The Quays Travel Guide
Explore The Quays in Greater Manchester, England with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, what to eat/drink, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to The Quays
- List Places to Visit in The Quays
- Hiking/Biking Routes of The Quays
- Best Things to Do in The Quays: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for The Quays
- Food and Drink Scene of The Quays
- Where to Stay in The Quays: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in The Quays: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of The Quays
- Best Time to Visit The Quays
- Safety and Health
- Getting to The Quays: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in The Quays
- Where to Go Next from The Quays: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to The Quays
The Quays is a world-renowned cultural and sporting destination in Greater Manchester, England. Located in the heart of Salford, this waterfront area is home to some of the best art and cultural venues in the country, including The Lowry, Imperial War Museum North, and The Manchester United Museum and Tour Centre.
Whether you’re looking to explore the area’s rich history, enjoy outdoor adventures or simply enjoy the local food and drink scene, The Quays has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you through all the must-visit attractions, best restaurants and bars, top-rated hotels and travel tips to make your trip exciting and memorable.
List Places to Visit in The Quays
Plan your itinerary with these amazing places to visit in The Quays:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The Lowry
- Imperial War Museum North
- The Manchester United Museum and Tour Centre
- The Ordsall Hall
Natural Attractions of The Quays: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Worsley Woods
- The River Irwell
- Salford Quays Watersports Centre
Hiking/Biking Routes of The Quays
The Quays offers plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors, whether you’re a keen hiker, biker or prefer a leisurely stroll. Here are some of the best routes you can try:
- The Salford Trail
- The Irwell Sculpture Trail
- Worsley Woods Loop
Best Things to Do in The Quays: Activities and Tours
There’s always something exciting to do in The Quays, from attending a football match at Old Trafford to exploring the stunning architecture of The Lowry.
- Manchester United Tours & Museum
- The Lowry Theatre
- SEA LIFE Manchester and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre
- Salford Quays and MediaCityUK
Week-Long Itinerary for The Quays
If you’re planning a week-long trip to The Quays, we’ve curated a perfect itinerary for you. Here’s how to make the most of your week in this beautiful area:
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit The Lowry, explore the galleries and watch a show in the theatre |
| Day 2 | Take a tour of Old Trafford and enjoy a game day experience |
| Day 3 | Discover the Imperial War Museum North and learn about the history of conflict |
| Day 4 | Cycle along the Irwell Sculpture Trail and enjoy the stunning scenery |
| Day 5 | Explore the stunning Ordsall Hall and discover the rich history of the area |
| Day 6 | Visit the Manchester United Museum and Tour Centre and shop for souvenirs |
| Day 7 | Take a leisurely walk around the beautiful Worsley Woods and enjoy a picnic |
Food and Drink Scene of The Quays
From traditional pubs to contemporary bars and restaurants, The Quays has a thriving food and drink scene that offers something for every taste and budget.
Must-Try Dishes
- Manchester Tart
- Bury Black Pudding
- Beef and Oyster Pie
- Eccles Cake
Local Beverages
- Manchester Gin
- Thwaites Beer
- JW Lees Beer
- Joseph Holt Beer
Where to Stay in The Quays: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Looking for the perfect place to stay in The Quays? Here are some great options:
- The Lowry Hotel
- Holiday Inn Manchester - MediaCityUK
- Premier Inn Manchester Salford Quays
- ibis budget Manchester Salford Quays
What to Buy in The Quays: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Manchester United FC Merchandise
- The Lowry Centre Gift Shop Items
- Manchester Tart
- Eccles Cake
- Manchester Gin
Local Culture and Customs of The Quays
The Quays is a culturally diverse area where visitors can experience an eclectic mix of traditions and customs. Some of the most notable cultural celebrations include Chinese New Year, the Manchester Jazz Festival, and the Manchester Food and Drink Festival.
Best Time to Visit The Quays
The best time to visit The Quays is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling, walking, and watersports.
Do’s and Don’ts of The Quays
Do:
- Visit The Lowry Theatre for a show or exhibition
- Take a tour of Old Trafford Stadium
- Spend a day exploring the Imperial War Museum North
- Enjoy the local food and drink scene
Don’t:
- Wear a rival football team’s shirt near Old Trafford
- Litter in public spaces
- Disturb the local wildlife when on a nature trail
Safety and Health
Safety in The Quays
The Quays is generally a safe area, but it is always wise to take precautions:
- Be vigilant and stay aware of your surroundings
- Keep your belongings close in crowded areas
- Use well-lit and busy streets at night
Health in The Quays
The Quays is a generally healthy area, but visitors are advised to follow standard health precautions:
- Stay hydrated during hot weather
- Use sun protection during sunny days
- Check any medication requirements before traveling
Getting to The Quays: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near The Quays
- Manchester Airport (MAN) - 10 miles away
- Liverpool John Lennon Airport (LPL) - 30 miles away
Bus Stations Near The Quays
- Manchester Piccadilly Bus Station - 20 minutes by taxi
- Salford Crescent Railway Station - 15 minutes walk
Other Options
- Car Hire from Manchester Airport or Manchester Piccadilly Station
- Taxi
How to Get Around in The Quays
The best way to get around The Quays is by walking or cycling. If you prefer public transportation, there are bus and tram services available.
Where to Go Next from The Quays: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
The Quays is well-connected to nearby destinations, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. Here are some great trips you can take:
- Manchester city centre
- Cheshire countryside and villages
- The Peak District National Park
Conclusion
The Quays is a beautiful and diverse area that offers visitors a wide range of experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and delicious local cuisine. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a family with kids, The Quays has everything you need for an unforgettable trip in Greater Manchester, England.
