjoyable and confidence-building.

Community and Seasonal Highlights

The centre is not just a sports venue but a community hub where people gather for social and fitness activities. Winter cold water swims are particularly popular, accompanied by warm drinks and snacks fostering camaraderie among participants. The centre also hosts junior summer programs and powerboat courses, making it a versatile venue catering to families, solo visitors, and groups.

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

Situated in a lively urban area, the centre offers free parking in a secure car park and is within walking distance of public transport options. The welcoming staff and relaxed atmosphere ensure visitors feel comfortable regardless of experience. The centre’s proximity to Salford Quays’ cultural and dining venues enhances the overall visitor experience, making it a perfect spot for a day out combining sport and leisure.

Sustainability and Urban Integration

Salford Watersports Centre exemplifies sustainable urban recreation, utilizing eco-friendly water filtration and promoting low-impact outdoor activity. Its integration into the regenerated docklands area reflects a commitment to preserving natural habitats while providing exciting recreational opportunities within a city environment.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Sky Hook Statue 1

0.7 km

Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.

5 Sir Matt Busby Way

1.0 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

1.2 km

A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.

LS Lowry birthplace

2.1 km

Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.

Bahnhof Manchester

2.2 km

Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.

Rochdale Canal Lock 92

2.2 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

2.3 km

Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.

Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall

Roman Gardens

2.3 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

2.4 km

Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.

Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort

Castlefield historical zone

2.4 km

Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.

Friedrich Engels Statue

2.8 km

A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.

Free Trade Hall

2.9 km

Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.

Hotspur House

2.9 km

Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.

Peterloo Massacre Monument

2.9 km

A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.

Rochdale Canal Lake

3.0 km

Explore the serene Rochdale Canal Lake, a historical landmark in Manchester offering beautiful views and tranquil walks along the water.

Unmissable attractions to see

Salford Quays Community Gardens

0.1 km

A peaceful community-driven garden oasis offering seasonal beauty and sustainable urban gardening in the heart of Salford Quays.

Salford Riviera

0.3 km

Salford Riviera: Where historic docks meet vibrant culture and scenic waterfront living in the heart of Salford Quays.

Quayside MediaCityUK

0.3 km

Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.

The Quays

0.3 km

A regenerated waterfront of museums, media studios, shopping and waterside dining that fuses dockland history with contemporary city life.

Salford quay’s

0.4 km

Discover Salford Quays, Greater Manchester’s vibrant waterfront with iconic culture, sport, shopping, and stunning architecture all within a walkable urban oasis.

Pier Eight Restaurant

0.4 km

Discover the exquisite flavors of Modern British cuisine at Pier Eight Restaurant, set against the stunning backdrop of The Quays in Manchester.

The Lowry

0.5 km

A dynamic cultural landmark in Salford Quays, The Lowry offers world-class theatre, galleries, and vibrant arts experiences on Manchester’s waterfront.

Gnome Island

0.5 km

Discover the enchanting miniature world of Gnome Island, a playful gnome colony perched on a historic concrete island in Salford Quays.

BBC Dock House

0.6 km

Explore the vibrant BBC Dock House at Salford Quays, where cutting-edge broadcasting meets stunning waterfront views and cultural energy.

IWM North

0.6 km

Discover powerful stories of war and peace in Manchester’s iconic deconstructivist museum overlooking the Ship Canal.

Quayside Tours Meeting Point

0.7 km

Start your journey through Salford’s rich heritage and vibrant Media City at the iconic Blue Tower meeting point.

Media City Footbridge

0.7 km

An elegant cable-stayed swing bridge linking MediaCityUK with cultural landmarks across the Manchester Ship Canal.

Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour

0.8 km

Step inside Old Trafford to explore Manchester United’s legendary museum and stadium in an immersive football journey.

Ordsall Hall

0.8 km

Discover Ordsall Hall, a stunning Tudor manor in Salford where history, architecture, and culture come alive in a captivating urban oasis.

Manchester United

0.9 km

Experience the legendary 'Theatre of Dreams,' home to Manchester United since 1910, where football history and passion come alive.

Contemporary Italian dining with warm service and fresh flavors in Manchester’s lively Campfield Arcade.

Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

11 Central

0.2 km

Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.

Craftbrew

0.4 km

Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.

Matchstick Man

0.4 km

Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.

Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha

0.4 km

Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.

SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City

0.6 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.

The Dockyard

0.6 km

Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.

The Wharf

2.2 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

2.2 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

2.2 km

Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.

Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester

cask

2.5 km

Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.

Atlas Bar

2.5 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

2.6 km

Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.

Lock 91

2.6 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

2.6 km

Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.

The Blues Kitchen Manchester

2.7 km

Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Ark Manchester

2.6 km

Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.

Royal Vida Night Club

2.6 km

Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.

Popworld Manchester

2.6 km

Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.

History Nightclub

2.7 km

Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.

42's

2.8 km

Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.

Bliss Club Manchester

2.8 km

Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.

Venue Nightclub

2.9 km

Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.

Club Liv Manchester

3.0 km

Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.

Viva Manchester

3.1 km

Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.

Kable

3.2 km

A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.

Bijou Club

3.3 km

Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.

Satans Hollow

3.4 km

Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.

Hidden at Downtex Mill

3.4 km

Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.

FAC251 - Factory Manchester

3.4 km

Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.

Club Tropicana

3.5 km

Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Salford Watersports Centre with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Salford Watersports Centre

A brief summary to Salford Watersports Centre

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Public Transport

Car

Bus

Salford Watersports Centre location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Salford Watersports Centre

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Salford Watersports Centre

A Dynamic Urban Watersports Hub

Outstanding Facilities and Safety Measures

Inclusive and Expert Coaching Programs

Community and Seasonal Highlights

Accessibility and Visitor Experience

Sustainability and Urban Integration

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Sky Hook Statue 1

5 Sir Matt Busby Way

Salford Lads Club

LS Lowry birthplace

Bahnhof Manchester

Rochdale Canal Lock 92

Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall

Roman Gardens

Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort

Castlefield historical zone

Friedrich Engels Statue

Free Trade Hall

Hotspur House

Peterloo Massacre Monument

Rochdale Canal Lake

Unmissable attractions to see

Salford Quays Community Gardens

Salford Riviera

Quayside MediaCityUK

The Quays

Salford quay’s

Pier Eight Restaurant

The Lowry

Gnome Island

BBC Dock House

IWM North

Quayside Tours Meeting Point

Media City Footbridge

Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour

Ordsall Hall

Manchester United

Essential places to dine

Quay House Beefeater

Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk

Bella Italia - Salford Quays

Unagi

Lime

Turtle Bay Salford Quays

Nando's Salford Quays

The Alchemist MediaCity UK

The Botanist Media City

The Banyan Tree

Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester

Dukes 92

Dom's Italia

Italiana Fifty Five Liverpool Road

Don Marco

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Sweet Emporium

M&S Outlet

Flock and Gaggle

Next Outlet

The Works

The Body Shop

SPAR Salford Quays

Salford Shopping Centre

Science and Industry Museum Shop

INFINITE RUNNING

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