The Lowry
Iconic art, immersive experiences, and diverse theatre in a striking Salford Quays landmark.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
The Lowry
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic art, immersive experiences, and diverse theatre in a striking Salford Quays landmark.
"A must-visit for art lovers and theatre-goers, offering free galleries and engaging shows."
Tram to MediaCityUK
The MediaCityUK tram stop is right outside. Connect from Piccadilly Gardens for easy access. :train2:
Free Art Galleries
Explore the extensive L.S. Lowry collection and the 360 experience at no cost! :art:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

LS Lowry Galleries
Galleries 1-4
Immerse yourself in the iconic industrial landscapes and matchstick figures of L.S. Lowry.

360 Lowry Experience
Gallery 5
Step inside a Lowry painting with this immersive, multi-sensory digital exhibition.

Quayside Theatre
Catch intimate and engaging performances in this smaller, versatile theatre space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Tram is Key
Free Art, Paid Shows
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Tram to MediaCityUK
The MediaCityUK tram stop is right outside. Connect from Piccadilly Gardens for easy access. :train2:
Free Art Galleries
Explore the extensive L.S. Lowry collection and the 360 experience at no cost! :art:
Book Theatre Tickets Early
Popular shows sell out fast. Check the schedule and book ahead to guarantee your seat. :ticket:
Accessible Venue
The Lowry is very accessible for wheelchair users with level access and helpful staff. :wheelchair:
Tips
from all over the internet
Tram to MediaCityUK
The MediaCityUK tram stop is right outside. Connect from Piccadilly Gardens for easy access. :train2:
Free Art Galleries
Explore the extensive L.S. Lowry collection and the 360 experience at no cost! :art:
Book Theatre Tickets Early
Popular shows sell out fast. Check the schedule and book ahead to guarantee your seat. :ticket:
Accessible Venue
The Lowry is very accessible for wheelchair users with level access and helpful staff. :wheelchair:
Quayside Views
Enjoy a pleasant walk along the quays before or after your visit. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Lowry for its free, engaging L.S. Lowry galleries and the immersive 360 experience. The venue is also lauded for its excellent accessibility and comfortable theatre spaces, though some minor points like toilet cleanliness have been noted. Overall, it's considered a worthwhile cultural destination.
"Visit to the Lowry today amazing experience we started at the 360 Lowry experience where they have brought one of LS Lowrys pictures alive, it was awesome for 6 minutes your transported amongst the picture with matchstick people and animals walking around you. Amazing I would highly recommend Lowry 360 after you can walk around the gallery and look at a huge collection of his works plus there's some of his personal items. All for zero cost so be generous and put a little coin into the collection boxes. There is a cafe, restraunt, bar and a well stocked gift shop plus toilets in the building. A big thankyou to Neil who we met as we entered extremely sociable and explained everything we felt so welcome what a credit to the Lowry. If in Manchester it's a must place to visit."
Michael Collins
"such a great theatre, extremely accessible, the seat sizes are a life saver with the amount of old theatres i have been in! six was also such a good show, and i feel as though it fit perfectly with the purple theme in the lowry. my mum and i had such a lovely time."
Lauren Bettley
"The Lowry in Manchester is a striking cultural venue combining modern architecture with a varied programme of exhibitions, theatre, and performance. The gallery space is well-curated, especially the permanent L.S. Lowry collection, which offers real insight into his work and life. The theatres host a mix of touring productions, comedy, and local performances, and the seating is generally comfortable with good sightlines. Staff are helpful and the space feels accessible and clean. The nearby quays provide a pleasant setting for a walk before or after a visit. It’s a worthwhile destination whether you’re after art, a show, or a quiet coffee with a view."
Patrik Krizek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way is by tram to the MediaCityUK stop, which is directly outside The Lowry. If you're arriving by train, take a train to Manchester Piccadilly, then a tram to MediaCityUK. Some Redditors suggest driving to East Didsbury and taking the tram as an alternative to a direct train route.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be busy and costly, especially during peak times. It's often recommended to use public transport if possible.
From Macclesfield, you can take a train to Manchester Piccadilly, then transfer to a tram heading to MediaCityUK. This is generally considered the most straightforward public transport option.
The closest tram stop is MediaCityUK, which is located right next to The Lowry building.
Yes, The Lowry is a prominent landmark at Salford Quays, easily identifiable by its distinctive architecture and location on the quayside. It's well-signposted from the MediaCityUK tram stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need tickets to visit the L.S. Lowry galleries or the 360 Lowry Experience, as these are free to enter. However, tickets are required for all theatre performances and exhibitions that have a specific entry fee.
Entry to the permanent L.S. Lowry galleries and the 360 Lowry Experience is free. Donations are welcome. Ticket prices for theatre shows vary depending on the performance and seating.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book theatre tickets in advance, especially for popular shows, as they can sell out quickly. You can book online through The Lowry's official website.
The galleries are typically open daily, but it's always best to check The Lowry's official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they can vary.
The Lowry often offers concessions for students, seniors, and children. They may also have special offers or group rates, so it's worth checking their website or contacting the box office for details.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The 360 Lowry Experience is an immersive digital exhibition that brings one of L.S. Lowry's paintings to life. For about six minutes, you are transported into the artwork, with animated matchstick people and animals moving around you. It's a highly recommended and unique way to engage with his art.
The Lowry primarily showcases the works of L.S. Lowry, featuring his iconic industrial scenes and portraits. It also hosts a diverse range of temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary and modern artists.
Yes, The Lowry is known for being very accessible. It offers level access to the ground floor, including the theatre, bar, and restaurant. There is step-free access to all levels of the theatre, and accessible toilets are available, though some reviews mention they could be cleaner. Staff are generally very helpful.
The venue includes a cafe, restaurant, bar, and a well-stocked gift shop. There are also toilet facilities available on various levels.
The Quayside Theatre is a smaller, more intimate performance space, while The Lowry also has larger theatre spaces that host touring productions. Both offer good sightlines and comfortable seating.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Lowry has a cafe, restaurant, and bar on-site, offering various options for refreshments and meals.
Absolutely. The cafe and bar areas provide coffee, snacks, and drinks, perfect for a break during your visit.
The venue offers a range of dining, from casual cafe fare to restaurant meals. Some reviews mention delightful rosé wine.
Yes, the restaurant and bar are open before theatre performances, making it convenient to dine at The Lowry before attending a show.
While specific menus aren't detailed in reviews, most modern venues like The Lowry typically offer a selection of vegetarian and often vegan options. It's best to check their current menu online or inquire directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in the public areas and galleries for personal use, but flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the artwork. For theatre performances, photography is typically not allowed during the show. Always check for specific signage.
The modern architecture of The Lowry itself, along with the surrounding MediaCityUK area and the quayside, offers excellent photo opportunities, especially during daylight hours and at sunset.
When photographing LS Lowry's paintings in the gallery, avoid using flash. Focus on capturing the texture and detail of his work. The 360 experience is more about the immersive feeling than photography.
No, photography is strictly prohibited during theatre performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. You might be able to take a photo of the empty stage before the show begins, but check with staff first.
The exterior of The Lowry building, with its striking design, and the views across the water from the quayside are popular spots for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are theatres with performances, it's worth checking the schedule for age-appropriateness. The venue's accessibility means strollers are easily managed, and the on-site cafe provides convenient options for snacks and meals. The surrounding MediaCityUK area also offers open spaces for kids to explore.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Beyond Lowry, the venue frequently hosts temporary exhibitions featuring a diverse range of contemporary and modern artists. This ensures there's always something new and exciting to discover, making it a worthwhile visit for those interested in the broader art scene.
🎭 Theatre Goers
Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular shows. The venue's excellent accessibility also ensures a smooth experience for all patrons, making it a reliable choice for a night out at the theatre.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Art of L.S. Lowry
Beyond the static displays, the 360 Lowry Experience offers a unique, immersive journey into one of Lowry's paintings. This short, multi-sensory presentation transports you directly into the scene, allowing for a deeper appreciation of his artistic vision. It's a modern and engaging way to connect with his classic works, often highlighted as a must-do by visitors.
When visiting the galleries, take your time to observe the details in Lowry's work. His ability to capture the atmosphere and spirit of the industrial North is remarkable. Many visitors find themselves drawn to the quiet power and social commentary embedded within his seemingly simple compositions.
Theatre and Performance at The Lowry
The Quayside Theatre is particularly noted for its smaller, more intimate setting, which can make for a very engaging performance. Reviews suggest that shows like 'Ideal' fit perfectly within this space. It's recommended to book tickets in advance, as popular shows can sell out quickly.
Accessibility is a key feature for theatre-goers. The Lowry is well-equipped for visitors with disabilities, offering level access and step-free entry to all theatre levels. Staff are generally helpful, contributing to a positive experience for all patrons attending a show.
Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Reviewers highlight the helpfulness of the staff and the ease of navigating the building. While some minor points like toilet cleanliness have been mentioned, the overall impression is one of a welcoming and well-managed venue. The spacious seating in the theatres is also a significant plus for visitor comfort.
Beyond physical accessibility, the venue provides essential amenities such as a cafe, restaurant, and bar, making it a comfortable place to spend several hours. The pleasant setting on the quayside also adds to the overall visitor experience, offering opportunities for a relaxing stroll before or after a visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit