The Manchester Christmas Markets are arguably some of the biggest and best that England has to offer! The original Market started in 1998 and since then it has grown and grown into the award winning market it is today! Markets are not only European, but also include a ‘World Market’. Different Markets wind their way through Manchester’s streets and squares, allowing you to browse over 300 traders. Running for five weeks from early November to just before Christmas, they’re well worth a visit!
The Manchester Christmas Markets
There are ten different markets scattered throughout Manchester during the Manchester Christmas Markets. There are eight main places that you really must visit:
St. Anns Square
This is where the original market started. In 1998 a small group of traders from Frankfurt were invited to set up a traditional Market here. And how the markets have grown from that humble beginning! This square is still the location for the German Christmas Markets.
Albert Square
Albert Square hosts the European Markets and is the main hub. An Alpine village is set up, complete with bar, and is watched over by the giant inflatable Santa on the Town Hall.
Albert Square At The Manchester Christmas Markets
Inside The Town Hall At Alberts Square
Brazennose Street
Home the the World Markets of Manchester Christmas Markets, here you can find produce from as far as Mexico. Running between Albert Square and Deansgate, the smaller stalls offer fair trade goods from around the world. And don’t forget to visit the beer tent!
Corn Exchange
Just outside the Corn Exchange you will find about 30 stalls of the Manchester Christmas Markets. Here you can find unique gift ideas.
Exchange Square
A 16 m tall windmill is an iconic feature of the Markets in Exchange Square. Here you can find an array of food and boutique stalls. And here is where new and interesting things may happen. In 2013 the Vintage Lounge was added, selling hot drinks and alcoholic drinks with a variety of live performances.
Sausages Cooking At The Christmas Markets
Exchange Street
This is the arts and crafts section of the Manchester Christmas Markets. The stalls here sell anything from handmade jewellery to homemade cakes.
Manchester Christmas Markets
King Street
The French Markets! Here you can find the things that France is famous for – fine wines, cheeses, fashion and beauty products. Also sample some unusual French delicacies whilst your here!
Yummy Looking Sweets At The Manchester Christmas Markets
New Cathedral Street
One of the newer additions to the Manchester Christmas Markets. Here you can find an array of handcrafted goods – great for stocking fillers!
What You Will Find
There is a huge variety of stalls at the Markets. From crafts to food and drink, you’re sure to find that perfect gift, or at least your favourite type of mulled wine! Hot drinks are served in mugs that require a deposit, so you can either take your mug home as a souvenir or get your deposit back!
Gluhwein Mugs, Collect Or Return!
Crafts and gifts you may find include:
- Wild Bird Feeders;
- Jewellery;
- Decorations;
- Hats, scarves, gloves;
- Bags;
- Clothing.
Food and drink (to consume or take away) you’ll find include:
- Cheese;
- Wine;
- Gluhwein;
- Coffee;
- Hot chocolate;
- Sweets;
- Bratwurst;
- Pasties
Bratwurst
With such a variety and number of stalls at the Manchester Christmas Markets, it makes a great day out. You’re sure to find something you want to buy and you’ll definitely be in the festive spirit by the time you leave!
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