The Lowry: Salford’s Premier Performing Arts and Cultural Hub
A dynamic cultural landmark in Salford Quays, The Lowry offers world-class theatre, galleries, and vibrant arts experiences on Manchester’s waterfront.
The Lowry is a vibrant performing arts theatre and gallery complex located in Salford, Manchester’s MediaCityUK. It hosts a wide range of theatre productions, visual arts exhibitions, and cultural events. Situated on the waterfront of Salford Quays, The Lowry combines modern architecture with artistic innovation, offering visitors immersive experiences in drama, dance, and contemporary art. Nearby amenities include restaurants, shops, and accessible parking options.
A brief summary to The Lowry
- Pier, 8 The Quays, Manchester, Salford, M50 3AZ, GB
- +443432086000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Pre-book parking at the Quayside MediaCityUK car park via YourParkingSpace.com to secure a spot and avoid charges.
- Check the performance schedule in advance to catch a variety of theatre, dance, and family-friendly shows.
- Explore the galleries featuring L.S. Lowry’s work alongside contemporary exhibitions for a rich artistic experience.
- Use public transport like the Eccles line tram or local buses for convenient access and to support sustainability.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tram
Take the Eccles line tram to MediaCityUK stop, a 5-minute walk from The Lowry. Trams run frequently, connecting to Manchester city centre. Tickets cost around £3–£5 depending on journey length.
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Bus
Use bus routes 29 or 50, which stop within 2 minutes’ walk of The Lowry. Buses connect to various parts of Manchester and Salford. Fares typically range from £2 to £4.
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Car
Park at the Quayside MediaCityUK multi-storey car park (postcode M50 3AH), approximately a 3-minute walk away. Parking costs £7.50 for up to 6 hours and must be pre-booked via YourParkingSpace.com.
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Bike
Cycle to The Lowry using the National Cycle Network Route 55, which runs through MediaCityUK. Secure indoor bike parking is available, including 300 spaces at the TfGM Cycle Hub.
The Lowry 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 Lowry
A Beacon of Performing Arts in Salford
The Lowry stands as a striking symbol of cultural regeneration in Salford, nestled on the picturesque waterfront of Salford Quays. Opened in 2000, this complex is named after the renowned local artist L.S. Lowry, whose works often depicted industrial scenes of the North West. The Lowry’s theatres host an eclectic mix of performances, from contemporary dance and drama to musicals and comedy, making it a cornerstone of Manchester’s vibrant arts scene.Architectural and Artistic Fusion
The building itself is a marvel of modern design, featuring sharp angles and extensive glass façades that reflect the surrounding water and skyline. Inside, visitors can explore two main theatres and a gallery dedicated to visual arts, showcasing both permanent collections and rotating exhibitions. The galleries often highlight L.S. Lowry’s paintings alongside contemporary artists, creating a dialogue between past and present artistic expressions.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Beyond performances and exhibitions, The Lowry offers a variety of amenities including a coffee shop, restaurant, and retail spaces, enhancing the visitor experience. The venue is fully accessible, with step-free access, lifts, and accessible toilets throughout. Families with children are welcomed, and the venue often hosts events tailored for younger audiences. The surrounding area is lively, with easy access to other attractions in MediaCityUK and Salford Quays.Getting There and Parking
While The Lowry does not have its own dedicated car park, visitors can use nearby multi-storey car parks such as the Quayside MediaCityUK shopping centre car park, located just a few minutes’ walk away. This car park offers accessible spaces and electric vehicle charging points, but parking must be pre-booked via YourParkingSpace.com, typically costing around £7.50 for up to six hours. Public transport options include nearby tram stops on the Eccles line and frequent bus services connecting to Manchester city centre.Community and Cultural Significance
The Lowry plays a vital role in the cultural life of Greater Manchester, fostering community engagement through its diverse programming and educational outreach. It serves as a platform for local, national, and international artists, supporting creative innovation and cultural dialogue. The venue’s location in MediaCityUK places it at the heart of a dynamic media and digital hub, blending artistic tradition with cutting-edge technology.Seasonal and Event Highlights
Throughout the year, The Lowry hosts a rich calendar of events, including theatre premieres, dance festivals, and family-friendly workshops. Its location near the Manchester Christmas markets and other city-wide festivities adds to its appeal as a year-round destination. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the waterfront, especially at sunset, enhancing the overall ambience of their visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sky Hook Statue 1
1.0 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
1.6 km
A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.
LS Lowry birthplace
2.5 km
Discover the humble origins of LS Lowry, the iconic painter of industrial Manchester, at his birthplace in Old Trafford.
Bahnhof Manchester
2.6 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
2.7 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
2.8 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Roman Gardens
2.8 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
2.8 km
Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Castlefield historical zone
2.9 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Friedrich Engels Statue
3.3 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Free Trade Hall
3.3 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Sightseeing Manchester
3.4 km
Explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and iconic landmarks of Manchester, England—where every corner tells a unique story.
Abraham Lincoln Statue
3.4 km
Visit the Abraham Lincoln Statue in Manchester - a magnificent tribute to a legacy of freedom and equality amidst serene park settings.
Hotspur House
3.4 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pier Eight Restaurant
0.0 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Modern British cuisine at Pier Eight Restaurant, set against the stunning backdrop of The Quays in Manchester.
The Quays
0.1 km
A regenerated waterfront of museums, media studios, shopping and waterside dining that fuses dockland history with contemporary city life.
Quayside MediaCityUK
0.2 km
Waterside outlet shopping and family leisure in the heart of MediaCityUK’s regenerated Salford Quays waterfront.
Salford Riviera
0.2 km
Salford Riviera: Where historic docks meet vibrant culture and scenic waterfront living in the heart of Salford Quays.
IWM North
0.2 km
Discover powerful stories of war and peace in Manchester’s iconic deconstructivist museum overlooking the Ship Canal.
BBC Dock House
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant BBC Dock House at Salford Quays, where cutting-edge broadcasting meets stunning waterfront views and cultural energy.
Media City Footbridge
0.3 km
An elegant cable-stayed swing bridge linking MediaCityUK with cultural landmarks across the Manchester Ship Canal.
Quayside Tours Meeting Point
0.3 km
Start your journey through Salford’s rich heritage and vibrant Media City at the iconic Blue Tower meeting point.
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 Watersports Centre
0.5 km
Urban watersports hub offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and year-round open water swimming on 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.
Gnome Island
0.7 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
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.
The Alchemist MediaCity UK
0.1 km
Experience innovative cocktails and global cuisine in a striking futuristic setting overlooking Salford’s historic quays at MediaCity UK.
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.
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.
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.
Bella Italia - Salford Quays
0.1 km
Casual Italian dining with diverse menu options in Manchester’s vibrant Salford Quays waterfront setting.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
0.1 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Botanist Media City
0.2 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
Quay House Beefeater
0.5 km
Classic British steakhouse and family-friendly pub offering scenic waterside dining with a cosy, modern atmosphere in Salford Quays.
The Banyan Tree
2.4 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
2.7 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
Dukes 92
2.7 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
Dom's Italia
2.9 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
3.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.
Tattu Manchester
3.0 km
Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Body Shop
0.1 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
The Works
0.1 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
Next Outlet
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artistry in MediaCity UK's creative gem, where independent makers shine amid Salford's quayside buzz.
M&S Outlet
0.2 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Sweet Emporium
0.2 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
0.9 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
Salford Shopping Centre
2.0 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
2.9 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
2.9 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
2.9 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
2.9 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
2.9 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
2.9 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
3.1 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
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.2 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
0.7 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
0.8 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
The Wharf
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.7 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
cask
2.9 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
Atlas Bar
3.0 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
3.0 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Lock 91
3.0 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
3.0 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
3.1 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ark Manchester
3.1 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
3.1 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
3.1 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
History Nightclub
3.1 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
42's
3.2 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Bliss Club Manchester
3.2 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
3.3 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Club Liv Manchester
3.4 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
3.5 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Kable
3.6 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Bijou Club
3.7 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
3.8 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
3.8 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
3.9 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
Cargo
3.9 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
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
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
- Sustainable
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Car-Free Access
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
