The Quays, Salford: Greater Manchester's Premier Waterfront Destination
A vibrant waterfront district in Salford blending iconic arts, media innovation, sport, and scenic leisure just minutes from Manchester city centre.
The Quays in Salford is a vibrant waterfront district blending culture, history, sport, and modern architecture within a compact, walkable area. It features iconic attractions like The Lowry arts centre, Imperial War Museum North, and MediaCityUK, home to major broadcasters. Visitors enjoy scenic waterside walks, diverse dining, and family-friendly activities, all just 15 minutes by tram from Manchester city centre.
A brief summary to The Quays
- Salford, GB
- Duration: 2 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for popular theatre shows at The Lowry to secure your seat.
- Explore the Imperial War Museum North early in the day for a quieter, more reflective experience.
- Visit MediaCityUK’s monthly Makers Market for unique local crafts and live music.
- Take a watersports session or boat tour to experience the Quays from the water.
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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Tram
Take the Metrolink tram from Manchester city centre to The Quays, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Trams run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around £3-£5 one way.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve Salford Quays from surrounding areas, with travel times ranging from 20 to 40 minutes depending on departure point. Single fares typically range from £2 to £4.
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Car
Driving to The Quays is straightforward via major roads, with several car parks available on site. Parking fees vary but expect around £5-£10 for a full day. Note that traffic can be heavy during peak hours.
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Walking
From Manchester city centre, walking to The Quays takes about 40-50 minutes along mostly flat, urban terrain. The route is accessible but not recommended for those with mobility issues due to distance.
The Quays 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
Discover more about The Quays
A Dynamic Cultural and Artistic Hub
The Quays stands as a beacon of culture and creativity in Greater Manchester. Anchored by The Lowry, an award-winning arts centre named after the famous local painter L.S. Lowry, the area offers a rich program of theatre, dance, music, and visual arts. The Lowry's striking metal and glass architecture is a landmark in itself, housing galleries, theatres, workshops, cafes, and shops. Nearby, the Imperial War Museum North presents powerful exhibits on conflict and its impact, housed in a distinctive angular building designed to evoke a shattered globe, making it both a poignant and architectural highlight.MediaCityUK: Innovation and Entertainment
Adjacent to The Quays is MediaCityUK, a vibrant media and digital hub hosting the BBC, ITV, and numerous creative enterprises. This dynamic precinct pulses with innovation and offers visitors a chance to glimpse behind the scenes of broadcasting. The area is alive with bars, restaurants, and events, contributing to a lively atmosphere that complements the cultural offerings. Monthly markets showcase local crafts and food, enhancing the community feel.Sporting Excellence and Waterfront Leisure
The Quays is also synonymous with sport, home to legendary clubs such as Manchester United and Lancashire County Cricket Club. Official merchandise shops and stadium tours attract sports fans year-round. For water enthusiasts, the Salford Watersports Centre provides facilities for kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, and more, making the waterfront a hub for both leisure and competition. Scenic boat tours along the docks offer relaxing ways to explore the area's industrial heritage and modern transformation.A Walkable Urban Oasis with Dining and Shopping
Within a compact square mile, The Quays offers scenic walking routes along the waterfront, perfect for casual strolls or photography. The dining scene ranges from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, with options for pre-theatre meals or social gatherings. Shopping includes outlet malls and local markets, though some areas benefit from ongoing revitalization efforts. The blend of modern architecture, open spaces, and waterside views creates an inviting urban oasis.Heritage and Community Spirit
Beyond the modern developments, Salford Quays embraces its heritage through sites like Ordsall Hall, a historic manor with immersive exhibitions and gardens. The area’s transformation from industrial docks to a cultural and leisure destination reflects a community spirit focused on regeneration and sustainability. Public spaces and events foster a welcoming environment for families, creatives, and visitors alike.Accessibility and Connectivity
The Quays benefits from excellent transport links, including the Metrolink tram system connecting it to Manchester city centre in about 15 minutes. The area is designed for easy pedestrian access, encouraging exploration without the need for a car. This connectivity supports its role as a major destination for both locals and tourists seeking a diverse urban experience.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Salford Lads Club
1.1 km
A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.
Sky Hook Statue 1
1.1 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.
Bahnhof Manchester
2.2 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
2.3 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.
Roman Gardens
2.3 km
Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.
LS Lowry birthplace
2.3 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
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.
Castlefield historical zone
2.5 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Friedrich Engels Statue
2.9 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.
Sightseeing Manchester
3.0 km
Explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and iconic landmarks of Manchester, England—where every corner tells a unique story.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
3.0 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 quay’s
0.0 km
Discover Salford Quays, Greater Manchester’s vibrant waterfront with iconic culture, sport, shopping, and stunning architecture all within a walkable urban oasis.
Quayside MediaCityUK
0.4 km
Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.
Salford Watersports Centre
0.4 km
Urban watersports hub offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and year-round open water swimming on Salford Quays.
Salford Quays Community Gardens
0.4 km
A peaceful community-driven garden oasis offering seasonal beauty and sustainable urban gardening in the heart of Salford Quays.
Salford Riviera
0.5 km
Salford Riviera: Where historic docks meet vibrant culture and scenic waterfront living in the heart of Salford Quays.
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.
Pier Eight Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Modern British cuisine at Pier Eight Restaurant, set against the stunning backdrop of The Quays in Manchester.
BBC Dock House
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant BBC Dock House at Salford Quays, where cutting-edge broadcasting meets stunning waterfront views and cultural energy.
Quayside Tours Meeting Point
0.6 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.
IWM North
0.7 km
Discover powerful stories of war and peace in Manchester’s iconic deconstructivist museum overlooking the Ship Canal.
Gnome Island
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting miniature world of Gnome Island, a playful gnome colony perched on a historic concrete island in Salford Quays.
Ordsall Hall
1.0 km
Discover Ordsall Hall, a stunning Tudor manor in Salford where history, architecture, and culture come alive in a captivating urban oasis.
Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour
1.1 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.
Essential places to dine
Quay House Beefeater
0.4 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly pub offering scenic waterside dining with a cosy, modern atmosphere in Salford Quays.
Lime
0.4 km
Savor grilled delights and Asian fusion by Salford Quays' waterfront, where relaxed lunches flow into lively nights in a spacious, vibrant venue.
Nando's Salford Quays
0.4 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.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
0.4 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Unagi
0.4 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.
The Alchemist MediaCity UK
0.4 km
Experience innovative cocktails and global cuisine in a striking futuristic setting overlooking Salford’s historic quays at MediaCity UK.
The Botanist Media City
0.4 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
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
0.5 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
The Banyan Tree
2.0 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
2.3 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
Dukes 92
2.3 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Dom's Italia
2.5 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
2.5 km
Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant
2.5 km
Cozy British dining with eclectic charm and seasonal flavors in Manchester’s lively Spinningfields district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
M&S Outlet
0.4 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Works
0.4 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.
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 Body Shop
0.5 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
SPAR Salford Quays
0.8 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
Salford Shopping Centre
1.6 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
2.4 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
2.6 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
2.6 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.6 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
0.2 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
Craftbrew
0.4 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
11 Central
0.4 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
0.5 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
0.5 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
Matchstick Man
0.6 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
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
2.3 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
2.3 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
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
2.6 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 Alchemist Spinningfields
2.6 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Ark Manchester
2.7 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
2.7 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
2.9 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.
Bijou Club
3.2 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Kable
3.2 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
3.2 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Satans Hollow
3.4 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Cargo
3.5 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
3.5 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
