Upper Campfield Market Hall: Manchester’s Historic Victorian Market Revival
Historic Victorian market hall in Manchester’s Castlefield, now a vibrant artisan market and creative hub blending heritage with modern innovation.
Upper Campfield Market Hall, a Grade II listed Victorian market building in Manchester’s Castlefield, dates back to 1882. Once a bustling market and exhibition space, it has evolved through wartime uses and cultural reinventions. Today, it forms part of the vibrant Campfield campus, hosting artisan markets, creative studios, and a European-style food hall, blending heritage with innovation in a dynamic urban setting.
A brief summary to Upper Campfield Market Hall
- Barton St, Manchester, M3 4NN, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on Saturdays to experience the weekly artisan market featuring local food vendors and crafts.
- Explore the surrounding Castlefield area for additional historic sites and scenic canal walks.
- Enjoy the European-style food hall inside Campfield Studios for a variety of quality street food.
- Check for special events and performances held in the market hall’s flexible event spaces.
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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Tram
Take the Manchester Metrolink tram to Deansgate-Castlefield station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the market hall. Trams run frequently with tickets costing around £3-£5 for a single journey.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Castlefield area, including routes 1, 2, and 3, with stops within a 10-minute walk. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4. Services operate regularly but may be less frequent on weekends and evenings.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber can drop you directly at Barton Street near Upper Campfield Market Hall. Travel time from Manchester city centre is about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, with fares generally between £6 and £12.
Upper Campfield Market Hall 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 Upper Campfield Market Hall
Architectural Heritage and Victorian Market Origins
Upper Campfield Market Hall was constructed in 1882, designed by the Manchester architectural firm Mangnall and Littlewood. This Grade II listed building is a notable example of Victorian cast iron construction, originally serving as a fresh produce market specializing in cheese and vegetables. Situated in Castlefield, adjacent to the Lower Campfield Market Hall and near the historic St. Matthew’s Church site, it has long been a focal point for commerce and community life in Manchester.Evolution Through the Twentieth Century
Throughout its history, Upper Campfield Market Hall has adapted to the changing needs of the city. While the Lower Campfield Market transitioned into exhibition halls and wartime factories, Upper Campfield retained its market function longer before periods of dormancy. It has hosted diverse uses including theatrical venues and artisan markets. The building’s robust cast iron structure and expansive interior have allowed flexible repurposing, though it has faced challenges such as closures and the need for restoration.Recent Regeneration and Cultural Renaissance
In recent years, Upper Campfield Market Hall has been revitalized as part of the Campfield campus, a creative and tech hub that reimagines historic market halls for the 21st century. Since 2024, it has hosted a weekly artisan market featuring local independent traders, food vendors, and cultural events. The hall’s glass roof and open-plan design provide an inviting atmosphere for food halls, craft markets, and performance spaces, fostering a vibrant community destination that honors its market legacy while embracing modern urban culture.Campfield Campus: Innovation Meets Heritage
The Campfield campus integrates Upper Campfield Market Hall with adjacent historic buildings and new developments like Castlefield House, creating a mixed-use environment for media production, tech startups, and creative industries. This fusion of heritage architecture and cutting-edge workspace supports Manchester’s position as a leading city for innovation. The campus includes cafés, bars, event spaces, and flexible studios, making it a dynamic place for work, leisure, and social gatherings.Community and Future Prospects
Upper Campfield Market Hall’s future is envisioned as a lively cultural and economic hub. Proposals have included establishing retail units for local independents, artisan markets, and even a Roman Heritage Centre to celebrate Manchester’s origins. The hall’s restoration and activation aim to sustain its historic character while generating new opportunities for community engagement, creative expression, and urban regeneration in Castlefield.Historic Significance and Preservation
Recognized for its architectural and historical value, Upper Campfield Market Hall holds a Grade II listing, protecting its Victorian cast iron framework and distinctive market hall features. Its preservation reflects Manchester’s commitment to maintaining its industrial heritage amid urban development. The building stands as a testament to the city’s evolving commercial and cultural narrative, from 19th-century markets to a 21st-century innovation campus.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
0.2 km
Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Castlefield historical zone
0.2 km
Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Roman Gardens
0.3 km
Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.
Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall
0.3 km
Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
0.3 km
Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
Free Trade Hall
0.4 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.4 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Bahnhof Manchester
0.4 km
Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Friedrich Engels Statue
0.4 km
A bold Soviet-era statue honoring Friedrich Engels stands proudly in Manchester, bridging industrial history with modern radical spirit.
Canada House, Manchester
0.5 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Hotspur House
0.5 km
Historic Hotspur House blends Manchester’s industrial past with bold modern redevelopment, preserving heritage amid vibrant urban renewal.
Historic England
0.5 km
Explore the rich heritage of England at Historic England in Manchester, where history meets preservation and community engagement.
Albert Memorial
0.6 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Mulberry Passage
0.6 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
John Bright Statue
0.6 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Unmissable attractions to see
Beetham Tower
0.1 km
Manchester’s tallest skyscraper outside London, Beetham Tower combines luxury living, stunning views, and bold modern architecture in the heart of the city.
Castlefield Urban Heritage Park
0.2 km
Explore Manchester’s historic heart where Roman ruins, scenic canals, and vibrant culture converge in the UK’s first Urban Heritage Park.
Mamucium Roman Fort Reconstruction
0.2 km
Explore the reconstructed Roman fort of Mamucium, a vital northern frontier garrison that shaped Manchester’s ancient roots.
Great Northern
0.2 km
A lively blend of historic charm and modern entertainment in Manchester’s premier shopping and leisure plaza.
Saint John's Gardens
0.2 km
A serene urban oasis in Manchester preserving historic churchyard remnants and offering peaceful green space near Deansgate.
Castlefield Gallery
0.2 km
Manchester’s pioneering contemporary art gallery fostering creativity, community, and artist development since 1984.
Science and Industry Museum
0.2 km
Explore 250 years of innovation and industrial heritage at Manchester’s historic Science and Industry Museum, housed in the world’s oldest passenger railway station.
Castlefield National Trust railway walk
0.3 km
Discover a historic Victorian railway viaduct transformed into a vibrant elevated garden blending industrial heritage with nature in Manchester’s oldest district.
Alcotraz Manchester: Cell Block Three-Four
0.3 km
Discover the thrilling cocktail experience at Alcotraz Manchester, where immersive storytelling meets masterful mixology in a unique prison-themed bar.
National Trust - Castlefield Viaduct
0.3 km
A Victorian railway viaduct reborn as a lush elevated sky garden blending Manchester’s industrial heritage with vibrant urban nature.
Opera House Manchester
0.3 km
A historic Edwardian theatre in Manchester offering world-class musicals, opera, and vibrant cultural performances in an elegant setting.
Albert Hall, Manchester
0.3 km
Historic Wesleyan chapel turned iconic music venue with stunning stained glass and vaulted ceilings in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
0.4 km
Dive into the ultimate immersive adventure inspired by the iconic 90s TV show, where teamwork and fun collide in Manchester’s thrilling Crystal Maze LIVE Experience.
The Bridgewater Hall
0.4 km
Manchester’s premier concert hall offering world-class acoustics, diverse performances, and accessible facilities in a striking modern setting.
Sightseeing Manchester
0.4 km
Manchester’s iconic concert hall blending architectural beauty and world-class music in the heart of the city.
Essential places to dine
Dimitri's - Tapas Meze Bar & Restaurant
0.0 km
Authentic Greek tapas and meze in Manchester’s lively Deansgate district, perfect for sharing and savoring Mediterranean flavors.
Don Marco
0.0 km
Contemporary Italian dining with warm service and fresh flavors in Manchester’s lively Campfield Arcade.
Italiana Fifty Five Liverpool Road
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm with freshly made pasta and unique flambéed dishes in the heart of Manchester.
Evuna Deansgate
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Deansgate district.
Podium
0.1 km
Sophisticated Modern British dining with inventive flavors and sleek modernist style in Manchester’s iconic Hilton Deansgate.
Another hand
0.1 km
An intimate modern British restaurant in Manchester’s Deansgate Mews, celebrated for inventive seasonal dishes and natural wines.
Dom's Italia
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Manchester at Dom's Italia, where tradition meets vibrant city dining.
James Martin Manchester
0.2 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine in an elegant casino setting, where seasonal ingredients and expert service create a memorable Manchester dining destination.
Italiana Fifty Five Great Northern
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Manchester’s stylish Great Northern Warehouse setting.
Almost Famous GN
0.2 km
A lively Manchester burger bar serving bold, indulgent American-style burgers with loaded fries in a vibrant, casual setting.
Dukes 92
0.3 km
A vibrant Manchester hotspot blending generous dining, lively music, and versatile event spaces in a stylish city centre setting.
20 Stories
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from 20 Stories, a glamorous rooftop restaurant blending Modern European cuisine with stunning city views.
Albert's Schloss - Manchester
0.3 km
A lively Bavarian-inspired beer hall in Manchester blending hearty food, live music, and vibrant nightlife in a unique social setting.
Albert's Shed Restaurant Manchester
0.3 km
Modern European dining with generous portions and lively canal-side ambiance in Manchester’s historic Castlefield district.
Hawksmoor Manchester
0.4 km
Experience exquisite British steaks and seafood in a historic Victorian courthouse with impeccable service and elegant private dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Catch my Thrift
0.0 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
TVSeriesJackets
0.1 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
0.2 km
Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
Branded Like A Boss
0.4 km
Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
ItsFetch
0.4 km
Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
0.4 km
Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
0.4 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
INFINITE RUNNING
0.4 km
Elevate your run with Infinite Running's premium gear: sleek half tights, breathable singlets, and weather-ready layers for Manchester's relentless athletes.
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
0.6 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.8 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Pulse
0.8 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Stare Society
0.8 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Søstrene Grene
0.8 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Rams Gift World
1.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Menkind
1.0 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
cask
0.1 km
Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
Cloud 23
0.1 km
Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
The Deansgate
0.1 km
Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Three Little Words
0.2 km
A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
Lock 91
0.2 km
Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Atlas Bar
0.2 km
Discover Manchester’s iconic gin bar with 570+ gins, award-winning service, and a year-round heated terrace in the heart of Deansgate.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
0.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
The Britons Protection
0.3 km
Historic Manchester pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional charm, lively atmosphere, and welcoming community spirit.
Barça - Canal-side Bar, Castlefield - Manchester
0.3 km
Canal terraces, stylish drinks, and Castlefield vibes—Manchester's waterside bar for every occasion.
Speak In Code
0.4 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
The Alchemist Spinningfields
0.4 km
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
The Wharf
0.4 km
Cosy canalside pub in Manchester's Castlefield, where real fires, craft ales, hearty roasts, and patio views create an unmissable waterside retreat for all.
Bar Eight
0.5 km
Lively Irish pub on Manchester's Castle Quay, blending sports screens, hearty grub, and canalside cheer for unforgettable nights out.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
0.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
The Gas Lamp
0.6 km
Discover Manchester’s atmospheric basement pub with a rich history, exceptional craft beers, and a cozy, characterful vibe beneath Bridge Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Royal Vida Night Club
0.1 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Ark Manchester
0.2 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
0.2 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
History Nightclub
0.2 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.3 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
42's
0.3 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Venue Nightclub
0.4 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Club Liv Manchester
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Viva Manchester
0.6 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Kable
0.7 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
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
1.0 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.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
1.0 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
The Cockatoo Club
1.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
Bijou Club
1.1 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
