Gnome Island: The Whimsical Gnome Colony of Salford Quays
Discover the enchanting miniature world of Gnome Island, a playful gnome colony perched on a historic concrete island in Salford Quays.
Gnome Island is a quirky cultural landmark located on a small concrete island in the Manchester Ship Canal at Salford Quays. Since 2017, it has been home to an ever-growing family of garden gnomes, creating a charming and eccentric miniature community that delights locals and visitors alike. Best viewed from the Trafford side of the canal, this unique installation combines playful creativity with the industrial heritage of the area.
A brief summary to Gnome Island
- Clippers Quay, Salford, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Best views of Gnome Island are from the Trafford side of the canal, especially near the Wharfside tram stop.
- Take a water taxi along the Manchester Ship Canal for close-up views of the gnome colony.
- Visit during the Christmas season to see the gnome-sized Santa Claus visiting the island.
- Bring a camera to capture the quirky and colorful gnome figures against the industrial waterside backdrop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Tram
Take the Metrolink tram to the Wharfside stop on the Eccles line; from there, Gnome Island is visible across the canal. Trams run every 12 minutes, journey time from Manchester city centre is approximately 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost £3-£5 one way.
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Water Taxi
Board a water taxi from Salford Quays to the Trafford Centre or MediaCityUK for a scenic 20-30 minute ride along the canal, offering close views of Gnome Island. Prices range from £5 to £8 per trip.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Salford Quays, including services 50 and 255 from Manchester city centre. Journey time is about 25-35 minutes depending on traffic. A single fare costs around £3.
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Car
Driving to Salford Quays is possible with parking available at Clippers Quay and nearby public car parks. Expect a 15-25 minute drive from central Manchester depending on traffic. Parking fees vary between £2-£6 per hour.
Gnome Island 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 Gnome Island
A Concrete Island with Industrial Roots
Gnome Island sits on a small concrete platform in the Manchester Ship Canal at Salford Quays, near Clippers Quay. The island is a remnant of the region’s industrial past, originally part of the infrastructure supporting a twin-track swing railway bridge that once crossed the canal. The Manchester Ship Canal itself was a monumental engineering feat completed in 1894, linking Manchester to the Irish Sea and transforming the city into a major inland port. Although the docks closed in 1984, the concrete islands remain as silent witnesses to this bygone industrial era.The Birth of a Gnome Community
In 2017, the abandoned concrete island found new life with the mysterious arrival of a single garden gnome named Gnorman. Soon after, his partner Gnorma and their twins joined him, establishing the island’s first gnome family. Over the years, the tiny community has expanded to include a variety of gnome characters such as Gnorman’s parents, entertainers, and even a same-sex gnome couple. This whimsical colony has become a symbol of creativity and fun, bringing a touch of magic to the otherwise industrial waterside.Viewing and Cultural Significance
While Gnome Island physically lies on the Salford side of the canal, it is best viewed from the Trafford banks where the gnomes face. Visitors can see the gnomes from the canalside or aboard passing water taxis that ply the waterways between the city centre, MediaCityUK, and the Trafford Centre. The installation has become a beloved local landmark, with seasonal events such as visits from a gnome-sized Santa Claus during Christmas adding to its charm. It embodies the playful spirit and community pride of Salford Quays, offering a lighthearted contrast to the area's industrial heritage.A Living Installation with a Social Presence
The gnome community maintains an active presence on social media platforms, sharing updates and photos that engage a wider audience beyond the local area. Despite occasional acts of vandalism, the colony persists and continues to grow, reflecting the resilience and whimsical character of this unusual cultural landmark. It also serves as a conversation starter about urban renewal and the creative reimagining of forgotten spaces.Environmental and Urban Context
Gnome Island is nestled within the modern, redeveloped Salford Quays area, known for its blend of residential, commercial, and leisure facilities. The island’s concrete base contrasts with the surrounding waters and modern architecture, creating a unique visual and cultural juxtaposition. Its presence highlights the interplay between industrial history and contemporary urban life, inviting reflection on the transformation of Manchester’s waterways.Continuing Legacy and Visitor Experience
Today, Gnome Island remains a quirky and endearing attraction that surprises and delights those who discover it. Whether viewed from the tram at Wharfside or from a boat cruising the canal, the tiny gnome figures bring smiles and curiosity. The island’s story is one of unexpected creativity, community, and the enduring charm of small wonders within a large cityscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sky Hook Statue 1
0.3 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
0.6 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
1.4 km
A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.
LS Lowry birthplace
1.8 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
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.
Bahnhof Manchester
2.3 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
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.
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
2.4 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.
Hotspur House
2.9 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
St Clement's Parish Church
2.9 km
Victorian Gothic masterpiece with five centuries of spiritual heritage in Chorlton-cum-Hardy.
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.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Manchester United Museum & Stadium Tour
0.4 km
Step inside Old Trafford to explore Manchester United’s legendary museum and stadium in an immersive football journey.
Salford Watersports Centre
0.5 km
Urban watersports hub offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and year-round open water swimming on Salford Quays.
Salford Quays Community Gardens
0.5 km
A peaceful community-driven garden oasis offering seasonal beauty and sustainable urban gardening in the heart of Salford Quays.
Manchester United
0.5 km
Experience the legendary 'Theatre of Dreams,' home to Manchester United since 1910, where football history and passion come alive.
Old Trafford
0.5 km
Explore Old Trafford, the iconic 'Theatre of Dreams' and largest football club stadium in the UK, home to Manchester United's legendary legacy.
Salford Riviera
0.5 km
Salford Riviera: Where historic docks meet vibrant culture and scenic waterfront living in the heart of Salford Quays.
The Quays
0.6 km
A regenerated waterfront of museums, media studios, shopping and waterside dining that fuses dockland history with contemporary city life.
Quayside MediaCityUK
0.6 km
Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.
Pier Eight Restaurant
0.7 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Modern British cuisine at Pier Eight Restaurant, set against the stunning backdrop of The Quays in Manchester.
Ordsall Hall
0.7 km
Discover Ordsall Hall, a stunning Tudor manor in Salford where history, architecture, and culture come alive in a captivating urban oasis.
The Lowry
0.7 km
A dynamic cultural landmark in Salford Quays, The Lowry offers world-class theatre, galleries, and vibrant arts experiences on Manchester’s waterfront.
The Quays Practice
0.8 km
A trusted community medical practice offering comprehensive healthcare services in Salford’s vibrant Lowry complex.
IWM North
0.8 km
Discover powerful stories of war and peace in Manchester’s iconic deconstructivist museum overlooking the Ship Canal.
Salford quay’s
0.8 km
Discover Salford Quays, Greater Manchester’s vibrant waterfront with iconic culture, sport, shopping, and stunning architecture all within a walkable urban oasis.
BBC Dock House
1.0 km
Explore the vibrant BBC Dock House at Salford Quays, where cutting-edge broadcasting meets stunning waterfront views and cultural energy.
Essential places to dine
Quay House Beefeater
0.5 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly pub offering scenic waterside dining with a cosy, modern atmosphere in Salford Quays.
Turtle Bay Salford Quays
0.6 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
Bella Italia - Salford Quays
0.6 km
Casual Italian dining with diverse menu options in Manchester’s vibrant Salford Quays waterfront setting.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
0.6 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Unagi
0.7 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.
Lime
0.7 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
0.7 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.
The Alchemist MediaCity UK
0.8 km
Experience innovative cocktails and global cuisine in a striking futuristic setting overlooking Salford’s historic quays at MediaCity UK.
The Botanist Media City
0.9 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
The Banyan Tree
1.9 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.
Italiana Fifty Five Liverpool Road
2.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.
Don Marco
2.6 km
Contemporary Italian dining with warm service and fresh flavors in Manchester’s lively Campfield Arcade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
SPAR Salford Quays
0.4 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
Flock and Gaggle
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Body Shop
0.6 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
Next Outlet
0.6 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
The Works
0.6 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
Salford Shopping Centre
2.4 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
INFINITE RUNNING
2.4 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
2.4 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
2.4 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
2.4 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
2.4 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
2.5 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.
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
Matchstick Man
0.4 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
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.
Craftbrew
0.7 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
0.8 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
0.9 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
1.0 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.
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.
cask
2.5 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
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.
Popworld Manchester
2.6 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Royal Vida Night Club
2.7 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.
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.
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.
42's
2.8 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Venue Nightclub
3.0 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Viva Manchester
3.0 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
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.
Kable
3.1 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Satans Hollow
3.4 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
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.
Bijou Club
3.5 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
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.
The Cockatoo Club
3.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Fun-filled
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly
