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Manchester Craft and Design Centre

Manchester, United Kingdom•4.6(648)•Art Gallery

Browse independent designer studios, enjoy free exhibitions celebrating craft talent, and relax at Fred's Cafe in Manchester's creative Northern Quarter hub.

Manchester Craft and Design Centre is a vibrant creative community housed in the Northern Quarter, showcasing the work of over 20 independent designers and makers for more than 40 years. Visitors can explore 20 studios selling textiles, jewellery, accessories, ceramics, glass, prints and homeware, each offering a unique shopping experience far beyond typical retail. The venue hosts a regular exhibitions programme celebrating regional, national and international craft talent, with free entry to all exhibitions open Monday-Saturday 10am-5:30pm and the 2nd Sunday of each month 11am-5pm. The centre runs a regular series of craft workshops in Space2 on the ground floor, allowing visitors to engage directly with the creative process and learn new skills. Families and craft enthusiasts can enjoy Fred's Cafe, an English-style café serving locally sourced, seasonal food from coffee and breakfast snacks through to lunch and baked goods, open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5:30pm and the 2nd Sunday 11am-5pm. The venue is dog friendly and pushchair accessible, making it welcoming for families with young children and pets. Whether visiting for shopping, exhibitions, workshops or refreshments, Manchester Craft and Design Centre offers a haven for those seeking authentic, handmade creativity and community engagement.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 – 17:30
Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:30
Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:30
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:30
Friday: 10:00 – 17:30
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:30
Sunday: Closed

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor

Typical visit duration

1-3 hours

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Fred's Cafe

English-style café serving fresh coffee, breakfast snacks, lunch, and baked goods using locally sourced seasonal ingredients with British comfort food and chef-inspired options.

Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5:30pm, 2nd Sunday of the month 11am - 5pm

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Google Reviews

4.6(648 reviews)
T
Terry Heap

Terry Heap

2 months ago

What a great place to wander round! Some wonderful artists showing/selling their works. Lovely to see them at work in their studios but having time to chat and talk to us, showing what they were passionate about! Loved our visit! Was a warm day today so had to stop for cold drinks at the cafe too.

L
lettersbyme

lettersbyme

5 months ago

I visited last week and had a really memorable experience. The atmosphere, creativity, and attention to detail stood out, you can feel the passion behind everything. If you like creative or unique places, whether alone or with family, this spot is inspiring. Highly recommended, whether you’re from Manchester or visiting!

M
Martin Hodges-Jones

Martin Hodges-Jones

8 months ago

A beautiful cacophony of artisans selling everything from silver jewellry, felt work, oil paintings and ceramics amongst other things. Not only are these the cutest little shops they are also the artists studios which often offer classes as well as their beutiful products.` Be amazed at the array of gifts on offer all set under a stunning glass roof so when its rainy outside go visit. This building also contains Fred's cafe which should not be missed.

D
Denitsa Gugova

Denitsa Gugova

2 years ago

A vibrant community of local artists working with pewter, clay, wood, metal, textiles, and more. Their studios are spread across two floors in a lovely bright historical building. There's a cafe on the ground floor, too! Whether you're looking for a gift, a new piece of jewellery, a plant pot, or simply a greeting card, you can find it here - and support local artists and crafts people!

J
Jan Rhodes

Jan Rhodes

2 years ago

A lovely artisan craft centre full of individual shops selling handmade jewellery, clothes, pottery, leather goods and paintings. Beautiful building with the sun streaming through the glass ceiling. Plus a lovely little cafe selling drinks and cakes. Definitely worth visiting if you're looking for a unique gift or piece of art.

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Manchester Craft and Design Centre

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Manchester Craft and Design Centre

Is Manchester Craft and Design Centre free to visit?

Entry to Manchester Craft and Design Centre is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

Is Manchester Craft and Design Centre dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Manchester Craft and Design Centre.

Is there parking at Manchester Craft and Design Centre?

Manchester Craft and Design Centre doesn't have on-site parking, but parking is available nearby.

Is there food at Manchester Craft and Design Centre?

Yes — Fred's Cafe is on site at Manchester Craft and Design Centre. English-style café serving fresh coffee, breakfast snacks, lunch, and baked goods using locally sourced seasonal…

Is Manchester Craft and Design Centre pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Manchester Craft and Design Centre is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Manchester Craft and Design Centre?

Plan 1–3 hours for a visit to Manchester Craft and Design Centre.

How do I get to Manchester Craft and Design Centre by public transport?

Manchester Craft and Design Centre isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.

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