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A Guide to Exploring Eccles in Greater Manchester – A Small Town with Loads to Offer!
- Where is Eccles?
- What is the main neighbourhood in Eccles?
- How to Get to Eccles
- What to Do and See in Eccles
- Attend a service at St. Mary the Virgin Church
- Read a book at Eccles Library
- Pass by the Barton Swing Aqueduct
- See the Eccles Town Hall
- See what’s in store at Eccles Shopping Centre
- Walk and admire Eccles Recreation Ground
- Take control of a plane at Deck747
- Where to Eat and Drink in Eccles
- Vintage Ambience
- The Blind Pig
- Ilirian Greek Taste
- Where to Stay in Eccles
- The Waterside Bar, Rooms, & Restaurant
- Pillo Rooms
- Premier Inn Manchester Trafford Centre West
- FAQ about Eccles
When it’s time to take a break from the chaos in Manchester, Eccles is one of our top options. It’s quieter, smaller, and affordable!
There’s no need to travel miles and miles just so you can find a small urban escape with loads of history to tell. This small town in Salford already brings that to the table, and it’s a plus that it’s easy to reach without driving a car!
If you fancy a trip to Eccles, we’ve got a handy guide that will tell you everything you need to know and more! Read on and see what this historic town has in store for you!
Where is Eccles?
Eccles is a town in Salford, Greater Manchester, located to the west of Manchester city centre. It’s positioned between the M602 Motorway and the Manchester Ship Canal, along an inclined terrain.
What is the main neighbourhood in Eccles?
Church Street in the town centre is a shopping and tourist attraction in Eccles. It’s where you can find the Eccles Cenotaph, Eccles Public Library, and St. Mary’s Church.
How to Get to Eccles
By Tram: Reach Eccles by using the Manchester Metrolink, which stops in town. The Eccles Tram Stop starts at Ashton-under-Lyne, running through Piccadilly Station and Salford Quays, and ending in Eccles.
Should you require a guide, check the Tram Map here. Look at the light blue line.
By Bus: Ride Bus 33 of the Bee Network, which begins at Shudehill, stops at Eccles, and ends in Worsley.
Other buses can take you to Eccles, as these run frequently. Click here to see the routes and stops that will take you to the Eccles Interchange, a transit hub for buses and the Metrolink.
By Train: The National Rail operates a Manchester Airport to Liverpool Lime Street service. It stops at Piccadilly and Eccles.
For the live departures, click here.
What to Do and See in Eccles
Attend a service at St. Mary the Virgin Church
Media credit: thesalfordian
Address: 33 Church Rd
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday: 10 am – 1:30 pm
- Saturday: 10 am – 12 pm
This remarkable architecture is an important building you cannot miss. The construction of St. Mary the Virgin Church started in the 15th century, and it has been standing for almost 800 years.
The exterior alone is impressive, built with red ashlar sandstone. The stained glass, arch windows, and intricate carvings showcase outstanding craftsmanship from the masons who helped build the church.
Read a book at Eccles Library
Media credit: salfordlibraries
Address: Eccles Gateway – 28 Barton Lane
Contact: 0161 607 8237, [email protected] Address
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 8 am – 10 pm
- Friday: 8 am – 6:30 pm
- Saturday: 9 am – 1 pm
- Sunday: Closed
The Eccles Library, a Grade II-listed building, is impossible to miss due to its historic importance and remarkable exterior. It was built in 1907 by architect Edward Potts, designed with a Renaissance-style architecture.
It’s home to a massive collection of books, including historical works, classics, children’s collections, and publications. There’s a dedicated computer room with a self-service printer and a quiet area for studying or working.
The library is accessible, as it features disabled toilets and paths for wheelchair users.
Pass by the Barton Swing Aqueduct
Media credit: designbymark
Address: Trafford Park, Urmston
Operating Hours: 24/7
Should you decide to explore Greater Manchester by boat, you can pass by the Barton Swing Aqueduct. It’s a 235 ft long waterway that was made to bring the Bridgewater Canal across the Manchester Ship Canal.
What’s fascinating is that it’s still functioning to this day! Many people use their narrowboats to sail along the aqueduct. From there, you can see the Barton Road Swing Bridge, which is for road vehicles that need to cross the Manchester Ship Canal.
See the Eccles Town Hall
Media credit: thesalfordian
Address: Church St
The Town Hall is a magnificent building that promotes Eccles’ culture and heritage. It also hosts various community events, like art exhibitions, theatrical concerts, and local meetings.
It’s easy to spot, given its stunning architecture and location on Church Street. It’s near the bus stop, and you can see it while walking along the main streets of Eccles.
See what’s in store at Eccles Shopping Centre
Media credit: oemarthadimas
Address: 1 Boothway
Eccles isn’t exactly what comes to mind when you fancy a shopping spree. But a stop at Eccles Shopping Centre is a must when you’re in town.
The place isn’t brimming with designer shops, but you can spot products made by locals and secondhand items at charity shops. You won’t be spending loads of money here, but it would be nice to see it before it’s completely gone.
It’s set to be knocked down in 2025 to make way for the Eccles Town Centre. Before the regeneration plan is finished, you might want to see what Eccles used to look like.
Walk and admire Eccles Recreation Ground
Media credit: seajayess
Address: Along Oxford St
Although the Eccles Recreation Ground isn’t a massive park, it’s still worth a look if you’re with the kids or if you’re searching for a peaceful place to take a walk. It’s family-friendly, though, as it offers several activities for kids and kids at heart.
There’s a playground for the little munchkins to play in and outdoor gym equipment for free workouts. For the sporty lot, there’s a tennis court, basketball court, and football pitches to score a goal in!
Take control of a plane at Deck747
Media credit: thedeck747
Address: Barton Aerodrome, Liverpool Rd
Contact: +44 794 052 6830, [email protected]
Website
Ever wondered what it’s like to be in control of a plane? Deck747 can provide that for you, whether you dream of becoming a pilot or simply want to see what it’s like behind the controls.
Okay, you’re not actually flying a plane. Instead, you’ll be piloting the Boeing 747-400 via a flight simulator. And yes, it looks like the real thing!
This family-friendly experience is suitable for kids aged 7 and above. Various packages are available, including 20- to 120-minute flight simulators.
Where to Eat and Drink in Eccles
Vintage Ambience
Media credit: va_monton
Address: 188 Monton Rd
Contact: 0161 211 0054, [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 9 am – 7 pm
- Friday – Saturday: 9 am – 11 pm
When in Eccles, head to Vintage Ambience for British food. The greenery and roses, polaroids hanging on the wall, and pastel interiors bring an overall lovely vibe.
If you fancy a spot of yummy food, this is the place to be! We never say no to a good brunch, especially when we see the Famous VA Benny on the menu.
We always go for the smoked streaky bacon with two poached eggs and an English muffin. The high tea is excellent as well, with sweet and savoury treats and a pot of tea (we always go for the classic Earl Grey).
The Blind Pig
Media credit: theblindpig.monton
Address: 204-206 Monton Rd
Contact: [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Wednesday: 10 am – 11 pm
- Thursday – Saturday: 10 am – 12 am
- Sunday: 10 am – 10:30 pm
Pricing: ££
Website
This local pub has a relaxing ambience that’s absolutely banging for travellers who fancy a quick pint and good grub. It’s more modern than your traditional watering hole, with a stylish decor and a space that doesn’t feel snug at all.
It’s a lovely spot for happy hour because the cocktails are well-made. We have a soft spot for them, mainly for the 2 for £12 margaritas, but a cold glass of draft beer always does the job.
We recommend visiting during the bottomless brunch for unlimited fizz or spritz and a yummy dish. The Blind Pig Burger is a winner for its delicious beef patty nestled in between soft and slightly toasted bread—it sounds simple, but it hits the right spot.
Ilirian Greek Taste
Media credit: greektaste
Address: 49 Church St
Contact: [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 9 am – 9 pm
- Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm
Pricing: £
Website
Ilirian Greek Taste is a family-run restaurant that serves fresh and scrumptious food you’ll surely want to try again and again! This is THE spot in Eccles if you fancy tasting the flavours of Greece.
It cooks up genuine flavours by serving vibrant dishes that are fresh and rich without being overwhelming to the taste buds. Our pick is the Chicken Gyro every time, due to the delicate balance of flavours and different textures with every bite.
If you’re dining for two, grab the Greek Meze for a platter of either chicken or pork skewers, dolmades, pita, salad, hummus, and tzatziki. Of course, an order of the Baklava is a must for Greek dining!
Where to Stay in Eccles
The Waterside Bar, Rooms, & Restaurant
Media credit: waterside_monton
Address: 1 Parrin Lane
Contact: 0161 788 8788, [email protected]
Check-in & Checkout Times: 2 pm & 10 am
Pricing: ££
Website
Book Now
The Waterside in Morton makes travelling to Eccles dead easy. It’s a hotel, bar, and restaurant in one, making it the best fit for tourists—there’s no need to cross the road for a pint!
The hotel is small, with only four guestrooms. Nonetheless, each is beautifully designed and unique, styled with both contemporary and period pieces that result in a comfortable and picture-worthy stay.
Each room comes with en-suite showers, coffee and tea makers, and free WiFi—and three of them have canal views. The amenities are standard, but you still receive all you need when travelling.
Pillo Rooms
Media credit: pillorooms
Address: 145 Eccles New Rd, Salford
Check-in & Checkout Times: 3 pm & 10 am
Pricing: £££
Website
Book Now
Pillo Rooms is convenient. Period. They offer serviced apartments, so you get the whole package: a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, bedroom, bathroom, WiFi, washer and dryer, and ironing facilities.
This is perfect for long-term stays because you basically get a home away from home. Plus, the location makes it an attractive place, since it’s close to Salford Royal Hospital and the Trafford Centre.
Premier Inn Manchester Trafford Centre West
Media credit: trudy_charles_travels
Address: Trafford Quays, Old Park Lane, The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park, Stretford
Contact: 0333 321 1318
Check-in & Checkout Times: 3 pm & 12 pm
Pricing: £
Website
Folks on a shoestring should have a look at Premier Inn, a budget hotel located in a handy spot close to many attractions. But the spotlight is on the affordable rooms, considering you can stay for under £100 a night.
The rooms are fairly simple, too—the usual type you see in hotel chains. You do receive the complete amenities, such as tea and coffee-making facilities, a desk, and WiFi.
There’s a restaurant on site, so even though this is slightly out of the way from the main streets, you can grab a bite anytime.
