Name: The Lowry
Rating: 5.0

The Lowry

The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, UK

1-99 Years

Description

The Lowry is a striking, world-class arts venue and theatre located in the heart of Salford Quays. It is widely considered one of the best things to do with kids in Salford because it blends high-energy theatre performances with interactive art galleries designed specifically for young imaginations. Whether your family is here to see a West End touring musical or to explore the "ghostly" figures of Salford’s famous artist, there is an activity to suit every age.

Admission to the building and the permanent L.S. Lowry galleries is free of charge, making it an excellent budget-friendly option. Ticket prices for theatre shows and special events vary significantly, typically for family-friendly performances. For those attending a show, the venue often offers discounted family tickets or "babes in arms" policies for younger children.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that offers culture without the stuffiness, The Lowry is a top-tier choice. Its position on the water’s edge means you can combine a gallery visit with a scenic walk around the Quays or a shopping trip at the nearby outlet. It is a vibrant, accessible hub where children are encouraged to engage with art through play and performance.

Features

Free
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Key Features

Interactive Galleries: Dedicated spaces like the "Look Look" area allow children to engage with L.S. Lowry’s work through mirrors and dress-up clothes.
Educational Day Out: The venue hosts regular workshops and "theatre-maker" sessions that teach children about the behind-the-scenes magic of the stage.
Sensory Play: Many touring productions for early years focus on tactile and auditory experiences, perfect for a first-time theatre visit.
Waterfront Location: The surrounding area provides safe, pedestrianised zones for kids to run around before or after a visit.

Top 5 Highlights

Lark Hill Place "Mini-Tour": While the full street is at the nearby Salford Museum, The Lowry often features interactive displays that link back to the local history of L.S. Lowry's Salford.
The "Look Look" Area: This is a fantastic spot for younger children to get creative. They can use props and costumes to recreate the poses of people in Lowry's paintings, making art feel like a game.
The Lyric Theatre: One of the largest stages in the UK. Even if you aren't seeing a show, the scale of the building itself is impressive for kids to explore, with its bright colours and sweeping walkways.
"Going to the Match": Seeing Lowry’s most famous football painting is a rite of passage for any young fan in the North West. It’s a great way to talk about the history of the game.
The Pier 8 Terrace: A brilliant spot for a family lunch. It offers panoramic views of the Manchester Ship Canal, where you can watch the various boats and ducks on the water.

Facilities

Toilets: Spacious facilities are located on every floor, including dedicated baby changing rooms.
Buggy Parking: There is a secure, signposted area to leave pushchairs before entering the theatres.
Lockers: Available near the entrance for a small returnable deposit, ideal for storing heavy bags or coats.
Food & Drink: Pier 8 provides a more formal dining experience, while the ground floor café is better for quick "grab and go" family snacks.

Pro-Tips for Parents

Arrive Early for Shows: The venue is large and it can take 10 minutes to navigate from the front door to your seat, especially with small children in tow.
Resident Discounts: If you live in Salford, check for "Our Lowry" membership which offers significant discounts on theatre tickets.
Park at the Outlet: The MediaCityUK multi-storey car park is often busy; many parents find parking at the Quayside MediaCityUK (formerly Lowry Outlet) easier and cheaper if you combine it with a small purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Lowry worth it for toddlers? Absolutely. While the main stage shows have age recommendations, the galleries are very toddler-friendly. The "Look Look" interactive space is specifically designed to let little ones move around and play while discovering art.
How long does a visit take? If you are just visiting the galleries and having a coffee, 2 hours is plenty. If you are seeing a show, you should plan for a 4-hour stay to include the performance and time to explore the building.
Where is the best place to park? The Quayside MediaCityUK multi-storey is the most reliable option. It is safe, covered, and usually has plenty of spaces for families, with easy lift access to the street level.
Are there cheap indoor activities in Salford? The Lowry is a fantastic "near me" option for free indoor culture. Since the galleries cost nothing to enter and the building is full of interesting architecture, it’s a great way to spend a rainy afternoon for free.

The Visitor Verdict: What Parents Really Think
What Visitors Love

The Space: Parents frequently mention how wide and airy the building is, making it easy to manage buggies and excited toddlers.
The Staff: The front-of-house team is noted for being exceptionally welcoming to families, especially during "relaxed" theatre performances.
Accessibility: The proximity to the tram stop makes it one of the easiest cultural venues to reach without a car.

What Visitors Don't Like

Theatre Pricing: While the galleries are free, some find the theatre snacks and drinks to be quite expensive.
Crowds at Interval: During large family shows, the foyers can become very congested, which can be overwhelming for some children.

What to see

Detailed Inventory

Going to the Match: L.S. Lowry’s iconic painting of football fans.
The Match of the Day Booth: A seasonal interactive where kids can try their hand at sports commentary.
Candy Cannibal Installation: A striking piece of modern art often found in the rotating exhibition space.
The Man on Wall Painting: One of the more famous, melancholic pieces in the permanent collection.
Dress-up Wardrobe: Found in the gallery area for child-led roleplay.
The Quays Discovery Trail: A self-guided walk around the building and waterfront.
Pier 8 Restaurant: Offering a dedicated children's menu with colouring activities.
Tower Coffee Shop: A more relaxed spot for quick snacks and drinks.
The Lowry Shop: Featuring a wide range of "pocket money" art kits and books.
The Christmas Show (Seasonal): A major annual production usually aimed at families during the winter months.

Beyond the Main Attraction

MediaCityUK: Located just across the bridge, this area is home to the CBBC studios and Blue Peter Garden.
Imperial War Museum North: A 10-minute walk over the footbridge, this museum offers free entry and dramatic displays for older children.
Ordsall Hall: A stunning Tudor manor house located just over a mile away, perfect for a dose of medieval history.

New for 2026

2026 Interactive Art Hub: A newly launched digital space within the galleries where visitors can use AI-guided tools to create their own "Lowry-style" digital sketches.
Main Stage Blockbusters: The 2026 season features several major West End transfers specifically aimed at family audiences, including high-tech puppetry and musical adaptations.

Events: For more upcoming events please visit here.

Website

Contact

Video

Price

Price: Free

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Tuesday to Friday from 11am to late
Open Saturdays and Sundays 10am to late
Closed Mondays except on bank holidays and show days.
We are open on the following Bank Holiday Dates: 4 May, 25 May

Address: The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, UK

Post Code: M50 3AZ

Council: Salford

County: Greater Manchester

By Tram: Take the Metrolink (Blue Line) directly to the MediaCityUK or Harbour City stops.
By Bus: Several local services run from Manchester city centre to Salford Quays (Routes 50 and 53).
By Car: Use postcode M50 3AZ. Follow signs for Salford Quays and MediaCityUK.
Car Parking: Use the Quayside MediaCityUK Multi-Storey. It is a short 2-minute walk from the venue entrance and offers pre-pay options for theatre-goers.