Nestled in the heart of the town and boasting more than 500 years of history, the iconic Bury Market has earned its place as the "jewel in Bury's crown” - a title affirmed by its numerous accolades, including winning Britain's Favourite Market in 2022 and being recognised as the Best Market Attraction in 2023 at the prestigious NABMA awards.
One of the biggest markets in the North West, attracting around 150,000 visitors each week, the large traditional market offers a unique shopping experience and great day out to discover plenty of local items and bargains galore.
Situated at Murray Road, the market beckons visitors from across the country, drawing in more than 1,000 coach trips annually, a testament to its enduring appeal - locals, day-trippers and overseas visitors all make special trips to the market.
Bury Market has a very diverse offering and this is an important ingredient in its success. With a staggering array of more than 200 stalls, Bury Market is a bustling hub of activity, offering a shopping experience unlike any other.
The history of Bury Market dates back to the 15th Century - a Market Charter granted by King Henry VI - but the current site occupied since the 1970's has everything a modern shopper would expect.
Stuart Maconie in his 2007 Book 'Pies and Prejudice' described it as “a shoppers' mecca, a retail nirvana rich with exotic bargains, a fabled bazaar, a veritable souk of the north".
From exotic indulgences to everyday necessities - it has everything from clothing, toys and pet goods to electrical goods, household items and jewellery alongside gifts and fresh produce. However, one of the market's most notable features is its diverse selection of food vendors, each offering a tantalising glimpse into culinary traditions from around the globe.
From delicious flatbreads, koftas and baklava from Turkish Gozleme and authentic Moroccan cuisine at Moroccan Bites to delightful desserts at Go Dutch Pancake House, the aromatic flavours of the oriental bistro at Teage Kitchen and Asian goods at Moliuliu’s Store and Moliuliu’s Place cafe - Bury Market is a gastronomic paradise.
The market has an abundance of multicultural cafes and takeaways to suit all tastes - Greek mezes and continental platters to toasted sandwiches, full English breakfasts, fish and chips.
Enjoy tarts, pies, Eccles cakes, muffins, Italian ice cream, pasties, quiches and more.
Of course you can also buy Bury’s famous black pudding at a number of stalls with original, low-fat and vegetarian versions of the local delicacy available. If you are looking for fresh local produce, the Fish and Meat Hall has an excellent selection, and there are stalls selling high-quality fruit and veg, local cheeses and other produce throughout the market.
But Bury Market is more than just a place to shop; it's a vibrant community hub where visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere and rich tapestry of cultures - there's always something new to see and do
Oozing charisma and atmosphere, the ambience and labyrinth-style layout offers visitors the opportunity to seek out and visit every stall. Its also located close by the Metro Station and next door to the Mill Gate Shopping Centre, making it the perfect destination.
The market's resilience is a testament to the enduring bond between traders and visitors alike - from the devastating fire of 1968 to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bury Market has stood the test of time, emerging stronger and more vibrant than ever.
Even in the face of challenges such as the temporary closure of the Market Hall due to structural issues, the spirit of Bury Market endures. Traders continue to ply their trade, with many businesses relocating nearby to ensure continuity and support from the community.
Looking to the future, Bury Market remains committed to providing an unparalleled shopping experience for individuals and groups alike. Whether you're a seasoned shopper or a first-time visitor, Bury Market welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to explore its bustling aisles, sample its culinary delights, and experience the magic of one of England's most beloved markets.
It is continually evolving to meet the changing needs of its visitors, with plans underway for exciting new developments, including a modern flexi-hall - a multifunctional events space that will not only enhance the market experience, but also serve as a hub for community events and live performances.
So why wait? Come and discover why Bury Market has been voted Market of the Year multiple times and continues to captivate the hearts and minds of visitors from far and wide.
With its rich history, diverse offerings, and unwavering spirit, Bury Market truly is the beating heart of Bury's retail landscape, a place where tradition meets innovation and where every visit is an adventure waiting to unfold.
Bury Market is a great venue for day visitors either on its own or as part of a visit to Bury's other attractions.
The Market Hall and Fish & Meat Hall are open Monday to Friday 9.30am until 4.30pm (closes at noon on Tuesdays) and Saturdays 9.30am until 5pm, with full market days on Wednesday, Friday and Saturdays.
