Are you looking for a city break just before the Christmas holidays? Manchester's Christmas Markets are said to be among the best, if not the best, in the country. And, even better, our Serviced Apartments are only a stone's throw from the rejuvenated Chapel Street, between Deansgate and Salford Quays, perfect for exploring these magical markets.
The legendary Manchester Christmas Markets have returned with a plethora of holiday pleasures around the city. This year, the markets will have a new central core as the Winter Gardens replaces the city's Piccadilly Gardens as the new focal point. However, from Friday, November 12 to Wednesday, December 22, festive wooden huts and food and drink vendors will be set up in various city-centre streets and squares, open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.
And there will be even more seasonal happiness in January, as both the Winter Gardens and Cathedral Gardens markets will be open throughout the Christmas and New Year holidays until Sunday, January 2. We've got a map of the key locations of the markets this year, as well as a breakdown of the main things you'll find in each area, to help you navigate your way about the city. Remember that there will be no Christmas Markets on Albert Square this year due to continuing Town Hall repair work.
Map of Manchester Christmas Market areas for 2021
The Winter Gardens
Expect classics like Dutch Frites, Greek Gyros, and Manchester's legendary Elsie Mays' warm cookie dough puddings, as well as new loop churros, all washed down with speciality cocktails, gluhwein, and local brews. There are also several new dishes to sample this year. On the two new alpine-lodge-style platforms, which are accessible via ramps, there is a variety of outdoor seating, mostly under tipi-style cover.
The fantastic start of the light trail will be here, with gorgeous star arches, baubles, and a giant Merry Christmas sign amid the festive lights to admire. According to the council, visitors will be "controlled" in this major area, with one-way paths and distinct entrances and exits, ensuring individuals maintain social distance. A fully accessible washroom will also be installed in this area to ensure that this year's Winter Garden event is as inclusive as possible, with complete changing facilities available to all attendees.
St Ann's Square
For the first time, hand-pulled pizzas will be available at St Ann's, as well as a Christmas Markets staple, the Lakeland Burger Company. Yard & Coop in the Northern Quarter will be back with their fried chicken and salt and pepper fries, as well as a slew of new artisan vendors.
However, the massive Bavarian pub at the other end of the plaza will reopen, complete with swing grill sausages and loads of gluhwein. In addition, Birdie the campervan will return for your complimentary selfie prints in the campervan (cleaned between visits). Close to St Ann's Church, you'll also discover the typical Christmas nativity scene.
For more information on the Manchester Christmas markets, check out our Part 2.
If you're planning to spend a staycation in Manchester, spend it with us at Dream Apartments. We have a range of one-to-three-bedroom apartments to suit everyone! Book online today.