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Things To Do In Manchester On Christmas

1. Discover sparkling tunnels of light at Delamere Forest
2. Enjoy Christmas Illuminated Trail at Dunham Massey
3. 
Christmas Lanterns at Chester Zoo
4. 
See a magical Christmas concert at Tatton Park
5. Ice skating at Escape to Freight Island
6. Enjoy immersive light installations at Lightopia
7. Have a forbidden forest experience
8. 
Wander around the Worsley Village
9. 
Explore Chill Factore
10. 
Experience a Christmas wonderland at Tinsel Town

Manchester Christmas market is one of the best and most happening Christmas markets and is also known as the capital of Christmas in the UK. It glows gloriously with stunning lights, and hundreds of wooden huts around some of the city’s wonderful squares every winter. Manchester has a lot to offer ranging from Ice skating to illuminated trails which make your Christmas as merry as possible.

The market is decorated with different themes of Christmas, which can be enjoyed with your loved ones as you wander in the spectacular streets of Manchester. Manchester has everything to make your Christmas the most memorable one, as you can relish your festival in the zoo. Or get mesmerized in the sparkling tunnels of Delamere Forest. You can enjoy several splendid festive activities and events across Manchester to end the year. We are delighted to take you through the Christmas things to do in Manchester.

Here are some of the best things to do in Manchester on Christmas: 

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01

Discover Sparkling Tunnels Of light At Delamere Forest

  • Discover the after-dark illuminated trails in the picturesque Delamere Forest as you vibe with the stunning light and seasonal sounds which brings festive cheer to the forest. 
  • Stop at the magnificent flames in the fire garden to get that moment of reflection. 
  • Get a glimpse of Father Christmas as you wander under the splendidly illuminated trails blended with magical stars.
  • Embrace the chill as you munch a hot chocolate or a spiced winter warmer sharing with your special one or all alone. 

Location:
Cheshire, England 

Timing:
4:15 PM to 8 PM

Entry Fee:
£19- £29 

Recommended Read: Things To Do In London
02

Enjoy Christmas Illuminated Trail At Dunham Massey

  • Witness the Illuminated Trail at Dunham Massey, which is the most popular among others as it offers visitors the loveliest festive season and does not miss out on experiencing one of the best things to do in Manchester Christmas.
  • Stroll along the sparkling tunnels of lights and pause at the dancing lakeside reflections. 
  • Walk under the giant baubles and the lush green trees sparkling in jewel-like colors.
  • Pause at the magical flickering flames in the festive fire garden to get a glimpse of reflection and get a chance to witness the most attractive illumination.
  • Do not miss out on getting a glimpse of Father Christmas along the way. 
  • Taste the dark hot chocolate or a spiced winter warmer made by talented street food vendors.

Location:
Altrincham, Cheshire

Timing:
4.30 PM to 10 PM

Entry Fee:
Adult £22.50- £14.50 

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In London
03

Christmas Lanterns At Chester Zoo

  • Don’t miss Chester Zoo's lanterns as it will be transformed into one of the most popular tourist attractions as it will get illuminated in the dark.
  • Immerse yourself in the magical Chester Zoo evening event, and discover the zoo in a whole new light.
  • Let your imagination run wild and explore the impressive spaces filled to the brim with magical lanterns, splendid characters, and Christmas scenes.
  • Surely, this is one of the amazing things to do in Manchester on Christmas.

Location:
Moston Rd, Upton, Chester CH2 1EU, UK

Timing:
10 am - 5pm

Also Checkout: Places To Visit In Manchester
Explore All (11)
04

See A Magical Christmas Concert At Tatton Park

  • Enjoy the most fabulous Christmas event which is inspired by “One Snowy Night”, with your family at Tatton Park’s winter garden. 
  • Stroll on the interactive trails that brought the well-known children’s Author Nick Butterworth’s illustrated stories to life for thousands of visitors.
  • Watch an authentic festive concert in the Tenants’ Hall at Tatton Park, which is performed by the Northern Chamber Orchestra. 
  • Vibe with the festive songs sung in the Northern Chamber Orchestra by the Choir of St Nicholas Catholic High School, Northwich, and much-loved carols.
  • It is one of the lively Christmas things to do in Manchester.

Location:
Tatton Park Tatton Park, Knutsford WA16 6SG, UK

Timing:
10 am- 7pm

Know More: Things To Do In Manchester
05

Ice Skating At Escape To Freight Island

  • The stage inside Escape to Freight Island will be framed by striking views as you float on ice on the mezzanine floor of the building. 
  • Escape to Freight Island offers a variety of festive entertainment for Christmas ranging from Untold Orchestra to showings of all-time favorite Christmas films that anyone would wish for as the festive season starts to kick in.
  • It's a unique winter destination to enjoy and have ultimate fun at Winter Island and the boutique indoor ice rink which is one of the coolest Christmas things to do in Manchester.

Location:
Greater Manchester 

Timing:

Monday to Thursday (4.00 PM – 11.00 PM) 
Friday to Saturday (10.00 AM – 11.00 PM)

Also Checkout: Things To Do In Liverpool
06

Enjoy Immersive Light Installations At Lightopia

  • Lightopia is an impressive and visually-appealing lantern that goes live in Chiswick House and Gardens during Christmas. 
  • It is a representation of 22 trees and a beautiful art installation with interactive experiences for all visitors and one of the interactive Christmas things to do in Manchester.
  • Discover the various installations, which include The Love Gate, Elysian Field, Tree of Life, S-Harmony, Happy Valley, The Flower Road, Two Moons Eagle, and many more, denoting various experiences throughout humanity and life on a fun-filled Christmas Eve.
  • Get on a breathtaking journey of discovery through the park under the sparkling lights on Christmas eve. 
  • Explore each installation to know the values behind spirituality, togetherness, inclusivity, and the importance of positive energy.

Location:
Crystal Palace Park, London SE19 2BA, United Kingdom

Entry Fee:
£13.00- £15.00

Know More: Places To Visit In Leeds
07

Have A Forbidden Forest Experience

  • On a happening Christmas eve, stroll on the forest light trail to discover illuminated moments from the wizarding world of Autumn this year. 
  • Explore the forbidden forest inspired by the iconic Potter franchise which also features the creatures from the series.
  • Witness the mesmerizing lights transform the landscape into a beautiful outdoor trail.
  • Come face-to-face with Hippogriffs, centaurs, unicorns, Nif?ers, and practice casting their very own spells. 
  • Post this thrilling experience and excitement, explore the authentic food and a blazing fire in a delightful village.
  • This is one of the best things to do in Manchester on Christmas.

Location:
Arley Hall & Gardens, Arley, Northwich, CW9 6NA

Timing:
2pm- 11pm

Entry Fees:
£34- £46

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Leeds
08

Wander Around The Worsley Village

  • The walking tour of Worsley Village is a must-have Christmas thing to do in Manchester as the village is lit up with vibrant colors, just like a giant Christmas tree.
  • The recent addition of the much anticipated and long-awaited Worsley Delph is a national award-winning restoration scheme. 
  • Enjoy walking in the beautiful places on Christmas Eve like the wonderful Packet House, Worsley Green, the Alphabet Bridge, and the towpath along the Bridgewater Canal.
  • Find vibrant pubs and restaurants on the canal side which is 3 miles away from the village and offers a delightful treat to you. 

Located:
Barton Road Worsley, Worsley Village

Also Checkout: Places To Visit In Birmingham
09

Explore Chill Factore

  • One of the coolest things to do on Christmas eve is to enjoy the real snow slope in the Chill Factore, UK. 
  • It is a major indoor ski slope and it will let you enjoy the slope and chill at the Alpine Village area with its amazing shops and restaurants.
  • You do not have to worry about your experience in Skiing, as it is not difficult to traverse and it offers features that are specifically reserved for beginners. 
  • One of the must-try Christmas things to do in Manchester is to participate in this adventurous activity as well as experience the snow.

Location:
7 Trafford Way, Trafford Park, Stretford, Manchester M41 7JA, UK

Timing:

Monday–Friday (12.00 PM to 8.00 pm)
Saturday–Sunday (8.00 AM to 8.00 PM)

Entry Fees-
£65- £69

10

Experience A Christmas Wonderland At Tinsel Town

  • Tinsel Town, situated outside the Trafford Centre, opposite The Great Hall entrance, this brand new, dazzling place would give a great outdoor Christmas experience.
  • Discover the winter wonderland of the north, The Tinsel Town which offers 20 festive-themed fairground rides, a big wheel, and the world’s largest mobile bungee.
  • Enjoy your holidays in this retro-inspired area, where old becomes new again.
  • Wander in this serene place under the twinkling lights while the gentle breeze flows through your hair.
  • Never miss out on one of the amazing things to do in Manchester on Christmas.
  • Enjoy Tinsel town which is open from Tuesday to Sunday, every week.
  • It is suggested to visit on weekends to avoid crowds and get a tranquil experience.

Also Checkout: Things To Do In Oxford

People Also Ask About Manchester

  1. What are the best things to do in Manchester?

    1. Stroll down Beech road – A happening, relaxed and exhilarating street in the suburbia of Chorlton, jam-packed with independent restaurants and shops. Stroll on the arcades of the Beech road and be pleased to enjoy cheeky Bloody Mary and a brioche bun breakfast burger. You can also take a quick walk to Chorlton water park, to enjoy a sunny picnic.

    2. Take yourself on a coffee date –
    Manchester is the best place to enjoy an artisanal coffee scene with your special one on a chill day. If you are someone craving coffee throughout the day, you should visit the Northern Quarter beeline to enjoy a pint of coffee from places including Takk, Foundation Coffee House, and much more.

    3. Munch some toothsome food around Ancoats –
    Ancoats is also known as Little Italy, if you are a foodie then it is the best thing to do in Manchester on Christmas. Wobble down the streets of Ancoats to enjoy the bite of superb pizza at Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza. Or you can strike your hunger with pasta at Sugo Pasta Kitchen and finally grab a cruffin at Pollen as you look at travelers jiggling through the streets. 

    4. Listen to new bands at YES –
    YES treats you with four floors of big beats and big eats. We really can’t stress enough about the greatness of the music scene in Manchester. Get a pint of some rooftop cocktails and dance to some local music before you move to the next music venue. It is one of the best post-Christmas things to do in Manchester.

    Recommended Read: Places To Visit Near Manchester
  2. What are the best romantic things to do in Manchester for couples?

    1. Ginger’s Comfort Emporium – Ginger’s Comfort Emporium is an extraordinary ice cream parlor on the top floor of Affleck’s to enjoy with your loved one. Satisfy your and your partner's craving by tasting Marmalade on Toast or Olive Oil and Sea Salt, appetizing desserts, and also top sellers. They also have an ice cream van that runs through summer markets and festival seasons. 

    2. Manchester Cat Café –
    Get on a perfect date at Manchester Cat Café. It is a café that contains cats in Manchester. Enjoying a cup of coffee and a slice of cake while you chat with your partner for an hour or so is a pleasant thing to do in Manchester. This café charges for the time you spend not for the drink and it’s not too expensive. Munch gluten-free, nut-free food items in the café.

    3. Cloud 23 –
    Cloud 23 is one of the most romantic places in the city of Manchester.  Located on the 23rd floor of the Beetham tower, the place offers first-class cocktails with a spectacular view of the city. It has a contemporary interior design, stylish music, and luxury sofas which makes the place so lively and to give you a great time with your partner. Surely, visiting this place is one of the best post-Christmas things to do in Manchester.

    4. Home Manchester -   
    Explore Manchester’s finest contemporary art, music, dance shows, a splendid theatre, and independent cinema at Home Manchester. The place includes 5 cinemas, 2 galleries, 2 theatres, a general events space, rehearsal rooms, a couple of bars, and a restaurant. Enjoy the cinema or explore the gallery holding hands with your special one.

    Suggested Read: Manchester Museums
  3. How many days do you need in Manchester?

    Two to Three days provides just the right amount of time to explore all, ranging from its contemporary art galleries to its major stadiums, from its Industrial-Revolution history to its vibrant music scene.
  4. How far is Manchester from London?

    The distance between Manchester and London by airplane is 209 miles and the approximate driving time is 4 hours. By train, it takes 2 hours 21 minutes and by car, the driving takes 3 hours 1 minute to reach Manchester from London.
  5. What is the best time to visit Manchester?

    For the best weather and festivals, the best time to visit Manchester is between June and August when the weather is pleasant and welcoming. During this time it is less crowded, so you can enjoy your food and various festivals. 

    Check This Out: Things To Do In Manchester With Kids
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