A detailed guide on how to reach SEA LIFE Manchester

Where is SEA LIFE Manchester located?

Address: SEA LIFE Manchester, Trafford Palazzo, TraffordCity, next to The Trafford Centre, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M17 8AS, United Kingdom

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SEA LIFE Manchester is located inside Trafford Palazzo at TraffordCity, a major leisure and retail destination in Greater Manchester. The aquarium sits right next to The Trafford Centre, making it easy to combine with shopping, dining, and other attractions.

Closest landmark: The Trafford Centre (adjacent)

Getting to SEA LIFE Manchester by public transport

  • Best for: Visitors travelling from Manchester city centre
  • Travel time: Around 30–35 minutes from central Manchester
  • Closest stop: Barton Dock Road
  • Timings: Trams run frequently throughout the day

From Deansgate Castlefield, take the Metrolink Red Line toward The Trafford Centre. After around 19 minutes, get off at Barton Dock Road. From the stop, SEA LIFE Manchester is just a one minute walk inside Trafford Palazzo, making this the easiest public transport option.

  • Best for: Visitors coming from nearby neighbourhoods or outer districts
  • Travel time: Around 35-40 minutes from central areas
  • Closest stop: Trafford Palazzo
  • Timings: Buses run regularly, with increased frequency during peak hours

From central Manchester, bus 250 goes directly to The Trafford Centre area. Get off at Trafford Palazzo and walk about seven minutes to reach SEA LIFE Manchester.

Getting to SEA LIFE Manchester by car

Driving route

  • Best for: Visitors travelling from outside Manchester or with families
  • Travel time: Around 15–20 minutes from Manchester city centre
  • Distance: Approx. 4.7 miles

From central Manchester, follow the A56 and A5081 toward Trafford Park, then continue onto Barton Dock Road. Signage for TraffordCity and The Trafford Centre clearly directs you to Trafford Palazzo. Traffic is usually light outside peak shopping hours.

Parking facilities

On-site parking is available at The Trafford Centre and TraffordCity car parks, all within easy walking distance of SEA LIFE Manchester. Parking is generally free for extended periods, making driving a convenient option for longer visits.

Walking or cycling to SEA LIFE Manchester

  • Best for: Local visitors and those staying nearby
  • Travel time: Around 45–50 minutes on foot from Stretford
  • Distance: Approx. 2.3 miles

Walking and cycling routes to SEA LIFE Manchester are mostly flat and follow Barton Dock Road. Cyclists can use dedicated paths along parts of the route, with cycle parking available near Trafford Palazzo. Walking is best suited to good weather and unhurried schedules.

What is the best way to get to SEA LIFE Manchester?

  • Budget-friendly: Metrolink trams from Manchester city centre are affordable, frequent, and stop just steps from Trafford Palazzo.
  • Most convenient: Driving is easy with clear signage, quick access from major roads, and free parking available at TraffordCity.
  • For flexibility: Local buses link multiple neighbourhoods to TraffordCity, making them useful if you are travelling from outer districts.

Frequently asked questions about getting to SEA LIFE Manchester

SEA LIFE Manchester is about 4 to 5 miles from the city centre and takes roughly 30 minutes by tram or 15 to 20 minutes by car.