20.12.24
Published: December 10, 2024
Why Manchester is one of the best cities for shopping
Author: abbie
Published: December 10, 2024
Author: abbie
Manchester’s shops attract an international crowd, and if you’ve ever been shopping in the city, you’ll know why. From large shopping centres with global brands, to smaller, independent boutiques and antiques, Manchester’s shopping experience is nothing short of excellent. Here’s what you’ll find:
Manchester has two main indoor shopping centres: the city-centre Arndale Centre and the Trafford Centre—as well as excellent high-street destinations.
Manchester Arndale, Manchester M4 3AQ – Open 9 am to 9 pm (closes at 5:30 pm on Sundays)
The Arndale Centre has existed since 1970 and is still a must visit when in Manchester. This shopping centre is located in the heart of the city and contains more than 200 stores, including fashion stores, childrens shops, tech, footwear, beauty and more. There are also lots of dining options and cafes for that mid-shop refresher.
The Arndale Centre has international brands such as: Timberland, The North Face, Victoria’s Secret, Vans, Michael Kors, Levi’s, Hugo Boss, French Connection, and Dr. Martens to name a few. If you’re taking the kids, there’s Build-a-Bear Workshop, Lego store, MiniSo, Smiggle, and The Entertainer.
The Trafford Centre, Manchester, M17 8AA – Open 10 am to 10 pm (9 pm Fridays, 12 pm to 6pm Sundays)
A world-renowned shopping centre and leisure destination, the Trafford Centre stands proud as the UK’s third largest shopping centre. The site was opened in September 1998 and has 200 stores over three floors. The centre has excellent links to the city with two tram stops on the Metrolink network.
With a collection of major brands, including John Lewis, Fatface, Hollister, New Balance, All Saints, Sephora, Zara, H&M, Selfridges, Lululemon all your shopping needs will be fulfilled. There’s also plenty to do leisure-wise: the centre boasts an impressive collection of restaurants and eateries, including Nando’s, Las Iguanas, Five Guys, Pizza Hut, Zizzi, Wagamama and Bill’s, to name a few. On the top floor, you’ll find entertainment venues like the Odeon Cinema, Laser Quest and Paradise Island indoor golf. The ground floor also has Namco Funscape, which offers Tenpin bowling.
For those looking for luxury brands, King Street is not to be missed. This is one of Manchester’s premium shopping destinations. Here, you’ll find the likes of Austen & Blake, Belstaff, Charles Tyrwhitt, Diesel, Edit Suits Co., Hobbs, Patagonia, The White Company, Vivienne Westwood, Whistles, White Stuff and much more.
New Cathedral Street is another destination for luxury brands. This is home to Harvey Nichols, Reiss, Burberry, Hugo Boss, Ted Baker, Paul Smith, Ralph Lauren, and Michael Kors.
Manchester’s Northern Quarter is known for its unique independent shops, with hand made crafts and hidden gems. A prime example is Deadstock General Store, which is a fantastic spot for gifts.
Besides the indie shops in the Northern Quarter, Manchester is awash with plenty of independent retailers. These include:
· Bopcap Books in Levenshulme: carefully chosen books and posters.
· Fred Aldous: an iconic family-run arts and crafts store.
· Vinyl Exchange: the place to go to buy and sell old vinyl.
· Affleks: an institution in Manchester, open since 1982 with an array of different items.
· Manchester Craft & Design Centre: an emporium of ceramics, jewels, art, lighting, furniture, and more.
· Hatch: over 30 independent traders in the popup space.
If you’re interested in antiques, head to Failsworth Antiques Quarter. Situated four miles outside of the city centre this is a beautiful destination with bridges and canals. You’ll find the area full of shiny crockery, antique jewellery, and wooden furniture. Shops include:
· Old Mill Antiques: a family-run furniture warehouse.
· Second Time Around Antiques: from furniture to crockery and clothing to collectibles.
· Cornerhouse Antiques – is a film and TV set supplier.
· Antique World Manchester – silver, jewellery, vintage fashion, accessories, watches, artwork, furniture and ceramics.
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