The North’s largest craft fair is taking place at Victoria Baths in Manchester this weekend.

More than 200 UK makers will be in attendance at the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair, from established artists to new talent.

In its 17th year, the fair, which opens today (October 18) is offering one-off handmade pieces sold by a host of independent makers.

Victoria Scholes, development director of the fair, said: “You won’t see anything like it in the North.”

A wide range of art and design will be on offer, from unique furniture by designer Nick James, to GR Hawes’ handcrafted glass sculptures. 

Makers come from all over the country and a number of Trafford-based makers can be found at the award-winning fair, ranging from jewellers to fashion designers.

This year there will also be a curated selling exhibition specifically for graduates to showcase the North’s innovative eco-design ideas.

Green Grads will spotlight UK graduates working across multiple disciplines to create sustainable ideas to heal the planet.

One graduate of The Northern School of Art, Laura Wigham, created a collection of paintings, greeting cards and cushions inspired by the North of England and Scotland, made of organic and upcycled materials.

Ann-Marie Franey, founder and director of the fair, said: “Craft says something in a world dominated by a throw-away culture.”

There will also be a pop-up cafe to take a break from the browsing, as well as free pottery workshops in partnership with Stockport’s Yellowhammer, so families are able to make a day of the fair.

The preview night took place on October 17.

The event opened to the public today through Sunday, October 20, with tickets costing £8 in advance and £9.50 on the door, with concession tickets also available.

It will be open 10am until 5pm today and Saturday and from 10am until 4pm on Sunday.