The centre is situated directly on the banks of the historic Bridgewater Canal, the world's first industrial canal.
It was specifically designed as part of a major regeneration project for Sale Town Centre in the early 2000s.
The Lauriston Gallery within the venue is one of the few dedicated public exhibition spaces for contemporary art in the Trafford borough.
The building was constructed on the site of a former library and council office complex.
Waterside Arts Centre is a multidisciplinary venue located in Sale, South Manchester, serving as a hub for touring theatre, dance, and visual arts. It houses a 300-seat theatre alongside exhibition spaces, including the Lauriston Gallery which focuses on contemporary visual arts. The venue is owned and operated by Trafford Council. It frequently hosts the Sale Festival and various community-led cultural initiatives. The centre's programming spans professional touring productions, local amateur dramatic performances, and children's workshops. It features an integrated cafe-bar overlooking the Bridgewater Canal.
The canal-side terrace at the rear of the building, providing views across the water.
Check the online programme in advance as the venue alternates between ticketed theatre productions and free gallery exhibitions.
Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent Bridgewater Canal towpath.
Use the onsite cafe-bar as it offers a quiet view of the canal away from the high street.
Do not expect parking directly at the building; use the nearby public parking facilities in the town centre.
The gallery and theatre operate on different schedules; the venue is typically quieter on days without scheduled evening performances.
