Quayside MediaCityUK (The Quays, Salford)
Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.
Quayside MediaCityUK sits on the south-facing waterfront of Salford Quays, a compact outlet shopping centre and leisure quarter set beside the Manchester Ship Canal. The two-floor centre combines outlet-brand retail with a 400-seat food court, a seven-screen cinema, family leisure and waterside terraces, all framed by contemporary media-studio architecture and broad quayside promenades.
A brief summary to Quayside MediaCityUK
- The Quays, Salford, M50 3AH, GB
- +441618481850
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-8 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Allow extra time if you plan to park during events; book a car-parking session in advance when possible to avoid queues.
- Explore the quayside terraces after shopping for better views and photos of the Lowry and the canal reflections.
- Visit the food court for a wide range of casual options and sheltered seating when weather is changeable.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car (on-site parking)
Multi-storey car parks serve the Quayside centre; typical drive times from central Salford or Manchester inner suburbs are 10–25 minutes depending on traffic, with height restrictions on some ramps and busy periods during events; pay-as-you-go rates commonly range from £2.50–£18 per session depending on duration, and cashless payment or pre-booking is advised.
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Metrolink tram
Take the city-region tram network to MediaCityUK tram stop; journey times from Manchester city centre are typically 15–25 minutes, services run frequently but check weekend timetables for reduced frequency, a standard public-transport fare applies and tickets must be purchased before boarding.
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Local bus
Frequent local buses connect Salford Quays with surrounding neighbourhoods; most routes deliver you to stops within a short walk of the centre in 10–30 minutes depending on origin, note that service frequency can vary in evenings and on bank holidays and standard urban bus fares apply.
Quayside MediaCityUK location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Quayside MediaCityUK
Where retail meets waterfront character
Quayside MediaCityUK occupies a promenaded stretch of the Salford Quays waterfront, a compact two-level outlet centre that sits comfortably among studios, cultural buildings and modern apartment blocks. The centre’s footprint arranges discount-brand units around internal malls and external terraces, with the water’s edge forming a constant visual backdrop that changes with the light and tides.Built environment and atmosphere
The complex pairs functional outlet architecture with the sleek, glass-faced aesthetic of neighbouring MediaCityUK studios and commercial buildings. Internal spaces favour practical circulation and clear sight lines to shopfronts, while the upper-level walkways and terraces give views across the canal to the Lowry and the striking silhouettes of the wider docklands regeneration. At twilight the façades, bridges and water reflections create a strongly urban, metropolitan atmosphere.What’s inside: shopping, food and family leisure
Shops are concentrated across two floors and specialise in discounted lines from national and designer brands, mixed with independent traders. A sizeable food court seats around 400 and gathers casual eateries and cafés; nearby are leisure offers including a multi-screen cinema and family activity venues. The layout makes it easy to move between a focused shopping trip and a relaxed break on the quayside terraces.Connections to MediaCity’s story
Quayside is a component of the larger MediaCityUK regeneration: an area developed from former docks into a mixed-use media, residential and cultural quarter. The shopping centre sits opposite key cultural landmarks and broadcast studios and was planned to serve workers, residents and day visitors, offering practical retail and social spaces within the media campus setting.Practical features that shape a visit
Facilities include multi-storey parking above and adjacent to the centre, accessible lifts and level routes between the main mall and the quayside promenades. The centre’s orientation and sheltered courtyards make it usable year-round in most weather, while the terrace seating and waterfront walkways are particularly pleasant in clear conditions. Evening lighting along the water and bridges alters the mood and extends the time the area feels inviting.Character and local rhythms
The Quays combines day-to-day convenience with episodic bursts of activity: lunchtime crowds from nearby offices, families in the afternoons, and quieter early mornings. Its identity is pragmatic rather than boutique — a place for bargains, everyday services and accessible leisure close to MediaCityUK’s studio campus. The centre’s waterfront position gives it a sense of place distinct from ordinary suburban malls, and that connection to the canal and skyline is central to its character.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sky Hook Statue 1
0.9 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
1.1 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
2.3 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
Bahnhof Manchester
2.5 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
2.5 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
2.6 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Roman Gardens
2.6 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
2.6 km
Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Castlefield historical zone
2.7 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Friedrich Engels Statue
3.1 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Free Trade Hall
3.2 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
3.2 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Hotspur House
3.2 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Rochdale Canal Lake
3.2 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
The Quays
0.1 km
A regenerated waterfront of museums, media studios, shopping and waterside dining that fuses dockland history with contemporary city life.
Salford Riviera
0.2 km
Salford Riviera: Where historic docks meet vibrant culture and scenic waterfront living in the heart of Salford Quays.
Pier Eight Restaurant
0.2 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
0.2 km
A dynamic cultural landmark in Salford Quays, The Lowry offers world-class theatre, galleries, and vibrant arts experiences on Manchester’s waterfront.
Salford Quays Community Gardens
0.2 km
A peaceful community-driven garden oasis offering seasonal beauty and sustainable urban gardening in the heart of Salford Quays.
Salford Watersports Centre
0.3 km
Urban watersports hub offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and year-round open water swimming on Salford Quays.
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.
BBC Dock House
0.4 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
0.4 km
Start your journey through Salford’s rich heritage and vibrant Media City at the iconic Blue Tower meeting point.
IWM North
0.4 km
Discover powerful stories of war and peace in Manchester’s iconic deconstructivist museum overlooking the Ship Canal.
Media City Footbridge
0.4 km
An elegant cable-stayed swing bridge linking MediaCityUK with cultural landmarks across the Manchester Ship Canal.
Gnome Island
0.6 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
0.8 km
Step inside Old Trafford to explore Manchester United’s legendary museum and stadium in an immersive football journey.
Manchester United
0.9 km
Experience the legendary 'Theatre of Dreams,' home to Manchester United since 1910, where football history and passion come alive.
Old Trafford
0.9 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
Lime
0.1 km
Savor grilled delights and Asian fusion by Salford Quays' waterfront, where relaxed lunches flow into lively nights in a spacious, vibrant venue.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
0.1 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Unagi
0.1 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.
Bella Italia - Salford Quays
0.1 km
Casual Italian dining with diverse menu options in Manchester’s vibrant Salford Quays waterfront setting.
Nando's Salford Quays
0.1 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.
Turtle Bay Salford Quays
0.1 km
Escape to Caribbean flavors and reggae beats at Salford Quays' vibrant jerk pit and cocktail haven, moments from MediaCityUK.
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.
The Botanist Media City
0.3 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
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.
The Banyan Tree
2.2 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
2.5 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
Dukes 92
2.5 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Dom's Italia
2.7 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
2.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.
Tattu Manchester
2.8 km
Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Works
0.0 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
Next Outlet
0.0 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
M&S Outlet
0.0 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Sweet Emporium
0.1 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.
Flock and Gaggle
0.1 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
0.2 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
1.9 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
2.7 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
2.7 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
2.8 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
2.8 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
2.8 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
2.8 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
2.9 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Craftbrew
0.1 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
11 Central
0.1 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
0.3 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
0.3 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
0.5 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
0.6 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
The Wharf
2.4 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
2.5 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
2.5 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
cask
2.8 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
Atlas Bar
2.8 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
2.8 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Lock 91
2.8 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
2.9 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
2.9 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ark Manchester
2.9 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
2.9 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
2.9 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
History Nightclub
2.9 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
42's
3.0 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Bliss Club Manchester
3.0 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
3.1 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Club Liv Manchester
3.2 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
3.3 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Kable
3.4 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Bijou Club
3.5 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
3.6 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
3.6 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
3.7 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
Cargo
3.8 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
