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Everything You Need to Know about Ordsall Hall in Salford
If you’re visiting Greater Manchester, your trip wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Ordsall Hall. One of the country’s most significant heritage sites, it has over 800 years of English history in its walls. Ordsall Hall has seen it all: medieval banquets, political feuds, and enough drama to have its own soap opera.
I first visited Ordstall Hall on a school field trip, exploring creepy rooms and daring friends to whisper ghost stories in the Star Chamber. Weathering centuries, this beautifully restored manor is still standing strong, buzzing with history, iconic Tudor-style architecture, legends, and interactive exhibits.
Where is Ordsall Hall?
Ordsall Hall is located along Ordsall Lane in Salford Quays, a short walk from the Exchange Quay tram stop, near Chester Road. Salford is located on the western end of Greater Manchester, across the River Irwell and along the Manchester Ship Canal.
What is the main street in Ordsall Hall?
Ordsal Lane is the road that will lead you straight to Ordsall Hall. More than that, it’s the heart of Salford, easily linking together the neighbourhood to Salford Quays and Manchester city centre.
How to Get to Ordsall Hall
By Tram
Want the easiest route to Ordsall Hall? Hop on the tram. It’s the smoothest ride, no traffic, and it runs every 10-12 minutes, so you don’t need to worry about missing it.
Take the Eccles or MediaCityUK Line from any of the city-centre stops, then alight at Exchange Quay. Upon exiting, it’s a quick 2-3 minute walk to the Hall proper.
By Bus
Another fuss-free option is to take buses 33, 53, 79, and X50 that serve Exchange Quay or Ordsall Lane from Manchester Piccadilly Gardens or the City Centre.
By Train + Tram / Walk
Alternatively, you can take the train from Piccadilly to Salford Central or Deansgate. From there, you can catch the tram to Exchange Quay or enjoy a scenic light walk, about 15-20 minutes, to Ordsall Hall.
By Car
If you’re bringing your car, set your navigation system to M5 3AN.
While there’s on-site pay parking available, there are limited parking slots. For up to 3 hours, it’ll cost about £2.50, and £5.50 for 6 hours. If you’re a blue-badge holder, parking’s free.
What to Do and See in Ordsall Hall
Great Hall
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Built in 1512 by Sir Alexander of the Radclyffe family, the Great Hall is a textbook example of early Tudor design and the star of Ordsall Hall. An architectural centrepiece rich in history, these walls have many stories to tell, from lively feasts to serious meetings; everything went down here.
Bursting with character, the Great Hall was the heart of the home, a multi-purpose space with a long, open-plan layout for, well, you name it. The Hall was buzzing with activity, whether it be to host meals for the entire household or to settle the Radclyffe family’s disputes and manage local affairs.
Some of its features have been lovingly restored, like the stained glass panels from 1897, symbols of the family’s power and lineage. Others remained intact, like the high timber-beamed ceilings and arched roof trusses. Together, they showcase the brilliant craftsmanship of the 16th century.
To bring it all to life and help visitors picture what life was like centuries ago, the Grand Hall features interpretive panels and interactive displays to explore.
| Visitor’s Tip: Don’t forget to look up. Seriously. The Great Hall features intricate oak beam ceilings and decorative carvings of religious and heraldic symbols, which you can’t miss. |
Kitchen
Media Credit: ordsall_hall
The hub of daily life, even back then, the kitchen is one of the busiest places in any home. In Ordsall Hall, this included a brewhouse, buttery, smoke corridor, and scullery. They genuinely don’t make things like they used to. But then again, the Radclyffes were always hosting feasts.
While it isn’t a fully functioning kitchen anymore, there are interactive Tudor menu displays, reproduction food, and sensory experiences to give you a glimpse of what it would have been like as a servant preparing in the Radclyffe household.
| Visitor’s Tip: Get hands-on by joining the interactive events where you can try your hand at traditional tasks done by the Hall’s servants. Make scented soap balls, design a medieval quatrefoil, grind aromatic spices, or craft your own willow headdress, just a few of the many activities you can do here. |
Star Chamber
Media Credit: lunatic.goddess
The Star Chamber is another impressive building by the Radclyffe family, this time by Sir John in the 1360s. At the time, this was Sir John’s mancave, if you will. It was where he held meetings, heart court petitions, stored his armour, conducted business, slept, and, well, you get the picture.
It got its name after the intricate star-shaped carvings that adorn the walls and ceilings. At first, you’d think they were just decorative; maybe Sir John just had a thing for stars. But as it turns out, this symbolised divine protection and celestial guidance… though honestly, he really must have just liked stars.
Another highlight of the Star Chamber includes the original bed shared by Sir John and Lady Ann Asshawe from 1572. At the time, this cost them £20, roughly £4,800 in today’s money. Nearly five grand for a bed! Would you have splashed out?
Then, there’s the local lore linking the Star Chamber to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605. Rumour has it the room was used as a meeting place for conspirators, and possibly even secret Catholic masses during the Reformation. While there’s no solid evidence, the myth makes the chamber all the more mysterious.
| Visitor’s Tip: Don’t miss the rare medieval painting on the wall. It’s a subtle red-and-white decorative pattern that’s one of the oldest surviving features of the Hall. |
Great Chamber
Media Credit: ordsall_hall
The Great Chamber, also known as The Solar Room, is the oldest wing in the Hall and the most prestigious. A place of relaxation, it was reserved for the lord and the lady of the manor, their family, and important guests.
As the ladies’ withdrawing room, the Great Chamber was a proper space for women to teach their daughters, practice embroidery, learn music, or, my favourite, gossip, er, socialise.
If you’re picturing something like the first meeting between Daphne and Simon in Lady Danbury’s drawing room in Bridgerton, you’re not far off. This is also where the family often gathers to discuss the ton’s latest scandal and where Eloise reads, plays the piano, and engages in other “ladylike” pursuits.
| Visitor’s Tip: Ask the guide questions as they often have extra stories to tell about the Hall’s previous owners, especially the Radclyffe family. |
Italian Plaster Ceiling Room
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The Italian Plaster Ceiling Room is, well, just as it suggests, but far more impressive than it sounds. It was a chamber built for the Radclyffe family and is well-known for its striking lozenge-patterned plaster ceiling, believed to date back to the 1500s.
Unlike the Ordsall Hall’s other timber-framed, Tudor-style rooms, the Italian Plaster Room embraces the elegance of the Italian Renaissance design. The ceiling is adorned with floral motifs and swirling scrolls, all carved in ornate white plaster. The contrast is remarkable as if you’ve stepped into a different era.
| Visitor’s Tip: See if you can spot the cleverly disguised hidden door by the panelling that leads to the Great Chamber. |
Coat of Arms Room
Media Credit: pbalty
Just like the other spaces in the Hall, the Coat of Arms Room is another bold symbol of the Radclyffe family’s social standing and lineage.
While the space is rather small, their family’s heraldic symbol is the first thing your eyes are drawn to. It’s proudly displayed on the wall as the room’s centrepiece.
| Visitor’s Tip: Take the narrow stairwell up to the Great Chamber. This subtle transition is, but a small architectural detail that gives you a glimpse at how spaces were often designed to be interconnected. |
Gardens and Grounds
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While the interiors of Ordsall Hall get most of the spotlight, the surrounding gardens and grounds are equally rich in heritage, and arguably more enchanting. It’s my favourite part of each visit.
In true Tudor and Elizabethan fashion, the formal garden is laid out in a traditional knot style. A design that was especially popular during that period featured neatly clipped greenery in intricate shapes, like diamonds and squares, colourful herbs and flowering plants at the border, and trimmed hedges.
Honestly, it’s a beautiful, historically-inspired recreation of how a 16th-century garden might have looked.
| Visitor’s Tip: Visit the garden in various seasons if you can to see the garden change completely, from blooming in spring to still in winter. |
The Frederic Shields Gallery
Media Credit: ordsall_hall
One of the best ways to experience Ordsall Hall is through the Frederic Shields Gallery. Initially built in 1510, the room was part of the massive rebuilding of the Hall by Sir Alexander Radclyffe.
At the time, the room was used as an artist’s studio, billiard room, study area, and even as the private chambers of the Radclyffes. Today, the gallery is home to an interactive exhibition to take visitors through the Hall’s history.
Designed for all ages and learning styles, there are interactive games, film experiences, and even tactile exhibits to bring the Hall’s stories to life.
You can meet some of the Hall’s most intriguing historical residents, such as Sir John Radclyffe, the 14th-century founder and resident flirt, even from the grave.
| Visitor’s Tip: Look out the viewing window for a bird’s-eye view of the Great Hall. |
The Egerton Gallery
Media Credit: ordsall_hall
The Egerton Gallery was also part of Sir Alexander Radclyffe’s renovation plan, taking place in 1639. You know how the Radclyffes are about keeping Ordsall Hall in tip-top condition.
Today, the gallery is home to an ever-changing selection of displays, so there’s always something to look forward to on your next visit, from historical artefacts to local folklore.
The space itself is also full of history. Tucked away in the west wing, which was built way back in 1639, it still has its original red brick walls along with subtle evidence of what the layout was most probably like. If you look closely, you’ll see traces of a former fireplace and faint doorway imprints on the brickwork.
| Visitor’s Tip: Be sure to check their website or ask the receptionist about what’s coming next. |
Where to Eat and Drink near Ordsall Hall
Harvester
Address: G2a Quayside Media City UK
Phone: +44 161 877 3952
Pricing: ££
Operating hours: Daily: 9 AM – 9 PM
Good to know: Book ahead, especially if there are performances and matches the day you’ll be visiting, as it can be quite busy.
A family-friendly pub-style grill, Harvester is a must-try for its hearty, reliable favourites. From juicy 6-oz burgers to its mixed grill combos, their signature dishes are packed with flavour and just hit the spot, especially after a long day of exploring the sights.
And when it comes to dessert, you can’t skip. It would be a crime! They’ve got a tempting selection of fluffy waffles, decadent cakes, and classic pies, perfect for rounding off the meal on a sweet note.
Maida Grill House
Media Credit: eatmcr
Address: 38 Liverpool St., Salford M5 4LT
Phone: +44 161 312 9772
Pricing: £
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 11 AM – 9 AM
- Friday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 8 PM
Good to know: The menu is fully halal.
There’s something about Pakistani food that causes my stomach to growl the moment I get a whiff of the fragrant rice and grilled meats. A humble yet beloved spot, Maida Grill House is a no-frills, pay-at-the-counter spot that’s got dishes rarely exceeding £8.50. That’s a bargain in today’s economy!
Don’t let looks deceive you; while Maida’s may look unassuming, it’s racked up awards and glowing reviews from critics, so don’t be surprised when lines spill out the door. From their beloved Rice & Three Curries from £8.50 to their Smoky Lamb Chops from £6.50, it’ll keep both your hunger and wallet happy.
Porta Tapas Bar
Media Credit: porta_salford
Address: 216 Chapel St, Salford M3 6BY
Phone: +44 161 459 7854
Pricing: ££
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Saturday: 12 PM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 9 PM
Good to know: The early bird gets the tapas! Porta doesn’t take bookings, so arrive ahead of the crowd to avoid a long wait and secure a table.
Housed in a former bank building on Chapel Street, Porta Tapas Bar offers more than your standard Spanish small plates experience. Rich in character and flavour, Porta’s is overflowing with praise from diners from across the globe, so be prepared to wait, even if you’re just hoping for a stool by the bar.
Their menu is simple, but expertly crafted from scratch and prepared with finesse. Standouts like their Presa Iberica and Lancashire cockles with Amontillado sherry are packed with bold flavours. For the whole experience, complement your meal with their curated selection of Spanish wines and craft beer.
Food Station & Shakes
Media Credit: foodstationsalford
Address: 104 Phoebe St, Salford M5 3PH
Phone: +44 161 258 1705
Pricing: £–££
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 12 AM
- Friday: 10 AM – 1 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
Good to know: Kids’ meals are available for little ones with smaller appetites.
Just a 10-minute stroll from Ordsall Hall, Food Station & Shakes is the place to be after a long day of exploring. There’s something for every craving, think cheesy pizzas, juicy burgers, loaded fries, grilled kebabs, and milkshakes that could double as dessert. Trust me, it’s fun for all ages.
A popular favourite is their Snack Box Meal that includes a 10” pizza, three wings, fries, and a pop. For about £10, that isn’t a bad deal. For a more family-style combo, their Peri-Peri Meals and Box Deals are also a hit, featuring chicken, fries, garlic bread, and drinks, from around £18.
Turtle Bay
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Address: Unit 39, The Quays, Salford M50 3AH
Phone: +44 161 710 2470
Pricing: £–££
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 12 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 10 PM
Good to know: Don’t miss out on enjoying their bottomless brunch. Here, it means 2 hours of free-flowing cocktails, prosecco, mocktails, and more, plus one included brunch dish.
Turtle Bay is a vibrant Caribbean restaurant chain founded by Ajith Jayaprakash Jayawickrema back in 2010. So expect the menu to be Caribbean through and through. Think curry goat rum BBQ wings, Mo’Bay chicken, jerk chicken.
And the drinks? They have just as much flavour as the food. Pair your plates with their standouts, like Reggae Rum Punch with Wray & Nephew, Mai Tai Punch with amaretto and triple sec, or their Passion Fruit Mojito Royal with just the right kick of Appleton Signature rum.
Where to Stay in Salford Quays
AC Hotel by Marriott
Media Credit: achotelmanchester
Address: 17-19 Trafford Road
Phone: +44 161 876 5305
Pricing: £–££
Operating hours:
- Check-in: From 3 PM
- Check-out: Until 12 PM
Good to know: Pets up to 25kg are welcome in select rooms for an additional fee.
AC Hotel by Marriott is a stylish and modern hotel that’s just a 10–15 minute stroll from Ordsall Hall, The Lowry, Old Trafford, and many other hotspots in Salford Quays. It has thoughtful amenities such as an on-site fitness centre, flexible dining, and room service, making it a top pick for family accommodations.
Another plus is that it’s fully accessible, with auditory and visual aids as well as wheelchair-accessible rooms, bathrooms, common areas, and parking lifts. There’s also excellent guest support, with a 24-hour front desk service, so no need to worry about coming in late after a full day of exploring.
YHA Manchester Hostel
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Address: Potato Wharf, Manchester M3 4NB
Phone: +44 345 371 9647
Pricing: £–££
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3 PM
- Check-out: 12 PM
Good to know: Towels aren’t provided, so you’ll need to rent them at the reception.
YHA is ideal for solo travellers and groups on the hunt for a fuss-free stay with easy access to the best parts of Salford and Manchester Quays. With canal-side views and a laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect spot to relax with nearby bars and restaurants just a stone’s throw away.
But if you prefer a night in, YHA has plenty of on-site social spaces to keep you entertained, like a cafe-bar, game room, garden, cinema, communal lounge, and restaurants.
Premier Inn
Media Credit: premierinn
Address: Blue, MediaCity UK, Salford M50 2AB
Phone: +44 333 234 6548
Pricing: £–££
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3 PM
- Check-out: 12 PM
Good to know: There’s an on-site restaurant that serves buffet-style breakfasts for about £10.99, the perfect way to start the day like a king.
Not fussed about frills? Premier Inn’s got you covered for a hassle-free stay, with standard rooms with a comfy bed, power showers, and free Wi-Fi. For a more elevated experience, check out their Premier Plus room with an upgraded workspace, a mini-fridge, among others.
Set right by the water, the hotel is easily within walking distance of lively bars, must-try restaurants, and cultural hotspots. Getting around is also a breeze, thanks to the adjacent multi-storey car park available, and the MediaCityUK Metrolink stop is just a stroll away.
The Castlefield Hotel
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Address: Liverpool Rd, Manchester M3 4JR
Phone: +44 161 832 7073
Pricing: £–££
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 3 PM
- Check-out: 11 AM
Good to know: Castlefield hosts events and activities, so be sure to check out their page to join in on the fun.
The best part about this 3-star hotel? It has solid amenities, like a 90-station gym, indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and sports hall, all free of charge. Yup, you probably won’t catch me leaving ‘till dinner. Speaking of, the hotel’s Whisky Jar and Lock 91 bars are a must-visit before capping the evening.
Back to the hotel, which offers excellent bang for your buck. While the decor may seem a little outdated, it’s clean, reliable, and has easy access to nearby attractions and hotspots.
The Ainscow Hotel
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Address: Тrinity Way, Salford M3 5EN
Phone: +44 161 827 1650
Pricing: £–££
Operating hours:
- Check-in: 2 PM
- Check-out: 11 AM
Good to know: No on-site spa or gym, but still close to nearby fitness centres.
The Ainscow Hotel offers a mix of stylish rooms, from classic doubles to loft-style suites, perfect for all sorts of travellers. If you’d like your stay with a few home comforts, the upper-category rooms feature kitchenettes, extra seating, or unique designs.
For me, the absolute star was the comfortable beds and plush bedding, which were dangerously good at convincing me to cancel plans. The rainfall showers came a close second, followed by the large windows that brought in a ton of light, which were the perfect finishing touches.
