Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair

A standout event in the North, celebrating the very best in contemporary craft, design and art.

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair returns to Manchester this October for its 19th edition, transforming the magnificent Victoria Baths into one of the UK's finest destinations for contemporary craft and art.

Discover over 200 exceptional makers and artists from across the UK – from celebrated names to exciting new graduate talent – all carefully selected for their originality, creativity and outstanding craftsmanship.

Explore beautifully made ceramics, jewellery, glass, textiles, wood, furniture, metalwork, fashion, printmaking and more. Whether you're searching for a striking statement piece, a meaningful gift, a bespoke commission or something special for your home, you'll find work that is made to be treasured for years to come.

Meet the makers behind the work, hear the stories that inspire them, discover the skills and processes behind each piece, enjoy live demonstrations and take part in free drop-in workshops throughout the weekend.

Make a day of it with friends and family. Browse, buy and be inspired as you explore the spectacular architecture of Victoria Baths, relax in our pop-up café and enjoy a unique shopping experience where every purchase directly supports independent makers and artists.

Whether you're an established collector, a passionate craft lover or simply looking for an inspiring day out, the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair is an event not to be missed.

Exclusive Preview Evening
Thursday 15 October | 6.00–9.00pm

Be among the very first to experience the fair at our exclusive Preview Evening and enjoy priority access to over 200 exceptional makers and artists before the doors open to the public.

With a complimentary glass of wine included in your ticket, browse at your leisure in a relaxed atmosphere, meet the makers behind the work, discover new collections and hear the stories behind each piece.

The most sought-after work often sells early, making the Preview Evening the ideal time to visit if you're looking for the widest choice and the opportunity to secure your favourite pieces before they're gone.

Bring friends and make an evening of it as you explore the spectacular surroundings of Victoria Baths and celebrate the opening of one of the UK's leading contemporary craft fairs.

GNCCF Manchester will showcase over 200 makers & artists. Browse the Exhibitor Directory HERE

Please be aware that a small number of ceramic works explore explicit content.  Parents and guardians may wish to consider suitability.

Getting to the venue & parking

For further info click HERE

Accessibility

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair takes place within the beautiful Grade II* listed Victoria Baths. While much of the fair is accessible, some areas of the historic building have limitations.

• Step-free access is available via the main entrance on Hathersage Road, with an accessible ramp and Blue Badge parking nearby.

• The fair is accessible throughout the ground floor, with accessible toilets available.

• The pool spaces are reached using hand-operated wheelchair lifts. Stewards are on hand to assist, although wheelchair users may require assistance when exiting the lifts onto the pool floor. Manual wheelchairs, powerchairs and small boot scooters can be accommodated, but larger mobility scooters cannot.

• Please note that some floors are uneven, with gently sloping tiled pool floors and slightly cambered walkways in places.

• A small number of exhibitors are located on the first floor, which is only accessible by stairs, as Victoria Baths does not have a passenger lift. These exhibitors will be identified on our website.

• If there is work upstairs, or elsewhere in the venue, that you are unable to access, we are happy to arrange for a steward to video the stand and bring selected pieces to you to view, with no obligation to buy. Please contact us in advance if you would like to arrange this - victoria@greatnorthernevents.co.uk. If you just turn up on the day, please request this service at the front desk and we will do our best to arrange it during your visit.

• Companions accompanying disabled visitors benefit from free entry but must book a free ticket.

We ask you to join us in creating a positive environment and atmosphere, where everyone is welcomed, accepted and has a fantastic fair experience.

We do not tolerate any discriminatory behaviour, bullying or harassment including any form of racism, homophobia, Islamophobia, antisemitism and sexism. Such behaviour may include hostile or abusive comments or intimidating actions.

Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct could result in you being asked to leave the event without a refund.

If you see or hear such behaviour at one of our events, please talk to an organiser.