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The Quays is an area that’s gone from busy industrial dock to 21st century cultural hub in just over 100 years. Opened by Queen Victoria in 1894, the Salford Docks (as they were then known) became the busiest in the UK, serving the ships that came up the Manchester Ship Canal, a waterway built in order to escape the hefty charges levied by Liverpool’s dock and rail companies. Today, The Quays is home to MediaCityUK (the largest media hub in Europe) and studios purpose-built for the BBC’s move up North in 2011.
Two major cultural institutions – Imperial War Museum North and The Lowry – also straddle the Ship Canal, connected by a pedestrian bridge. The Lowry boasts two theatre, galleries, a studio space, restaurant and shop; IWM North’s fragmented design represents a globe shattered by war (inside, it’s completely devoid of right angles) and houses a beautifully-presented permanent collection and series of changing exhibitions that consider the many ways conflict shapes society. Restaurants (we highly recommend Pier 8 at The Lowry), bars and even high-end supermarkets (the family-run Booths) complete the offer in the area.
With good transport links to the city centre, The Quays is the sort of place where you could happily lose half a day; or some of your sanity, if you choose to complete the ‘dock to dock’ course of the Great Manchester Swim.
Imperial War Museum North (IWM North), Imperial War Museum North, The Quays, Trafford Wharf Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M17 1TZ - Visit now
IWM North was designed by Daniel Libeskind, whose beautiful waterfront building houses a permanent collection, special exhibitions and events that consider the many ways conflict shapes society.
Victoria Warehouse, Victoria Warehouse, Trafford Wharf Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M17 1AB - Visit now
Victoria Warehouse was formerly host to the (in)famous Warehouse Project raves; it’s a flexible event space that includes a boutique hotel, spa, bar and bistro-style restaurant.
Join a tiny snail and her biggest best friend the humpback whale on their trip around the world in Tall Stories’ acclaimed musical production.
IWM North presents volunteer insights. Free ten minute talks from volunteers with lived experience or expert knowledge.
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