The Gothic Revival Manchester Town Hall with its tall clock tower, seen across a square with trees under a dark, cloudy sky
Manchester · Where to stay

Staying in Salford Quays

Water separates several places that look close together on a map, so check the footbridge route from your accommodation. A room near MediaCity puts different tram stops within reach from one near the eastern docks. The open waterfront can feel windy after dark, making a nearby evening meal useful when you return from a day in the center.

At a glance

Best for
Quiet stays, Old Trafford
At night
Quiet
Getting around
MediaCityUK, Harbour City trams
Price level
€€
Our verdict

The Lowry, the Imperial War Museum North and MediaCityUK on the water, with a tram into the center.

Good for

  • The Lowry and the Imperial War Museum North
  • Old Trafford and trips by tram
  • A quiet base with modern hotels

Think twice if

  • You want to walk out into bars and restaurants
  • You plan to spend your evenings in the Northern Quarter

How Salford Quays compares with the rest of Manchester

Nearby

What is near Salford Quays

  1. The Lowry

    Allow about ten minutes from MediaCity tram stop to the arts center, following the pedestrian waterfront route.

  2. Imperial War Museum North

    Walk about ten minutes from The Lowry across the Manchester Ship Canal footbridge to reach the museum.

  3. MediaCity waterfront

    The waterside pedestrian area is about five minutes from MediaCity tram stop and provides a short, level stroll.

Eating

Eating in Salford Quays

Dining is concentrated around MediaCity and The Lowry, with casual meals and places suited to a pre-theater booking. Reserve when you need to finish before a performance. If your accommodation is across a bridge, check the walking route before choosing where to eat on a wet evening.

Getting around

Getting around from Salford Quays

MediaCityUK and Harbour City stops connect with the Eccles tram line, while Imperial War Museum is on the Trafford Centre line across the canal. Choose the stop on your side of the water where practical. Check destination displays and allow extra time when traveling into the center for a booking.

Where to book

Hotels in Salford Quays

Search the area on the booking sites, where the prices are. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you.

Other areas

Other areas of Manchester

Questions

Staying in Salford Quays

Which tram stop is best for my accommodation?

Check the actual walking route rather than the straight-line distance. MediaCityUK, Harbour City and Imperial War Museum serve different parts of the waterfront.

Can I walk between The Lowry and the war museum?

Yes. A pedestrian bridge crosses the Manchester Ship Canal between the two sides. Allow around ten minutes between the buildings.

Should I stay here for several days of central sightseeing?

It works if you are comfortable taking trams each day. Include the walk to your stop and waiting time when planning morning bookings.

Plan the rest

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