It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Some may say it’s too early, but who can resist the charm of a Christmas market? I’ve had the pleasure of visiting many, yet Manchester’s festive season is truly extraordinary.
Just over 2 hours on the train from London and being able to work on route with Wi-Fi and plug sockets made the journey even easier. I stayed about 10 minutes from the station at Hyatt House (see separate review) and situated near to many of the Universities. It was on their recommendation that my trip was a delightful blend of holiday cheer, cultural experiences, and business-friendly amenities combining bleisure.
The Manchester Christmas Markets are a sprawling festive wonderland, spread across several locations in the city centre. From Piccadilly Gardens, Albert Square, St. Ann’s Square and Cathedral Gardens, each market area has its own unique charm. With over 300 stalls the markets are a sensory delight, with the aroma of mulled wine, spiced cider and and, thankfully, fewer Bratwursts than typically encountered at such events.
Markets overflowing with handcrafted gifts, holiday ornaments, and international culinary delights create an ideal setting for both leisure and business travellers. These markets serve as excellent networking hubs, featuring a variety of local enterprises and craftsmen showcasing their produce.
Cradling my souvenir Christmas mug filled with aromatic spiced cider, I lingered outside a log cabin, relishing the view when, lo and behold – it began to snow. Tomorrow, I return home to set up my decorations!
My subsequent visit, as suggested, was to Mayfield Park, a recent addition to Manchester’s festive offerings, providing a serene and picturesque setting. Despite Manchester’s limited greenery, the park becomes a winter wonderland adorned with sparkling lights, ice skating rinks, and cosy fire pits. This captivating immersive light trail serves as a perfect retreat for unwinding in the evening following a day filled with meetings or conferences.
The park is a hub for various events and performances, contributing to its festive ambiance. A highlight is Freight Island, a transformed industrial space now featuring an ‘inside-out’ venue complete with bars, street food, and music that continues well into the night.
Apart from the Christmas markets, Manchester boasts a variety of cultural attractions ideal for business travellers seeking relaxation or client entertainment. While the two football museums are the obvious choices, I sought an alternative to make the most of the fresh, crisp blue-sky morning, and Hyatt House suggested something a bit out of the ordinary.
The Manchester Museum, within walking distance of the hotel, is a must-visit destination. Constructed in 1888 and designed by Alfred Waterhouse, who also designed The Natural History Museum in London, the building evokes the magical aura of Hogwarts. It provides a captivating window into the city’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage. The museum houses everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art exhibitions, a live vivarium with endangered frog species as part of their conservation efforts, and the iconic Stan the T-Rex, reminiscent of ‘Night at the Museum.’
Another gem is the Whitchurch Centre, a hub for arts and culture in Manchester. The centre hosts a variety of events, including theatre performances, art exhibitions, workshops and has a stunning glass café overlooking gardens filled with art. It’s a great place to catch a show or participate in a creative activity, making it a perfect addition to any business trip itinerary.
This is just my whistlestop tour of Manchester’s Christmas markets and cultural attractions that offer a unique blend of festive cheer and business-friendly amenities. Whether you’re looking to network, entertain clients, or simply enjoy the holiday season, Manchester has something to offer.
The city’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a standout destination for business travellers not just for the festive season.