Manchester is the place to be when it comes to bakeries – from delicious flaky pastries to beautifully baked bread, we’ve got it all, and we have the proof (or prove, should we say). Three bakeries in Manchester have been nominated for the prestigious National Bakery of the Year 2025, which recognises the best bakers across the UK, celebrated for their exceptional bread, pastries, and cakes. Shortlisted alongside 226 other bakeries from across the country, these Manchester spots are in good company – but the question is, who will rise to the top when it comes to artisanal baking?
The Manchester bakeries nominated for the National Bakery of the Year 2025
The Manchester bakeries can mainly be found in Manchester city centre, aside from one in the foodie area of Chorlton. Here are the three Manchester bakeries nominated:
Barbakan Delicatessen
A lovely gem found in Chorlton, Barbakan Delicatessen is the kind of place where you don’t leave empty-handed. We’re talking stacks of fragrant, fresh bread and homemade soups, locally produced charcuterie, speciality pastas, sauces, jarred goods, and so much more. Choose from the likes of Italian Contadina loaves to cheesy bagels, Polish sernik cheesecake to sourdough bread, fruit tarts to feta and tomato quiches. The delicatessen has been going strong for over 60 years, so these guys know a thing or two when it comes to baked goods!
The Flat Baker
Known for its viral pistachio croissant, The Flat Baker is an elusive spot in Manchester, with a tiny hatch in Ancoats and is soon to expand across the road. With queues around the corner most weekends, The Flat Baker has some of the best pastries in the city, from the classics to more experimental treats like banoffee cruffins and lemon meringue croissant pie, plus regular specials.
Pollen Bakery
Manchester favourite Pollen is, of course, one of the bakeries that made the cut and has achieved cult status in the city for its quality viennoiserie and sourdough loaves. Their New Islington Marina location is a must-visit on a sunny day, as you can enjoy a sweet treat or brunch by the water, plus their Kampus spot is also great for a coffee and pastry on the go, with it being close to Piccadilly station.
Other North West bakeries nominated for the National Bakery of the Year 2025
There are several North West bakeries vying for the top spot, including The Bear Bakery, Bread Bin and Chatwins in Cheshire, Brysons of Keswick, Lovingly Artisan and MoreArtisan in Cumbria, Broughton Village Bakery, Martins the Bakers and Sayers the Bakers in Lancashire, as well as Rough Hand Made and The Wild Loaf in Merseyside.
The winners will be revealed at a ceremony on November 25 held at Big Penny Social in Walthamstow, London. Along with the National Bakery of the Year award, other accolades such as Regional and County winners, Social Enterprise Bakery of the Year, Young Baker of the Year, and Outstanding Contribution to Bakery will also be announced.
Find out all the nominees for the National Bakery of the Year 2025 here.
