I visited the UK’s most popular Christmas Market to see if it was better than Edinburgh’s – and I was not disappointed
For me, Christmas has always been about beach barbecues as summer kicks off, sun-drenched mornings around the tree and barefoot garden parties. However, since relocating to London from New Zealand last year, I’ve been attempting to embrace the winter Christmas spirit.
Last year, I experienced my first-ever winter Christmas Market in Edinburgh, and it wasn’t quite my cup of tea. I believe in giving everything a second chance, so this year I returned to the markets – but with a twist.
Instead of braving the crowds at Edinburgh’s market, I ventured to Manchester. My visit happened to coincide with Manchester’s market being crowned the best in the UK by both Time Out and holiday gurus at Christmas Tree World – and I can understand why.
The day I visited, the sun was out and the markets were teeming with activity. I opted to visit the market in Albert Square, but if you’re keen to explore Manchester’s markets, they are dotted throughout the city, reports the Express.
The one in Albert Square boasted a helter skelter and a Ferris wheel, but I had a single-minded mission: I was after a Yorkshire pudding wrap.
My boyfriend was busy expressing his doubts that I would find one because it didn’t seem particularly Christmassy, but as we turned a corner, I spotted a sign selling exactly what I was craving.
I opted to have my wrap served in a bowl, selecting pork as my protein. It cost me £11 and the portion was absolutely enormous.
It was precisely what I craved, the meat was beautifully seasoned, all the accompaniments were cooked to perfection, and the gravy was thick, rich and salty – exactly how I like it.
Despite how tasty it was, the serving was so substantial that I genuinely couldn’t manage it all, much to my embarrassment.
Next on my list was another first: mulled wine. At the Edinburgh Market last year I sampled a mulled cider and thoroughly disliked it so this was somewhat nerve-wracking.
I selected an apple and blackberry mulled wine, which I believed was £6.50 but ended up setting me back £10 because I had overlooked the “mug deposit” fee of £3.50.
Fortunately, this was absolutely worth the confusion because, unlike my previous mulled alcoholic drink, this one was completely delicious. It tasted somewhat like hot Ribena, which I adore anyway and warmed me straight through.
It felt like the ideal beverage for enjoying beside the fire as the rain hammered down outside. I was a massive fan; though, I am still awaiting my refund for returning my mug to the stall.
My final experience at the Manchester Christmas Market was a crumble. I spent £8 for an apple and cinnamon crumble with vanilla custard, and whilst it wasn’t the finest I have ever tasted in my life, it was sweet, delicious and satisfied me perfectly.
In my view, the Manchester Market completely outshines Edinburgh. Despite being bustling and lively, I could still navigate through it easily and never had to queue for more than five minutes for anything.
Moreover, the food was superior, and all the stalls were manned by friendly, cheerful staff. I left feeling energised and eager for Christmas – and I strongly suggest anyone in the vicinity give it a visit.