Lower Campfield Market in Manchester on Liverpool Road is an iconic structure that has become part of the furniture, having been used as part of the Science and Industry Museum housing the Air and Space Hall – and the people of Manchester have been waiting patiently for something to come of it after its closure in 2021. The site has been working towards becoming a business and tech hub, combining professional life with social and cultural experiences, from morning coffee to late-night events, and now Lower Campfield Market has returned to its Victorian market roots, with a throwback Weekender.
After two huge events in the newly transformed Campfield Markets, The Weekender is back on Saturday 30 August with a one-day Arts & Crafts celebration designed to inspire culture lovers and keep the whole family entertained – and most activities are free to get involved. This event showcases the ongoing collaboration between Department and GRUB, which involves transforming Campfield.
Kicking off from 10am, Campfield will be alive with independent makers and creators, hands-on workshops, live performances, and a standout street food line-up – the perfect chance to (re)discover one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings. If you’ve not seen the new-look Campfield yet, now’s the time.
Jason Bailey, co-founder of GRUB, said: “This edition is all about creativity you can feel – getting hands-on, learning something new and soaking up brilliant performances – without spending a fortune.
“Campfield has been buzzing all summer, and 30 August will be our biggest yet. Come for the art and stay for the grub – everyone’s welcome and entry’s free.”
What to expect at Campfield Weekender Arts & Crafts special
- Spirit Studios – Live set from Manchester’s legendary music production and sound engineering school, whose alumni and spaces have shaped the city’s music scene since 1980 – (free; drop-in)
- Manchester Camerata – Pioneering chamber orchestra known as “Britain’s most adventurous”, performing an inspiring live set in the heart of Campfield – (free; drop-in)
- OJ Borg (BBC Radio 2) – High-energy DJ set from the much-loved broadcaster and host of Radio 2’s late-night show – (free; drop-in)
- Nautilus Gin Experiences with Simon Sharp – Step into an immersive tasting journey through Victorian gin palaces, bohemian Soho and Manchester’s industrial boozers, paired with pours, trivia and theatrical flourishes (paid; booking req)
- HOP Life Drawing (Lisa Payne) – Relaxed, social life drawing sessions with all materials provided; a mindful, creative way to spend an afternoon – (paid; booking req)
- Simon Buckley Photo Walk – Learn how to get the best from your camera with a guided photo walk from award-winning Manchester photographer Simon Buckley, exploring the city’s heritage and hidden corners – (paid; booking req)
Street food & produce at Campfield Weekender
This month’s foodie line-up is just as impressive as the arts programme. On the Campfield cobbles, Casa Dario will be serving up giant pans of sizzling paella, cooked fresh for generous bowls bursting with authentic Spanish flavours. Vanoffee, Manchester’s favourite ice cream truck, returns with its signature New Zealand–style real fruit ice cream – blended fresh to order for a burst of colour and flavour.
Above and Beyond Burger! will be stacking gourmet burgers high with inventive toppings, juicy patties and freshly baked buns, while The Cheese Court offers an artisan selection perfect for grazing on the day or stocking your fridge for the week ahead. Event regulars Mickle’s Pickles are back too, with their cult-favourite jars of pickles, chutneys and relishes, handmade in small batches and loved by GRUB fans. More traders will be announced in the run-up via GRUB’s social channels.
📍 Campfield is located at Barton St, Manchester, M3 4NN.