Information & Advice
Bedford is a thriving market town with its
original 'Charter' dating back more than 800 years when King Henry
II granted it in 1166, allowing Bedfordian's to hold their own
market. A market has been held on St Paul's Square since the
1500's.
Wednesday and Saturday Charter Market
The general Market, held on Wednesdays and
Saturdays on the historic Harpur and St Paul's Squares and on
Thursdays on the Saxon Centre, Kempston, has retained a
freshness and appeal by offering a wide range of quality
goods at affordable prices, from olives to key cutting services,
toys to hot food.
But Bedford’s market trade isn’t just historic
– since 2004 the county town has transformed itself into ‘A Town of
Markets’ by introducing several new speciality markets.
Thursdays in Bedford are now filled with the
sensual delights of its regular Gourmet Food market whilst Fridays
plays host to the beautiful Home and Garden market.
Thursday Gourmet Market
The speciality markets are held in Harpur
Square in the heart of the historic town centre. Bedford’s Gourmet
Food Market, offers a wide range of quality foods and food-related
products. The lunchtime trade is also catered for with tasty
takeaway food and drinks being available. On the second and fourth
Thursday of each month the market is boosted by the local Farmers’
Market with its local produce and WI cakes.
Friday Home and Garden Market
Friday's Home and Garden Market offers an
array of cut flowers and plants and household items, together with
specialist garden products. It’s proving to have a year-round
appeal, with shoppers and town centre staff seen carrying armfuls
of flowers through the town at lunchtime!
Handmade in Bedfordshire Markets
Talent abounds in the Bedfordshire
area.
Come to the Handmade markets and see what
talented neighbours you have. These crafts people gather to display
their skills with enthusiasm and pride. They enjoy encouraging
others and passing on their knowledge. From painting to pottery,
needlecraft to calligraphy…the market embraces a diverse range of
crafts which need your support, and-if your craft is not
represented please apply to join the market. Besides selling from
their stock the stall holders will happily discuss commissions and
take orders. Buy British in Bedford. Summer Saturdays will not be
the same with the launch of the “Handmade in Bedford” Craft
Markets. These will take place on the second Saturday of the month
on Midland Road from May through to September.
Tel:
(01234) 718066
Email: markets@bedford.gov.uk
Address: The Markets
Manager
Bedford
Borough Council
Borough Hall
Cauldwell Street
Bedford
MK42 9AP