Eat, Drink and Shop: Get Festive at Manchester Christmas Markets
Drawing in millions of visitors each year and attracting both locals and tourists alike the Manchester Christmas Markets have become a staple of the season, sitting at the very top of every worthy ‘Things to do at Christmas’ list. The famous market made its grand return to the city on November 8th, delighting visitors once again with a mouth-watering selection of quirky food stalls, handmade crafts and beautiful, one-of-a-kind gifts.
What time do the Manchester Christmas Markets open?
All gift and craft stalls will be open from 10am to 8pm, for those wishing to indulge in the delicious food and drink options, these stall will be open between 11am to 9pm. The markets will be operating 7 days a week until the final day on 22nd December when stalls close at 6pm. The festivities will continue at Cathedral Gardens with food and drink stalls remaining open until 31st December.
Where are the Manchester Christmas Markets located?
The Manchester Christmas Markets are home to over 200 stalls spread out over nine city centre hot spots:
- Piccadilly Gardens – From Piccadilly Gardens to the Winter Gardens, enjoy live entertainment and all your festive food and drink favourites under the cover of two beautiful marquees adorned with twinkling lights.
- Market Street – For those looking for a unique gift for that special someone in your life, a trip to the craft and gift stalls at Market Street will not disappoint.
- Cathedral Gardens – Get ready to strap your skates on at Cathedral Gardens, with Skate Manchester’s ice rink plus live entertainment and tasty food options, this is the perfect spot for families of all ages.
- St Ann’s Square & Exchange Street – Take a trip to the place that started it all, the site of the original Christmas Market, St Ann’s Square offers a cosy undercover bar and a selection of German delicacies.
- New Cathedral Street – Enjoy a cold beer and delicious food at New Cathedral Street market, home to high-end gift stalls from a range of crafty vendors.
- Exchange Square – The largest of all the markets, Exchange Square offers visitors a wide variety of stalls perfect for those last few stocking fillers. Treat yourself to a warming mulled wine and enjoy some iconic eats, like the famous Yorkshire pudding wrap!
- The Corn Exchange – Explore the unique, handcrafted gifts on offer. From handmade jewellery to delicious pies, jumpers and artisan chocolates, this is definitely the perfect spot for Christmas shopping.
For more information on the Manchester Christmas Markets trail click here
Where can I park for the Manchester Christmas Markets?
There are plenty of car parks scattered throughout the city, many of them within walking distance of several market locations. For guests staying with us at Hotel Indigo Manchester we recommend parking at the Manchester Printworks car park, for more information click here.
With how busy the city centre can be during the festive season, we would also recommend checking out some of the fantastic public transport options. The tram service can be a great way to get around the city – Metrolink tram stops.
What hotels are near the Manchester Christmas Markets?
Us, of course! Hotel Indigo Manchester is a great choice if you’re looking for a hotel near Manchester’s Christmas Markets. Located next to Corn Exchange, our hotel provides easy access to the Christmas Markets and public transport links. Victoria train station can be found right next door, perfect for out-of-town guests.
