As markets across the country continue to cement themselves as community lifelines (and even in most cases, preferred places to shop these days), there’s no better time to support our local traders and head out into the great outdoors than now. From artisan food stalls to local crafts and artwork – Manchester has it all. Here are some of the best markets to visit in Manchester.
1. Bury Market
🛍 What do they sell? Pretty much everything – from fresh local produce (meat, vegetables and fruit), to clothing, hardware and more.
📍 Where can I find it? Bury Market, 1 Murray Rd, Bury, BL9 0BJ
🙌 Need to know: Bury Market is over 500 years old and is loved by locals. The hall of the award-winning market is open every day except Sundays and the open market is open on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays if you fancy popping along.
2. Mackie Mayor
🛍 What do they sell? You can pick up a tasty meal from a number of independent vendors, grab a coffee, or even a pint.
📍 Where can I find it? Mackie Mayor, 1 Eagle St, Manchester, M4 5BU
🙌 Need to know: Founded by the same team by Alty Market, Mackie Mayor is a bustling spot for casual dinner and drinks, with numerous market-style food stalls that sell food such as pizzas, rotisserie meats and more. There’s even a cocktail bar for those who fancy a refreshing drink.
3. Arndale Market
🛍 What do they sell? Food, food and more food.
📍 Where can I find it? Arndale Market, 49 High St, Manchester, M4 3AH
🙌 Need to know: The Arndale Market is exactly where you’d expect it to be, within the Arndale Centre in Manchester city centre. There are tons of food stalls to try out – whether you’re on the go or fancy trying something new, and you’ll probably stumble upon the fish market too. There’s a little something for everyone – including sweets, baked goods, Mexican food, sandwiches and Chinese food.
4. Manchester Markets
🛍 What do they sell? It changes depending on the vendors who have signed up for the month, but you’ll usually find lots of brilliant foodie spots selling hot food to go, and local produce such as cheeses, alcohol and even art.
📍 Where can I find it? Piccadilly Gardens
🙌 Need to know: Manchester Markets are the legends behind the city’s wonderful Christmas Market, but they actually run markets pretty frequently across the city. The Street Food Market at Piccadilly Gardens runs every Tuesday to Sunday. Keep your eyes out on Manchester Markets social media to see where they pop up next.
5. Makers Market
🛍 What do they sell? What don’t they sell? Makers from all over Manchester come together for the monthly markets, selling handmade goods from jewellery and art, to baked goods and homemade grub.
📍 Where can I find it? Oak Street, Manchester, M4 5JD (Northern Quarter), Quayside Media City, Salford, M50 3AH, Manchester Rd and Oswald School Car Park (Chorlton), Stanley Square and School Road (Sale), Stockport Market Place and Withington Hospital Car Park, M20 2LR (West Didsbury)
🙌 Need to know: The Makers Market is a brilliant market for those who love online shops such as Etsy, as you’re bound to find some really cool bits while you’re browsing. The makers who hold stalls changes fairly frequently depending on who signs up, but you’re bound to find handmade crafts, art, delicious sweet treats and gorgeous pastries.
6. Stockport Market
🛍 What do they sell? The historic market is a great spot for picking up local produce, from cheeses to meats and vegetables, it’s pretty much got it all. Stop by to grab a coffee, or potter around and check out stalls that sell locally made soaps and gifts. There are a few hardware stalls, too.
📍 Where can I find it? Market Place, Stockport, SK1 1UN
🙌 Need to know: The market has a long history that dates all the way back to 1260, but the ‘glass umbrella’ market hall itself appears to originate from the 1860s. Pick up virtually anything you need during your visit and check out the brand new Produce Hall just next door. There you’ll find independent food vendors with a similar atmosphere to Mackie Mayor – with hot food to go and spots to grab a drink.
7. Altrincham Market
🛍 What do they sell? Pretty much everything. Not only is there an indoor food hall similar to Mackie Mayor’s, but the market outside has sections for local produce and crafts, too.
📍 Where can I find it? Altrincham Market, Greenwood St, Altrincham, WA14 1SA
🙌 Need to know: Altrincham Market is a wonderful modern-day market, which is a brilliant day out even if it’s not usually your thing. The food hall has a bustling atmosphere and some incredible food vendors, with an array of cuisines to choose from.