Salford

Introduction

Located on the western bank of the River Irwell in Greater Manchester, you will find Salford situated just across the water from Manchester city centre. As a Salfordian, you can explore a landscape defined by historic landmarks such as the former town hall, Salford Cathedral, St Philip's Church, and the Salford Lads' Club.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding Salford's transformation from a historic manufacturing hub into a modern destination. While the area near The Quays features striking architecture, the city centre offers convenient access to the Victoria-Deansgate strip of downtown Manchester. You may notice the influence of a growing community that has earned the area the nickname "Little Hong Kong."

Exercise standard caution while navigating the urban landscape. While increased policing and security measures have improved safety in recent years, you should remain mindful of your surroundings, particularly when parking your vehicle or encountering late-night crowds.

Getting there

You can reach Salford by train from various locations across northern England, with frequent services stopping at both Salford Central and Salford Crescent on the way to Manchester Victoria. If you are traveling from London Euston or the Midlands, your journey typically involves a change at Manchester Piccadilly before heading toward Victoria. For those arriving by plane, a direct train runs hourly from Manchester Airport via Manchester Piccadilly to Salford Central.

Alternatively, you can navigate the area using the Metrolink tram system; the orange and blue lines connect Manchester Piccadilly to Salford Quays and Media City. If you prefer to drive, you can reach the city by taking the M60 orbital motorway and exiting onto the M602 spur. For those traveling from Liverpool, a national bus service connects the two cities via central Manchester.

Getting around

You will find that walking is generally your best option for navigating the area. While it provides an easy way to explore, keep in mind that there are several miles between central Salford and the Quays.

Public transport options have changed recently as bus services were reduced in favor of the tram system. Consequently, you should note that areas not located along a tram route are cut adrift from these transit links.

Where to stay

Depending on your itinerary, you can choose between riverside accommodations or hotels located near Manchester Victoria and Deansgate. Riverside options are popular due to their proximity to major events in Manchester, while the Lowry Hotel offers a slick business experience near Salford Central railway station.

For budget-conscious stays, several options provide value for your money:

• Stay Inn provides free parking for guests.
• Manchester Central Travelodge is noted for its cleanliness and comfortable rooms.
• Premier Inn at North Tower offers a good value budget stay.
• 1 Campanile sits in a great location near Castlefield, though you should inspect the room first as conditions vary.

Food & drink

Explore various dining options depending on your location within the city. While areas near the station offer limited takeaway options, you can find a decent Indian restaurant further east on Blackfriars. For more formal dining, head to The Campanile or The Lowry Hotel. If you prefer budget-friendly eateries, explore Salford Quays, Media City, and Old Trafford. For a change of scenery, travel to Worsley to dine along the canal bank at George's Dining Room or Tung Fong, or visit the establishments near the golf club in the park. In the green western corner of Monton, you can find several dining and drinking spots including The Blue Bell, La Turka Bistro, Enoteca Wine Bar, The Park, and Crompton's at the Waterside.

Savor a local specialty by trying an Eccles Cake, a small piece of flaky pastry filled with currants. You can also find several pubs near Salford Central station, including The New Oxford, King's Arms, Menagerie Restaurant & Bar, Seven Bro7ers Beerhouse, Le Cassis Wine Bar, and The Old Pint Pot. Additional pubs are located throughout Salford Quays and Media City.

What to see and do

Explore the diverse cultural landmarks across the city, starting with the Lowry Art Gallery, Media City, and Imperial War Museum North at Salford Quays. You can visit the neo-Gothic RC Cathedral of St John the Evangelist, a light and airy space featuring a soaring groined vault ceiling, or explore the local history at the Salford Museum & Art Gallery, which houses a mock-up Victorian street. For a deeper look into social history, the Working Class Movement Library documents the lives of the working classes and the Suffragette movement within a mock-Tudorbethan building.

Experience the region's industrial heritage at Ordsall Hall, a timber-framed 16th-century mansion with an associated legend involving Guy Fawkes. Nearby, you can view the Barton Swing Aqueduct, an engineering oddity that allows boats to pass over the River Irwell. Further afield, visit the Lancashire Mining Museum to see a colliery's headgear and winding engine, or enjoy the extensive grounds of the RHS Bridgewater Garden in Worsley. If you prefer sports, you can catch football at Salford City FC or witness rugby league and union matches at the Salford Community Stadium.

Three days in Salford

Day one, you can begin your journey by exploring the riverside and taking in the views along the River Irwell. You might wander through the historic area near Salford Cathedral or visit the nearby St Philip Church to experience the local atmosphere.

Day two, head toward The Quays to see the sights of Media City. You can enjoy the vibrant surroundings of Salford Quays and explore the riverside district as you settle into the heart of the city.

Day three, you can travel through the area near Salford Central or Salford Crescent. Depending on your preference, you can navigate the local transport links to see more of the landscape before concluding your time in the region.