Manchester’s newest social experience Escape to Freight Island has just announced its ‘next stage of evolution’ at Depot Mayfield.
After what has been the monumental success of the summer, the team behind Escape to Freight Island – currently housed at Depot Mayfield – are “proud to announce the true vision for this unique urban destination” with the addition of ‘The Ticket Hall’.
The Ticket Hall is the next chapter of Escape to Freight Island’s story, which started with the extraordinary arrival of Platform 15 – the original outdoor area that opened in the summer – and from Friday 30th October, will see a whole host of new food vendors descend on the venue and take over the industrial indoor space.
The fully-heated new opening will feature table seating, a wine shop, bars and a bike cloakroom.
The Ticket Hall is positioned underneath the original and striking roof structure within Depot Mayfield, and will see the vision for Escape to Freight Island unfold into a sprawling indoor market, which captures the atmospheric charm of the imposing building.
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Food vendors joining the original and much-loved Baratxuri, Voodoo Rays, Patty Queen and Madre will be:
Sugo Pasta Kitchen – The critically acclaimed Manchester-born pasta restaurant that takes its inspiration from its deep-rooted southern Italian heritage.
Mi & Pho – The award-winning family-run restaurant, which will offer authentic Vietnamese dishes.
Plant Grill– A vegan offering of modern cuisine created by Dan Hope of Fire Bird Hope and Krum fame.
El Boleto – A San Sebastian-style Deli selling small plates and the freshest produce to enjoy at home or on site.
The Jane Eyre – A cocktail bar serving classic drinks with a twist.
The Ticket Hall will have two tap rooms – Camden Town and Pomona – serving a tasty range of beers, plus the independent wine shop Forever Changes will add to the market takeaway vibes.
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Another addition to the multifaceted urban space, and a first for the city of Manchester, is a bike cloakroom, which is brought to Escape to Freight Island in partnership with world-renowned cyclewear brand Rapha, and it will enable visitors to safely park their bikes while they enjoy the full experience.
Co-creator Luke Cowdrey said: “When we launched Platform 15 at Escape to Freight Island this summer, we created one of the most forward-thinking venues of its time, in this country. It’s a place of positivity; somewhere that people can safely meet with their family and friends and experience some of the most beautifully crafted food and drink with world-class entertainment.
“The Ticket Hall is the next phase in our long and interesting journey developing Escape to Freight Island.”
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James Heather – Development Director at U+I for the Mayfield Partnership – added: “The extraordinary success of Escape to Freight Island this summer has underlined Mayfield’s role as an outstanding location for culture and entertainment.
“With Freight Island expanding further into Depot Mayfield, we’re excited to welcome yet more visitors to enjoy this distinctive space and contribute to the soulful regeneration of Mayfield.”
The Safe + Social Manifesto means Escape to Freight Island has been designed as a space where you are able to socialise safely with your party, maintain social distance from others, and remain alert to the risks of coronavirus (COVID-19), while being part of the overall urban festival atmosphere.
Platform 15 is also set to change, with more information on this to be announced soon.
You can find more information and book tickets via the Escape to Freight Island website here and you can follow Escape to Freight Island on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
What's On
Popular outdoor dining event returns to MediaCity waterfront this summer
Emily Sergeant
Greater Manchester’s popular outdoor dining concept is back again this summer, and there’s a proper tasty lineup of traders.
Kargo on the Docks, which is MediaCity‘s al fresco dining pop-up, has taken over the waterfront and gardens once again with a fresh wave of local food traders and stunning artwork by Salford-based creatives, all as the sun shines down on Salford Quays this summer.
A handful of Greater Manchester‘s most popular independents have set themselves up Quayside inside those signature re-imagined shipping containers.
Foodies can expect a menu packed with bold new flavours including Caribbean, Lebanese, Mexican, Ethiopian, and Pan-Asian dishes.
Loads of local indie food vendors have taken over the Salford Quays waterfront for the summer / Credit: Supplied
Afro Shack – the sister brand to Kargo.MKT favourite House of Habesha – will be serving fusion food combining East African flavours with indulgent American fast food, while new kids on the block Wok Bros will deliver sizzling, wok-tossed Pan-Asian street food and 100% halal dishes inspired by authentic flavours and fresh ingredients.
Iconic Jamaican dishes will also be on offer from Sunrise Caribbean, while Quiero Tacos will bring slow-cooked Birria tacos, cheesy quesadillas, and vibrant rice bowls packed with the spirit of Mexico.
Last but not least, Mediterranean food lovers can expect juicy lamb koftas, golden halloumi, and richly spiced chicken shawarma from Habibs.
Foodies can expect a menu packed with bold new flavours / Credit: Mark Waugh (via Supplied)
As well as the tasty food on offer, as mentioned, Kargo on the Docks also features a range of artwork and installations from local independent talent – with each container adorned with murals from creatives including Fernandes Makes, Kelly Ma, and Caroline Daly, bringing a feel-good summer vibe to the MediaCity Gardens.
Visitors can also enjoy an art trail display through the gardens, featuring structures designed by, A Studio Called Jane, Luke Passey, and Tasha Whittle.
There will also be a range of pop-up events hosted at the venue throughout the summer, with more announcements to be made very soon, so keep your eyes peeled.
Kargo on the Docks is now back at MediaCity from today (9 May) and will be open Tuesday to Sunday from 12pm-9pm throughout the summer.
Featured Image – Mark Waugh (via Supplied)
What's On
AO Arena to host huge Europa League Final fan zone after Manchester United victory
Daisy Jackson
Manchester’s legendary AO Arena will once again host an almighty football fan zone later this year, welcoming in fans for the Europa League Final.
The huge venue previously hosted a Road to Victory fan zone for the Euros, and is now ready to replicate all the atmosphere and excitement of the beautiful game once again.
This time it’s in honour of Manchester United, who romped their way into the Europa League Final this evening with a spectacular 4-1 victory (7-1 on aggregate) over Athletic Club.
The Red Devils will be heading to that same team’s home stadium of San Mamés in Bilbao in Spain on 21 May 2025, and you’ll be able to watch all the action right here at home in Manchester.
The AO Arena Europa League Final Screening & Fan Zone will be presented by Red Square.
If you think that name rings a bell, you’re right: they’re the same folks behind the regular events held over at Victoria Warehouse for any big United games, and 21 May will be no different – other than being arguably their biggest date ever.
There’ll be space for thousands upon thousands of football fans who’ll be able to watch Ruben Amorim’s side potentially take home their first piece of silverware since his arrival.
If you saw the scenes at Road to Victory in the AO during Euro 2024, you’ll know how unbelievable a venue this is to watch the footy.
As the promoters have billed it: “Get ready to immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of the Europa League Final, presented by Red Square.
“Join us for an unforgettable event as we bring together passionate Manchester United fans for the largest indoor fan park extravaganza ever witnessed!
“MANCHESTER UNITED head to the UEL final on Wednesday, 21st May – Secure your tickets now!”
The Europa League Final Screening & Fan Zone will be at the AO Arena on 21 May.
Emily Sergeant -
1st October 2020 
