It's that time of year again, when Manchester is playing host to a whole heap of fabulous festive markets. The biggest - and some might argue the best - are the traditional German markets in Albert Square. But there's a whole lot more on offer around the city if you know where to look too.
One of the most promising new additions is Castlefield Victorian Market which launches this Friday (15 November, 6pm, FREE entry). It's a new concept that's largely undercover, taking place in Upper Campfield Market (where Bjork played, for those of us that remember, at the Manchester International Festival in 2009), and offering festive fans a range of warm Christmas wines, a bar selling local beers crepes, Mediterranean food and gifts.
For those looking to explore the best of the rest, Manchester City Council have created this handy Christmas Markets Trail which takes you from St Ann's Square down New Cathedral Street, to the Corn Exchange, back down Corporation Street to Albert Square, through the gluhwein and hot roast stalls, past oompah bands, and singing moose. What more could you ask for?
Fri 15 Nov - Wed 18 Dec, Castlefield Victorian Market, Upper Campfield, Liverpool Road, Deansgate, Castlefield, M3 4FN. Fri 15 Nov - varying end times for the various Manchester Christmas Markets.