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Best markets in Yorkshire

07 October 2019

Street market

 

Yorkshire is the home of good food and great shopping, and you can see the very best of each when exploring the counties top markets. If you’re a foodie looking to try some difference cuisine or you’re an eclectic shopper looking for unique gifts, then the markets in Yorkshire are perfect you. In this guide, we give you a glimpse into what you can expect to find.

NORTHERN DALES FARMERS MARKETS

 

Carrots

 

If you want to try some of the fresh, organic produce that Yorkshire is famous for, then make sure you visit one of the Northern Dales Farmers’ Markets. The team run food and drink markets every weekend across seven different locations across the county; Stokesley, Hartlepool, Stockton, Wynyard, Easingwold, Middlesbrough and Thirsk.

We spoke to Julie from the team to find out more about the farmers’ markets: “People will find a range of stalls all groaning under the weight of scrumptious treats and store cupboard staples. We are dedicated food and drink markets and our stallholders are among the best in the UK. Many have won highly-coveted awards including Great Taste Awards, British Pie Awards, Eat Game Awards, horticultural awards and World Marmalade Awards. Our flagship Stokesley Market was named Farmers Market of the Year and was included in the Top 20 Farmers Markets in the UK by The Telegraph.”

We also asked Julie why she believes the markets are well worth a visit: “Yorkshire market towns are among the most beautiful in the land, and what’s a market town without a top-quality food market? Markets create a buzz at the heart of the community, it’s where people meet, chat, catch up on local news and visitors get a real taste of Yorkshire. We handpick our stallholders to make sure all our events offer a range of product so there’s something for everyone. Our farmers’ market enhances any visit to the Yorkshire towns of Stokesley, Easingwold and Thirsk.”

Autumn is one of the best times to visit the farmers markets, Julie explains: “Farmers are harvesting their crops, which means there is a feast of wholesome food to be enjoyed, and all of it grown, reared or produced in Yorkshire by local independent family businesses.”

SCARBOROUGH MARKET HALL

 

Jam jars

 

Although Scarborough is famous for the beach, the market is also a must-visit when you’re staying in accommodation in Robin Hoods Bay. You’ll discover a huge variety of stalls, from fresh local Yorkshire food to independent shops. There are also two cafés serving up some delicious meals, so if you’re struck with a gloomy day during your holiday to Yorkshire, be sure to head to the market for some warming treats.

The Scarborough market hall has undergone £2.7m renovation over the last few years, so despite the history of the market remaining intact, it has a modern touch, making it the ideal place to relax. The hall has different floors to explore, all of which are worth a look, however, make sure you head down below to the vaults to find a unique souvenir, antiques and handmade jewels. Check out the market’s event calendar, so you don’t miss out on any action.

SKIPTON’S MARKET

 

Clothing rail

 

One place where you’ll be certain to find a traditional country market is in Skipton, North Yorkshire. Often described as the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, this charming town has everything from historic heritage sites to secret side streets full of quirky independent shops.

If you visit Skipton, you must stop by the town’s market. We spoke to Stefan, the market manager, to find out more: “Our historic market is open every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday on the high street. You’ll find clothing, jewellery, local cakes and pastries, flowers, exotic eats, and plenty more!”

If you’re heading to Yorkshire during the Christmas period, head to Skipton’s Christmas market. Stefan mentions: “In December, Skipton hosts an award-winning Christmas market which is held over two Sundays. There are over 100 stalls, festive street food and drink, a torchlight procession, festive entertainment, walkabout acts and carols, Santa’s grotto and his real reindeers, brass bands and much, much more.”

LEEDS KIRKGATE MARKET

 

Spices

 

The famous Leeds Kirkgate Market is one of the largest markets in Europe. With everything from fresh produce and warm food to fashion and antiques, this market has been popular with shoppers from 1857. Even those who don’t like the shop will enjoy a visit to the Leeds Kirkgate Market, as you can tuck into the various food from different cultures and enjoy the live music from local bands.

Each day is never the same at this market. If you’re attending on a Monday then expect to rummage through stylish pieces of second-hand clothing, perfect for those who love fashion. Alternatively, visit the market on a Wednesday for the Asian Bazaar. You’ll feel transported into a different continent with the smell of exotic spices filling the hall as you browse beautiful silk saris and traditional jewellery. If you’d prefer, the traditional market is held on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays and the flea market is on Thursday.

When you’re staying in a hotel in Robin Hood’s Bay, make sure you spend time exploring some of the counties great markets to pick yourself up a souvenir, or even a gift for your friends and family back home.

The best markets in Yorkshire:

  • Northern Dales Farmers Markets
  • Scarborough Market Hall
  • Skipton’s Market
  • Leeds Kirkgate Market

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