The Lowry

The Lowry is a performing arts and exhibition complex at Salford Quays in northwest England, bringing together two theatre spaces, a drama studio, and gallery halls for contemporary art and rotating shows beneath a distinctive metallic roof. The building spreads over several levels with foyers, bars, and exhibition areas totaling around 2,000 square meters, used for large productions as well as smaller experimental performances.

Construction began in 1997 as part of a redevelopment project to turn the old Salford docks into a waterside cultural quarter. The center opened in 2000 at a cost of around £106 million, funded through lottery grants and city investment.

The permanent gallery holds around 400 works by L. S. Lowry, whose paintings of factory workers and street scenes from the early 20th century capture the everyday rhythm of industrial towns in the northwest. Visitors can follow how the painter recorded ordinary moments in smoky, grey settings, using matchstick figures that move through crowded spaces and mill yards.

The Lyric auditorium holds 1,730 seats and hosts opera, ballet, and large concerts, while the smaller Quays Theatre offers around 460 places. On-site facilities include a pier-side restaurant, restrooms, lockers, and a gift shop, with most areas accessible by lift.

The triangular shape comes from architect Michael Wilford, who arranged mirrored metal panels to catch light from the nearby canal. A stainless steel sculpture sits on the roof, rising like a sail against the sky and catching attention especially at sunset.

Location: Salford

Inception: 2000

Architects: Michael Wilford

Official opening: 2000

Architectural style: high-tech architecture

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Fee: No

Address: The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, Salford, Greater Manchester, M5 2AZ

Phone: +448432086000

Email: info@thelowry.com

Website: https://thelowry.com

GPS coordinates: 53.47070,-2.29640

Latest update: December 20, 2025 15:09