I have always been a summer Christmas fan, but since moving to the UK I have been trying to embrace the winter Christmas spirit and I think I’ve finally found my new favourite market
Vita Molyneux Travel reporter
14:01, 17 Nov 2025Updated 14:51, 17 Nov 2025
Manchester’s markets are the best in the UK(Image: Vita Molyneux)
For me, Christmas has always been about beach barbecues as summer kicks off, sun-drenched mornings around the tree and barefoot garden parties. However, since relocating to London from New Zealand last year, I’ve been attempting to embrace the winter Christmas spirit.
Last year, I experienced my first-ever winter Christmas Market in Edinburgh, which didn’t quite hit the mark for me. Believing it’s crucial to give everything a second chance, this year I returned to the markets – but with a twist.
Instead of braving the crowds at Edinburgh’s market, I decided to visit Manchester. My trip coincided with Manchester’s market being named the best in the UK by both Time Out and holiday experts at Christmas Tree World – and I can understand why.
The day I visited was sunny and the markets were teeming with life. I opted to explore the market in Albert Square, but if you’re keen to discover Manchester’s markets, they are spread across the city, reports the Express.
The Manchester market was amazing(Image: Vita Molyneux)
The one in Albert Square boasted a helter skelter and a Ferris wheel, but I had a single-minded focus: I was on a mission to find a Yorkshire pudding wrap.
My boyfriend was sceptical, insisting that I wouldn’t find one because it wasn’t particularly Christmassy, but as we turned a corner, I spotted a sign selling exactly what I was after, much to my delight.
I opted for a bowl of pork wrap, which cost me £11. The portion was enormous and the meat was seasoned to perfection, with all the trimmings cooked just right. The gravy was thick, rich and salty – exactly to my liking. Despite its deliciousness, I was unable to finish the generous serving, much to my chagrin.
The portion was massive(Image: Vita Molyneux)
Next on my list was mulled wine, a first for me. My previous experience with mulled cider at the Edinburgh Market last year was less than pleasant, so I was a bit apprehensive.
I chose an apple and blackberry mulled wine, which I thought was priced at £6.50 but ended up costing me £10 due to a “mug deposit” charge of £3.50 that I had overlooked.
Fortunately, this mix-up was worth it as the mulled wine was absolutely delightful, tasting somewhat like hot Ribena, which I’m fond of. It warmed me up nicely and seemed like the ideal drink to enjoy by the fire while the rain poured outside. I thoroughly enjoyed it, although I’m still awaiting my refund for returning the mug to the stall.
My final indulgence at the Manchester Christmas Market was a crumble. I shelled out £8 for an apple and cinnamon crumble with vanilla custard. While it wasn’t the best I’ve ever had, it was sweet, tasty and hit the spot perfectly.
In my view, the Manchester Market completely outshines Edinburgh. Despite being bustling and lively, I found it easy to navigate without queuing for more than five minutes at any point.
Moreover, the food was superior in quality, and all the stalls were manned by friendly, cheerful staff. I departed with a renewed sense of excitement for Christmas – and I would strongly recommend anyone nearby to give it a visit.