Overview

Afflecks is a brilliant collection of around 60 small independent traders in a 4 storey Victorian building. It contains everything from a cafe, anime, tarot readings, plants, paintings and pin badges to a LGBTQI+ bookshop, jewellery, vintage clothing and a pride store. As the building is very old, there are some access issues however the staff are really helpful and try their best to mitigate any issues. The main entrance is not wheelchair accessible because of steps but if you go around to the side entrance on Church Street (which has about 4 steps in to the building) and either ring the phone number on the sign (0161 839 0718) or get someone accompanying you to go into the first shop, a member of building staff will bring out the wheelchair ramp. On exiting the building they will do the same. Once inside the building there is a lift to all floors. The nature of the shop is very winding and in some places narrow but most of the shops are accessible and there are some permanent ramps to use where there are steps. There are areas which are more enclosed feeling and busy which may be more difficult for those with sensory issues. There are a couple of shops on the 2nd and 3rd floors which are not wheelchair accessible because they are in a separate small area which is down some steps. The building has a disabled toilet on the 1st floor although I didn’t use this so can’t say how accessible this is. Dogs are allowed in the building. I found all of the building staff and traders were very helpful and keen to assist in any way.

Transport & Parking

In Manchester’s Northern Quarter. Close to bus and tram stops.

Access

Lift to all floors. Steps to entrances. Ramp available for Church Street entrance. Some steps inside but majority of traders accessible. Some narrow areas which may be more difficult to manoeuvre in using a large powerchair for example.

Toilets

Staff

Building staff were very helpful and friendly - keen to assist with access etc. Individual traders were also helpful.