Things to Do in Salford

Explore your new city, relax after work, and feel more at home — without breaking the bank

Salford might not have the flash of Manchester, but it has character, culture, and community spaces that are easy to enjoy on a budget. Whether you want to clear your head after a shift, explore at the weekend, or spend time with new friends, there’s plenty to discover — often for free.

🌳 Parks, Nature & Fresh Air

🏞️ Buile Hill Park

Just a short walk from Oaklands Hospital, this is Salford’s biggest park — and a local favourite.

• Long paths for walking or jogging
  
• Peaceful wooded areas
  
• Views over Manchester from the top of the hill
  
• Great place to relax with a takeaway coffee after work
  

🌅 Salford Quays & The Lowry Plaza

Walk by the water, take in the view of MediaCityUK, and watch the sun set over the canal.

• Sit near the Lowry Theatre and enjoy the open space
  
• Public art and fountains
  
• It’s a peaceful break from the busy city — and it’s completely free
  

🛶 Bridgewater Canal Walks

Canal paths connect parts of Salford and Greater Manchester.

• Calm, scenic, and ideal for walking or quiet time
  
• Connects to Eccles, Monton, and Manchester
  

🎨 Culture, Museums & Public Spaces

🖼️ The Lowry (Galleries)

Located at Salford Quays, this famous theatre and gallery complex has free art exhibitions.

• Exhibits by L.S. Lowry (a famous local artist)
  
• Rotating shows on local life, photography, and more
  
• Great for rainy days or quiet afternoons
  

🏛️ Salford Museum and Art Gallery

Small, free museum near Peel Park.

• Learn about Salford’s history
  
• Victorian street recreation
  
• Often hosts events and school holiday activities
  

📚 Salford Libraries

Quiet, safe, and welcoming. You can:

• Get a library card for free
  
• Use free Wi-Fi and computer access
  
• Borrow books or DVDs
  
• Ask about free language or conversation groups
  

Closest branches:

• 📍 Pendleton Library (near Salford Shopping Centre)
  
• 📍 Eccles Library
  
• 📍 Broughton Library
  

🎟️ Local Markets & Community Events

🛍️ Eccles Market & Community Hub

Indoor market with low-cost food and clothes — often holds free taster events, community cooking classes, or live music.

🌽 Salford Food Markets

Look out for seasonal farmer’s markets, international food fairs, or street food festivals — many have free entry and music.

🎶 Community Centres & Faith Groups

Mosques, churches, and community halls across Salford often host:

• Tea mornings
  
• Free holiday meals
  
• Family events
  
• Volunteer opportunities
  

💡 Check Facebook, Eventbrite, or community noticeboards at Tesco or Asda for what’s happening locally.