Manchester shopping is a unique and enjoyable experience that caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands, unique street markets, or bustling commercial centers, Manchester has something to offer. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best shopping destinations in the city, including shopping malls and commercial centers, shopping districts or neighborhoods, luxury shopping, street markets, fairs and exhibitions.
Shopping Malls and Commercial Centers
The Trafford Centre
The Trafford Centre is one of the largest shopping centers in the UK and is a must-visit destination for shoppers in Manchester. Located just a short drive from the city center, the mall offers a wide range of shops, including high street favorites, luxury brands, and designer stores. To reach the Trafford Centre, you can take the Metrolink tram from Manchester city center, or drive and park in one of the mall’s many car parks. Allow at least a half day to explore all the shops and attractions.
Arndale Centre
The Arndale Centre is located in the heart of Manchester and is the city’s largest indoor shopping center. With over 200 stores, the mall offers a wide range of shops, including high street favorites, independent boutiques, and department stores. To reach the Arndale Centre, you can take the Metrolink tram or bus to Market Street, or walk from the city center. Allow at least a half day to explore all the shops and attractions.
Shopping Districts or Neighborhoods
Spinningfields
Spinningfields is a trendy shopping and dining district located just a short walk from Manchester city center. The area is home to a wide range of shops, including luxury brands, designer boutiques, and independent stores. To reach Spinningfields, you can take the Metrolink tram or bus to Deansgate-Castlefield, or walk from the city center. Allow at least a half day to explore all the shops and attractions.
The Northern Quarter
The Northern Quarter is a bohemian shopping and dining district located just a short walk from Manchester city center. The area is home to a wide range of independent shops, vintage stores, and trendy boutiques. To reach the Northern Quarter, you can take the Metrolink tram or bus to Piccadilly Gardens, or walk from the city center. Allow at least a half day to explore all the shops and attractions.
Luxury Shopping
King Street
King Street is home to some of the most luxurious and high-end shops in Manchester, including designer brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. The street is located in the city center and is easily accessible by foot or public transport. Allow at least a half day to explore all the luxury shops on King Street.
Selfridges
Selfridges is a luxury department store located in the heart of Manchester. The store offers a wide range of luxury brands, including designer fashion, beauty products, and home decor. To reach Selfridges, you can take the Metrolink tram or bus to Exchange Square, or walk from the city center. Allow at least a half day to explore all the luxury shops and attractions in Selfridges.
Street Markets
Afflecks
Afflecks is a unique and vibrant indoor marketlocated in the Northern Quarter of Manchester. The market is home to a wide range of independent shops, vintage stores, and trendy boutiques. You can find a variety of items such as clothing, accessories, and home decor, as well as local and handmade products. To reach Afflecks, you can take the Metrolink tram or bus to Piccadilly Gardens, or walk from the city center. Allow at least a few hours to explore the market and its unique shops.
Smithfield Market
Smithfield Market is a historic market located in the Northern Quarter of Manchester. The market is home to a wide range of independent shops, vintage stores, and trendy boutiques, as well as street food vendors and local artisans. To reach Smithfield Market, you can take the Metrolink tram or bus to Piccadilly Gardens, or walk from the city center. Allow at least a few hours to explore the market and its unique shops.
Fairs and Exhibitions
Manchester Art Fair
Manchester Art Fair is an annual event that takes place in the city center and showcases a wide range of contemporary art from local and international artists. The fair is held in a different location each year and is a great opportunity to discover new and emerging artists, as well as purchase artworks. To reach the fair, check the event website for the specific location, and allow at least a few hours to explore the fair and its exhibits.
Manchester Christmas Markets
Manchester Christmas Markets is an annual event that takes place in the city center and offers a wide range of festive gifts, crafts, and food and drink. The markets are held in various locations throughout the city, including Albert Square, St. Ann’s Square, and New Cathedral Street. To reach the markets, check the event website for the specific location, and allow at least a few hours to explore the markets and its festive offerings.
Overall, Manchester shopping is an exciting and diverse experience that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands, unique street markets, or bustling commercial centers, the city has a wide range of shopping destinations to discover. With the variety of options from shopping malls, commercial centers, shopping districts, luxury boutiques, street markets and exhibitions, Manchester is a must-visit destination for shoppers.
