I've just moved to Salford Quays and there's so much more than meets the eye - here's my hidden gems

Since moving here from our town, there is so much more than meets the eye to the area so here are some of my favourite spots I’ve discovered since arriving on the waterfront.

Salford Quays bars

Media City has the best quayside bars for an after work social drink, with bars such as Seven Brothers and The Botanist, the quayside bars are popular among young professionals and a great spot for a Friday night out. 

Situated right outside Salford Quay tram stop, the Matchstick Man pub has a great atmosphere to watch the football. The pub has a comforting vibe with its traditional style decor, plus its outdoor beer garden which has a great view overlooking the quays. The Alchemist is a stunning building which also overlooks the quays. With the building’s iconic exterior ‘A’ entrance design, it's hard to pass by without popping in to have one of their crazy cocktails.

Kargo is one of the Quays’ newest additions, a huge food hall with 19 different independent Manchester businesses. With food and drink stalls surrounding you, you’re never shy on great options, plus it's a great way to support your locals.

Things to do at Salford Quays

Many Mancs are already aware of the spectacular shows put on at the Lowry. Watch the latest Manchester talent hit the stage with friends or family as well as big stars from further afield.

Admire the Tudor architecture in Ordsall Hall, a manor house which dates back more than 820 years and is the oldest building in Salford. You can explore the history of the building as well as take a stroll in the gardens filled with historic herbs and flowers from the Tudor era. 

Needless to say Old Trafford is obviously only a short walk from Salford Quays and then there’s the the Imperial War Museum North located on the quays and easily spotted with its unique architecture. The museum takes you on a journey through the First World War and immerses you with a 360 degree picture show.

Things to see at Salford Quays

The Blue Peter Garden is a blast from the past, located in Media City. There’s plenty of odes to the old kids show such as a statue of Petra the dog and hand and foot prints of presenters Simon Groom, Peter Duncan and Sarah Greene.

Don’t fancy anything flashy, walking along the quays and taking in the beautiful sites is a great way to wind down after a hectic day. The quays are also ideal for runners or pet owners looking to walk their furry friends somewhere scenic. Salford Quays is only getting better and I can’t wait to see it blossom even more into a second town centre.