The Lowry is the cultural landmark of Salford Quays, a gleaming steel-and-glass arts centre on the edge of the former Manchester docks. It opened in 2000 and is named after the painter L. S. Lowry, who lived and worked in Salford and Pendlebury and became famous for his scenes of industrial streets populated by matchstick figures. The centre holds the largest public collection of his work in the world, with paintings and drawings shown in the Lowry galleries, which are free to enter. Alongside the art, The Lowry has two theatres, the Lyric and the Quays, which stage major touring shows, opera, ballet, musicals and comedy, so the building is as busy in the evening as it is during the day. Outside, the Quays have been completely transformed, from derelict docks into a waterfront of apartments, hotels, restaurants and offices. A short walk along the water leads to MediaCityUK, home to BBC and ITV studios, and across the Millennium Footbridge to the Imperial War Museum North. It makes an easy and pleasant half-day.
How to visit
The Lowry is at Pier 8 on Salford Quays, and the Metrolink runs directly to the Harbour City, Broadway and MediaCityUK stops, with the Eccles line connecting from the city centre in around twenty to thirty minutes depending on the route. The galleries are free, with hours that vary slightly by day, and the building is wheelchair accessible. Parking is available on site for a charge, and the Lowry Outlet shopping centre next door is useful for refreshments.
What to expect
A gallery visit takes between one and two hours, and many visitors add a meal in one of the waterfront restaurants or a show in the evening. The Lowry collection is arranged to show how the artist’s style evolved, from the early mill scenes to the late seascapes and portraits. Check the theatre programme in advance if you want to see a performance, as popular shows sell out quickly. In summer the Quays host open-air events, and on clear days the waterfront walk is the main attraction.
Making the most of it
Follow the water on foot to MediaCityUK, where a guided walking tour of the Media City and the Quays explains how the docks were redeveloped and what goes on in the studios. A walk over the bridge takes you to the Imperial War Museum North, and further along the tram line you reach the Trafford Centre and Old Trafford.
For a different perspective, take a late afternoon walk when the lights come on over the water, and finish with dinner at one of the dockside restaurants. Art lovers will also enjoy the Whitworth and Manchester Art Gallery for a fuller picture of the city’s collections, and the Lowry’s own cafe is a good spot for a rest.
Good to know
The galleries are quieter on weekday mornings, and the theatres are busiest on Friday and Saturday evenings, so book restaurant tables ahead if you are seeing a show. The Quays are often breezy, and the waterfront paths are well lit at night but quiet outside show times. Accessible facilities are available throughout the arts centre, including lifts, hearing loops and accessible seating in the theatres. The outlet shopping centre next door offers a wide choice of shops and cafes if you want to extend your visit.
What to expect
The experience
Free galleries with L. S. Lowry’s paintings, plus theatre performances and a waterfront walk around Salford Quays.
Best time
Afternoon for the galleries, followed by an evening show or dinner on the water.
How long
Two to three hours, longer with a performance.
Tips
Book theatre tickets ahead for popular shows, and use the tram rather than driving to avoid parking charges.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Art fans, theatre-goers and anyone who enjoys redeveloped waterfronts.
- Families
- Open spaces and the waterfront suit children, and the centre often runs family activities.
- Couples
- Pair the galleries with a show and dinner for an easy cultural evening.
- Pair with
- Imperial War Museum North and a walk to MediaCityUK.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Is The Lowry free to enter?+
Yes, the galleries are free to enter. Theatre performances and some special exhibitions are ticketed.
Who was L. S. Lowry?+
Laurence Stephen Lowry was a painter from Salford best known for his scenes of industrial streets and matchstick figures. The Lowry holds the largest public collection of his work.
How do I get to The Lowry from Manchester city centre?+
Take the Metrolink to Harbour City or MediaCityUK, then walk a few minutes. The journey takes around twenty to thirty minutes.
Can I see a show at The Lowry?+
Yes, it has two theatres, the Lyric and the Quays, with a programme of touring musicals, ballet, opera and comedy. Book ahead for popular shows.
What else is at Salford Quays?+
Imperial War Museum North, MediaCityUK, the Lowry Outlet and waterfront restaurants are all within walking distance.