Manchester’s famous Christmas Markets are back, spread across 9 vibrant locations in the City Centre and will be open until Sunday the 22nd of December. Attractions include over 200 stalls with food, drinks, crafts and gifts, attracting people from all over the country. Here is why you should visit them and give them a go, even if you’re not the biggest Christmas fan.
Where are the Markets located and how to get there?
For those who don’t know, Manchester Christmas Markets stand out from the other UK Christmas markets due to its unique layout. It spans across all the biggest City Centre locations, making it more spacious and vibrant. Typically Christmas markets are situated in one location, but this one gives you the opportunity to explore Manchester more and perhaps potentially discover new places you’ve never visited before. Working through the markets’ map is pretty straightforward. Whilst navigating the markets is easy with a map, I recommend taking the Metrolink for convenience, especially since it can get very crowded, and parking is nearly impossible to find. Just be aware that trams may experience delays, particularly on weekends.
The Christmas Markets are spread across Piccadilly Gardens and New Cathedral Street, which can be taken as “the main bits”, as well as St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, Exchange Square, Corn Exchange, Cathedral Gardens, Market Street and King Street West. They are open everyday from 11am-9pm and there’s no need to book any tickets to enter – they are free and accessible to all.
What to expect this year?
The main draw for many visitors is, of course, the food and drinks that bring the festive spirit to life. It is a perfect opportunity to try as many food items as possible without having to make a big journey across the town. Beyond the culinary delights, the markets also showcase a range of independent businesses from Cheshire and Lancashire, offering unique crafts and gifts that make for perfect holiday finds.
As mentioned, if you’re planning to go on the weekend, prepare yourself for queueing, especially to some of the popular stalls that have been advertised online. It gets a bit crowded. My advice is: try not to focus on the main areas, as many of the stalls are repeated in other parts of the markets, and those locations tend to be much less busy!
Apart from gastronomical attractions we can also enjoy The Christmas Light Trail and Ice Rink (I’d recommend booking those tickets in advance, because it gets quite busy). There’s also the chance to enjoy live bands, DJs, and festive yuletide bars, adding to the holiday spirit.
My top picks
I have managed to prepare a list of items that in my opinion are worth recommending.
You definitely have to try a chicken waffle sandwich from the Waffle Kart. It is filled with crispy chilli chicken, pickled cucumber and cheese, topped with sriracha mayo. Another firm favourite, that by now has become a Christmas Market classic, is the Yorkshire Pudding wrap from Porky Pig. This dish wraps all the traditional elements of a Christmas dinner into a fluffy Yorkshire pudding, generously drizzled with gravy. For dessert – if you have room left – Dutch Mini Pancakes (‘poffertjes’) are a perfect choice. These bite-sized pancakes come with your choice of toppings, and they pair wonderfully with a hot chocolate or mulled wine from one of the many stalls scattered throughout the markets.
Add a little holiday magic to your day
I know some people feel that Christmas markets are overrated and overpriced, and while there may be some truth to that, everyone deserves to experience a little holiday joy – and perhaps this is the perfect place to find it. If you’re not a fan of the crowds, I’d recommend visiting during the week when it’s quieter. And if you’d prefer not to go solo, why not bring a loved one along for a cosy evening? No matter what, I’m sure you’ll find something to enjoy!
