Castlefield & Didsbury Artisan Markets

On the first Sunday of every month the area around the historic Castlefield railway arches is taken over by a host of stylish stallholders for the Castlefield artisan market. Set up by Asif and Jodie Farakhan the market is a cool alternative to the longstanding Piccadilly and St Ann’s square markets; a hidden gem of stalls selling vintage and retro homewares, jewellery, handmade cards, as well locally made food and drink. Highlights include Of Crust and Crumb Artisan Bakery with their awesome sourdough, Dozo Sushi’s handmade sushi and hot Asian food, and purveyors of quality British grub The Great North Pie Company plus and The Ginger Kid (pictured), whose Dark Chocolate and Salted Caramel Tart sounds particularly appealing. Uniquely the market also features music – and dancing – from the Cotton Town Hot Club, a local group inspired by the swing music of prohibition and speakeasy culture, reflecting Manchester’s current obsession with everything 1940s. The crew behind the Castlefield market have just launched another market in Didsbury which will run Thursdays 4-9pm, outside the Didsbury Pub. Many of the same stalls will feature as well as local extras. The ideal chance to pick up at few Christmas gifts in advance.

Thu 8 Nov, outside The Didsbury Pub, 852 Wilmslow Road, M20 2SG. Tel: 0161 445 5389, 4-9pm, free. Sun 2 Dec, Duke Street, Castlefield, M3 4NF, 10am-4pm, free, http://castlefieldartisan.webs.com/