A leading contemporary craft fair featuring over 200 independent makers and artists, with workshops and demonstrations in the historic Victoria Baths.
The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair returns to Victoria Baths from Thursday 15 October to Sunday 18 October, now in its 19th year. It's Manchester's biggest celebration of contemporary craft, and the venue is a good part of the draw: the fair takes over the Grade II* listed baths, so the city's iconic pools, stained glass, mosaics and tiled interiors form the backdrop for the stalls. More than 200 independent makers and artists are chosen by an independent panel for their quality and originality, and you can meet them in person, hear the stories behind their work and take part in free creative workshops and demonstrations.
The work on display covers ceramics, jewellery, textiles, furniture, glass, wood, metal, printmaking and sculpture. 2026 brings a few specific highlights: the Great Northern Graduates Showcase, the Green Grads sustainable innovation display and a Design-Nation showcase, alongside emerging talent from the North's design courses. It's a fair that puts a fair bit of weight on the next generation, so you'll see a lot of new work from people just starting out.
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Beyond the stalls, there's an exhibitor directory to help you keep track of who's who and an on-site café for when you need a break. Entry is £8.95, and the fair runs from Thursday 15 October through to Sunday 18 October at Victoria Baths, Manchester M13 0FE.
