Manchester Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Christmas in Manchester is a magical affair, with twinkling lights draped across grand streets, festive music floating through the air, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts around every corner. This vibrant UK city transforms into a wintry delight, combining its rich industrial heritage with heartwarming seasonal cheer. As one of the most iconic Christmas destinations in England, Manchester offers an unforgettable festive experience for visitors from across the country and beyond.
Where are the Manchester Christmas Markets?
The full list of locations for the 2025 Manchester Christmas Markets has not yet been officially announced, but in 2024, the Christmas markets were spread across nine key sites. Here are the nine locations from 2024:
- King Street West - M3 2PW
- St Ann’s Square & Exchange Street - M2 7EF
- New Cathedral Street - M1 1AD
- Exchange Square - M3 1BD
- Corn Exchange - M4 3TR
- Cathedral Gardens - M4 3BG
- Market Street - M1 1PL
- Piccadilly Gardens (Winter Gardens) - M1 1RG
How to Reach the Manchester Christmas Markets:
- By Bus: Buses stopping at Piccadilly Gardens place you right next to Winter Gardens, one of the main market hubs. You can also get off at Portland Street or Shudehill Interchange for a short walk to Exchange Square and other nearby locations.
- By Train: Manchester Piccadilly Station is about a 9-minute walk to Piccadilly Gardens and 15 minutes to King Street. Manchester Victoria Station is even closer - just 8 minutes to St Ann’s Square and about 12 minutes to King Street West.
- By Coach: National Express and other coach services arrive at Manchester Coach Station (Chorlton Street) - M1 3JF. From here, it’s about a 7-minute walk to Piccadilly Gardens and the wider market area.
- By Tram (Metrolink): Trams are a convenient way to explore the city centre, with stops at Exchange Square, St Peter’s Square, and Piccadilly Gardens - all within walking distance of the markets. Services run frequently across Greater Manchester, making this a smart choice during busy festive weekends.
- By Car: Driving into central Manchester can be busy during the festive season, but it's possible. The markets are near major city roads like Princess Street, Deansgate, and Cross Street, with clear signage directing towards the city centre.
- Parking Spaces Nearby: Look for multi-storey car parks such as Piccadilly Plaza, Chorlton Street, Q-Park Deansgate North, and Manchester Arndale.
- Park & Ride: For a stress-free option, use one of the 30+ Park & Ride sites across Greater Manchester. These offer full-day parking and fast tram links straight into the heart of the markets.
What are the opening dates for Manchester Christmas Markets?
The official opening dates and times for the Manchester Christmas Markets 2025 have not yet been announced, but we’ll update this page as soon as they’re confirmed - so stay tuned. In the meantime, here’s what you can expect based on last year’s details:
- Opening dates (2024): From Friday 8th November to Sunday 22nd December 2024
- Opening times (2024):
- Craft and gift stalls: 10am to 8pm daily
- Food and drink stalls: 11am to 9pm daily
- Final day (22nd December): Markets closed at 6pm
- Cathedral Gardens (food & drink stalls only): Remained open until 31st December 2024
Decorations
Manchester goes all out with its Christmas decorations, transforming the city centre into a glittering festive dream. Expect glowing light displays, walk-through baubles, and the beloved Manchester bee, all part of the city’s spectacular Christmas Light Trail. In 2024, a giant illuminated Santa sat proudly in St Peter’s Square, surrounded by dazzling installations and perfect selfie spots. Twinkling lights drape over the market stalls, with Christmas trees and glowing ornaments adding to the magical ambience across key areas like Cathedral Gardens, Exchange Square, and King Street. The full theme and light details for 2025 are yet to be announced, but based on past years, Manchester is sure to deliver a beautifully festive spectacle once again.
Best Activities to Do
The 2025 schedule of events is yet to be released, but based on previous years, there’s plenty to look forward to - so keep checking this page for updates. In 2024, the standout attraction was Skate Manchester, a covered ice rink at Cathedral Gardens that remained open until New Year’s Day, offering magical skating sessions under twinkling lights. Live entertainment often brings the markets to life with festive performances, music, and family-friendly acts throughout the season. Some years have also featured visits from Santa and themed attractions especially for children, making it a festive day out for all ages.
Food to Try
Manchester Christmas Markets are known for their mouth-watering variety of festive food and drink. You’ll find everything from German bratwurst and Hungarian goulash to handmade crêpes, paella, and loaded Yorkshire pudding wraps. For a sweet treat, try chocolate-dipped churros, Dutch pancakes, or giant gooey cookies straight from the oven. Warm up with a glass of mulled wine, hot chocolate with whipped cream, or even a festive Baileys-laced coffee served in a souvenir mug. Whether you're after global street food or traditional festive fare, there's something delicious around every corner.
Shopping
If you're hunting for unique Christmas gifts, Manchester’s festive stalls won’t disappoint. Popular finds include handcrafted candles, ceramics, personalised decorations, woollen scarves, and locally made soaps. In 2024, stalls across New Cathedral Street, Market Street, and King Street West were a treasure trove of artisan products, including jewellery, Salford Rum, eco-friendly homeware, and artisan chocolates. Whether you're picking up stocking fillers or splurging on something special, there are plenty of thoughtful, handmade items to browse across all nine market locations.
Tips & FAQs
What’s the best time to visit the Manchester Christmas Markets?
Weekday mornings or early afternoons tend to be quieter, making them ideal for relaxed browsing. Evenings and weekends can get quite busy, especially in central areas like Piccadilly Gardens and Exchange Square.
Is the ice rink open all season?
Yes, in 2024, Skate Manchester at Cathedral Gardens was open from 8th November to 1st January, offering a covered skating experience that continued beyond the main market dates. A similar schedule is expected for 2025 - stay tuned for official confirmation.
Do stalls accept card payments or only cash?
Most stalls accept card payments, but it’s always wise to carry some cash, especially for smaller traders or in case of technical issues. Cash machines can be found around the city centre, but queues may form during peak times.
What should I wear to the Manchester Christmas Markets?
December in Manchester is typically cold and damp - so dress warmly and comfortably. Layers, a waterproof coat, gloves, and sturdy shoes or boots are ideal, especially if you’re planning to spend several hours walking between locations or skating.
Are the markets suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! Cathedral Gardens is especially family-friendly with the ice rink and plenty of open space, while other areas like Exchange Square and St Ann’s Square also have a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere. Keep an eye out for festive characters, child-friendly treats and entertainment.
Where to Stay in Manchester?
For the ultimate festive experience, it’s best to stay close to the Christmas Markets in Manchester city centre, where you’ll be just steps away from all the lights, stalls, and seasonal cheer. We’ve listed some of the best areas below, each offering easy access to the markets along with a variety of hotel options. Don’t forget to check this page for exclusive discounts on hotel stays to make your Christmas getaway even more special.
- Manchester City Centre: Just a short walk to all nine market locations, including Piccadilly Gardens, Exchange Square, and King Street. Ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and anyone who wants to be right in the heart of the festive action.
- Northern Quarter: Around a 5 to 10-minute walk from the nearest markets at Market Street and Piccadilly Gardens. Perfect for those who enjoy boutique hotels, trendy cafés, and a more bohemian vibe while still staying central.
- Deansgate: Roughly 10 minutes on foot to Exchange Square and King Street West. A great choice for visitors seeking a more upscale, relaxed stay with riverside walks, historic pubs, and easy transport links.
- Spinningfields: About 10 to 12 minutes from St Ann’s Square and the Albert Square light installations. Well-suited for business travellers or those who prefer a quieter, modern setting that’s still within walking distance of the festivities.
- Oxford Road Corridor: Approximately 15 minutes’ walk to Piccadilly Gardens. Recommended for students, families, or concert-goers visiting during the festive season, thanks to its theatres, museums, and budget-friendly hotels.
- Salford Quays: Around 15 to 20 minutes by tram to central Manchester markets. Ideal for families and those who prefer waterside hotels or want to combine festive fun with visits to MediaCityUK and The Lowry.
Other Things to Do While in Manchester
Beyond the enchanting Christmas Markets, Manchester in December offers a host of wintry experiences and cultural highlights that make the city feel especially festive.
- See a Christmas show or pantomime: Theatres like the Palace Theatre and Opera House put on festive productions, pantos, and family favourites throughout the holiday season.
- Visit the Winter Gardens at Piccadilly: Enjoy live music, festive drinks, and covered seating areas in the heart of the markets - a great spot to warm up and soak in the Christmas cheer.
- Wander through the Christmas Light Trail: Discover giant walk-through baubles, glowing bees, and the famous Big Santa at St Peter’s Square as the city lights up for the season.
- Explore festive shopping at Manchester Arndale: Combine your market browsing with a visit to this large shopping centre, perfect for ticking off your Christmas list in one place.
- Take a wintry walk in Heaton Park: Escape the city buzz with a peaceful stroll through one of Manchester’s biggest parks, especially beautiful on crisp December days.
Christmas Essentials: Christmas Shop | Christmas Gifts | Christmas Pyjamas | Christmas Decorations | Christmas Market Breaks | Christmas Jumpers | Christmas Trees