Bristol proudly shows its independent spirit, and its markets make this clear. Across the city, market traders sell food, crafts, and local products in historic halls and busy waterside locations. These markets give independent businesses a place to grow and connect with customers.
At Combined Market Traders Insurance Association (CMTIA), we support market traders across the UK. We work closely with the people behind the stalls. They include food traders serving locally and makers selling handmade goods. Every successful Bristol market relies on their skill and commitment.
This guide is for visitors, locals, and new market traders. You might be planning a food-focused weekend, exploring your neighbourhood, or looking for places to sell your work. We highlight the best markets in and around Bristol, explain what makes each one different, and share when to visit and how to get involved in the city’s independent trading scene.
St Nicholas Market (Old City)
Established: 1743
When: Monday–Saturday, 9:30am–5pm
Where: Corn Street & Wine Street, Old City
Known locally as St Nick’s, St Nicholas Market sits at the heart of Bristol’s market culture. It’s the city’s oldest surviving market and one of its most loved.
The market fills the historic Exchange building and spills out into the surrounding streets. Inside, you’ll find independent market traders selling artwork, jewellery, textiles, leather goods, flowers, vintage pieces, and unique gifts. The Glass Arcade is especially popular at lunchtime. For many in Bristol, this is the first step in their journey of how to become a market trader.
Food at St Nick’s
St Nicholas Market is one of Bristol’s top street food destinations. Market traders serve Middle Eastern wraps, Caribbean curries, vegan comfort food, and the city’s famous samosas.
Street Food Market:
Tuesday & Friday, 11am–2:30pm
Extra markets at St Nick’s
- Bristol Indies’ Market (Friday & Saturday, 10am–5pm): art, photography, handmade jewellery, vintage clothing, and ethical fashion
- Bristol Farmers’ & Producers’ Market (Wednesday, 9:30am–2:30pm): local meat, fish, cheese, bread, fruit, and vegetables
- Bristol Flea Market (Saturday, 10am–5pm): antiques, plants, curiosities, and retro finds
Best time to visit: Late morning on a weekday for browsing, or midweek lunchtime for food without weekend crowds.
Harbourside Street Food Market (City Centre Waterfront)
When:
Wednesday–Friday, 12pm–2:30pm
Saturday & Sunday, 11:30am–4pm
Where: Broad Quay, Bristol Harbourside
This market combines global street food with harbour views and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a prime example of the growing street food trends in Bristol. DJs often provide music, and seating by the water makes it easy to stay awhile.
Buoy Events curates the market with a focus on quality, sustainability, and local market traders. Food changes regularly and includes shawarma, Malaysian curries, loaded fries, bagels, and strong vegan options.
Seasonal touches shape the experience. Summer brings sunshine and cold local beers. Winter adds mulled wine and festive stalls.
Top tip: Take your food to the water’s edge. It’s one of Bristol’s best lunch spots.
Tobacco Factory Sunday Market (Southville)
When: Every Sunday, 10am–2:30pm
Where: Raleigh Road, Southville
This market is a Bristol institution and a local favourite. Around 60 stalls trade each week, with a strong focus on ethics and community.
You’ll find organic produce, sourdough bread, cakes, flowers, ceramics, clothing, artwork, and street food. Market traders prioritise sustainability, fair trade, and local production.
People come here to shop, meet friends, and spend time together. Coffee conversations are part of the experience.
Atmosphere: Relaxed, creative, and proudly Bristolian
Best for: Ethical shopping, slow Sundays, and meaningful gifts
Finzels Reach Market (City Centre)
When: Wednesday & Friday, 11am–2pm
Where: Finzels Reach, near Bristol Bridge
Finzels Reach Market offers a compact but lively lunchtime option. City workers and visitors both use it as a quick food stop.
- Wednesdays: Global street food, including Thai, Sri Lankan, Indian, and pizza
- Fridays: Local producers selling cheese, meat, fruit, vegetables, and baked goods
Its central location makes it easy to combine with shopping or sightseeing in the Old City.
Temple Quay Market (Temple Quarter)
When: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 12pm–2pm
Where: Temple Quay
Temple Quay Market sits in Bristol’s business district but attracts food lovers from across the city. Many people rate it among the UK’s best street food markets.
Market traders rotate often, which keeps the menu fresh. Nearby harbour seating and ferry links make it easy to reach.
Windmill Hill Market (Bedminster)
When: Saturdays, 10am–3pm
Where: Windmill Hill City Farm, BS3
This community-led market takes place at Windmill Hill City Farm. It highlights local makers, food producers, artists, and street food traders. If you are an ad-hoc seller, you might consider one day public liability insurance for events like these.
Live music, children’s activities, and access to the farm make it ideal for families. The market supports sustainability and local business, which gives it a strong neighbourhood feel.
Whiteladies Road Market (Clifton)
When: Saturdays, 8:30am–2pm
Where: Whiteladies Road
This long-running market stretches along one of Bristol’s busiest shopping streets. Market traders sell seasonal produce, baked goods, and local drinks. Buskers often add live music as you shop.
BS5 Market (St George)
When: Monthly (usually Sundays)
Where: The Beehive Centre, St George
BS5 Market is a newer market with a strong creative focus. It features independent artists, designers, produce, street food, cocktails, workshops, and live entertainment. Entry is free.
Bristol Christmas Market (Seasonal)
When: November–December
Where: Broadmead, City Centre
Each winter, Bristol Christmas Market fills the city centre with festive stalls, lights, music, themed bars, and family attractions. Features like ski gondolas and balloon baskets add a playful twist.
