Free or cheap things to do in Manchester this January 2026

Last Updated on 2 April 2026 by Colette

Cost of living crisis or not, we’re all used to feeling the pinch in January so I’ve been keeping my eyes peeled for cheap and free days out in Manchester through January to save you having to be stuck at home!

Exchange Square in Manchester

Obviously there’s lots of free things to do in Manchester all year round but for now I’ve focussed on events and offers specific to January – this list is super short this year so if you know of anything I’ve missed, please let me know and I’ll keep updating it as I find things!

Cheap and free days out in Manchester this month:

Really Wild January at Cockfields Farm – Weekends from Friday 9th to Saturday 31st January 2026

Throughout January, Cockfields Farm are offering £5.95 entry for adults and children (under 1s go free) – this is their cheapest entrance price all year (and is actually slightly cheaper than last year!)

Book tickets for Cockfields Farm

You can read more about visiting Cockfields Farm here:

Cockfields Farm – Review & Tips

Cockfields Farm Park

Snow Queen Mini Disco at Kargo MKT â€“ Sunday 25th January 2026

Join the Snow Queen at Kargo MKT this January for a free kids’ disco!

This event is free to attend however spaces are limited so must be pre-booked.

Free Woodland Adventure Golf for kids at Haigh Woodland Park – January 2026 TBC

During the month of January – mums and dads can enjoy the wonderful 18-hole Adventure Golf Course – FREE of charge when accompanied by two or more kids paying full price!

Normal Child Prices are:

Aged 3-11: £4

Aged 12+: £5

Under 3’s FREE.

(Normal Adult prices – £5 per player).

There is no need to book in advance; simply turn up, pay, and play.

While you’re there, check out the Love To Explore app too!

Chinese New Year Kids’ Craft Club at Kargo MKT – January 2026 TBC

Take part in this month’s Kargo MKT Kids’ Craft Club, Chinese New Year Style!

Celebrate the year of the snake and decorate you very own snake with pens, beads and pipe cleaners.

This event is free to attend but you will need to book a place.

If you know of cheap or free days out in Manchester this January that I’ve missed, shout up, share the love and I’ll add them in!

Have a look at these posts next:

The best parks and playgrounds in Manchester – always a great option for a cheap day out!

Museums and galleries in Manchester

What’s on this February half term in Manchester

Top tips for winter walks

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Author

  • Colette

    Colette Burgess is an experienced primary school teacher and has lived in Manchester for most of her adult life. She is married to Dave and they have three children aged 12, 15, and 17.

    Colette has been writing about days out and adventures in Manchester and beyond including day trips and short breaks in the UK and holidays abroad since 2012.

    Colette and her family love festivals, camping and generally being outside.

    View all posts

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