The Makers Market, Northern Quarter, Manchester
Discover Manchester’s creative pulse at The Makers Market, where artisan crafts, street food, and live music unite in the vibrant Northern Quarter.
The Makers Market in Manchester’s Northern Quarter is a vibrant monthly event celebrating local artisans, food vendors, and craftspeople. Held on Oak Street, this lively market offers a diverse range of handmade goods, vintage finds, and award-winning street food, all set within the city’s creative hub. It’s a hotspot for unique gifts, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere that captures Manchester’s independent spirit.
A brief summary to The Makers Market
- 5 Oak St, Manchester, M4 5JD, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on the second Sunday of the month to experience the full range of artisan stalls and live music.
- Bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards, and prepare for limited shelter in case of rain.
- Arrive early to avoid the busiest times and enjoy a more relaxed browsing experience.
- Explore nearby cafes and shops in the Northern Quarter to complement your market visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Dog Friendly
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tram
Take the Manchester Metrolink tram to the Piccadilly Gardens stop, a 10-minute walk from The Makers Market. Trams run frequently throughout the day with tickets costing approximately £3-£5 for a single journey.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Oak Street, including services on Jersey Street just 3 minutes away on foot. Buses operate regularly with fares around £3 per trip, but check schedules for evening and weekend frequency.
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Car
Driving to The Makers Market is possible with nearby city car parks available for a daily rate typically between £5 and £15. Be aware of urban traffic and limited parking during market hours.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Manchester, walking to Oak Street is a pleasant option, taking 10-20 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is mostly flat but includes typical city pavements and kerbs.
The Makers Market location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Makers Market
A Creative Hub in Manchester’s Northern Quarter
Nestled in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter, The Makers Market transforms Oak Street into a bustling venue where independent creatives showcase their talents. This market is a monthly gathering, typically held on the second Sunday, that brings together a curated selection of artisan food, craft, and vintage stalls. The Northern Quarter itself is known for its edgy, artistic vibe, and the market perfectly embodies this spirit by offering visitors a chance to explore unique handmade products and sample award-winning street food.Eclectic Offerings and Artisan Excellence
Visitors to The Makers Market can expect an eclectic mix of stalls ranging from home décor, prints, and quirky terrariums to bespoke jewellery and artisan baked goods. Food lovers are treated to a variety of options including wood-fired pizzas, vegan pastries, and innovative beverages like locally crafted alcoholic sparkling waters. The market’s focus on quality and originality ensures that shoppers find one-of-a-kind items not available elsewhere, making it a treasure trove for gift hunters and collectors.Atmosphere and Community Spirit
The market thrives on its lively and friendly atmosphere, enhanced by live music performances that add a festive soundtrack to the shopping experience. While the market can get busy, its location offers multiple entry points and side streets to ease crowd flow. It’s also a dog-friendly event, welcoming visitors of all ages and interests. The Makers Market fosters a strong sense of community by supporting local independent businesses and providing a platform for creative entrepreneurs across Manchester and the North West.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Situated on a generally flat street, the market is wheelchair and pushchair accessible, though visitors should be prepared for typical urban kerbs and pedestrian traffic. Nearby city car parks provide parking options, and the area is well served by public transport, making it easy to reach. Amenities include outdoor seating areas and dog-friendly spaces, though shelter is limited, so weather considerations are advised. Entry to the market is free, encouraging spontaneous visits and repeat attendance.Expanding the Makers Market Experience
Beyond the Northern Quarter, The Makers Market operates in various locations across Manchester and the North West, each reflecting the character of its neighborhood. These markets share a commitment to showcasing high-quality, handmade products and fostering local creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or new to the scene, The Makers Market offers a dynamic and authentic taste of Manchester’s thriving artisan culture.Planning Your Visit and Seasonal Highlights
The market’s timing on the second Sunday of each month allows visitors to plan around other Northern Quarter attractions and events. While it is an outdoor market, it operates year-round, weather permitting, and offers a vibrant weekend outing with plenty of opportunities to discover new makers and enjoy the city’s creative pulse. The combination of food, craft, music, and community makes The Makers Market a memorable destination for locals and tourists alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.3 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
0.7 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.
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.
Mulberry Passage
0.8 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Emmeline Pankhurst Statue
0.8 km
Discover the Emmeline Pankhurst Statue in Manchester, a powerful symbol of the women's suffrage movement and a celebration of gender equality.
Ancoats Green
0.8 km
Discover Ancoats Green, a peaceful park in Manchester offering lush landscapes and a tranquil escape from the urban hustle.
Unmissable attractions to see
Manchester Craft and Design Centre
0.1 km
Discover handmade crafts, meet local artists, and enjoy artisan café culture in Manchester’s 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.
Breakout Manchester Church Street
0.1 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms on Manchester’s Church Street with diverse themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
DRY BAR
0.1 km
Discover the lively ambiance and eclectic music scene at DRY BAR, a premier bar and nightclub in Manchester's vibrant nightlife.
Shops
0.1 km
Discover Oldham Street, Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter hotspot for vintage fashion, indie shops, live music, and authentic urban culture.
Manchester Buddhist Centre
0.1 km
A serene urban sanctuary in Manchester’s Northern Quarter offering meditation, wellness, and a unique sober bar experience.
Afflecks
0.1 km
Explore Manchester’s legendary alternative indoor market, home to over 60 independent traders and a vibrant hub of creativity and culture.
Band on the Wall
0.2 km
Historic Manchester music venue famed for intimate gigs, jazz roots, punk legacy, and a unique stage high on the wall.
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.
Stevenson Square
0.2 km
Manchester’s Stevenson Square: the energetic Northern Quarter hub for bars, culture, and vibrant nightlife in the city centre.
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.
Express Building
0.3 km
A timeless Streamline Moderne masterpiece blending historic print heritage with vibrant modern workspaces in the heart of Ancoats, Manchester.
Empire Exchange
0.3 km
Dive into Manchester’s eclectic Empire Exchange, a treasure trove of vintage comics, vinyl, and collectibles where every visit uncovers a new story.
Piccadilly Gardens
0.3 km
Manchester’s central green space blending historic charm, modern design, and vital transport connections in a lively urban setting.
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.
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.
Cane & Grain
0.0 km
Discover Cane & Grain: where traditional American cuisine meets Manchester's vibrant nightlife scene in an unforgettable dining experience.
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.
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.
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.
63 Degrees
0.1 km
Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
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.
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.
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
0.1 km
Savor award-winning British pies in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, where tradition meets modern comfort food in a lively, welcoming setting.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.1 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
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.
Tariff & Dale
0.4 km
Historic industrial charm meets modern British cuisine and inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
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.
Jessica6 Designs
0.0 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
&made
0.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Pop Boutique
0.1 km
Tucked into Oldham Street, Pop Boutique is Manchester’s well-curated vintage emporium for mid-century to 1990s fashion finds and eclectic accessories.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.1 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Kiku Boutique
0.1 km
Bespoke corsets and vintage lingerie in Manchester's Northern Quarter: handmade elegance that defies fast fashion.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.1 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Thunder Egg
0.1 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.
Nordic Muse Lifestyle Store
0.1 km
A quietly curated Northern Quarter boutique for simple, well-crafted jewellery and Nordic-inspired homeware.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Science And Industry
0.0 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.
The Daisy
0.1 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
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.
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.
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.
Night & Day Cafe
0.1 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
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.
Dusk Til Pawn
0.2 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Flok
0.2 km
Lively pub with excellent drinks and friendly vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife.
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.
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.
The Fitzgerald
0.2 km
Velvet seats, craft cocktails and live jazz in a 1920s‑inspired Manchester speakeasy with a stage for cabaret and private hire.
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.
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
0.6 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
0.9 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.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
1.1 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
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.
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
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
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
