Hulme’s Passenger
Ferry
Use Bilway Marine Services for convenient, comfortable, and regular ferry services along the Manchester Ship Canal, to enjoy the canal’s scenery. The area around the canal has changed a lot over the years, but it still holds onto its history, and it’s a popular place for people to visit. Get in touch to learn more about Hulme's free ferry services.
Free Ferry Service
The Hulme’s Ferry was established in 1885 by an act of parliament which made the Manchester Ship Canal owners responsible for providing a free ferry to replace a low-lying bridge that had to be demolished to allow access for tall ships up the canal. It is still operating to this day, with our new vessel Bonnie.
Get in touch for more information on our ferry operations.
Est. 1885
Trained Crew
Reliable Service
Manchester Ferry Service Background
Ironically, the very canal that was once used for the transportation of textiles produced on Lancashire's cotton looms, propelling Manchester's industrial boom, later saw those very cotton looms being exported to India due to lower labour costs, marking the decline of the textile industry. Presently, global production has shifted considerably, with China emerging as a leading force in exported goods.
The canal is now privately owned, with ambitious plans that include redevelopment, expansion, and a substantial increase in shipping capacity, aiming to boost the annual container shipments from 8,000 to 100,000 by 2030. This transformation is a part of the Atlantic Gateway project, signifying the canal's ongoing relevance in trade and economic development.
Directions to Hulme’s Ferry Jetties
From Eccles: Follow A57 east for approximately 3 miles, just past Boysnope golf course. Turn left into the small industrial estate.
From Irlam: Follow A57 or Liverpool Road West, just past the Irlam A57/Liverpool Road roundabout. Turn immediately right into the small industrial estate.
In the Industrial Estate: Continue through till you reach the iron railings. There is a path (250 yards long) down the left side of the iron railings leading to the Irlam Jetty.
