Lowry (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Lowry?
What makes it 80% Couple-Friendly: Couples can combine a waterfront meal at Pier Eight with an evening musical or comedy show, and the lit quayside walk adds romance; some performances sell out so advance booking is wise.
Positives:
- Free gallery entry: No ticket needed to see the permanent Lowry collection (donations welcome).
- On-site dining: Restaurants and café are in the same building, so you can break between activities.
- Easy access: The Lowry is a short tram ride from Manchester city centre to MediaCityUK.
Challenges:
- Variable show schedule: Performance times change daily—check online or at the box office before planning.
- Crowded at peak times: Galleries and café get busy between 11:00–14:00 on weekends.
- Weather on the quays: Wind and rain can be strong; pack a waterproof layer for the waterfront.
What is Lowry?
- A landmark quayside arts complex in Salford Quays encompassing two theatres, multiple galleries, exhibition halls and dining venues
- Home to one of the world’s largest public collections of L.S. Lowry paintings alongside rotating modern and contemporary art displays
- A sculptural riverside building by Sir Michael Wilford, featuring sweeping steel and glass forms that unify performance, exhibition and leisure spaces
What is so special about Lowry for couple trip?
- Discover the largest public collection of L.S. Lowry works
- Enjoy a short film and curator insights without extra charge
- Watch top West End shows steps from the galleries
- Walk the scenic Salford Quays path and Millennium Footbridge
- Dine riverside with views of the Manchester Ship Canal
Recommended visit duration: 1-3 hours
Why 1-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: This allows time to explore the galleries, watch the Lowry film or a performance, and enjoy a riverside walk without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Lowry
Explore the Andrew Law Galleries:
View over 400 of L.S. Lowry’s industrial scenes and modern art in light-filled galleries.
Tip: Pick up a free audio guide at the desk for insights into key paintings.
Watch “Meet Mr Lowry” film and curator talk:
See the 20-minute artist film and join a short daily talk on Lowry’s techniques.
Tip: Check the timetable at arrival to plan around your gallery visit.
Catch a show at The Lowry theatre:
Choose from musicals, dance, comedy or drama in two riverside auditoriums.
Tip: Book online at least one week ahead to secure mid-level or aisle seats.
Stroll the Salford Quays waterfront:
Walk the flat, illuminated path along the canal and cross the Millennium Footbridge.
Tip: Aim for sunset views toward MediaCityUK and bring a light jacket.
Dine waterside at Pier Eight or Lowry Bar:
Reserve a table for river views or grab casual dishes in the foyer café.
Tip: Book Pier Eight online in advance for window seats during peak hours.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Lowry
- Book performances early: Secure better seats and avoid booking fees by reserving at least a week ahead.
- Visit at opening: Arrive when galleries open at 10:00 to see popular works without crowds.
- Check daily listings: Pick up the day’s talk and film schedule from the welcome desk on arrival.
Reviews of Lowry
Elisa Winstanley
We booked tickets to see the Quentin Blake exhibition. It’s free to enter though, possibly to control guest numbers. When we arrived, we were greeted by a friendly chap who said we will be seeing the Lowry 360. Wasn’t sure what it was, but we were led into a theatre and watched a 6 minute video of the famous Lowry painting of fans going to Bolton Wanderers football club! We highly recommend you do...
E Saunders
Fab venue, great buffet/bars, lovely stage and comfy seats. The surrounding areas also offer lots of shopping and eating options and other attractions like a museum or the BBC.
Michael Collins
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 so...
Lauren Bettley
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.
Patrik Krizek
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 comfortab...
When is the best time to visit Lowry (Manchester, United Kingdom)?
In summer, the outdoor seating fills quickly—arrive early for a waterside meal. In winter, warm up with coffee in the café before your gallery tour.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Theatre tickets for two | GBP 42 |
| Canal cruise for two | GBP 50 |
| Waterside meal for two | GBP 40 |
| Total Estimated | GBP 132 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Lowry
Address: Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ, UK
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About Lowry
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+44 161 876 200010 BEST nearby Activities
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