Metrolink
Metrolink is Greater Manchester's tram network, the largest light rail system in the UK, running through the city centre and out to towns such as Bury, Altrincham, Rochdale, Ashton and the airport. It opened in 1992, mostly on converted railway lines, and has been extended many times since.
In practice
Trams run on street tracks through the city centre and on their own tracks beyond it, with lines to MediaCityUK, the Trafford Centre, East Didsbury and Manchester Airport among others. Fares are based on zones, and you pay by contactless card or phone at the platform readers, or buy a ticket from a machine before boarding; there is no ticket sale on board. Metrolink is run on behalf of Transport for Greater Manchester and is part of the Bee Network.
Why it matters to newcomers
Many people choose where to live in Greater Manchester by tram line: a flat near a Metrolink stop can be a short ride from the centre even when it is miles away. Remember to touch in and out with contactless, and check for planned closures on weekends, when lines are often shut for engineering work.
Related
- Bee Network - the wider transport system trams belong to
- MediaCityUK - reached by its own tram line