Christmas in the City

This Christmas, Manchester will play host to an array of magical delights. Not sure where to begin? Here are some of the very best festive events you won’t want to miss this winter.

Manchester Christmas Market blogImage source.

Manchester Christmas Markets

Manchester’s world-famous Christmas markets are back with a bang this year. This time, introducing an all-new family-friendly ‘Winter Gardens’ attraction at the heart of the city in Piccadilly Gardens. Amongst this winter wonderland will be a dazzling selection of food stalls, craft sellers and a live music stage throughout the festive season.

Along with the Winter Garden’s, the city will also play host to a selection of additional markets in various locations across the city until Dec 22nd.

Magic Christmas Tour

Available throughout the Christmas period, this exclusive tour of Manchester allows you, together with a local guide, to explore the sights, sounds, tastes and perhaps even ancient spells that make Manchester so special at this time of the year.

As you take in the festivities and magical delights of the city, learn about the history of the Christmas tree and hear tales of local legends.

Skate Manchester, Cathedral Gardens

This year we’re seeing the return of the hugely popular ice rink at Cathedral Gardens. However, this time it’s almost twice the size! With a star-lit roof covering the entirety of the rink, put on your skating shoes and enjoy the delight of this winter haven, come rain or shine.

Tickets are very reasonably priced at £13 for adults and £11 for children, with the option for family and season tickets if that works best.

Festive Winter Fair, Victoria Baths

Festive Winter Fair Victoria Baths ManchesterImage source.

What says Christmas better than a winter fair? Returning this year at Victoria Baths is a dazzling range of fifty specially selected stalls, offering a fantastic variety of unique and handmade artwork, jewellery, ceramics, and tasty treats.

With all your festive favourites to choose from, including mince pies and mulled wine, the winter fair is a must-visit this Christmas.

In addition to the main fair is the option for a fantastic guided tour of the historic building, where you’ll explore the pool halls and Turkish baths. The ‘Off Limits Tour’ also gives you the exciting opportunity to see areas not usually open to the public, including the pool undercrofts and boiler house. With tickets starting at just £5, this is not one to miss.

The Hallé: Autumn/Christmas Season, Bridgewater Hall

The Hallé has announced its Bridgewater Hall Autumn and Christmas 2021 season, featuring an amazing showpiece line-up of classical masterpieces, featuring outstanding guest artists and composers.

Opening proceedings are an extraordinary trio of symphonies conducted by Sir Mark Elder: Sibelius’s uplifting Second, Elgar’s First and Brahms’s glorious Third. If you’re looking to entertain the family, there’s something available forall tastes and ages. Choose from a selection of fabulous concerts including ‘Hallé Christmas Cracker’, traditional ‘Carol Concert’ and ‘The Magical Music of Harry Potter’.

Festival of Christmas Trees, The Quayside Media City

Returning for its 15th year, courtesy of Francis House Children’s Hospice, is Manchester’s exclusive Festival of Christmas Trees.

Build a personalised Christmas tree in your own special way. Once finished, the trees will take pride of place on public display at the Francis House pop up shop at the Quayside, Media City. During this time, the public can take part in an exciting online auction with the highest bidder taking home their favourite (auction ends 12th Dec). All funds generated will be donated to the Hospice.

Christmas Light Trail, Dunham Massey

Dunham Massey Light TrailImage source.

Set to be its most expansive and immersive experience to date, the hugely popular Christmas Light Trail at Dunham Massey returns this festive season.

New this year is the unique introduction of a crystal and fire garden, aglow with hundreds of gleaming flames. This is a hugely popular event, so be sure to book early to avoid missing out.

The festive fun doesn’t stop there

Ainscow Hotel Christmas

Our boutique hotel, situated near Spinningfields, is the ideal location to make your base this Christmas. For the best rates, please book directly with us via our website.

We also have on offer a fantastic Festive Fun package available until the 22nd of December.  Enjoy an overnight stay in a Mezz room, a cocktail on arrival and festive breakfast in the morning, including tasty treats such as pigs in blankets, mince pies and fizz!

Read more about our offers here.