Independent Markets in the North & Scotland

The best independent markets in the North and Scotland

Are you after unique antiques, vintage clothes or just want a few tasty food options? You can’t beat a day wandering round an independent market. You can pick up some amazing bargains and enjoy the very best street food.

Here’s our roundup of the best independent markets across our network.

Liverpool

Liverpool loves an independent market, and Baltic Market is the perfect place to start. The lively food market has just turned 6 and is the ideal place to sample some of the top street food vendors in the city. There are pizzas from Little Furnace, burgers from Richie’s, Latin food with a twist from NOSO and much more.

If you’re on the hunt for vintage clothes, trinkets, or something completely unique, head to Great Homer Street Market. Called ‘Greatie’ by the locals, it’s open from 9am to 4pm every Saturday.

Another excellent market in the city is Liverpool Makers Market. You can visit on the first Sunday of every month, and it attracts some of the best artisan makers from across the North West.

York

The Shambles Market in York is one of the most famous markets anywhere in the North. Held every day from 9am to 5pm, it’s a vibrant and historic market, home to the largest group of independent traders in the city. There are more than 70 stalls where you can pick up fresh flowers, fruit and veg, and find plenty of great gifts.

SPARK, York is another market well worth a visit. It’s an outdoor community space in the centre of the city made of upcycled shipping containers. It’s also home to some of the best independent traders in the York. You’ll find Sicilian street food at Tiro, York’s smallest bar, Boho, and some great fashion stalls too.

Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital is packed with markets. Every Sunday from 10am to 4pm, you can head to Stockbridge Market, the city’s most famous farmers’ market. There are close to 50 stalls selling the very best in local and seasonal produce.

Leith Market is a great option on a Saturday. It’s open from 10am to 4pm and features plenty of independent food sellers. Also on a Saturday (from 10 until 5) is Grassmarket Market. It’s one of the top places to visit in Edinburgh and is ideal for vintage treasures and unique finds. We love the handmade jewellery and crafts as well as the locally-made cakes!

Newcastle

Set in an iconic spot, the Newcastle Quayside Market is famous in this part of the world. Right beneath the Tyne Bridge, it’s a picturesque riverside location with stunning views across Newcastle. It’s held from 9am to 4pm every Sunday and features fantastic food options, hand-crafted jewellery, art from the best local artists, quirky gifts and loads more.

Make and Mend Market is Newcastle’s longest running independent market – it’s been going for nearly 200 years. It’s held on the first Saturday of every month (except January) in the famous Grainger Market. You’ll find the city’s best artisan producers selling everything from recycled furniture to health and beauty products.

Other independent markets that are always worth a visit in Newcastle include Jesmond Food Market (first and third Saturday of every month) and Newcastle Farmers Market.

Ready to start exploring the independent markets of the North of England and Scotland? If you’re planning on travelling by train, you can book your tickets in advance online or on the TPExpress app.