The best alternative Christmas markets to visit in Greater Manchester

In only a matter of days Manchester’s Christmas markets will open to the public. Already wooden huts have started going up across the city centre with over 200 stalls spread across nine “zones” including Piccadilly Gardens, Exchange Street and St Ann’s Square.

Thousands of visitors are expected to descend upon the markets to tuck into sizzling sausages and sip on steaming mugs of Gluhwein. Many people welcome the return of the markets, which are celebrating their 26th year.

But for some it can all be a bit too much - and that’s ok. There’s a range of smaller markets and Christmassy events taking place across Greater Manchester throughout the festive period, offering an alternative to the main ones.

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Whether you fancy browsing stalls in a Victorian swimming pool, or want to support Black-owned businesses, there’s a great selection of different markets this year. Here are some of the best ones to visit this year.

Over the years The Oxford, a family-run pub at the foot of the Pennines in Rochdale, has become known for putting on its very own Christmas markets. Now in its 11th year, the market is held in the pub’s outdoor covered events space for the first three Sundays in December from 12pm to 6pm.

It’s got a proper cosy and community atmosphere to it with all the food and drinks prepared by the pub with their outside kitchen and bar; expect fresh hog roast sandwiches and warming mugs of mulled wine. A brass band and live music is on hand to create the ultimate festive experience which even Scrooge himself would enjoy.

The Oxford, 662 Whitworth Road, Rochdale, OL12 OTB

Experience Christmas Markets with a party atmosphere at