Cambridge Market Square: Historic Heart of Local Life and Culture
Discover the vibrant heart of Cambridge’s culture and commerce at Market Square, a historic open-air market with global flavours and local crafts.
Cambridge Market Square, located on Market Hill in the city centre, is a vibrant open-air market operating daily from 10am to 4pm. With over 100 stalls, it offers a diverse selection of street food, fresh produce, artisan crafts, vintage finds, books, and more. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like Great St Mary’s Church and Cambridge Guildhall, it captures the authentic spirit of Cambridge through its lively atmosphere and rich history.
A brief summary to Cambridge Market Square
- Market Hill, Cambridge, Cambridge, CB1 0SS, GB
- +441223457466
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings or lunchtimes for fewer crowds and the best food variety.
- Carry small change as some stalls prefer cash payments.
- Explore nearby landmarks like Great St Mary’s Church and consider climbing its tower for city views.
- Check for special artisan and vintage market days on Sundays to experience unique stalls.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several city bus routes serve stops within a 5-10 minute walk of Market Square. Buses run frequently throughout the day with fares typically around £2-£3 per ride.
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Park & Ride
Use Cambridge’s Park & Ride facilities located on the city outskirts; shuttle buses run every 10-15 minutes to the city centre near Market Square. Parking costs about £3-£5 per day, and bus fares are around £2.
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Walking
From Cambridge train station, a pleasant 20-minute walk on mostly flat, paved streets leads directly to Market Square. The route is accessible and suitable for most travelers.
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Cycling
Covered cycle parking is available near Market Square at Grand Arcade and Queen Anne Terrace car parks. Cambridge is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated lanes.
Cambridge Market Square location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cambridge Market Square
A Timeless Marketplace at the City’s Core
Cambridge Market Square has been a bustling hub of trade and community since Saxon times, nestled between the historic Great St Mary’s Church and the Cambridge Guildhall. This open-air market sits at the centre of Cambridge’s social and commercial life, where locals and visitors alike gather daily to browse over 100 stalls. Its location on Market Hill places it at the crossroads of the city’s heritage and contemporary vibrancy.Diverse Goods and Global Flavours
The market offers an eclectic mix of products, from fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers to vintage records, handmade jewellery, books, and second-hand clothing. The food stalls are a highlight, serving international street food from Brazil, India, Thailand, Eastern Europe, and more, reflecting Cambridge’s multicultural community. Artisan crafts and unique gifts are also abundant, making it a perfect spot for discovering local creativity.Atmosphere and Surroundings
The lively buzz of the market is enhanced by its scenic surroundings. Visitors can admire the architecture of Great St Mary’s Church or the Guildhall while enjoying the open-air setting. The market’s proximity to King’s Parade and Petty Cury invites further exploration of Cambridge’s historic streets. On weekends, the market becomes especially vibrant with special artisan and vintage market days, adding to the festive atmosphere.Community and Tradition
More than just a shopping destination, Cambridge Market Square is a place where community spirit thrives. Traders offer services such as bike repairs and watch fixing alongside their goods, fostering a sense of local connection. The market is a living tradition, continuing centuries of commerce and social interaction that define the city’s character.Practical Details for Visitors
Open daily from 10am to 4pm, the market is free to enter, with visitors paying only for purchases. It is best visited on weekday mornings or lunchtimes to avoid crowds. Some stalls prefer cash payments, so carrying small change is advisable. Nearby amenities include covered cycle parks and several car parks, with Park & Ride options facilitating easy access.Exploring Beyond the Market
After soaking in the market’s vibrant atmosphere, visitors can climb Great St Mary’s tower for panoramic views or enjoy a punt along the River Cam. These experiences complement the market visit, offering a fuller sense of Cambridge’s charm and history.For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
