Strong festive footfall in Altrincham
Picturesque Altrincham town centre is seeing increased visitor numbers this festive season as its reputation as a happening destination continues to grow.
Altrincham has seen a huge turnaround in the past decade thanks to the hard work of partners, traders and the Altrincham BID (Business Improvement District).
Managers of the regenerated Stamford Quarter shopping area say half a million more visitors have visited so far in 2025 – a 14% increase on 2024 – with numbers ramping up further in the run-up to Christmas Day.
Property company Bruntwood has counted more than 4m visitors since January, drawn in by the town’s mix of independent shops, national brands, eateries and services.
Altrincham BID says 2024/25 saw 8.4m visitors to the high street representing a 5.7% increase on the previous year after similar rises, year on year, from 2016.
Central to Altrincham’s newfound success is a juxtaposition of old and new retailers, independent and national chains – all pulling together with the BID to help stage events and special attractions all year round, never more so at this time of year.
Jo Hill, owner of Hill & Hill The Jewellers, whose light-festooned display won the title of the town’s best Christmas window via social media votes, said: “As Altrincham is a wonderful destination town, we attract customers from right across the North West, and we’ve just had our busiest year yet.
“A town only works if the Council and partners are proactive, by providing great transport links, parking, and lovely well-kept and clean communal areas, so that's why Altrincham has grown into the successful place it is. Supported by the fantastic Altrincham BID, huge amount of work goes into attracting more people into town.”
Jake Shoes recently celebrated 50 years trading. Set up by the Bland family, who wanted to bring quirky London styles to the north, the shop continues to thrive. Owner Maisy Bland said: “It has been lovely over recent years to see more and more shops opening around us, bringing a whole host of new faces into our town.
“We are excited to continue trading in Altrincham and to be part of such a welcoming community who have truly embraced us and continue to support us every day.”
One such new business is Nell’s Pizza. Manager Thomas Markiewicz said: "We've just celebrated our first birthday in Altrincham. We were drawn in by the regeneration and rejuvenation of the Stamford Quarter which is a great, family-friendly place for us that really champions independent businesses.
"We get such a varied crowd and people really appreciate what we do. The businesses here work together to put on events and happenings and make sure there is a community feel. No business is just out for themselves.”
Another new business is Share Your Story, which works with local people to help them do just that in photos, video, audio or writing.
Owner Simon Hepburn said: “Recently there’s been a huge increase in Altrincham’s cultural and creative offerings. For example, you can follow an art trail from the Town Hall across 37 town centre locations, visit our galleries, cinemas and theatres, and take part in many creative activities, from pottery to sewing, film photography to cartoon drawing.
“We’re excited that Share Your Story is at the heart of this change, helping people start their creative journey with the latest equipment, courses and a Creative Hub that offers space for photography, podcasting and video creation.”
Stalwart brands such as Boots help to complete the picture. Sharon Hulme, manager at the Altrincham store, said: "I have worked for Boots all over Greater Manchester and Altrincham is my favourite place. It's the nicest community of all the ones I've spent time in - and our customers are adorable.
"The vibe in the town is just really relaxed. People can come here for whatever they want and need instead of going into the city. People talk about the independent shops but the chain stores too are a central part of the community.
"We are proud of our community pharmacy work, we support the NHS by doing blood pressure checks, we raise money for charity and we work with the police to keep the town centre safe for everyone who comes here."
The success of Altrincham as a shopping and leisure destination fits in with the Council’s priority for a thriving economy and top-class leisure and culture for all.
Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “Altrincham is a great place to visit and stay a while but that doesn’t happen by itself – it’s down to the hard work of the retailers and businesses here, with the support of the BID and the Council and other partners. We’re delighted to see the ongoing success of the town.”
Thomas, Nell's Pizza
