Metrolink Trains

Metrolink is the largest light rail system in the United Kingdom, serving Greater Manchester with an extensive network of tram routes.

Known for its efficiency, accessibility and modern fleet, Metrolink plays a crucial role in connecting key locations across the region.

This guide provides detailed information on Metrolink’s operations, routes and passenger facilities.

Metrolink Network - Key Routes and Destinations

Metrolink operates eight lines, covering 99 stops across Greater Manchester. The network connects major city centres, suburbs and transport hubs, including Manchester Airport.

Below are the key Metrolink lines and their destinations:

Altrincham Line - Connects south Manchester to the city centre, with links to National Rail at Altrincham with stops at: Altrincham, Sale, Stretford, Old Trafford, Deansgate Castlefield and Manchester Piccadilly

Bury Line - Serves north Manchester, with interchange options at Victoria for trains to Leeds and beyond with stops at: Bury, Radcliffe, Whitefield, Prestwich and Manchester Victoria

East Didsbury Line - Popular for commuters and students traveling to Manchester University and hospitals with stops at: East Didsbury, Withington, West Didsbury, St Peter’s Square and Manchester Piccadilly

Eccles Line - Serves Media City (BBC & ITV studios) and the Quays entertainment district with stops at: Eccles, Salford Quays, Media City UK, Deansgate, Castlefield and Cornbrook

Manchester Airport Line - Providing direct access to Manchester Airport from Machester city centre in under an hour with stops at: Manchester Airport, Wythenshawe, St Werburgh’s Road, Didsbury and Manchester Piccadilly

Rochdale Line Linking to National Rail services at Rochdale for travel towards Yorkshire with stops at: Rochdale, Milnrow, Newbold, Shaw & Crompton and Manchester Victoria

Trafford Park Line - Serves major shopping and leisure destinations, including Manchester United’s stadium stopping at: The Trafford Centre, Imperial War Museum, Wharfside (Old Trafford Stadium) and Cornbrook

Ashton-under-Lyne Line - Connects to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium and events at the AO Arena with stops at: Ashton-under-Lyne, Droylsden, Audenshaw, Etihad Campus and Manchester Piccadilly

Metrolink Facilities and Passenger Amenities

Metrolink trams and trains are designed for comfort, accessibility and convenience. The modern M5000 trams (introduced from 2009 onwards) offer a range of features:

Seating and Interior Layout

• Spacious seating with a mix of single and bench-style seats.
• Priority seating for elderly, disabled and pregnant passengers.
• Standing room for peak-time commuters, with handrails for stability.

Accessibility & Safety Features

• Step-free access at all stations and low-floor trams for wheelchair users.
• Audio and visual announcements for passengers with hearing or visual impairments.
• Tactile paving at platforms for safe navigation.
• Digital displays showing next stops and service updates.
• Assistance available via staff or the Passenger Assist app.
• Emergency intercoms to contact the control centre.
• Regular patrols by TravelSafe officers.
• CCTV cameras onboard for passenger safety.
• Designated bike areas on trams (folding bikes allowed at all times).
• Luggage racks for airport travelers.

Although ticket offices and ticketing machines at most train stations sell Metrolink train tickets, purchasing your Metrolink train ticket online here is by far the simplest and usually a lot cheaper too.