Quays Itinerary

Just a 15 minute drive from Manchester city centre, this unique waterfront destination is a favourite for visiting groups all year round.

Choose from a host of activities from canal cruises and award-winning art and theatre to historical tours and discount shopping, the Quays has something for everyone.

DAY 1: CANALS & CULTURE
Morning:
Board a Manchester Ship Canal Cruise, departing from The Quays. This six hour cruise takes you along 35 miles of the UK's oldest canal. With spectacular scenery and running commentary along the way, learn about the waterway's 100 year history in shaping the Northwest while you travel to your destination, Seacombe, Merseyside. (Price includes return to departure point by dedicated bus transfer) merseyferries.co.uk

Afternoon:
Arrive at IWM North, (part of Imperial War Museums) for lunch at their WaterShard Café which offers stunning quayside views. Afterwards, explore this fascinating museum that tells the story of how life is shaped by war. The thought provoking collections and the hourly 360 Big Picture Show will ensure an informed and fascinating experience. The museum is free and offers fantastic benefits to pre-booking groups including handling sessions and free access to their AirShard Viewing Platform overlooking the waterfront.

DAY 2: Tudors & TV
Morning:
Just five minutes drive from the waterfront; explore the newly restored Ordsall Hall. This magnificent Tudor Hall includes a working museum and landscaped grounds and gardens for you to explore at leisure, or why not pre-book a guided tour for your group (Sunday - Fridays), learn about its 650 year history, followed by delicious afternoon tea at The Lowry.

Afternoon:
Brand new for 2012, BBC Tours at MediaCityUK, the new home of BBC North is a behind the scenes tour available for pre-booking groups. Take a peek behind the scenes at some of TV's most loved productions including Match Of The Day, Blue Peter, Dragons' Den and BBC Breakfast. Walk in the footsteps of your favourite stars and be entertained by their well informed guides.

Evening:
Have a pre-show supper in one of The Quays' fabulous waterside restaurants including Prezzo, Pizza Express and Harvester before taking in a spectacular evening performance at The Lowry. This magnificent building has three theatres and an art gallery and hosts performances in ballet, drama, musical theatre and opera from some of the UK's leading production companies.

DAY 2: SHOPPING & SPORT
Morning:
Take Manchester United's Museum and Stadium Tour where you can learn about the club's history, see the impressive trophy collection, visit the players changing rooms and get a photo by the pitch.

Afternoon:
Spend the day shopping at The Lowry Outlet Mall. Over 80 stores offer up to 60% off in clothing, health & beauty, homeware and electrical goods. Pre-booked groups receive exclusive benefits such as discount voucher booklets, £10 gift card for group organiser and there are regular group friendly events throughout the year. The mall also includes a cinema and food court to explore at your leisure.

There is also a good selection of hotels in the area, for more inspiration on bringing your group to The Quays, go to:
www.thequays.org.uk/im-visiting/with-a-group/