Whether you’re coming for a television recording, a weekend away, a business meeting or simply looking for somewhere different to explore in Greater Manchester, MediaCity and Salford Quays have developed into one of the region’s most distinctive destinations.
Set around the waterfront of the Manchester Ship Canal in Salford, MediaCity combines television studios, offices, restaurants, hotels, theatres, museums, shops and residential buildings in one compact area.
It is home to major broadcasters and creative businesses including the BBC and ITV, while the wider Quays area includes attractions such as Lowry, Imperial War Museum North and the Coronation Street Experience.
For visitors arriving from outside Greater Manchester, Manchester Airport is the most obvious gateway, and a pre-booked airport transfer to MediaCity can take you directly from your terminal to your hotel, apartment, workplace or attraction.
Here’s our guide to visiting MediaCity, including what to see, where to stay and how to get there.
Where Is MediaCity?
MediaCity is located at Salford Quays in the City of Salford, Greater Manchester.
This can cause a little confusion for first-time visitors because the area is frequently referred to as “MediaCity Manchester” online, even though geographically it sits within Salford.
You might therefore see hotels, attractions and travel information using several different names:
- MediaCity
- MediaCityUK
- MediaCity Manchester
- MediaCity Salford
- Salford Quays
- The Quays
They’re generally referring to the same waterfront district or the surrounding area.
MediaCity itself opened in 2011 and has grown into a major creative, technology and media hub. Salford City Council says the area is now home to the BBC, ITV and more than 250 creative and technology businesses.
Is MediaCity Worth Visiting?
Definitely if you’re spending time in Manchester or Salford and want something beyond the traditional city-centre attractions.
MediaCity isn’t just an office district.
The waterfront setting means you can combine museums, television attractions, theatre, food and drink, shopping and walks around the Quays in the same visit.
Visit Manchester describes MediaCity and The Quays as an iconic waterfront destination with cultural attractions, restaurants, retail and year-round events.
It’s particularly suitable for:
- Families
- Couples
- Television fans
- Theatre visitors
- Business travellers
- Weekend breaks
- Groups
- International tourists
- Manchester United supporters
- Visitors attending MediaCity events
You can easily spend a full day around the Quays, and an overnight stay gives you time to explore at a more relaxed pace.
Things to Do at MediaCity and Salford Quays
One of MediaCity’s biggest advantages is how much there is to see within walking distance.
Visit Lowry
One of the most recognisable buildings at Salford Quays is Lowry.
The venue includes theatres, galleries and public spaces and hosts everything from major touring productions and comedy to family shows and exhibitions.
It is also associated with the work of artist L.S. Lowry, whose paintings are closely connected with the industrial history of Greater Manchester.
Visit Manchester lists Lowry as one of the principal cultural attractions at The Quays.
If you’re flying into Manchester specifically for a performance, you can arrange a private airport transfer directly to MediaCity or your nearby hotel.
Imperial War Museum North
Directly across the water you’ll find Imperial War Museum North, another of the area’s major visitor attractions.
Its striking waterside building is difficult to miss and the museum explores how conflict has affected people’s lives.
The museum works particularly well as part of a wider Salford Quays day because it’s only a short walk from the main MediaCity area across the waterfront.
Visit Manchester lists IWM North alongside Lowry as one of the area’s major cultural attractions.
Coronation Street Experience
For television fans, one of MediaCity’s biggest attractions is the Coronation Street Experience.
Visitors can get closer to the famous cobbles and locations associated with the long-running ITV programme.
The official Manchester visitor guide continues to promote the Coronation Street Experience as one of the major attractions at MediaCity and The Quays.
If Coronation Street is the main reason for your trip, check your ticket for your exact meeting point and arrival time before arranging transport.
Explore the MediaCity Waterfront
You don’t necessarily need a ticket for an attraction to enjoy MediaCity.
One of the simplest things to do is walk around the waterfront.
MediaCity has extensive public outdoor space with pedestrian routes running alongside the Manchester Ship Canal and around Salford Quays. The official MediaCity visitor information highlights its walking and cycling connections and more than 12 acres of public outdoor space.
On a clear day, it’s a good part of Greater Manchester simply to wander around, stop for something to eat and explore both sides of the water.
Walk Across the Millennium Bridge
The pedestrian bridge across the Manchester Ship Canal links the main Salford Quays and MediaCity area with attractions on the Trafford side of the water.
It means you can move between MediaCity, Lowry and Imperial War Museum North without needing separate transport.
It’s also one of the better places around the Quays for waterfront views.
Quayside MediaCity
If you want to mix your visit with shopping, food or a break indoors, Quayside MediaCity sits in the heart of the Salford Quays area.
The destination is currently undergoing a substantial £16 million transformation, with further leisure, dining and entertainment facilities being introduced.
That continuing development is another reason MediaCity is worth revisiting even if you’ve been to Salford Quays before.
Food and Drink at MediaCity
There’s considerably more choice around MediaCity now than visitors might expect.
The wider MediaCity and Quays area includes independent food traders alongside well-known restaurant brands.
One of the newer additions is Kargo MKT at Central Bay, a large waterfront food hall bringing together numerous independent kitchens. Visit Manchester currently highlights it as a significant part of the Quays’ food and drink offering.
You’ll also find restaurants, bars and cafés scattered across MediaCity and around the waterfront.
This makes it easy to turn a visit to a museum, television recording or theatre show into a complete day or evening out.
Television and Media at MediaCity
Of course, you can’t write about MediaCity without mentioning television.
Broadcasting remains central to the area’s identity.
MediaCity is home to significant BBC operations as well as ITV and a large collection of creative, digital and technology businesses.
Visitors might find themselves here because they’re:
- Working on a production
- Appearing as a guest
- Attending a television recording
- Visiting the BBC
- Working with ITV
- Meeting a production company
- Studying media
- Attending a business meeting
- Visiting the Coronation Street set
That also makes MediaCity slightly unusual as a tourism destination: the person sitting next to you in the hotel lobby could be there for a weekend break, while somebody else may be heading into a studio for work.
Events at MediaCity
MediaCity regularly uses its open waterfront spaces for events.
These range from food and cultural events to art installations, festivals, live entertainment and family activities.
The official MediaCity events calendar continues to feature a changing programme throughout 2026, while Visit Manchester also lists events taking place across The Quays.
If you’re travelling specifically for an event, it’s worth checking what’s happening elsewhere in the area on the same day.
Large events can affect:
- Local traffic
- Parking
- Restaurant availability
- Hotel prices
- Journey times
If you have a fixed arrival time, leave additional time rather than planning your journey too tightly.
Hotels at MediaCity and Salford Quays
Staying around MediaCity can make a lot of sense if the main purpose of your trip is somewhere within the Quays.
Instead of staying in Manchester city centre and travelling back and forth, you can stay within walking distance of many of the major attractions.
The official MediaCity visitor information currently highlights accommodation including Holiday Inn MediaCity and Premier Inn MediaCity, while further hotels are available throughout Salford Quays and the surrounding area.
When comparing accommodation, pay attention to the exact location rather than simply searching for “Manchester”.
A hotel described as Manchester city centre may be several miles from MediaCity.
If MediaCity is the focus of the trip, accommodation around Salford Quays is often much more convenient.
Staying at MediaCity for Business
MediaCity accommodation is particularly useful for business travellers.
If you’re attending several days of meetings, working in one of the studios or visiting a company based at MediaCity, staying nearby reduces the need to travel across Greater Manchester every morning.
DM Airport Transfers can provide pre-booked transport directly between Manchester Airport and MediaCity hotels or business addresses.
For corporate travellers, executive vehicle options can also be requested subject to availability.
Manchester Airport to MediaCity
Manchester Airport is around 10 miles by road from MediaCity, although the exact distance depends on your final destination.
In lighter traffic, the journey can be relatively quick. However, Manchester traffic can significantly increase travel times, particularly during the weekday rush hours.
For visitors carrying luggage, a private transfer offers a straightforward option:
Manchester Airport → MediaCity hotel or destination
Rather than navigating public transport after your flight, you can be collected from the airport and taken directly to the address where you’re staying.
DM Airport Transfers provides pre-booked cars, MPVs, minibuses and executive vehicles, depending on passenger numbers and luggage requirements.
Travelling With a Group?
MediaCity attracts plenty of group travel.
You may be visiting as:
- A large family
- Corporate team
- Television production crew
- Conference group
- Theatre group
- Sports group
- International tour party
In these cases, a larger MPV or minibus can sometimes make more sense than arranging several separate vehicles.
Always provide accurate luggage numbers when requesting a quote.
A group of eight passengers travelling with eight large suitcases needs considerably more luggage capacity than eight people attending an event for the evening.
Manchester Airport Meet & Greet
Meet & Greet can also be added to airport transfers.
This can be particularly useful when a business or production company is arranging transport for a visitor arriving in Manchester for the first time.
Instead of asking the passenger to find a particular pickup point after a flight, the driver can meet them within the airport arrivals area.
It can work well for:
- Corporate clients
- Overseas visitors
- Performers
- Speakers
- Television guests
- Elderly passengers
- VIP travellers
- Families unfamiliar with Manchester Airport
If someone else is arranging the transfer, make sure the passenger’s correct mobile contact details are included.
Can You Get the Tram to MediaCity?
Yes.
MediaCity is well connected by Metrolink, and several tram stops serve the wider Quays area.
Official visitor information highlights MediaCity’s tram connections as one of the main ways of reaching the destination from elsewhere in Greater Manchester.
Public transport can be a good choice if you’re travelling lightly and aren’t working to a strict schedule.
For airport passengers with multiple suitcases, young children, specialist equipment or a larger group, a private transfer may be more convenient because it provides a direct door-to-door journey.
MediaCity to Manchester City Centre
MediaCity is close enough to central Manchester that you don’t have to choose between the two when planning a break.
Visit Manchester describes The Quays as roughly 10–15 minutes from Manchester city centre by tram, depending on the route and stop.
That means you could spend one day exploring MediaCity and Salford Quays before heading into Manchester for areas such as:
- Deansgate
- Spinningfields
- Northern Quarter
- St Peter’s Square
- Manchester Arndale
- Castlefield
Alternatively, stay around MediaCity and visit central Manchester during the day.
MediaCity and Old Trafford
Football fans may also find MediaCity a convenient area to stay.
Old Trafford football stadium is close to Salford Quays on the Trafford side of the Manchester Ship Canal.
Visitors travelling into Manchester for a Manchester United match sometimes choose accommodation around MediaCity or the Quays because of its location.
If you’re combining a football weekend with a MediaCity stay, remember that match days can make the surrounding roads and public transport considerably busier.
Allow extra time for airport transfers when Manchester United are playing at home.
Visiting MediaCity With Children
MediaCity works well for families because you can mix paid attractions with simply exploring the waterfront.
Possible family activities include:
- Coronation Street Experience
- Imperial War Museum North
- Lowry events and exhibitions
- Waterfront walks
- Restaurants
- Seasonal events
- Quayside MediaCity
Check individual attractions before travelling because opening hours, age recommendations and ticket requirements vary.
If you’re flying into Manchester with children, booking a larger vehicle in advance also gives you the opportunity to make sure there’s adequate room for both passengers and luggage.
How Long Should You Spend at MediaCity?
You can see part of MediaCity in a few hours, but I’d allow at least a full day if you’re visiting properly.
For example, you could spend the morning at Imperial War Museum North, walk across the Quays, have lunch around MediaCity, explore the waterfront and then visit Lowry or the Coronation Street Experience later in the day.
If you’re attending a theatre show, television recording or event, an overnight stay makes the visit much more relaxed.
A two-night stay also gives you enough time to combine MediaCity with central Manchester.
Best Time to Visit MediaCity
There’s no single best time because the area operates throughout the year.
Summer gives you more opportunity to enjoy the waterfront and outdoor events, while autumn and winter can be ideal if your trip is focused on theatre, museums, television or dining.
MediaCity’s programme changes throughout the year, so checking the official event calendar before visiting is worthwhile.
Weekends can have a more leisure-focused atmosphere, while weekdays bring more of MediaCity’s working population into the area.
Tips for Visiting MediaCity
A little planning can make the trip considerably easier.
Check your exact destination.
Don’t just put “MediaCity” into your travel plans. Find the full address and postcode for your hotel, studio, theatre or attraction.
Book popular attractions in advance.
Particularly if your trip revolves around a specific television experience or performance.
Check what’s on.
A large event can make the area much busier than usual.
Allow extra time for Manchester traffic.
Especially if you’re travelling to or from Manchester Airport during commuting hours.
Think about luggage.
If you’re flying into Manchester, consider whether you want to carry suitcases through public transport connections or travel directly to your accommodation.
Explore on foot once you’re there.
One of the advantages of MediaCity is that many of its main attractions are clustered around the waterfront.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting MediaCity
Is MediaCity in Manchester?
MediaCity is located in Salford, Greater Manchester, at Salford Quays. It’s often referred to as MediaCity Manchester because of its close association with the wider Manchester area.
What is MediaCity famous for?
MediaCity is particularly known for television, broadcasting and digital industries. It is home to significant BBC and ITV operations alongside hundreds of creative and technology businesses.
What can you do at MediaCity?
Popular attractions include Lowry, Imperial War Museum North, Coronation Street Experience, Quayside MediaCity, waterfront walks, restaurants and seasonal events.
Can you stay overnight at MediaCity?
Yes. There are hotels within MediaCity itself and additional accommodation throughout Salford Quays.
How do I get from Manchester Airport to MediaCity?
Options include public transport, taxi services and pre-booked private transfers. DM Airport Transfers offers door-to-door private transfers from Manchester Airport to MediaCity and Salford Quays.
Can I book a minibus from Manchester Airport to MediaCity?
Yes. Larger vehicle options can be requested for groups, subject to availability. Always provide both your passenger and luggage numbers.
Do you provide MediaCity to Manchester Airport transfers?
Yes. Transfers can be booked in either direction, including collections from hotels, apartments, business addresses and other locations around MediaCity and Salford Quays.
Make MediaCity Part of Your Manchester Visit
MediaCity has grown into much more than somewhere people travel to for work.
Between the television studios, cultural attractions, waterfront, restaurants, events and nearby Salford Quays attractions, there’s enough here to justify making it a destination in its own right.
And because central Manchester is only a short journey away, it’s easy to combine the two during the same trip.
If you’re flying into Manchester Airport, arranging your onward journey before you arrive can make the start of your visit much easier.
Whether you’re travelling alone, as a family, for business or with a larger group, DM Airport Transfers can arrange a vehicle suited to your passenger and luggage requirements.
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