For many high streets in Greater Manchester, regular outdoor markets are becoming a thing of the past. Luckily, there are some beautiful historic market towns within an hour’s drive of the city that are keeping this British tradition alive.
You don’t have to venture very far into the neighbouring counties to find a thriving market town, perfect for a day trip or staycation – from mediaeval Skipton in West Yorkshire to the Peak District spa town of Buxton.
In celebration of English Tourism Week 2023 which runs from 17-26 March, we’ve chosen nine historic market towns near Greater Manchester.
1. Nantwich
Nantwich in Cheshire is a historic market town with a particularly high concentration of listed buildings. It hosts several different kinds of markets, including a traditional market, farmers’ market, vintage market and an antiques and collectors market. It is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Credit: Jonathanawhite via Wikimedia Commons
2. Ramsbottom
Located in Bury, Greater Manchester, Ramsbottom is known for its pubs and restaurants, including Levanter, which features in the Michelin restaurant guide. Market days in Ramsbottom are Saturdays. (Credit: Google) Photo: Google
3. Hebden Bridge
Hebden Bridge, located in between Halifax and Todmorden, West Yorkshire. It is regarded as a very bohemian town, historically attracting artists of all kinds. As well as its thriving arts scene, Hebden Bridge has a market four days a week, selling produce and general retail items on Thursday, second hand items on Friday, arts, crafts and artisan products on Saturday and local produce on Sunday. Photo: Marisa Cashill Photo: Marisa Cashill
4. Todmorden
Todmorden is located in the Upper Calder Valley, West Yorkshire. It has an open market market and a Victorian indoor market. The outdoor market is open Wednesday-Sunday and Thursday is the specialist craft market. Picture: Dave Croft Photo: Dave Croft