The family-run Greater Manchester pub with its own Christmas Markets

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

It's already been three weeks since the Manchester Christmas Markets in the city centre opened up to the public. Spread over nine zones including Piccadilly Gardens, Exchange Street and St Ann’s Square, there's over 200 festive huts selling everything from sizzling Bratwurst to steaming mugs of Gluhwein.

Back for a 26th year, they've become a staple for families across the region in the run up to Christmas, and are regularly voted as some of the best in the UK.

Known to attract hundreds of thousands of people, they're one of the many festive events that make Manchester a great place to visit at this time of year - even when the elements might put some off.

That said, for some, they might be a little too busy. Trying to make your way through the crowds on a Saturday afternoon in town can feel like quite the chore and more trouble than it's worth. READ MORE: The best alternative Christmas markets to visit in Greater Manchester Fortunately, we're lucky to have a variety of smaller markets and Christmas events taking place across Greater Manchester throughout the festive period, offering an alternative to the main ones.