Manchester Christmas Markets goers issued with travel advice days before opening - TfGM statement

Transport for Greater Manchester has urged people heading to events this festive season to use public transport. The call comes just days before the opening of Manchester’s Christmas Market for 2023. 

The event brings millions of people into the city centre every year. It is one of many events taking place across the region which TfGM have suggested people should use public transport to get to. 

In the run up to Christmas footfall in the city centre typically increases by 14%, with Black Friday weekend being the busiest time of the year, where trips into the city centre increase by 36%. TfGM is urging people to ‘travel smart’ – by considering public transport and walking and cycling – making their journeys quicker, more cost-effective and kinder to the planet.   

Sean Dyball, head of customer experience at Transport for Greater Manchester said: “Whether you’re working, shopping, or celebrating the Bee Network is right on your doorstep – helping to make public transport and active travel affordable and accessible to everyone in Greater Manchester.    

“Public transport can often be cheaper and more convenient than travelling by car or taxi, including avoiding traffic and the hassle and cost of parking – not only helping to reduce your carbon footprint, but allowing time to relax and enjoy some leisure time on the way. It’s also the fastest way to get around, with 99 stops on the tram network, connecting people both to the city centre and local shopping hubs.     “And bus travellers can take advantage of low-cost fares such as £2 adult single ticket and combined tram-bus tickets, making an expensive time of year a little easier on the purse strings. Cycling, walking or wheeling are also healthy, cost-effective ways of getting around – particularly at the first and last leg of a public transport journey.”