Tours & tickets

Salford Quays, Manchester

See Manchester from another perspective on a scenic canal cruise. Make your way along the Manchester Ship Canal and River Irwell, admiring some of the city's key sights including Manchester United's home ground and the historic Stephenson's Railway Bridge. Board from Salford Quays and see sights from the modern Media City, now home to the BBC and the new home of ITV's Coronation Street, to the imposing Old Trafford football stadium and George Stephenson’s railway bridge from 1830. Pass by the first of the 120-meter-long locks of the Manchester Ship Canal, admiring the impressive Imperial War Museum and old Pomona Docks before heading into the heart of Manchester along the River Irwell. During the cruise, listen to commentary that describes the history of the Manchester Ship Canal. Learn about the industries that made the city one of the powerhouses of Europe in the 19th century and hear about the exciting future that's currently being built.

Explore the birthplace of the industrial revolution aboard the hop-on and hop-off sightseeing bus in Manchester and learn more about the city's contribution to science, politics, music, arts and sport. Hop-on and off at any of the 15 stops on a route that has been carefully planned to include key sights such as Manchester Town Hall, the National Football Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry and Manchester United Football Club. Hop-off at Salford Quays to visit the famous Lowry art gallery and Imperial War Museum North in the stunning building by Daniel Libeskind. Discover the new media hub where the BBC and ITV have located their TV studios, and avail of the canal-side shops and restaurants. 

Celebrate the history, culture and exciting future of Media City and The Quays on this family-friendly guided walking tour. Start and end at the impressive Media City Piazza, taking in stunning landmarks such as the Lowry Arts Centre and the Imperial War Museum along the way. Meet your guide underneath the big digital screen in the Media City Piazza, opposite BBC Quay House and adjacent to the Media City Metrolink tram station. Media City is a contemporary, imposing location which has quickly become the beating heart of the UK's digital and creative businesses. From here, you'll set out to explore Salford Quays. Hear all about the historical and cultural significance of this inspirational location as you walk alongside the mighty Manchester Ship Canal and see why it's one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the UK. Discover hidden gems of information and marvel at the sights as your local guide tells the epic story of this gound-breaking area and shares what makes The Quays so special. The walking route covers around 5 kilometers and takes you past stunning locations such as the Lowry Arts Center, the Imperial War Museum North, and many more, before returning to the Media City Piazza where this entertaining and informative tour began.