[@]Manchester Craft & Design

City life - Helping to Develop Artists and Designers for 40 Years

Published: Guide No.17 - April '22

Established in 1982 in a former Victorian fish market, Manchester Craft and Design Centre celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

This creative community in the heart of the Northern Quarter houses some of the region’s most talented independent designers and makers.

The Centre has more than 20 shops over two floors all belonging to independent businesses selling textiles, jewellery, accessories, ceramics, glass, prints, art and homeware.

It offers much more than just a shopping experience with the retail units doubling up as maker studios.

It’s one of the only places in the UK where you can meet the makers and watch the product being made right in front of you.

It’s Manchester’s go-to destination if you’re on the look out for a unique gift or a special piece for your home. Most makers also work to commission so if there’s something bespoke you have in mind, the Centre is the perfect place.

The beautiful historical building is worth a visit alone and retains original features such as an ornate cast iron gate and two restored fishmonger’s booths.

The Northern Quarter has a vibrant street art scene, and you can check out a specially commissioned piece by Hammo on the side of the building on Copperas Street.

The mural is inspired by the story of Jimmy Kelly, a fishmonger who looked after the cats after the markets closed down.

The cats were used as a form of pest control and were paid for their hard work with fishy dinners.

Once the market ceased trading, Jimmy would return to feed the cats, so they didn’t go hungry!

Manchester Craft and Design Centre also run a regular exhibitions programme that promotes and celebrates local, regional and national craft talent.

The exhibitions are free to visit and are open to the public Mon-Sat from 10am – 5.30pm.

A date for your diary is Saturday 14th May where the Centre will be holding a celebration event to mark its 40th year.

This free event will include live music, food & drink and craft activities alongside an interactive exhibition where you can share your memories, craft something yourself and see how the Centre has evolved since 1982.

Find out more about Manchester Craft and Design Centre and start planning your visit at craftanddesign.com