Manchester has some of the best shopping spots in the world. From high-end boutiques to affordable stores, there is something for everyone here. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, new clothes, or gifts for friends and family, Manchester is the perfect place to shop. But with so many stores to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to begin.
To help you make the most of your shopping trip, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best places to shop in Manchester for every budget.
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1) Trafford Centre – Best Places to Shop in Manchester
A family-friendly combo of shopping and dining
The Trafford Centre is the largest shopping center in Manchester and one of the largest in the UK. With over 200 stores, the Trafford Centre offers a variety of retail options, including fashion, home furnishing, electronics, and much more. For dining options, visitors can find over 40 places to eat, ranging from fast food to fine dining. It’s no wonder that the Trafford Centre is one of the most popular destinations for shoppers in Manchester.
The center also offers plenty of entertainment for families, such as a 12-screen Odeon cinema, bowling alley, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and LEGOLAND Discovery Centre. The Trafford Centre also hosts events throughout the year, so visitors can always find something new and exciting to do.
For those looking for a more relaxed shopping experience, there’s the Arndale Market. With over 140 stalls selling fresh food, flowers, and other items, the Arndale Market has something for everyone.
The Trafford Centre is one of the best places to go shopping in Manchester for families. With a great selection of shops and plenty of entertainment options, it’s easy to see why the center is so popular. Whether you’re looking for clothes, home decor, or just a bite to eat, the Trafford Centre has it all.
2) The Great Northern
An eclectic shopping and leisure complex
The Great Northern is one of the most unique shopping destinations in Manchester, offering a unique blend of retail, entertainment, and leisure experiences. Located in the city center, The Great Northern is a sprawling complex that is filled with a wide range of shops and eateries that cater to all tastes.
The main highlight of The Great Northern is its eclectic collection of shops. From high-end fashion boutiques to independent artisan stores, there’s something for everyone. You can find everything from contemporary clothing brands to luxury jewelry shops. Plus, there’s also a range of entertainment venues such as the Odeon Cinema, and several bars and restaurants.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely shopping experience, you won’t be disappointed. The Great Northern boasts an array of leisure activities including ice skating, bowling, and even a mini-golf course! There’s also a selection of outdoor activities such as outdoor yoga classes, fitness sessions, and even free screenings of classic films.
Overall, The Great Northern is the perfect place to shop, eat, and be entertained. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends or simply a relaxing evening out with friends, The Great Northern has it all.
3) Quayside MediaCityUK – Best Places to Shop in Manchester
Budget bargains from big brands
If you’re looking to score some serious bargains, look no further than Quayside MediaCityUK. Located on the iconic Manchester Ship Canal, Quayside MediaCityUK is the perfect destination for bargain hunters looking to find a great deal. With over 80 stores in the area, ranging from big brands such as Primark and TK Maxx to smaller independent stores, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
When it comes to bargain shopping in Manchester, Quayside MediaCityUK is the place to be. It’s home to several high-street favorites, so you’ll be able to pick up the latest trends without breaking the bank. From fashion to accessories and even electronics, you can find everything you need at incredibly reasonable prices. Plus, with plenty of cafes and restaurants around, it’s a great place to take a break and refuel after a day of shopping.
Whether you’re looking for clothes or homeware, there’s something for everyone at Quayside MediaCityUK. It’s a great spot for budget-savvy shoppers looking to pick up a few bargains, and with its convenient location near the city center, it’s easy to get to. So next time you’re in Manchester, why not head down to Quayside MediaCityUK and start shopping?
4) New Cathedral Street
High-end fashion all around
Located in the center of Manchester, New Cathedral Street is a prime spot for luxury shopping. Here you’ll find designer labels such as Vivienne Westwood, Prada, and Gucci, alongside high-end fashion retailers like Selfridges and Harvey Nichols. Many of the street’s independent boutiques specialize in vintage clothing, giving you the chance to find some one-of-a-kind pieces at reasonable prices. With chic cafés and restaurants sprinkled throughout the street, New Cathedral Street is a great place to grab a bite to eat or have a break in between shopping trips. If you’re looking for something special to add to your wardrobe, head over to New Cathedral Street and explore the latest trends in designer fashion.
5) Barton Arcade – Best Places to Shop in Manchester
Premium shopping in a gorgeous Victorian building
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience in Manchester, then you should check out Barton Arcade. This stunning Victorian building has been home to some of the best independent shops and boutiques in the city since 1871. The arcade is full of one-of-a-kind shops, selling everything from fashion and accessories to home décor and antiques.
The stunning architecture of the building is a sight to behold. Step inside and you’ll be surrounded by intricately designed ceilings, archways, stained glass windows, and sculptures. It’s the perfect spot for window shopping or a stroll down memory lane.
The shops inside the arcade offer something for everyone. From high-end fashion boutiques to vintage stores and more, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can pick up unique gifts and souvenirs, as well as designer pieces at reasonable prices.
If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, then a visit to Barton Arcade is a must. With its gorgeous Victorian architecture and one-of-a-kind stores, it’s sure to leave an impression on you.
6) Afflecks
The top spot for indie shoppers
Located in the bustling Northern Quarter of Manchester, Afflecks is a haven for independent shoppers. This unique shopping destination is home to over 50 independent boutiques and businesses, each offering its own unique and original products. Whether you’re looking for vintage clothing, quirky accessories, or creative gifts, Afflecks has something for everyone.
For those looking for the perfect vintage look, Afflecks has a great selection of clothes, shoes, jewelry, and accessories from different eras. You’ll also find plenty of unique items such as handmade art and design pieces, handmade cosmetics, and natural skincare products.
The best part about Afflecks is that it’s a great place to wander around, browse and discover something unexpected. It’s also a great spot to pick up some gifts for family and friends. There are lots of cool stores selling art, books, music, home décor items, and more. Plus, you can also find some cafes, bars, and restaurants in the building.
Affleck is one of the best places to go shopping in Manchester if you’re looking for something unique and original. It’s the perfect spot to find something special and express your style.
7) The Northern Quarter – Best Places to Shop in Manchester
Brilliant boutiques and charming cafes
The Northern Quarter is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Manchester, with its eclectic range of boutiques, independent shops, and trendy eateries. Whether you’re looking for vintage fashion, unique accessories, or stylish homeware, you’ll find something to suit your style and budget here. You can also take a break from the shopping with a visit to one of the many charming cafes in the area, all offering a warm welcome and delicious food. For a truly unique shopping experience, visit the area’s famed independent record stores and art galleries, where you’ll be sure to discover something special. With a thriving atmosphere and plenty of hidden gems, the Northern Quarter is the perfect place to explore Manchester’s diverse shopping scene.
8) Exchange Square
A great place for fashionistas
If you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, then Exchange Square is the place to go. Located in the heart of Manchester city center, Exchange Square offers a wide range of clothing stores and high street brands. From department stores like Debenhams and John Lewis to more independent outlets like Miss Selfridge and Oasis, there’s something here to suit every budget and style. With over 20 stores across two levels, it’s easy to spend an afternoon browsing and finding something to add to your wardrobe.
The shops here offer everything from classic basics and designer looks, to the latest trends and statement pieces. Whether you’re looking for a new dress for a night out or a pair of jeans for everyday wear, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. For those who are more budget-minded, there are plenty of bargains to be found too, with frequent sales and discounts available on many items.
Aside from the shopping, Exchange Square also has plenty of places to eat and drink. From well-known chain restaurants like Wagamama, Byron, and Pizza Express, to small independent cafes and bars, there’s something to suit everyone. It’s also the perfect place to take a break during a busy day of shopping.
Exchange Square is an ideal destination for those who love fashion and shopping. With its wide range of stores, quality brands, and great places to eat and drink, it’s the perfect place for fashionistas on any budget.
9) Market Street – Best Places to Shop in Manchester
The high street of Manchester
For the ultimate shopping experience, head to Market Street in Manchester city center. This bustling, pedestrianized high street is home to all of the big-name fashion and department stores, as well as some fantastic independent shops and eateries. You can find everything from the latest trends to classic staples and everything in between.
The flagship stores for high street favorites such as Zara, H&M, Debenhams, and House of Fraser are all found on Market Street. They offer a range of items including clothing, footwear, accessories, and beauty products, so you’re sure to find something that suits your style and budget.
For those looking for more unique pieces, there are plenty of independent shops and boutiques dotted along the street. Boutique labels such as the likes of Oi Polloi and Select provide vintage-inspired and locally designed collections that you won’t find anywhere else. The iconic Selfridges store also provides shoppers with a stylish selection of items ranging from designer fashions to modern homeware.
When it comes to food and drinks, Market Street has got you covered with some eateries and cafes. Everything from a traditional pub lunch at The Bricklayer’s Arms to a grab-and-go sandwich from Pret A-Manger can be found here. Plus, there are plenty of places to sit down and take a break while you admire your purchases!
So if you’re looking for a great shopping experience in Manchester, then Market Street is the place to go. With its wide selection of stores, diverse range of products, and delicious eateries, you’re sure to find something to make your day!
10) Manchester Arndale – Best Places to Shop in Manchester
Manchester’s premier shopping destination
If you’re looking for the best shopping experience in Manchester, then look no further than the iconic Manchester Arndale. Located in the heart of the city, this mall has everything from budget-friendly high-street stores to designer brands.
The mall is huge, spanning two floors and over two hundred shops. With names like Selfridges, Debenhams, Topshop, JD Sports and Foot Locker, Manchester Arndale is a haven for shoppers of all tastes. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, tech gadgets, gifts for special occasions, or everyday essentials, you’ll find it here.
You’ll also find plenty of places to grab a bite to eat while you shop. The food court offers a variety of eateries, ranging from fast food restaurants like McDonald’s and KFC to sit-down restaurants serving delicious meals.
Manchester Arndale is also home to several leisure facilities like a multi-screen cinema and a bowling alley. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the family or a romantic night out with your special someone, you’ll find plenty to do here.
No matter what kind of shopper you are, there’s something for everyone at Manchester Arndale. With its vast selection of stores, restaurants, and leisure activities, it’s no surprise that this mall is the premier shopping destination in Manchester.
Manchester is one of the best cities in the world for shopping. With so many different options available, you can find something to suit every budget and taste. Whether you’re looking for luxury fashion, indie boutiques, or budget bargains, you’ll find it here.
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