Manchester: Ship Canal stroll

July 24, 2022July 20, 2022 / mikeosbornphoto / Leave a comment

My favourite local walk from home in Castlefield, Manchester is along the Manchester Ship Canal to Salford Quays.

You’ll find water (of course), city trams running along the route – and a whole lot of architecture.

The area is being developed rapidly and I like checking on how the buildings and skyline are taking shape.

Do you like new buildings or should our progress be slowed? Add your thoughts below!

Tap/click first image to see gallery

That evening after I’d taken my walk, Manchester was blessed with a spectral, spectacular dusk. This is captured from my balcony which doesn’t even face the direction of the sunset.

Salford skies

May 1, 2022May 1, 2022 / mikeosbornphoto / 2 Comments

Salford. A city in its own right? A Manchester borough? Manchester’s twin?

It’s a debate that’s never gone away, but Salford is a large area with waterways, sparkling new buildings, gritty urban pockets and even its own village.

Salford is literally on my Manchester doorstep and an immediate place for me to explore with my camera. This gallery is based on three walks with architecture and light at its heart.

What do you think of these Salford views? Please leave a comment below.

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Salford blues

May 2, 2021May 3, 2021 / mikeosbornphoto / 6 Comments

Stunning blue skies and water. Reflections galore and sunshine. You’d think it’s the Mediterranean, not Manchester. CONTINUES BELOW

Tap/click first image for gallery view

A vibrant spell of glorious Spring weather prompted me to take my first walk along the Manchester Ship Canal’s ‘left bank’.

The pathway opened up after a new tram line to the Trafford Centre started operating and offers a new perspective on the architecture of Salford Quays.

The startlingly blue sky turned the canal a beautiful colour, which became a mirror for the lines of modern buildings. Add swans serenely gliding around and this made a successful photo walk.

Do you also find the lure of ‘reflection porn’ irresistible?…

Five Manchester places you need to visit

August 9, 2020November 26, 2020 / mikeosbornphoto / 4 Comments

Manchester. A large, cosmopolitan city in the north of England with a lot to offer. It’s always been popular with visitors (there are less of them in these unusual times) and the people that live here. Here’s five of the best spots you should definitely see.

Mancunians: Please share your suggestions!

CASTLEFIELD

I’d be wrong not to start with my very own neighbourbood, just west of Manchester city centre. It’s set in the canal basin which is populated with colourful narrow boats and even has Roman ruins. Castlefield’s industrial heritage is now overlooked by the shiny new skyscrapers of ‘Manchattan’. It’s a popular spot with Mancunians, especially on hot summer days (yes, we do have them!) TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE

SALFORD CATHEDRAL

This lofty building is situated in Manchester’s twin city of Salford. The Catholic cathedral is less visited than its Anglican counterpart which is in the centre of Manchester. Its stained glass east window is just remarkable. Restrictions on visiting are currently in place, so you should check before going. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE

FLETCHER MOSS PARK

An outside space in south Manchester with a beautiful rock garden, wooded walkways and its well-known pathway lined with very tall Lombardy Poplar trees. A relaxing place to wander around which seems far away from the hustle of the city. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE

SALFORD QUAYS

Here’s a waterfront location that’s been totally reimagined in recent decades. It’s now the home to a swathe of modern glass and steel buildings, not to mention Coronation Street, BBC North and The Imperial War Museum’s northern outlet. The area is also well served with bars and restaurants. My photography tip is to visit for the sunset and stay after dark for bright lights and stunning reflections. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE

JOHN RYLANDS LIBRARY

This beautiful piece of Victorian Gothic splendour is right in the heart of Manchester and instantly takes you from city bustle to quiet, hushed corridors. It’s one woman’s elaborate memorial to her late husband. It’s currently closed due to the pandemic, so check the website if you’d like to go. TAP/CLICK IMAGE TO FIND OUT MORE