Manchester's Christmas Markets — Local services in Manchester

Like most things Christmas, prepare to be ripped off. Nothing else but cookie cutter huts, food and Tesco booze, with a few stalls of sterilely presented Christmas tat, mostly straight off Temu. Food was averagely ok, bratwurst pretty good but for 8 quid it should be. Then, ready yourself, 15 quid for two gluweins - yes really! Also you have the usual pay for glasses crap and return to get money back adding to the processing rigmarole of visiting each bar. Getting a round in becomes a bitter experience as the spirit of Christmas present readies to fleece your credit card at every visit. Complete lack of any kind of heating in each hut and, worse, seating, leads to trying to make each drink last half an hour whilst suffering sub zero temperatures moving position constantly to rest your tired legs. A cosy Christmas drink is the last thing they want you to enjoy - just keep buying more extortionate rounds of watery Tesco wine to keep warm. But that's ok as it closes as 8:30 sharp and they chuck everyone out. I have a feeling the snide hand of Manchester City Council is behind this with its typical penny pinching extortions and complete lack of regard for the good citizens of Manchester. As is traditional in Manc the sidelines are packed with the homeless and beggars, totally excluded from the festivities, no doubt driven their through arrears on their extortionate council tax. It adds to a sombre mood as you are forced to ignore them and left feeling guilty as you down your expensive gluwein - really MCC, pull your finger out on this, its supposed to be a civilized city yet the rent and tax increases are forcing, mostly men, into tent shanty towns. Some families were attempting carols to create the mood but there is little joyous or warming about this corporate exercise in penny pinching seasonal...

This was such a disappointing trip! Spent some time getting there as there were issues with the Northern Trains (not the fault of the organisers of the markets) and when we did, there was literally 5 stalls. I am not sure if we went on the wrong day but it was Christmas eve, which we assumed would be good! All that appeared to be open were drinking and eating stalls which was not what we wanted (well, not on this trip!) There was a lack of pre-trip information regarding the markets, so we were not too sure about the amount of stalls etc. I was also a bit annoyed with the attitude of the staff looking after the Santas grotto- I was trying to take pictures for my Google contribution and had my phone/camera in my hand and was stood looking towards the grotto. I had just taken a few pictures of the other side of the square and was looking to see what else the markets offered and that would be a good picture. I did not even realise there was a Santas grotto! The young man shouted to me from the Santas grotto asking if I was, "going to take a picture of the grotto". I had actually not even thought about that! I did reply, "..would you like me to?" But what I did not like is the way he muttered something else which was out of earshot but the expression he had on his face was a look of disgust. I felt as though I was doing something very wrong and it made me feel very uncomfortable. Not very friendly. I understand there are restrictions on photographing especially around children but this was not what i was expecting. I also had no intention of taking any of the grotto. Anyway, cut a long story short there was a lack of atmosphere and definitely no...

Manchester's Christmas Markets, running from November to December, are a must-visit festive attraction that spreads across the heart of the city. The markets feature a vast array of stalls stretching from King Street and St Ann's Square to Exchange Street and beyond, creating a lively and enchanting atmosphere throughout Manchester.

The variety at the markets is impressive, with something for everyone. Food lovers can indulge in a mix of sweet and savory options, including German bratwursts, Chinese and Greek street food, decadent desserts, cheeses, and locally sourced sausages. Traditional holiday treats like mulled wine and hot chocolate are perfect for warming up, while cold beers offer something for those who prefer a refreshing drink. Unique items such as soaps, handmade crafts, and other festive goods are also available, making it an excellent place to find special gifts.

The entire city comes alive with holiday spirit, as the streets are adorned with dazzling Christmas decorations and lights. The festive cheer is palpable, and it’s a joy to wander through the bustling streets, soaking in the holiday vibes and enjoying the variety of live performances, carolers, and entertainment scattered throughout the markets.

The Manchester Christmas Markets provide a magical experience for both locals and visitors, offering not just great food and shopping but also an unforgettable holiday atmosphere. Whether you're looking to pick up unique gifts, try festive delicacies, or simply enjoy the charm of the season, these markets are an essential part of Manchester’s holiday celebrations. Highly recommended for anyone in the city during the...