There are SO many brilliant markets in the vibrant city of Manchester, England, so we’ve had a tough time narrowing down the Top 4 Manchester Markets, but we’ve had a good go!
The Top 4 Manchester Markets You Need to Visit
Manchester is a city known for its rich history, iconic football teams, diverse culture and thriving market scene, with a host of indie businesses and a strong focus on community. Welcoming creatives of all kinds, from its music scene and nightclubs to restaurants, bars and eateries, to a plethora of modern market places and creative spaces, there really is something for everyone in this city.
Whether you’re an enthusiastic foodie, a vintage lover, searching for sustainability, fancy some family gift-shopping or a student on a budget, Manchester’s markets offer something for everyone – and there will be a great place for you!
Here are the top 4 Manchester markets that you shouldn’t miss this year…
1. Northern Quarter Makers Market – Best for Students, Foodies and a creative vibe
The Northern Quarter Makers Market is a must-visit for students and young creatives looking for unique finds, with its proximity to the universities, student hang-outs and trendy bars, but it truly has something to offer everyone, with vintage clothing, handmade jewellery and quirky homeware too. It also has an award-winning selection of food and drink, making it the perfect place to pick up a weekend treat!
This market is a hub for independent stallholders and market traders, coming alive with passionate creatives that are eager to share and inspire visitors with their award-winning treats, awesome art and modern craft as well as vintage. It really has the creme de la creme when it comes to artisan traders from across Manchester and the North West.
Not only is the Northern Quarter Market great for shopping, but it also has a fantastic community vibe. Local artists often showcase their work, and live music performances add to the lively atmosphere.
Plus, with its proximity to Manchester’s top student areas, it’s an ideal weekend destination for those looking to explore beyond the usual high-street shops.
Run by the Makers Market team, their markets in other areas all over the city are well worth checking out. For example, Spinningfields Makers Market, set in the financial district of the city, which is often thought of as “the Canary Wharf of the North”, plays host to makers, bakers and creators offering artisanal goods, gourmet street food, and handcrafted products on a monthly basis, or Quayside Makers Market at Media City offers live music and entertainment as well as plenty of the usual market fayre. See all their markets here.
Photos from other lovely Makers Markets below:
2. Levenshulme Artisan Market – NEW FOR 2025!
Levy Market has a long-awaited return to the area, now brought to you by Independent Street.
Taking place on the car park near the train station, this market is easily accessible and offers great stallholders, including vintage sellers, handmade crafts and a wide array of foodies.
There’s entertainment and kids activities too, so plenty to keep people of every age involved.
They also have a Night Market version running on a monthly basis – click here for details on the Night Market version! Running from 5-8pm, it’s ideal as an after-work stop to start your weekend in style and pick up a treat or three!
3. Vintage Home Show – Manchester
The Vintage Home Show runs in various destinations, but the Manchester version reflects everything that’s great about this city.
Discover 60 specialist dealers at this Show, from vintage, mid-century and retro homewares and furniture to ceramics and artwork, textiles and vinyl records. From dining ware to funky chairs, retro lighting and atomic fabrics, there’s plenty to marvel at.
The venue itself is well worth a visit – inside the fabulous Victoria Baths, where you’ll find the main hall, swimming pool and a balcony all filled with stallholders selling everything from the 1930s to the 1990s.
A haven for vintage lover and if you are new to vintage, let this great event convert you to a more sustainable way of shopping for your home!
4. Altrincham Market Hall – A Food Lover’s Paradise
Altrincham Market Hall is a foodie’s dream destination. Located in the vibrant town of Altrincham, this market is famed for its selection of food vendors, offering everything from wood-fired pizzas and gourmet burgers to artisan coffee and craft beer.
What sets Altrincham Market Hall apart is its beautifully restored indoor space, which provides a warm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy a meal with friends and family. The communal seating encourages a social dining experience, making it one of the best places to sample Manchester’s booming food scene.
You can find permanent food traders here as well as pop-up stallholders on certain dates. Whether you’re looking for a hearty brunch, a sweet treat, or a fine dining experience in a relaxed setting, Altrincham Market Hall is the place to go.
Other Markets near Manchester you shouldn’t miss…
Manchester Markets on the outskirts of the city (that are also very much worth visiting!) include:
- Treacle Market – this exceptionally popular market has been running for 15 years now in the centre of Macclesfield. Expect to find classic artisan market fayre including unique crafts, artwork, food, drink, homeware and vintage wares.
- Don’t forget to check out Independent Street’s markets, such as Poynton Artisan Market. At this market, you can find over 60 stallholders offering the very finest food, drink, arts and craft plus street food, live music and entertainment for little market goers too! You can actually find children’s entertainment at all of Independent Street’s markets throughout the year – check out their full calendar here.
- Urmston Artisan Market is another fab market you can’t miss, run by The Market Co. Just outside of central Manchester in Trafford, you can find over 100 stallholders showcasing their wares at this monthly event. Click here for full details.
Fancy shopping at an online market instead? See what’s going on at Tresstle.