Salford Quays Tours and Activities

Salford Quays showing a bridge, a city and a river or creek
Salford Quays which includes modern architecture, central business district and a bridge
Salford Quays showing a river or creek, a city and views
Salford Quays featuring a bridge, a city and a river or creek
Salford Quays


Once a major seaport and home to heavy industry, this precinct is now a dynamic cultural and residential area offering shopping, sport, drama and art.

Take a trip to Salford Quays to enjoy a thriving hub with theaters, bars, restaurants, a museum and MediaCityUK, a purpose-built media precinct designed to support creative industries.  

Start your exploration of this innovative development by taking a stroll along the many tree-lined waterfront promenades. One of the most interesting walks is the Irwell Sculpture trail. This route passes five works of art by local artists and tells the history of the docks. Visit the Salford Quays website for a map of the route. Continue your historical education by spending a few hours in the Imperial War Museum North.

Join the crowds of sports fans at one of the most famous soccer clubs in the world. Tour the stadium and go behind the scenes at Manchester United Football Club. Stand in the dressing room where David Beckham once laced up his boots and walk through the Players Tunnel to the pitch. For more brushes with fame, head to MediaCityUK to see the place where some of the UK’s most popular television programs are made.

Shopping is also a big part of the Salford Quays experience. Search for bargains at the Lowry Outlet Mall. There are more than 80 stores offering huge discounts on clothes, accessories and electrical goods. 

Catch some live theater, sport or music at The Lowry. Check their website for the calendar of events. The busiest times are when Manchester United are playing or when there are performances on The Lowry’s stages. Round off your day with dinner in one of the restaurants.

Situated near the end of the Manchester Ship Canal, Salford Quays is a 15-minute tram ride from the city center. There are also regular bus and train services to the waterfront attraction. Car parking is available at the Lowry Outlet Mall. 

Plan a trip to see Salford Quays

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Pendulum Hotel
CitySuites Aparthotel
CitySuites 2 Aparthotel

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Salford Quays

Copthorne Hotel Manchester Salford Quays

Copthorne Hotel Manchester Salford Quays

4 out of 5
Clippers Quay, Salford Quays, Salford, England
Copthorne Hotel Manchester Salford Quays
AC Hotel by Marriott, Manchester Salford Quays

AC Hotel by Marriott, Manchester Salford Quays

4 out of 5
17-19 Trafford Road, Salford Quays, Salford, England
AC Hotel by Marriott, Manchester Salford Quays
ibis budget Manchester Salford Quays

ibis budget Manchester Salford Quays

2.5 out of 5
19 Trafford Road, Salford, England
ibis budget Manchester Salford Quays
Holiday Inn Manchester-Media City UK by IHG

Holiday Inn Manchester-Media City UK by IHG

4 out of 5
White Media City UK, Salford, England
Holiday Inn Manchester-Media City UK by IHG
Holiday Inn Express Manchester - Salford Quays by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Manchester - Salford Quays by IHG

3.5 out of 5
Waterfront Quay, Salford Quays, Salford, England
Holiday Inn Express Manchester - Salford Quays by IHG
Hotel Football, Old Trafford, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

Hotel Football, Old Trafford, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

4 out of 5
99 Sir Matt Busby Way, Manchester, England
Hotel Football, Old Trafford, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly

Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly

4 out of 5
London Road, Manchester, England
Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central

Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central

4 out of 5
56 Great Bridgewater Street, Manchester, England
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central
Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford

Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford

3.5 out of 5
Talbot Road, Old Trafford, Manchester, England
Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Emirates Old Trafford
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Salford Quays

Salford Quays offers an exciting blend of activities, from historical tours that explore its rich past to the vibrant theatre scene and thrilling sports events. Visitors can indulge in shopping at the outlet mall, unwind at a day spa, or enjoy a relaxing evening stroll along the picturesque waterfront, making it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation experience.

Shopping

For a fantastic shopping experience in Salford Quays, visit the Trafford Centre and Manchester Arndale, both 3.2km away, offering vibrant atmospheres and diverse shops. Deansgate Locks, also 3.2km away, features a mix of businesses and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, consider exploring other nearby shopping destinations.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Old Trafford, where sports enthusiasm thrives. For a serene escape, visit Prestwich Forest Park, perfect for relaxation in nature. For outdoor recreation, head to Ashton-on-Mersey Golf Club, offering a scenic golfing experience amidst lush landscapes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of a 160ft bungee jump with UK Bungee Club, located 322m from Salford Quays. For a unique indoor adventure, try skiing at Chill FactorE, situated 4.8km away, or immerse yourself in the excitement of The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience, 3.2km away.

Nightlife

In Salford Quays, the nightlife buzzes with excitement at venues like the Contact Theatre and Library Theatre, both offering rich cultural experiences. For a more adventurous vibe, the Legoland Discovery Centre provides a unique arcade atmosphere, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Salford Quays

Salford Quays offers a vibrant mix of attractions, including urban parks, event venues, and lively streets, perfect for travellers seeking cultural and family experiences. Don't miss exploring the scenic waterfront and taking a ride on the Salford Quays tram for easy access to nearby points of interest. Whether you're interested in local events or simply enjoying the city atmosphere, there's something for everyone in this dynamic area.

  • AO Arena: Experience the electrifying atmosphere at one of the UK's largest indoor arenas. Hosting a variety of events from concerts to sports, AO Arena is a hub of entertainment just 3.2km from Salford Quays, perfect for those seeking thrilling experiences.
  • University of Manchester: Discover the vibrant city vibes at this prestigious institution, located 3.2km away. With its modern architecture and lively campus life, the University of Manchester offers a glimpse into the dynamic student culture and innovative research.
  • Manchester United Museum: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of football at this renowned museum, located only 966m from Salford Quays. Explore exhibits celebrating the legendary Manchester United and its impact on the sport.

Best time to go to Salford Quays

The best time to visit Salford Quays is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.9°F (4.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March42.6°F (5.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July60.6°F (15.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
August60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly Low
September56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
November45.0°F (7.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
December40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Salford Quays

To save money on your trip to Salford Quays, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February and August, with Mondays being the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by filtering for the lowest prices and exploring package deals that combine flights and hotels. Don’t miss out on free activities along the quays, like strolling by the waterfront or visiting local attractions. Keep an eye out for minute hotel deals and compare prices to ensure you get the best value for your stay.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Salford Quays are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June and October to November, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Salford Quays is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Salford Quays is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the most affordable options and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on your trip by combining your hotel stay in Salford Quays with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.