Albert Square Tours

Albert Square which includes a city, nightlife and heritage architecture
This public gathering place for football victory parades, festivals and a popular European-style Christmas market is surrounded by Victorian architecture.

Get a feel for Manchester’s atmosphere by visiting Albert Square. Located in the heart of the city, the square is of great importance to the people of Manchester and is celebrated for its architecture, history and cultural events. It’s surrounded on three sides by unique heritage-listed buildings, the most impressive of those being the grand Town Hall.

Albert Square was laid out in 1863 to make space for a memorial to Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria. His elevated statue, covered by a shrine-like spire, is the biggest monument in the square. Discover smaller statues of former prime ministers and bishops as you take a short walk over the cobblestoned pavement.

The benches lining the square and the steps of the fountain are good places to relax in between shopping and sightseeing. You can’t miss the impressive sight of the Victorian Gothic Town Hall, which dates from the late 19th century. On the opposite side of the square, 1980s office blocks house cafés and restaurants. To the right, you’ll see other notable buildings, including Albert Chambers and the Memorial Hall on the corner.

The square is absolutely packed during special events. Fans of the city’s two premiership football teams gather in their thousands in Albert Square during victory parades, proudly cheering their heroes. Albert Square is also the site of art and music festivals.

By far the most popular event held at the square is the Manchester Christmas Market. If you are here in late December, browse the hundreds of stalls to find handmade gifts or souvenirs, and sample hot herbal wine and sausages. Smaller outdoor markets are held throughout the year check the council’s website for a schedule of events.

Catch a taxi, pay for parking at a nearby garage, or take public transport to reach Albert Square. Buses stop on the square and the nearest Metrolink tram stop is at St. Peter’s Square.

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Best Lodging Options Near Albert Square

Britannia Hotel Manchester
Britannia Hotel Manchester
3 out of 5
35 Portland Street, Manchester, England
Britannia Hotel Manchester
Kimpton Clocktower, an IHG Hotel
Kimpton Clocktower, an IHG Hotel
5 out of 5
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Kimpton Clocktower, an IHG Hotel
The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel
The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel
5 out of 5
Free Trade Hall Peter Street, Manchester, England
The Edwardian Manchester, A Radisson Collection Hotel
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Piccadilly
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Piccadilly
4 out of 5
260 Great Ancoats Street, Manchester, England
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Piccadilly
Motel One Manchester St. Peter's Square
Motel One Manchester St. Peter's Square
3 out of 5
1 Dickinson St, Manchester, England
Motel One Manchester St. Peter's Square
Wilde Aparthotels, Manchester, St. Peter’s Square
Wilde Aparthotels, Manchester, St. Peter’s Square
4 out of 5
3 Dickinson Street, Manchester, England
Wilde Aparthotels, Manchester, St. Peter’s Square
The Midland - Manchester
The Midland - Manchester
4 out of 5
16 Peter Street, Manchester, England
The Midland - Manchester
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central
4 out of 5
56 Great Bridgewater Street, Manchester, England
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Central
voco Manchester City Centre, an IHG Hotel
voco Manchester City Centre, an IHG Hotel
4 out of 5
59 Portland St, Manchester, England
voco Manchester City Centre, an IHG Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.