As the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze household budgets across the UK, the festive cheer at one of the nation's biggest Christmas markets comes with a hefty price tag. A recent visit to the Manchester Christmas Markets by a party of four revealed just how quickly expenses can mount up, with a simple outing for food and drink costing over £50.
The £56 Market Spend: A Breakdown
Emma Gill, Parents Editor at the Manchester Evening News, was tasked with investigating the cost of a typical market visit for a family group. Her findings highlight the financial reality facing many Britons seeking festive entertainment this winter.
The group purchased four Bratwurst sausages from a stall in Cathedral Gardens. Despite being one of the more affordable and popular items available, each sausage cost £8, resulting in a total of £32 for their main snack.
Next, they ordered four hot chocolates. Priced at a staggering £9.50 each, the beverages alone came to £38. The price includes a festive mug that customers can keep, though they have the option to return it for a £3.50 refund per mug.
The Swift Reality of Festive Spending
After returning the mugs, the total spent on this brief outing was £56. Emma reported that the food and drink were consumed remarkably quickly, with the children gulping down their hot chocolates before they had a chance to cool.
She reflected on the experience, noting that while the markets offer a delightful atmosphere with decorations and free entertainment—such as the grand Christmas Day Parade on Sunday, December 7—fully enjoying the experience requires a significant financial outlay.
"The thing about these markets is, while you can have a leisurely stroll and admire the decorations... it really requires a fair bit of dosh to fully enjoy it," Emma stated. "And for many folks right now, they simply don't have that spare change."
Value for Money in a Cost of Living Crisis
While Emma praised the quality of the food, particularly recommending the pork, honey and marmalade sausage, she questioned the value proposition. "It's tough to justify shelling out nearly £60 on something we could munch and sip at home for a fraction of the cost," she remarked, also pointing out the additional inconvenience of queuing at the busy stalls.
This real-world test, conducted in late November 2025, underscores a broader challenge. As traders also feel the pinch of rising costs, visitors to the Manchester Christmas Markets must weigh the unique festive experience against its considerable expense, making budget-conscious decisions more crucial than ever.
