Levenshulme Market returns – but will it retain its former magic?

When Levenshulme Market closed its gazebos for the final time in July 2023, the sense of loss rippled far beyond the bustling car park where it had called home for a decade.

To the people of Levenshulme, this was the beating heart of their community. It was where neighbours gathered, new businesses were born, and weekends came alive with the scent of sizzling street food and the sound of live music.

So when the news broke this week that a new version, Levy Artisan Market, will return to the beloved site this April, the reaction was one of cautious optimism mixed with a wave of excitement. Could the magic that defined Levenshulme Market be rekindled?

Levenshulme Market returns

For ten years, Levenshulme Market grew from a humble initiative into a flagship event that defined the neighbourhood’s character. Known for its inredible mix of independent food vendors, local artists, craftspeople, and community spirit, the market was more than a place to pick up artisan bread or handmade ceramics. It was a space where strangers became neighbours and where countless local businesses took their first steps.

In 2020, Levenshulme Market won Best Small Outdoor Market at the prestigious Great British Market Awards, a testament to its impact not just locally but across Manchester and beyond. A judge at the awards noted how the market had “changed the dynamics of an area and created a warm community hub.”

But beneath the lively exterior, storm clouds were gathering.

Shock and dismay as Levenshulme Market closed

In June 2023, the directors of the original Levenshulme Market dropped a bombshell on their blog: “We take a break after 10 years.”

The post spoke candidly of spiralling costs, staffing challenges, and a “painful planning permission process” that threatened their survival. In particular, they cited new fees demanded by Manchester City Council that would, in their words, “end us financially.” The Market also lamented what they felt was a lack of support from local councillors, noting they had “reached out on a number of occasions… to no avail.”

For many, the news was a gut-punch.

The promise of a new beginning

But now, as daffodils begin to bloom in Levenshulme, so too does a new chapter. In a surprising twist, Manchester City Council has joined forces with Independent Street — known for running exciting markets across the Northwest: to launch Levy Artisan Market, a fresh but familiar reincarnation of the much-missed gathering.

Launching on Sunday, April 13th, Levy Artisan Market will return to the same beloved site, running on the second Sunday of every month, with a Friday Night Market on the last Friday of each month starting April 25th.

This is fabulous news for Levy residents and beyond, who might be looking for a little weekend trip. But it’s also going to be restoring a vital social, economic, and cultural cornerstone of Levenshulme life.

A market with a mission: community first

Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, is keen to highlight the importance of the market’s rebirth: “Levy Market has been a long-standing and much-loved institution for the local community and its traders, imbued with a rich heritage and an asset which has set foundations for other markets to thrive. We are really proud to welcome Independent Street’s Artisan Levy Market onto the site — the end product of a collaborative approach to bring a new market offering to the people of Levenshulme.”

Councillor Dzidra Noor, representing the Levenshulme ward, echoed the sense of relief and hope shared by many locals: “We are delighted to announce the launch of the new Levy Artisan Market. Local councillors have collaborated with council officers to revive a market in Levenshulme, which has been deeply missed by both residents and visitors. Beyond its economic impact, the market fosters a strong sense of belonging, encouraging people to shop locally, connect with their neighbours, and celebrate the diversity of Levenshulme.”

Lisa Cowley, Director of Independent Street, promises that while the name is changing slightly, the heart of the market will stay rooted in what made it great: “We’re incredibly excited to welcome back Levy’s loyal customers and introduce The New Levy Artisan Market to a new generation of visitors. With a focus on community, sustainability, and high-quality, local produce, we hope to make Levy Artisan Market the heart of Manchester for years to come.”

Day and night markets return to Levenshulme

The new format looks set to offer something for everyone. Sunday Artisan Markets will be family-focused, with live entertainment, children’s workshops, food tastings, and cultural celebrations — a celebration of Levenshulme’s famed diversity.

Meanwhile, Friday Night Markets will feature a dedicated street food court, showcasing the best of Manchester’s independent food scene, alongside live music and ample seating areas designed to bring that laid-back, sociable vibe that made the original market such a draw.

“It’s about more than stalls,” said Lisa. “It’s about creating a space where people can come together — whether that’s for a bite to eat, a chat over a coffee, or to find something unique and handmade.”

Showcasing small businesses

Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of the relaunch is the chance it gives to small businesses. The market will continue to offer a platform for independent artisans, bakers, food vendors, and creatives, just as before — helping to support Manchester’s exciting small business ecosystem.

“The new market will provide a unique space for small businesses, artisans, and food vendors, allowing them to thrive whilst also contributing to the local economy,” said Councillor Bridges. “We hope it will become more than just a market — but rather a hub for creativity, enterprise, and community spirit.”

Can it recapture the old magic?

Of course, questions remain. Will the new Levy Artisan Market capture the community-led ethos that made the original market such a success? With Independent Street at the helm and collaboration from the council, there’s hope — but also a sense of watching and waiting.

Many locals will be eager to see how well the market reflects Levenshulme’s diverse and creative soul. For now, though, anticipation is building, and the chance to gather once more under the familiar sight of bustling stalls is enough to spark excitement.

Levy Artisan Market: dates to remember

Grand Opening: Sunday, April 13th, 2025
Second Sunday of Every Month: Artisan Day Market
Last Friday of Every Month from April 25th: Night Market
For traders, community groups, and musicians wanting to take part, applications are now open – you can click here to find out more