This autumn, from October 15 to 18, the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) makes its highly anticipated return to Manchester. The event brings together over 200 of the UK’s premiere contemporary artists and makers inside the stunning, Grade II* listed Victoria Baths.
Famed for its exquisite Edwardian architecture, vivid mosaics, beautiful stained glass, and glazed tiles, the historic building offers an unforgettable backdrop. The fair will transform the venue’s iconic spaces—including the Gala and Females Pools, Turkish Baths, original changing cubicles, and the Superintendent’s Flat—into a unique cultural and shopping experience.
Now celebrating its 19th year, the GNCCF is recognised as one of the UK’s top destinations for acquiring exceptional contemporary craft. The event draws thousands of visitors eager to explore a wide variety of mediums, from ceramics, textiles, and jewellery to furniture, glass, printmaking, and fine art.
To ensure unparalleled quality and originality, an independent panel of experts hand-selects every exhibitor. Whether you are searching for an affordable handmade gift or a statement piece for a collection, the fair caters to all budgets and tastes. Best of all, visitors have the rare opportunity to buy directly from the talented individuals who created the work.
While featuring many highly respected established makers, this year’s fair also introduces over 70 new exhibitors making their GNCCF debut. Highlights among the newcomers include:
- John Egan (Making Little): A Welsh woodworker who crafts breathtaking furniture and objects out of whole trees.
- Caitlin Murphy: A Northern Irish maker whose intricate woven metal vessels beautifully merge sculpture with textile art.
- Saima Kaur: A Yorkshire-based artist creating detailed embroideries heavily inspired by Indian folk traditions.
Returning for 2026 is the widely popular Green Grads exhibition. Set up in the baths’ original changing cubicles, this showcase highlights innovative graduate talent focused on sustainable, circular design and eco-conscious craftsmanship.
Beyond browsing the stalls, visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere complete with live crafting demonstrations, free drop-in pottery sessions hosted by Yellowhammer Ceramics Studio, and a licensed café for relaxing.
Ann-Marie Franey, Co-Founder and Director of GNCCF, emphasises the unique value of buying handmade items: “We believe craft says something about who we are and what we value. Every piece has a maker and every maker has a story.”
Franey adds that the fair provides a meaningful connection that simply can’t be replicated on the high street or online. “Every purchase at the fair directly supports a small creative business, helping talented makers continue doing what they love while keeping Britain’s rich craft tradition alive. That’s something we’re incredibly proud to have championed for almost 20 years.”
Those who want an early look can attend the popular Preview Evening on Thursday 15 October, granting first access to the exhibits before the general public arrives.
- Preview Evening: Thursday, October 15 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday, October 16: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday, October 17: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday, October 18: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
How to get tickets
Tickets for all dates are available here.
📍Victoria Baths, Hathersage Road, Manchester M13 0FE.
