Salford Quays lift bridge

Salford Quays lift bridge is a pedestrian crossing over the Manchester Ship Canal with a movable vertical span. When raised, it clears the waterway for larger vessels to pass underneath, making it both a walking route and a working part of the canal's function.

This footbridge arrived in the early 2000s as part of Salford's waterfront renewal, giving the area a modern focal point. Its movable section was assembled on water and then floated into position before being secured, a technique rarely used at the time.

The bridge connects The Lowry arts center, MediaCityUK, and the Imperial War Museum North, forming a central link in the cultural district.

The walkway is straightforward to cross on foot, offering views of the waterway and surrounding district. It works best during daylight hours so you can appreciate both the structure itself and the cultural venues nearby.

Four tall steel towers control the lift using thick cables and large turning wheels, with counterweights hidden inside to balance the moving span. This cable system rarely stops moving completely, adjusting constantly as the bridge settles over time.

GPS coordinates: 53.46964,-2.29563

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:08