TRAVEL: Sample a weekend of sport, shopping culture at the Quays in Manchester

Oct 9 2012 Michelle Fiddler, Liverpool Echo

Michelle Fiddler samples sport, shopping and history at Salford Quays

WATCHING the cricket in the open air with a glass of something cold in my hand is one of life’s little pleasures.

Admittedly the British summer is often a letdown but it is a still a past-time that I have indulged in over the years.

So when I had the opportunity to turn a cricket match into a weekend trip – and see some of the other non-sports related sights on offer – I jumped at the chance.

Lancashire County Cricket Club’s ground is located at the heart of The Quays – described as Greater Manchester’s waterfront tourist destination.

And it is just a short distance away from The Lowry theatre and the Lowry’s huge Outlet Mall, the Imperial War Museum North, Ordsall Hall and even the Mersey Ferries.

After a short and easy drive over from Liverpool, myself and my partner Phil checked into The Old Trafford Lodge, which is situated on the edge of the cricket ground.

The hotel room was compact but cosy with the added bonus of having a balcony with seats and tables overlooking the cricket ground.

A short rain delay meant we had the chance to relax in our room and enjoy a bottle of wine.

When the sun did eventually come out we were treated to first class views of a 40-over match between Lancashire Lightening and The Netherlands – which I am pleased to say Lancashire won easily.

After the match finished in the early evening we decided to take a short taxi ride over to the Quays and sample one of the many bar-restaurants which are on offer.

The independent Lime Bar is at the heart of the Quays and faces the acclaimed Lowry Theatre.

As it was a Sunday evening the restaurant was relatively quiet, although there were a few families dining together and a few groups sat outside drinking cocktails on the south facing terrace.

The menu was varied and interesting offering a selection of dishes from sharing platters and salads to burgers and steaks.

The main courses varied from roasted belly of pork to Malayan chicken and Moroccan lamb tagine.

The staff were fantastic and very attentive and the food was lovely.

After indulging in wine and a three course meal we returned by taxi to our hotel.

The following morning we woke to the lovely sight of the sun breaking over the cricket ground, which is currently undergoing a massive transformation.