Salford

Travel Guide

A modern bridge with a glass underside, a tall tower, and a calm river.
A modern cityscape with a prominent cable-stayed bridge, a tall cylindrical building, and a curved glass building.
A modern bridge with glass railings and a river below.
A modern urban area with a prominent building labeled "BBC" and another building with a sign "The Studios."
A modern building complex with a large digital screen displaying sports event information.
A media center and Lowry tribute adorn the Salford Quays, while museums and period houses reflect a fascinating industrial past.

Visit Salford, a quayside city packed with galleries and museums. It was important to the cotton and silk trade of the Industrial Revolution and today has a media center making up one of the main bodies of the BBC. Consider the city’s impressive modern renovation, with its array of sleek offices and museum buildings.

Among the highlights of Salford is The Lowry art and entertainment center, whose galleries showcase works by L.S. Lowry. Marvel at the building’s innovative design and attend dramatic performances in its theaters.

The city is also known for MediaCityUK, a large development on the water, where much of the magic of the BBC, ITV and other media and digital enterprises is created. Relax on the grass and watch famous and near-famous people in the British media industry walk by. Enjoy views of the waterways making up the picturesque Salford Quays.

A little east of Salford Quays, see the Tudor influences of Ordsall Hall, a manor house dating back to the 1300s. Explore its museum on local history and study the period furnishings for a glimpse into the décor of yesteryear.

Continue on this voyage through the past at the Lancashire Mining Museum at Astley Green, which traces the industrial development of the area in an early 20th-century coal-producing site.

Victorian art and architecture are on display in the Salford Museum and Art Gallery. Admire its impressive redbrick building and browse the exhibits. For a change of scene, go on a guided tour of the University of Salford and chat with the students. Watch soccer at the Peninsula Stadium, the home of Salford City Football Club. The team is partially owned by David Beckham and several other former Manchester United legends.

Salford is a small city located in the western outskirts of Greater Manchester. From the Manchester city center, walk west for about 45 minutes or travel by train to the Salford Crescent railway station. While here, visit nearby destinations such as Old Trafford, Stretford and Pendlebury.

Where to stay in Salford

Find the best Salford areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Salford
Learn more about Salford

Greengate

Greengate might not have many top sights, but AO Arena and Exchange Square are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Blackfriars

While Blackfriars isn't home to many top sights, AO Arena and Aviva Studios are some notable places to visit nearby.

Holiday Inn Manchester-Media City UK by IHG

Holiday Inn Manchester-Media City UK by IHG

4 out of 5
White Media City UK Salford England
$71 nightly
The price is $85 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$85 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Salford. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
Holiday Inn Manchester-Media City UK by IHG
Copthorne Hotel Manchester Salford Quays

Copthorne Hotel Manchester Salford Quays

4 out of 5
Clippers Quay, Salford Quays Salford England
$67 nightly
The price is $81 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$81 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Salford. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,259 reviews)
"Was a nice hotel good location"

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

Copthorne Hotel Manchester Salford Quays
AC Hotel by Marriott, Manchester Salford Quays

AC Hotel by Marriott, Manchester Salford Quays

4 out of 5
17-19 Trafford Road Salford England
$78 nightly
The price is $94 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$94 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Salford. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
AC Hotel by Marriott, Manchester Salford Quays
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
CitySuites 2 Aparthotel

CitySuites 2 Aparthotel

5 out of 5
New Kings Head Yard Salford England
Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Salford. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (631 reviews)
"This hotel is excellent at every aspect, it was my second time there, and for sure will book again. Room is spacious, comfortable and has everything you need cutlery, pots, pans if you want to cook a bit, cups, wine glasses and wee Nespresso machine which was. Staff is lovely, friendly and helpful, ..."

Reviewed on Nov 2, 2026

CitySuites 2 Aparthotel
Pillo Rooms Serviced Apartments- Salford

Pillo Rooms Serviced Apartments- Salford

3 out of 5
145 Eccles New Rd Salford England
Stay at this aparthotel in Salford. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Old Trafford and Trafford Centre are located ...
7/10 Good! (77 reviews)
"Probably the worst stay I’ve had. From the extremely frustration check in process and difficulty contacting the property. To the absolute state of the place on arrival. Stunk of damp, windows were broken so I couldn’t shut some of them and it was freezing cold. Shower was dosgusting and covered in ..."

Reviewed on Oct 21, 2026

Pillo Rooms Serviced Apartments- Salford
Quay Apartments Exchange Quay

Quay Apartments Exchange Quay

4 out of 5
Waterman Walk Salford England
Stay at this apartment in Salford. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Old Trafford and Trafford Centre are located ...
Quay Apartments Exchange Quay
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Salford attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Salford worth visiting?
Salford is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including Salford Quays and The Lowry Art and Entertainment. Travelers can enjoy diverse dining, with options ranging from Asian to Italian cuisine. The city also offers practical transit access, making it easy to get around using the metro and train.
When is the best time to visit Salford?
The best time to visit Salford is from May through September, when the climate is most favorable for exploring. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March offer a good alternative, typically with cooler weather.
What is Salford known for?
Salford, known as the 'Salford Metropolitan Borough', is known for Salford Quays and The Lowry Art and Entertainment. Travelers can also explore the University of Salford and enjoy a strong Asian food culture throughout the area, making it a diverse destination.
What is a good itinerary length for Salford?
A good itinerary length for Salford is two to three days to explore key highlights like Salford Quays, The Lowry Art and Entertainment, and take a City River Tour. For a longer trip of four to five days, travelers can also visit the University of Salford and enjoy an Evening Cruise or a guided walking tour of Media City & The Quays. See Salford Activities.
How do you get around Salford?
Salford offers convenient public transport. Travelers can use the metro from stops like Salford Quays Tram Stop to explore the local area. Train services are available from Manchester Salford Central Station and Salford Crescent Station, connecting Salford to wider destinations. Rideshare services provide another flexible way to get around.
What are the top things to do in and around Salford?
In Salford, travelers can explore historic waterways, cultural landmarks, and unique local experiences:


How do I plan a trip to Salford?
When planning your trip to Salford, book flights and places to stay on Expedia. Consider activities like a City River Tour, Evening Cruise, or a walking tour of Media City & The Quays. For weather flexibility, pair outdoor plans with indoor options. Travelers can easily get around using the metro or train.
What cuisines can you find in Salford?
In Salford you can find English cuisine, including dishes like fish and chips, roast dinners, and shepherd's pie. Travelers can also enjoy Asian options such as Chinese and Indian food, along with Italian, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Latin American dishes.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Salford?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Salford by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Salford with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Salford trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Salford?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Salford can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Salford trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Salford trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Salford trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Salford trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Salford?
If it's your first trip to Salford, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Salford hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Salford hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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