There’s something wholesome about visiting a traditional market, pottering around the curious stalls, chatting to the friendly vendors and picking up a few bargains along the way. It’s the epitome of ‘slow weekend’ for us, marking the start of a long day that’s no doubt followed by cold pints and hearty pub grub. But not only that, it’s a Yorkshire tradition, with many of our region’s towns hosting regular market days for centuries. Fancy taking in a slice of that history? Here’s our guide to some of the best market days in Yorkshire.
1. Richmond
cc-by-sa/2.0 – © Phil Smith – geograph.org.uk/p/26312
When is market day? 📅 Every Saturday.
What’s there? 🛍️ Both an indoor and outdoor market with tons of fresh, local produce, flowers, arts, crafts and gifts.
What else is there to do? 🤔 Richmond is also home to its very own castle, tons of lovely restaurants (including The Wensleydale Heifer and the fabulous traders at The Station), with plenty of independent shops to potter around, too.
2. Malton
When is market day? 📅 The food market is on the second Saturday of every month.
What’s there? 🛍️ Food, glorious food! Expect tasty, locally made and sourced grub including pastries, sausage rolls, cakes and so much more – all accompanied by live music and drinks.
What else is there to do? 🤔 Malton is the food capital of Yorkshire, so it wouldn’t be a proper visit without filling your tum. Packed full of lovely pubs, cocktail bars and restaurants ranging a ton of cuisines, there’s plenty of places to try – which will likely result in multiple visits!
3. Beverley
cc-by-sa/2.0 – © Bernard Sharp – geograph.org.uk/p/4608109
When is market day? 📅 Every Saturday.
What’s there? 🛍️ A little bit of everything, really! Expect clothes, accessories, crafts, gifts, food, drinks and more!
What else is there to do? 🤔 Beverley is home to some cosy cafes, pubs and a number of lovely restaurants. Visit Nellie’s for a real historic drink at the pub, before walking around the stunning Beverley Westwood on a summer’s day.
4. Helmsley
When is market day? 📅 Every Friday.
What’s there? 🛍️ It’s a bit of a mix. Expect clothes, gifts, local produce, household goods and flowers.
What else is there to do? 🤔 Helmsley is truly a beautiful place to walk around, so we’d recommend taking in the sights before heading to the pub, trying out a local restaurant or making the trip over to the Walled Garden.
5. Leyburn
cc-by-sa/2.0 – © Stephen Craven – geograph.org.uk/p/5858008
When is market day? 📅 Every Friday.
What’s there? 🛍️ Pretty much everything, from fresh fish and local produce to beautiful crafts and gifts.
What else is there to do? 🤔 Leyburn is well known for the Tennants Auctioneers, as well as the beautiful Leyburn Shawl walking route – which is said to be the route Mary Queen of Scots took, dropping her shawl, when escaping the nearby Bolton Castle.
6. Ripon
When is market day? 📅 Every Thursday.
What’s there? 🛍️ All sorts! Shop clothing, accessories, household essentials, plants and more, as well as local produce and sweet treats.
What else is there to do? 🤔 Ripon is home to its own historic cathedral, as well as the lovely Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden.
7. Knaresborough
When is market day? 📅 Every Wednesday.
What’s there? 🛍️ Expect a little bit of everything, including local produce, fresh meats, treats, clothing and more.
What else is there to do? 🤔 Walk by the river towards the lovely Knaresborough viaduct, enjoy a waterside cuppa, check out the castle or enjoy a peaceful boat ride in your very own rowing boat.
8. Skipton
cc-by-sa/2.0 – © Colin Smith – geograph.org.uk/p/1341705
When is market day? 📅 Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
What’s there? 🛍️ What isn’t there? Shop clothes, bags, fresh veggies, cheese, produce, plants and more.
What else is there to do? 🤔 Skipton is a wonderful place to visit for a day out. There’s a castle, literally tons of pubs, some gorgeous restaurants and cafes and plenty of shops, too.
9. Grassington
When is market day? 📅 The Farmer’s Market takes place every third Sunday of the month.
What’s there? 🛍️ Some of the very best local food and drink from fantastic local traders.
What else is there to do? 🤔 Grassington is home to a number of quaint pubs, independent shops and the beautiful Linton Falls. If that wasn’t all, it’s main square has recently been used as the set for All Creatures Great and Small.
Read more: 14 Of The Best Places To Visit For A Day Trip In Yorkshire
