All photos and images are copyright protected. Digital images and prints are available for purchase, please use the contact page or leave us a message below. All rights reserved
Durham Market Place’s Open Market or Outdoor Market takes place every Saturday. This is when up to 30 small and independent traders set up stalls in the square selling everything from food and drinks to clothes, gifts, hand craft and more. The stalls start from as early as 9am and stay open until 4:30pm.
Durham Market Place
The Market Place is a historic and vibrant hub located in the heart of Durham, England. This square is a focal point of the city, embodying centuries of history and culture, and serving as a bustling centre of commerce, community activities, and social gatherings.
Durham Market Place – Saturday Outdoor Market
Durham Market Place hosts outdoor market stalls where traders sell everything from fresh flowers and food to antiques and handmade items. These markets add to the lively atmosphere, drawing crowds who come to browse, shop, and enjoy the vibrant street life.
Open from 9am to 4.30pm, visitors can shop for food and drink, clothing and fashion accessories, homewares, home decor and more. It’s great for gifts and ideal for weekend essentials. There is a selection of take-away food vendors and a hot take-away drinks stall so you can pop by for lunch or a snack.
What’s Around the Square
The architecture surrounding Durham Market Place is a testament to the city’s rich history, with a mix of medieval, Georgian, and Victorian buildings that house a variety of shops, cafes, and businesses. Among these, the Market Hall is a significant feature, a covered market that has been serving the people of Durham for over 150 years.
Inside, visitors can find a wide range of goods, from fresh local produce and artisanal foods to crafts, clothing, and gifts. The market hall is known for fostering a sense of community, offering a space where local traders and artisans can connect directly with residents and visitors.
The square is also home to several important landmarks, including the Durham Town Hall and the Durham Guildhall, buildings that reflect the city’s medieval past and its ongoing civic traditions. The Guildhall, in particular, is noted for its beautiful and historically significant interiors, including the Mayor’s Chamber and the Main Hall, which are used for a variety of civic functions and public events.
Other Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Durham Market Place becomes the center of numerous events and festivals, from cultural celebrations to seasonal markets, showcasing the best of Durham’s community spirit and heritage. Whether it’s the Christmas markets that bring festive cheer or the Durham Food Festival that celebrates local and international cuisine, there’s always something happening that draws locals and tourists alike.
Restaurants and Cafes
While the Market Place is a constant hive of commerce and events, it is also a place where history and modern life seamlessly intertwine. It is a spot where one can admire the historic architecture, learn about the statues, enjoy a meal at one of the cafes or restaurants, or simply sit and watch the world go by, immersed in the ebb and flow of city life.
Durham Market Place is a vital and dynamic part of Durham, reflecting the city’s history, culture, and community. A place where tradition meets modernity, offering something for everyone, whether they’re looking to shop, explore, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this historic city.
Location Map
If you need an address to get there, use Durham Market Hall below:
Durham Market Hall, Durham Market Place, Durham DH1 3NJ
