A Winter Wonderland: Christmas in Manchester
09 Dec 2025

As Christmas approaches, there are few places more magical than Greater Manchester. With an abundance of events, festive bars, restaurants, and natural beauty all at your doorstep, there is plenty for locals to enjoy.

Let's take a look at some of the best places to go in Greater Manchester this December. 

1. Christmas markets: Most people will have heard of the famous Manchester Christmas Markets over the years. With 200 stalls of food, drinks and artisanal drinks, it's certainly not to be missed. But there are also lots of alternative markets taking place across the region this December too. Why not try the Salford Quayside Christmas Makers Market, Christmas at St John’s curated by GRUB, or Winter Island at Freight Island?
2. The big wheel & ice skating: If you don’t mind heights, the new Manchester Festive Wheel in Albert Square offers breathtaking city views. Or you could glide under the lights at Skate Manchester in Cathedral Gardens. Greater Manchester’s travel options also make it easy to get to these city centre activities.
3. Immersive light trails: Stunning outdoor light experiences are popping up across the region. Lightopia Festival at Heaton Park and the RHS Glow event at RHS Garden Bridgewater are just a few of the options suitable for the whole family. 
4. Winter walks: For a breath of fresh air, head to Oldham, where we are currently building our Hartshead View development. With a quarter of the borough lying within the Peak District National Park, Oldham offers some stunning countryside views. Dovestone Reservoir is a great spot for a crisp winter walk.
5. Music events: For music lovers, the festive season is also bringing some great acts to the Co-op Live Arena. With huge shows like the RnB Xmas Ball and Stereophonics taking place in December, there is a diverse range of entertainment right up until Christmas Day. Take a look at some of the best places to eat near the Co-op Live Manchester too. Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza in Ancoats is offering some delicious festive specials if you fancy some food before a gig.
6. Family fun: This December there are plenty of family-friendly winter activities taking place across the region too. Catch the pantomime Robin Hood at the Opera House from Saturday 6th December to Sunday 4th January.

From the delicious food at the Christmas markets to frosty walks in Oldham’s countryside, living in Manchester feels extra special in December. 

For those considering a new home in Greater Manchester, take a look at our developments Hartshead View, Millbank Lock, The Fairways at Brackley Village, and Calico Grove.