Manchester Craft and Design Centre
Discover handmade crafts, meet local artists, and enjoy artisan café culture in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Located in Manchester's vibrant Northern Quarter, the Manchester Craft and Design Centre is a historic Victorian building housing over 20 independent studios. It showcases a diverse range of handmade crafts including jewellery, ceramics, textiles, and fine art. Visitors can meet artists at work, explore exhibitions, attend workshops, and relax in the artisan café. The centre is a creative hub celebrating regional craftsmanship and sustainable design.
A brief summary to Manchester Craft and Design Centre
- 17 Oak St, Manchester, M4 5JD, GB
- +441618324274
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday afternoons for a quieter experience and more opportunity to interact with artists at work.
- Check the centre’s website for current exhibitions and book workshops in advance to secure your place.
- Enjoy a break at Fred’s Café, which offers locally sourced, seasonal British dishes and excellent coffee.
- Bring your dog along, but respect studio restrictions marked with a red sticker to protect delicate artworks.
- Explore bespoke commissions by speaking directly with makers in their studios for unique, personalized gifts.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Reach the centre easily via Manchester’s Metrolink tram system, alighting at Shudehill or Market Street stations, both within a 5-minute walk. Numerous bus routes serve nearby stops, and Piccadilly Gardens bus station is a 6-minute walk away. Typical tram or bus fares range from £2 to £4, with frequent services throughout the day.
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Train
From Manchester Piccadilly or Victoria train stations, the centre is a 10 to 15-minute walk through the Northern Quarter. Both stations are well connected to regional and national rail services, making the centre accessible for day-trippers and visitors from outside the city.
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Car
If driving, nearby public car parks such as the NCP Shudehill or Northern Quarter car parks offer parking options. Expect to pay around £10–£15 for a half-day stay. Note that street parking is limited and the area can be busy, especially on weekends.
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Walking
The centre is ideally situated for pedestrians exploring the Northern Quarter. Walking from Piccadilly Gardens or nearby attractions takes 10 to 20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Manchester Craft and Design Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Manchester Craft and Design Centre
A Historic Hub of Creativity in Manchester's Northern Quarter
Housed in a beautifully preserved Victorian fish and poultry market building, the Manchester Craft and Design Centre has been a cornerstone of the city's creative scene for over 40 years. This iconic structure, with its large glass ceiling and airy interior, provides a unique setting where traditional craftsmanship meets contemporary design. Its location in the Northern Quarter, Manchester's cultural heart, places it amid a bustling neighborhood known for its artistic spirit and vibrant street life.A Diverse Community of Independent Makers
Within its two floors, the centre hosts more than 20 studios where talented local artists and designers create and sell their work. The range of crafts is broad, including textiles, ceramics, jewellery, glasswork, prints, paintings, and sculpture. Each studio offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the creative process, often allowing direct interaction with the makers themselves. Many artists welcome commissions, providing bespoke pieces that reflect personal stories and craftsmanship.Exhibitions, Workshops, and Events
Beyond shopping, the centre is a lively cultural venue offering a regular programme of free exhibitions showcasing regional, national, and international craft talent. Visitors can deepen their appreciation for contemporary craft through these thoughtfully curated displays. Additionally, a series of workshops held in the dedicated Space2 studio invites people of all skill levels to learn new techniques, from jewellery making to pottery. These hands-on experiences enrich the visitor’s connection to the craft community.Fred’s Café: A Taste of Local Flavour
On the ground floor, Fred’s Café provides a welcoming spot to rest and refresh. Serving a menu inspired by classic British staples with a northern twist, the café emphasizes locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying a morning coffee, a light lunch, or a sweet treat, the atmosphere is bright and friendly, complementing the creative energy of the centre. The café is open Tuesday to Saturday and on the second Sunday of each month.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The centre is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with step-free entrances and an accessible toilet with baby changing facilities on the ground floor. While some upper-floor studios have limited access, the management team is proactive in assisting visitors with mobility needs. The centre also welcomes dogs, with clear guidelines to protect fragile artworks. Informative signage and friendly staff enhance the visitor experience, making it suitable for families, art enthusiasts, and casual browsers alike.A Commitment to Sustainability and Craftsmanship
Reflecting current concerns about environmental impact, the centre’s makers often focus on sustainable materials and low-impact production methods. Exhibitions such as "Makers Make 2038" highlight this commitment, exploring creative ways to contribute to Manchester’s goal of becoming a zero-carbon city. This ethos is woven into the centre’s identity, making it not only a place to admire and purchase art but also a space that fosters thoughtful, responsible creativity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.4 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Robert Owen Statue
0.4 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.5 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Murrays' Mill
0.6 km
Explore Murrays' Mills, the world’s oldest urban steam-powered cotton mill, where industrial heritage meets modern living in Manchester’s historic Ancoats district.
Arch of Chinatown
0.7 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Connaught Building
0.7 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Victory Over Blindness
0.8 km
A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
John Bright Statue
0.8 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Manchester City Council
0.8 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Albert Memorial
0.8 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Dalton Entry
0.8 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.8 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
St. Peter's Square
0.8 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Emmeline Pankhurst Statue
0.9 km
Discover the Emmeline Pankhurst Statue in Manchester, a powerful symbol of the women's suffrage movement and a celebration of gender equality.
Manchester Central Library
0.9 km
Explore the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Manchester Central Library, a historic gem in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Makers Market
0.1 km
Discover Manchester’s creative pulse at The Makers Market, where artisan crafts, street food, and live music unite in the vibrant Northern Quarter.
NQ Mural
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant NQ Mural, a colorful centerpiece of Manchester's Northern Quarter renowned for its dynamic street art and creative energy.
Band on the Wall
0.1 km
Historic Manchester music venue famed for intimate gigs, jazz roots, punk legacy, and a unique stage high on the wall.
Manchester Buddhist Centre
0.2 km
A serene urban sanctuary in Manchester’s Northern Quarter offering meditation, wellness, and a unique sober bar experience.
DRY BAR
0.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance and eclectic music scene at DRY BAR, a premier bar and nightclub in Manchester's vibrant nightlife.
Breakout Manchester Church Street
0.2 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms on Manchester’s Church Street with diverse themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
Shops
0.2 km
Discover Oldham Street, Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter hotspot for vintage fashion, indie shops, live music, and authentic urban culture.
Afflecks
0.2 km
Explore Manchester’s legendary alternative indoor market, home to over 60 independent traders and a vibrant hub of creativity and culture.
Stevenson Square
0.2 km
Manchester’s Stevenson Square: the energetic Northern Quarter hub for bars, culture, and vibrant nightlife in the city centre.
Blue Rinse Manchester and Kilo Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures by the kilo in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, blending style with sustainability.
Express Building
0.3 km
A timeless Streamline Moderne masterpiece blending historic print heritage with vibrant modern workspaces in the heart of Ancoats, Manchester.
Greater Manchester Police Museum & Archives
0.3 km
Explore Manchester’s historic police station, original cells, and magistrates’ court in this immersive museum dedicated to policing heritage.
Empire Exchange
0.4 km
Dive into Manchester’s eclectic Empire Exchange, a treasure trove of vintage comics, vinyl, and collectibles where every visit uncovers a new story.
Fell Northern Quarter
0.4 km
Experience the heartbeat of Manchester's nightlife at Fell Northern Quarter, where craft beer meets vibrant culture in an inviting atmosphere.
Hilton House Mural
0.4 km
A powerful street art mural in Manchester’s Northern Quarter blending social themes with vibrant urban creativity.
Essential places to dine
Almost Famous NQ
0.0 km
Bold, indulgent burgers and vibrant vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, a must-visit for burger lovers and casual diners alike.
Yard & Coop Manchester
0.1 km
Savor the best buttermilk fried chicken in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with bold flavors, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Cane & Grain
0.1 km
Discover Cane & Grain: where traditional American cuisine meets Manchester's vibrant nightlife scene in an unforgettable dining experience.
63 Degrees
0.1 km
Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
A beloved Northern Quarter gem serving seasonal British cuisine with award-winning roasts and warm, attentive service in a relaxed brasserie setting.
Liquor and Burn
0.1 km
Experience bold Mexican street food and vibrant cocktails in Manchester’s artistic Northern Quarter at Luck Lust Liquor & Burn.
Evuna NQ
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant hospitality in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Evuna NQ, a lively hub for food, wine, and culture.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
Turtle Bay Manchester Northern Quarter
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively island vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Turtle Bay.
Pieminister Manchester
0.2 km
Savor award-winning British pies in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, where tradition meets modern comfort food in a lively, welcoming setting.
Trof Northern Quarter
0.2 km
A multi-level Northern Quarter gem serving hearty British comfort food, craft beers, and rare bourbons in a lively, rustic setting.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.2 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Viet Shack Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience bold Vietnamese street food flavors and vibrant fusion dishes in the heart of Manchester’s creative Ancoats district.
Canto
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Portuguese tapas and Mediterranean flavors in the stylish heart of Ancoats, Manchester’s buzzing culinary hotspot.
Jimmy's Manchester
0.4 km
Discover Jimmy's Manchester: A lively bar serving delicious American BBQ and inventive cocktails in Ancoats.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jessica6 Designs
0.0 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
0.0 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
&made
0.0 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Deadstock General Store
0.0 km
Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Kiku Boutique
0.1 km
Bespoke corsets and vintage lingerie in Manchester's Northern Quarter: handmade elegance that defies fast fashion.
Nordic Muse Lifestyle Store
0.1 km
A quietly curated Northern Quarter boutique for simple, well-crafted jewellery and Nordic-inspired homeware.
Pop Boutique
0.2 km
Tucked into Oldham Street, Pop Boutique is Manchester’s well-curated vintage emporium for mid-century to 1990s fashion finds and eclectic accessories.
Suzylovesmilo concept store
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Suzylovesmilo, Manchester’s curated concept store blending Japanese influences with local creativity.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.2 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Thunder Egg
0.2 km
Dive into a rainbow of quirky fashion and gifts at Thunder Egg, Manchester's colorful boutique for unique vintage-inspired styles and playful outfits.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.2 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Form Lifestyle Store
0.2 km
Discover Manchester's hidden gem: a light-filled Grade II listed haven brimming with indie-crafted homewares, gifts, and creative workshops in the Northern Quarter.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.2 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Fred Aldous Ltd
0.2 km
Manchester’s vibrant, family-run arts and crafts emporium with 30,000 products, vintage photo booths, and a creative spirit spanning over 130 years.
The Manchester Shop
0.2 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Science And Industry
0.1 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a stylish vibe await you at Science and Industry, the first-floor bar of Cane & Grain in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Behind Closed Doors
0.1 km
Descend into debauched delight at this Northern Quarter speakeasy, where retro telephones summon saucy cocktails amid erotic art, neon booths, and funky DJ beats until 4am.
Wolf at the Door
0.1 km
A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
Mean Eyed Cat Bar Manchester
0.1 km
Dive into Manchester’s Northern Quarter for rebellious rock ’n’ roll vibes, free pizza, and legendary dice games at Mean Eyed Cat Bar.
Wilson's Social
0.1 km
All-day Northern Quarter hub: brunch by day, cocktails and beats by night in a multi-level party palace with pool, courtyard, and private den.
The Daisy
0.2 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
Bar Fringe
0.2 km
A cozy Northern Quarter bar with quirky charm, top Belgian beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for relaxed socializing.
Night & Day Cafe
0.2 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
7Sins, Northern Quarter
0.2 km
A vibrant basement bar and gaming hub in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, mixing cocktails, pool, arcade games, and dance club energy.
The Crown & Kettle
0.2 km
Grade II-listed Ancoats gem with a world-class tin ceiling, craft beer mastery, and cozy Victorian vibes—Manchester's perfect pub hybrid.
Flok
0.2 km
Lively pub with excellent drinks and friendly vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife.
Dusk Til Pawn
0.2 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.2 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
The Fitzgerald
0.3 km
Velvet seats, craft cocktails and live jazz in a 1920s‑inspired Manchester speakeasy with a stage for cabaret and private hire.
The Washhouse
0.3 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Funkademia
0.1 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
0.1 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Aatma
0.2 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.3 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Cargo
0.4 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
0.5 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Bijou Club
0.7 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Satans Hollow
0.8 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Club Tropicana
0.8 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
Club Liv Manchester
0.9 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Venue Nightclub
1.0 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
42's
1.1 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
1.1 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
1.2 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
History Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Sunlight-filled Interiors
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
