Inspirational guided walking tour of Media City & The Quays
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Celebrate the history, culture and exciting future of Media City & Salford Quays on this fact-filled 5km walking tour. Meeting under the big digital screen at the Media City piazza, this healthy outdoor walk takes us alongside the banks of the mighty Manchester Ship Canal and relives the epic tale from Manchester's starring role in the Industrial Revolution to its reinvention at the heart of the UK's media and technology revolution.
Discover hidden gems of information as you marvel at the stunning landmarks and listen as your guide brings the fascinating history to life. The tour takes you past many stunning landmarks such as the Lowry Arts Centre and the Imperial War Museum North, before returning to the Media City piazza where it all began.
The walk beautifully showcases the UK's most ambitious urban regeneration project from its industrial heritage to its digital future.
Brought to you by Quayside Walking Tours, this captivating tour is one of the North's must-do experiences!
Available options
Inspirational guided walking tour of Media City & The Quays
What's included
Qualified Tour Guide
Audio receivers so that you don't miss anything the guide says
Detailed itinerary
1
Find out how Salford's Media City has become the UK's heart of media and technology over the past decade
2
The star of the show! Hear all about the 19th century's most awe-inspiring engineering achievement as we walk alongside the banks of the mighty canal.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Our guides will tell you everything you need to about the IWM North, the only IWM in the North of the UK and a spectacular local landmark. This is one of the most important art and culture installations along the Quays.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
The most famous football club in the world? Find out more about how it was saved from obscurity at the end of the 19th century as we enjoy the best possible view of the famous stadium which has been here at Old Trafford since 1910.
5
Rowing, watersports and fishing on the Manchester Ship Canal? Find out more on this amazing guided walk.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Manchester's most visited Arts attraction, hear the incredible story behind the man whose name it bears and why the building attracts so much interest.
What's not included
Tour commentary in languages other than English
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
8 reviews
5★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
14 reviews
5★
14
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet under the big digital screen in the Media City Piazza. Facing BBC Quay House and next to the Media City Metrolink station
About Manchester
Manchester is a vibrant city in North West England known for its rich industrial heritage, world-class football, and thriving cultural scene. From historic architecture to cutting-edge contemporary art, Manchester offers a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity.
Top Attractions
Manchester Cathedral
A stunning example of Gothic architecture, Manchester Cathedral is a must-visit for its historical significance and beautiful stained glass windows.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Science and Industry Museum
This museum showcases Manchester's rich industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Old Trafford
Home to Manchester United Football Club, Old Trafford is a must-visit for football fans.
Sports
2-4 hours (depending on the tour and match schedule)
Varies depending on the tour or match ticket
John Rylands Library
A stunning neo-Gothic building housing a vast collection of rare books and manuscripts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Black Pudding
A type of blood sausage made from pork blood, oatmeal, and spices. It's often served as part of a traditional English breakfast.
Breakfast
Contains pork and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Manchester Tart
A traditional British dessert made with a pastry base, jam, custard, and coconut.
Dessert
Contains dairy and is not suitable for vegans.
Pie and Mash
A classic British dish consisting of a savory pie filled with meat and gravy, served with mashed potatoes and onion gravy.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Peak District
Cycling along the Bridgewater Canal
Spa day at The Lowry Hotel
Afternoon tea at The Midland Hotel
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a theater performance
Boat tours along the Manchester Ship Canal
Ice skating at Manchester Cathedral
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals and events. The city is lively with many cultural activities and sports events.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Manchester is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate compared to other major UK cities. However, as with any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Manchester Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center
By train
Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester Victoria
By bus
Manchester Coach Station, National Express stops around the city
Getting around
Public transport
The Metrolink tram system is efficient and covers most of the city's major attractions. It's a convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Northern Quarter
Castlefield
Spinningfields
Ancoats
Day trips
Chester
35 km (22 miles) • Full day
A charming medieval city with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Chester is known for its Roman walls, historic buildings, and shopping streets.
Liverpool
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
A vibrant city with a rich musical heritage, Liverpool is home to the Beatles and a wealth of cultural attractions.
Peak District
40 km (25 miles) • Full day
The UK's first national park, the Peak District offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and charming villages.
Festivals
Manchester Pride • Late August
Manchester International Festival • Biennial (every two years, typically in July)
Christmas Markets • Late November to mid-December
Pro tips
- Use the Metrolink tram system for easy and affordable travel around the city
- Visit the city's museums and galleries on free entry days or during special events
- Explore the city's street art and graffiti in the Northern Quarter and Ancoats
- Take a day trip to the nearby Peak District for hiking and outdoor activities
- Try local specialties such as black pudding, Manchester tart, and pie and mash
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
