Darlington’s famous Victorian Indoor Market opened on the 2nd May 1864 and for over 150 years the market has proved itself a great destination for shoppers, providing something for everyone. It’s the heart of the town centre, and the home for local, independent businesses, with retailers including household staples, fresh produce, butchers and much more. It’s also a vibrant hub for fledgling businesses, and there’s regular pop-up events too.
As Darlington Market’s general manager Michael Harvey explains, the market is also home to quirkier events: “Some of our more off-piste events include The Misfit Market, a late night alternative market celebrating the weird and the wonderful, and the strange and unusual. It nurtured an incredible community of people who come to celebrate their differences, and support the niche traders that the event attracts.”
Having undergone several phases of redevelopment over the last few years, the market now hosts a Street Food Hall where six independent street food vendors offer unique global cuisine; The Market Tap is a well-stocked watering hole with a fantastic selection of beers, wines and spirits; and the Market Stage is where you’ll find a weekly line-up of entertainment, from performers to alternative activities.
“Another fantastic addition to the market as part of the makeover was The Vault, a basement prohibition-themed bar.” Michael explains. “A ‘sophisticated and comfortable environment’ which offers top quality craft beers and real ale as well as eye-catching and creative gorgeous cocktails. It also has a New Orleans-inspired jazz music vibe including live performances from jazz musicians to burlesque dancers.”
A weekly outdoor market takes place on Monday, Friday and Saturday; find the much-loved Pease Pudding events – which features street food and drink plus live entertainment – on the first Thursday of the month in Darlington Market Square; and keep an eye out for the popular annual Food & Drink Festival, which sees thousands of people flocking to the town. Plans are well on the way for further redevelopments in the Covered Market to attract a new age of retailers and revitalise such a beautiful and historic space, so keep your eyes peeled!
Find Darlington Market at 1 Tubwell Row, Darlington, DL1 5PN, 01325 528236
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