Taxidermied fighting rabbits, a VHS camcorder and a 50p Cadbury’s easter egg mug from 1982 – just some of the things we’ve picked up at various the car boot sales Manchester is home to over the years. And our region actually plays a significant role in the very existence of car boot sales. Apparently, Father Harry Clarke, a Catholic Priest from Stockport launched the UK’s very first car boot sale in the town as a charity fundraiser after he’d seen similar ‘trunk sales’ whilst holidaying in Canada.
From that, the UK saw a huge surge in local car boot sales where one person’s trash became another’s treasure and people were drowning in £1 records, their nan’s ancient brooches and endless amounts of once sought after Happy Meal toys.
Despite no official sources, the legend that surrounds Father Harry Clarke has grown along with the rise of the car boot sale that, at this moment in time, seems more important than ever. As people struggle with the rising cost of living, the car boot sale has become a haven for affordable DIY and a way for people to earn some extra money. What’s more though, is that they have never been cooler.
Known and loved UK-wide, it’s a great way to clear out any unwanted trash, alongside treating yourself to some wanted trash – a never-ending cycle, really.
Our region is home to loads of car boot sale treasures. Here’s our guide…
Manchester City Car Boot
Hosted every single Saturday on Rixton Show Ground in Warrington, Manchester City car boot sale is a firm favourite with sellers and buyers alike. For just £1, visitors are welcomed into a world of wonder, complete with vintage homewares, pre-loved clothing and a plethora of unwanted music, films and video games – meaning that no one ever leaves empty handed. If you’re looking to sell it’ll cost you £12 in a car and £16 in a van.
Every Saturday from 9am.
Rummage In The Range
Whalley Range’s monthly car boot sale, Rummage In The Range is a traditional setup full of trinkets and vintage treasures ready to be re-homed. The event began as we emerged out of lockdown as a way to promote sustainable shopping and bring the community together for a good old-fashioned mooch. Such was its popularity that they launched a second monthly rummage, in Platt Fields Market Garden. With DJs, food and drink and community workshops to participate in too, and a very civilised 10am start time, this is a jumble sale with a distinct street party feel.
The first Saturday of the month at The Carlton Club, the third Sunday of the month at Platt Fields Market Garden. 10am – 3pm.
New Smithfield Market
Taking place almost every Sunday throughout the year, the new Smithfield Wholesale Market in Openshaw hosts a tremendous car booty full of new and old wares. Housed in a both a large covered and outdoor space, you’ll find clothing, craft essentials, second hand furniture and everything in between here, as well as a cosy cafe.
Every Sunday from 7am to 2pm, last customer entry is 1:30pm.
Chelford Car Boot
Open every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday from 6am for the early risers, Chelford car boot sale in Knutsford is a hidden gem. With a massive range of traders, there’s something for everyone and the local, independent market that runs alongside the event is another reason to visit. Guests will find everything from fresh fruit and veg, to locally sourced meat, as well as a range of places to stop for refreshments.
Open every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday.
Burnage Rugby Club
Burnage’s car boot sale is a seasonal one, it runs from May – August every year. It’s definitely one to make the trip to. With pitches starting at just £10, this is a great, cheap opportunity for sellers to have a major clear out, all while grabbing some bargains of their own.
Every Sunday, May – August.
Holly Lane Car Boot
A giant car boot sale held in Wilmslow, Holly Lane always has plenty of traders for an afternoon of rummaging. The expansive field in which the car boot sale sits makes for a lovely summer shopping spot, and it’s often complete with a range of places to grab hot and cold drinks, food and refreshments.
Every Sunday, 6am – 1pm.
Bowlee Car Boot
If it’s time for a de-clutter, get yourself down to Bowlee in Rochdale. The car boot sale and market is one of Manchester’s most popular, with a huge range of goods available for a cheap home makeover, or a wardrobe refresh, with loads of unexpected inspiration thrown in for good measure. It’s seasonal, so be sure to keep an eye on socials to avoid disappointment.
Every Sunday, April – August.
East Lancs Car Boot
Held every Sunday as long as the weather is good, East Lancs car boot takes over Morleys Hall in Tyldesley with a massive range of traders. With free parking and a popular burger stall on site, there’s plenty to see with endless amounts of stuff to spend an afternoon scouring through. One Google review actually stated that they have too many stalls (what a problem to have), but when it comes to car boots, we’re very much of the ‘the more the merrier’ mindset.
Every Sunday from 6.30am.
Oldham Rugby Union
Lovingly and rightfully restored in 2021 after a short hiatus, Oldham Rugby Union’s car boot sale has always had a big community focus with hundreds of preloved items waiting to be re-homed and nurtured once again. The event takes place every Sunday, there’s a cafe on-site, and sellers don’t even have to book in advance.
Every Sunday from 6am.
Bolton Car Boot
With around 300 sellers and over 1,000 buyers regularly hitting up Bolton car boot sale, you know this one’s a biggie. It’s complete with family entertainment, five star food, retro sweet stalls and a meat auction, as well as an excellent selection of stalls to grab yourself some well-deserved gems.
Every Wednesday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday.
Ramsbottom Car Boot
This definitely isn’t the biggest car boot sale around, but what it lacks in quantity it more than makes up for in terms of consistent quality – it seems that local punters make a point of coming back as often as they can. Shop for quality secondhand furniture, ornaments, books, clothes and more in the picturesque market town of Bury. It’s only £13 per stall, and they run loads of schemes to support community groups too. An incredibly daytrip-worthy event in our opinion.
Every second and last Sunday of the month, May – October.
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