Manchester Christmas Markets: One of the Best in Europe
As winter sets in and the festive season approaches, the Manchester Christmas markets offer one of Europe’s finest Christmas experiences. Ranked the continent’s second-best Christmas market by Time Out magazine, these iconic wooden chalets have become a beloved tradition, drawing hordes of visitors to the city centre each November and December. With twinkling lights, lip-smacking food, and unique gifts galore, you're in for an unforgettable festive experience.
When do Manchester Christmas Markets Open?
In 2025, Manchester Christmas markets run from November 7 through to December 22. Now in their 27th year, the markets transform the city centre into a festive wonderland. In case you can't make it before Christmas, then fret not! A mini market called 'A Taste of Christmas' at Albert Square and the stalls at Cathedral Gardens remain open throughout the festive period until January 4, 2026, giving you plenty of opportunities for last-minute gifts or treats.
Where to Find Manchester Christmas Markets
In 2025, Manchester Christmas markets span following ten city centre locations featuring over 200 stalls.
- Albert Square
- St Ann's Square
- Exchange Square
- New Cathedral Street
- King Street
- Exchange Street
- Market Street
- Piccadilly Gardens
- Cathedral Gardens
- The Corn Exchange
All locations are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to hop between sites and soak in the festive atmosphere. If you're exploring the city, don’t miss Manchester Cathedral, which sits at the heart of the Cathedral Gardens market site and hosts the annual Christmas Parade.
What Makes Manchester Christmas Markets Special This Year
The popular festive attraction is making a return to Albert Square after a gap of six years. Aside from exciting fairground-style attractions, the Christmas market at Albert Square features a 50-metre-high Ferris wheel, offering breathtaking views over Manchester Town Hall. Over 200 stalls showcase local favourites like El Gato Negro, Yard & Coop, Porky Pig, The Great North Pie Company, and The Salford Rum Company.
Food options are endless, from traditional German bratwurst and glühwein to Yorkshire pudding wraps and loaded hash browns.
Don't forget the iconic Manchester Christmas Markets mugs! You'll pay a £3.50 deposit when purchasing a hot drink, which you can either get back by returning the mug or keep as a festive souvenir. Each year features a unique design depicting Manchester's bustling toy town landscape.
Planning Your Visit
Craft stalls open daily from 10am to 8pm, while food and drink stalls welcome visitors from 11am to 9pm. The closest train stations are Manchester Piccadilly, Victoria, and Deansgate Castlefield, with multiple tram stops dotted around the market locations.
For those combining their market visit with other activities, there's no shortage of things to do in Manchester. Combine your visit with other attractions like Skate Manchester's ice rink at Cathedral Gardens, open from November 7 to January 4, featuring covered skating sessions and live entertainment Thursday to Sunday.
You can also explore the city's excellent Manchester shopping scene on King Street and Exchange Square, where high-end boutiques sit alongside the festive stalls.
The markets are completely free to wander through. With everything from handmade chocolates and bath bombs to tweed clothing and artisanal cheeses on offer, you're bound to find the perfect Christmas gifts while enjoying the magical atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Manchester
Planning an overnight visit in Manchester? Maldron Hotels offer two convenient city centre locations in Manchester Cathedral Quarter and Manchester City Centre, both within easy walking distance of the Christmas markets. Whether you want a cosy base near Cathedral Gardens or closer to Piccadilly, you'll be right in the festive action.
If you’re planning a longer festive escape, why not extend your Manchester Christmas markets adventure with a trip to Liverpool, just under an hour away by train? It’s the perfect twin-city adventure for young travellers and couples looking to blend festive fun with coastal charm. Start your visit at the Royal Albert Dock, home to some of the top things to do in Liverpool, including the Tate Liverpool, Museum of Liverpool and the Maritime Museum, all perfect for a winter wander with a warm coffee in hand.
If you decide to stay overnight, the Maldron Hotel Liverpool makes an ideal base in the heart of the city, close to all the action and just a short stroll from the docks.
FAQ: Manchester Christmas Markets
Manchester's Christmas markets rank as Europe's second-best and attract millions of annual visitors.
The markets run from November 7 to December 22, 2025, with Albert Square and Cathedral Gardens extending until January 4, 2026.
You'll find them across ten city centre locations, including Albert Square, St Ann's Square, King Street, Cathedral Gardens, and Piccadilly Gardens.
You can shop at over 200 stalls, enjoy food and drinks, ride the 50-metre Ferris wheel, ice skate at Cathedral Gardens, and enjoy live entertainment.
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