Things to Do in Salford

Salford, a vibrant city in Greater Manchester, England, is a destination where history, culture, and modernity converge to create a unique and welcoming experience. Often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Manchester, Salford has carved out its own identity, blending ancient Tudor halls with cutting-edge media studios and scenic waterfronts. My first walk along Salford Quays, with its gleaming waters reflecting the sleek architecture of MediaCityUK, felt like stepping into a city that seamlessly bridges the past and the future. Whether you’re a family seeking adventure, a couple looking for romance, or a solo traveler chasing cultural immersion, Salford offers something for everyone.

From world-class art at The Lowry to the tranquil gardens of RHS Garden Bridgewater, from hearty meals at local pubs to vibrant festivals, this city promises an unforgettable experience. Did you know that Salford was once home to the world’s first free public library? As we guide you through the best things to do in Salford, prepare to uncover a city that’s as diverse as it is inviting.

Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

When the British weather turns dreary, Salford’s indoor attractions provide engaging, family-friendly options to keep everyone entertained, perfect for rainy days.

The Lowry

This world-class arts venue at Salford Quays features two theatres and art galleries showcasing contemporary and classic works, including pieces by L.S. Lowry. Visitors can enjoy exhibitions, performances, and workshops, with bars and restaurants adding to the experience.

• Suitability: Ideal for families, couples, and art enthusiasts; family-friendly shows and workshops available.
• Cost: Free entry to galleries; theatre tickets vary, typically £10-£40 (The Lowry).
• What Makes It Special: The combination of visual arts, theatre, and L.S. Lowry’s iconic works makes it a cultural cornerstone.
• Accessibility: Fully accessible with lifts, ramps, accessible toilets, and hearing loops.
• Transport Tip: Easily reached by Metrolink tram to MediaCityUK or Harbour City stop.

Imperial War Museum North

Housed in a striking building designed by Daniel Libeskind, this museum explores the impact of war through immersive exhibits, interactive displays, and personal stories from the 20th and 21st centuries.

• Suitability: Suitable for all ages, with engaging content for children and adults.
• Cost: Free entry; donations welcome (IWM North).
• What Makes It Special: The museum’s unique architecture and thought-provoking exhibits create a memorable experience.
• Accessibility: Fully accessible with level access, lifts, and accessible facilities.
• Transport Tip: Located at Salford Quays, accessible by tram to MediaCityUK.

Salford Museum and Art Gallery

Located in a historic building on The Crescent, this museum offers interactive exhibits on Salford’s industrial and social history, including a recreated Victorian street, Lark Hill Place. It also features a fine art collection.

• Suitability: Great for families and history enthusiasts; interactive displays engage children.
• Cost: Free entry (Salford Museum).
• What Makes It Special: The Victorian street exhibit provides a vivid glimpse into Salford’s past.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with lifts and ramps.
• Transport Tip: A short walk from Salford Central train station.

Ordsall Hall

This Tudor manor house, dating back over 750 years, features a great hall, historic bedrooms, and exhibits on its haunted history. Guided tours and interactive displays bring the past to life.

• Suitability: Ideal for history buffs and families; may be spooky for young children.
• Cost: Adults £6.50, Children £3.25, Family (2 adults + 2 children) £16.25 (Ordsall Hall).
• What Makes It Special: One of the UK’s best-preserved Tudor houses, it offers a unique historical experience.
• Accessibility: Partially accessible; some areas have stairs, but ground floor is wheelchair-friendly.
• Transport Tip: Near Salford Central station, accessible by bus or a short walk.

Working Class Movement Library

This unique library and archive on The Crescent houses an extensive collection of books, pamphlets, and memorabilia documenting over 200 years of working-class history and social movements.

• Suitability: Best for adults and older children interested in social history.
• Cost: Free entry; donations welcome (WCML).
• What Makes It Special: Its comprehensive collection is a global treasure for understanding social history.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with level access.
• Transport Tip: Located near Salford Central station, easily reached by tram or bus.

These indoor attractions ensure that rainy days in Salford are filled with cultural enrichment and fun, all conveniently accessible by public transport or a short walk.

Outdoor Adventures

When the sun shines, Salford’s green spaces and waterfronts offer exciting outdoor experiences for all visitors.

Salford Quays

This regenerated dockland area features a scenic waterfront promenade, MediaCityUK with its BBC and ITV studios, and leisure activities like boat trips and watersports. Visitors can stroll, cycle, or enjoy open-air events.

• Suitability: Ideal for families, couples, and groups; offers activities for all ages.
• Cost: Free to explore; boat trips (£5-£10) and watersports rentals vary (Salford Quays).
• What Makes It Special: The blend of modern architecture, cultural landmarks, and water-based activities creates a vibrant destination.
• Seasonal Tip: Summer is ideal for watersports and outdoor dining; winter offers festive markets.
• Accessibility: Paved paths ensure accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs; some areas may have slopes.

RHS Garden Bridgewater

Spanning 154 acres, this Royal Horticultural Society garden features themed areas like the Chinese Streamside Garden, a historic walled garden, and woodland trails. Seasonal events enhance the experience.

• Suitability: Great for families, nature lovers, and garden enthusiasts.
• Cost: Adults £12.50, Children (5-16) £6.25, Family (2 adults + 2 children) £31.25; RHS members free (RHS Bridgewater).
• What Makes It Special: Its vast landscapes and innovative design make it a haven for relaxation and exploration.
• Seasonal Tip: Spring for blooming flowers; autumn for vibrant foliage.
• Accessibility: Mostly accessible with paved paths; some areas have uneven terrain.

Worsley Village and Bridgewater Canal

This picturesque village offers historic buildings and scenic walks along the Bridgewater Canal, a key site in the Industrial Revolution. The nearby Barton Swing Aqueduct is a marvel of engineering.

• Suitability: Ideal for walkers, history buffs, and families.
• Cost: Free to explore (Visit Salford).
• What Makes It Special: The canal’s historical significance and the village’s charm create a peaceful retreat.
• Seasonal Tip: Spring and summer for pleasant walks; autumn for colorful scenery.
• Accessibility: Canal paths are generally accessible; some areas may be narrow.

Buile Hill Park

This large park features sports facilities, a playground, and open spaces for picnics and relaxation. It hosts events like parkruns and outdoor theatre, adding to its appeal.

• Suitability: Perfect for families, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation.
• Cost: Free entry (Salford City Council).
• What Makes It Special: Its size and diverse facilities make it a versatile community space.
• Seasonal Tip: Summer for outdoor events; year-round for general use.
• Accessibility: Paved paths ensure accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs.

These outdoor adventures highlight Salford’s commitment to green spaces and historical significance, offering memorable experiences for sunny days.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Salford’s rich heritage, from its Tudor roots to its industrial and cultural legacy, shines through its historical and cultural landmarks.

Ordsall Hall

A Tudor manor house dating back over 750 years, featuring a great hall, historic bedrooms, and exhibits on its haunted history. Guided tours offer insights into its 16th-century past.

• Suitability: Ideal for history enthusiasts and families; may be spooky for young children.
• Cost: Adults £6.50, Children £3.25, Family £16.25 (Ordsall Hall).
• What Makes It Special: One of the UK’s best-preserved Tudor houses, it offers a vivid glimpse into history.
• Accessibility: Partially accessible; ground floor is wheelchair-friendly, but some areas have stairs.

Salford Museum and Art Gallery

This museum explores Salford’s industrial and social history through interactive exhibits, including the recreated Victorian street, Lark Hill Place, and a fine art collection.

• Suitability: Great for families and history buffs; interactive displays engage children.
• Cost: Free entry (Salford Museum).
• What Makes It Special: The Victorian street exhibit provides a unique window into Salford’s past.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with lifts and ramps.

Working Class Movement Library

Located on The Crescent, this archive houses an extensive collection of books, pamphlets, and memorabilia documenting over 200 years of working-class history.

• Suitability: Best for adults and older children interested in social history.
• Cost: Free entry; donations welcome (WCML).
• What Makes It Special: Its comprehensive collection is a global treasure for understanding social movements.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with level access.

Salford Lads Club

A cultural landmark famous for its association with The Smiths, this community club attracts music fans worldwide. Its iconic facade is a must-see for 1980s music enthusiasts.

• Suitability: Ideal for music fans and those interested in cultural history.
• Cost: Free to view from outside; guided tours may be available (Salford Lads Club).
• What Makes It Special: Its connection to The Smiths makes it a pilgrimage site for fans.
• Accessibility: Exterior is accessible; contact for tour accessibility details.

These sites connect visitors to Salford’s rich historical and cultural tapestry, sparking curiosity and pride in its heritage.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Salford’s food scene reflects its multicultural vibrancy, offering a range of dining options from traditional British fare to international cuisines.

The Alchemist at MediaCityUK

This stylish restaurant and bar at Salford Quays serves creative cocktails and modern dishes, from seafood to gourmet burgers, in a theatrical setting with waterfront views.

• Suitability: Ideal for couples, groups, and cocktail enthusiasts; kid-friendly options available.
• Cost: Mains from £15-25; cocktails from £10 (The Alchemist).
• What Makes It Special: Its molecular mixology and vibrant atmosphere make dining an experience.

Chapel Street Eateries

Chapel Street is a hub for independent cafes, bars, and restaurants offering diverse cuisines, including Italian, Asian fusion, and vegan options, in a lively urban setting.

• Suitability: Suitable for all tastes and budgets, with family-friendly venues.
• Cost: Meals from £8-20, depending on the venue (Visit Salford).
• What Makes It Special: The street’s eclectic mix of eateries and vibrant atmosphere create a culinary hotspot.

Vero Moderno

This Italian restaurant offers authentic dishes like wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas, using fresh ingredients in a cozy, welcoming environment.

• Suitability: Great for families, couples, and Italian food lovers.
• Cost: Mains from £12-20 (Vero Moderno).
• What Makes It Special: Its focus on traditional Italian cuisine and warm ambiance make it a local favorite.

These dining experiences showcase Salford’s culinary diversity, ensuring a delicious visit for all.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Salford’s vibrant event calendar brings the city to life with festivals and performances celebrating its culture and community.

The Lowry’s Programme

The Lowry hosts a year-round schedule of theatre productions, art exhibitions, and family-friendly events, ranging from musicals to contemporary dance and children’s shows.

• Suitability: Varies by event; many are family-friendly (The Lowry).
• Cost: Varies; gallery exhibitions free, theatre tickets £10-£40.
• What Makes It Special: The diversity and quality of performances make it a cultural highlight.

Salford Quays Events

Salford Quays hosts seasonal events like summer concerts, winter markets, and fireworks displays, often featuring live music, food stalls, and family activities.

• Suitability: Fun for all ages, with inclusive programming (Visit Salford).
• Cost: Often free; some events may have entry fees.
• What Makes It Special: The waterfront setting enhances the festive atmosphere.

Salford Food and Drink Festival

Held annually, typically in autumn, this festival celebrates local and regional cuisine with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and live entertainment in various city locations.

• Suitability: Ideal for foodies and families.
• Cost: Free entry; pay for food and drinks (Visit Salford).
• What Makes It Special: It showcases Salford’s culinary diversity and community spirit.

These events ensure Salford remains lively year-round, offering inclusive fun for all visitors. Check Visit Salford for the latest schedules.

Salford, with its rich blend of history, culture, and modernity, offers an unforgettable experience for every visitor. From the artistic haven of The Lowry to the serene landscapes of RHS Garden Bridgewater, from the historical charm of Ordsall Hall to the vibrant dining scene, there’s something for everyone. Recognized for its cultural contributions and economic impact through tourism, Salford is a city that captivates and inspires. Whether you’re exploring with family, enjoying a romantic getaway, or embarking on a solo adventure, Salford promises to create lasting memories. Pack your bags and discover this dynamic city, where every moment is an opportunity for discovery.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Salford?

Spring and summer (April-September) are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals like the Salford Food and Drink Festival. Winter offers festive markets and indoor attractions (Visit Salford).

Is Salford suitable for families with young children?

Absolutely! Family-friendly attractions like The Lowry’s workshops, RHS Garden Bridgewater’s play areas, and Buile Hill Park’s playgrounds cater to kids of all ages.

How much does a day in Salford cost?

A day in Salford can cost £10-50 per person, depending on activities and dining. Many attractions, like the Imperial War Museum North, are free, keeping costs low.

What are the top free activities in Salford?

Explore Salford Quays, visit the free galleries at The Lowry, stroll through Buile Hill Park, or admire Ordsall Hall’s exterior for budget-friendly fun.

How do I get around Salford?

Salford is well-connected by the Metrolink tram system, buses, and trains, with easy access to Manchester. A day pass for public transport is cost-effective (Transport for Greater Manchester).

Are there indoor activities in Salford for rainy days?

Yes, The Lowry, Imperial War Museum North, Salford Museum and Art Gallery, and Ordsall Hall offer engaging indoor experiences.

What makes Salford unique compared to other UK cities?

Its blend of historical sites like Ordsall Hall, modern developments like MediaCityUK, and proximity to Manchester create a unique cultural and historical identity.

Can I find budget-friendly dining in Salford?

Definitely! Chapel Street’s eateries and Salford Quays’ cafes offer meals from £8, with diverse options for all budgets.

Are there guided tours in Salford?

Yes, guided tours are available at Ordsall Hall, The Lowry, and for historical walks around Salford Quays (Visit Salford).

What are some must-see attractions in Salford?

Don’t miss The Lowry, RHS Garden Bridgewater, Ordsall Hall, Imperial War Museum North, and Salford Quays for a comprehensive experience.