Chester Market: A Vibrant Hub of Local Flavors and Artisan Craftsmanship
Discover Chester Market’s vibrant mix of local produce, global flavors, artisan crafts, and lively community spirit in a modern, accessible setting.
Chester Market, located in Exchange Square off Northgate Street, is a bustling indoor market offering an eclectic mix of shops and eateries. Open six days a week, it features fresh produce, artisan foods, handmade crafts, and a lively atmosphere with both indoor and al fresco seating. The market is fully accessible, with modern facilities and a large adjacent car park, making it a welcoming destination for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Chester Market
- Exchange Square, Northgate St, Chester, CH1 2AR, GB
- +441244973040
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
- Thursday 8 am-10 pm
- Friday 8 am-10 pm
- Saturday 8 am-10 pm
- Sunday 10 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Tuesday morning between 8 and 10am for a quieter atmosphere with reduced music in seating areas.
- Check out the Makers Market held monthly at Exchange Square for unique handmade crafts and local artisan goods.
- Use the adjacent New Market Parking with 800 spaces, including accessible bays and electric vehicle charging.
- Try the diverse food stalls offering global cuisines, with many open from early morning until late evening.
- Bring your well-behaved dog on a lead; the market is dog-friendly and offers outdoor seating areas.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Several Chester city bus routes serve stops near Northgate Street and Exchange Square, with frequent services running every 10-20 minutes. The journey from Chester city centre bus station takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Tickets cost around £2-£4 one way.
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Car
Driving to Chester Market is convenient with the New Market Parking adjacent to Exchange Square offering 800 spaces, including accessible bays and electric vehicle charging. Parking fees range from £3.50 for up to 1 hour to £10 for over 6 hours, with reduced evening rates after 6pm. The car park is open daily from 6:30am to 11:30pm.
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Walking
From Chester city centre, walking to Chester Market takes about 10-15 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route is fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, with clear signage and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Chester Market 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 Chester Market
A Modern Market at the Heart of Chester
Chester Market has recently been reborn in a purpose-built hall at Exchange Square, part of the Northgate development. This contemporary market space combines traditional market charm with modern design, featuring stylish oak stalls bathed in natural light. Since its opening in late 2022, it has become a central social and shopping hub, welcoming millions of visitors. The market’s layout is all on one level, ensuring easy navigation and accessibility for all.Diverse Shopping and Culinary Experiences
The market hosts a wide range of vendors offering fresh local produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, and specialty food items. Food and beverage traders serve authentic global cuisines, with many stalls opening early to satisfy breakfast and lunch crowds. Beyond food, visitors can explore unique handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, and gifts from local traders, including personalized items and vintage-inspired clothing. The market truly supports local businesses and artisans, making it a vibrant showcase of Chester’s creative community.Events, Entertainment, and Community Spirit
Chester Market is more than a shopping destination; it is a lively venue for events and activities throughout the year. Regular live music performances, cooking demonstrations, and seasonal markets such as the Makers Market add to the festive and communal atmosphere. The market’s open and al fresco seating areas provide comfortable spaces to relax and soak in the lively ambiance.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
Designed with inclusivity in mind, Chester Market offers excellent accessibility features including automatic doors, lift access, and accessible toilets with radar keys. There is also a baby changing and feeding room and gender-neutral facilities. The adjacent New Market Parking offers 800 spaces with accessible parking bays and electric vehicle charging points. The market is dog-friendly, welcoming well-behaved dogs on leads.Operating Hours and Practical Information
The market is open Tuesday to Saturday from 8am to 10pm, Sundays from 10am to 9pm, and closed on Mondays except for Bank Holidays when it opens 10am to 9pm. Produce traders operate mainly until early evening, while food and drink stalls often stay open later. The market’s central location and extensive opening hours make it an ideal spot for both daytime shopping and evening dining.Award-Winning Social Space
Chester Market has earned multiple accolades including the Northern Design Awards’ Best Social Space and a Market Industry Trade Award for Best New Market. These honors reflect the market’s success in blending tradition with innovation, creating a welcoming environment that celebrates local culture, food, and craftsmanship.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ancient Roman Columns, Chester
0.1 km
Roman column bases marking Chester's legacy as a major legionary fortress and potential capital of Britannia.
Chester Town Hall
0.1 km
A stunning Victorian Gothic Revival landmark, Chester Town Hall is the historic heart of Chester’s civic and cultural life.
Chester Visitor Information Centre
0.1 km
Explore Chester's rich history and vibrant culture at the Visitor Information Centre, your essential resource for navigating this historic city.
Bridge Of Sighs
0.2 km
A haunting 1793 stone bridge where condemned prisoners took their final steps before execution—Chester's most poignant historical crossing.
Chester War Memorial
0.2 km
A solemn neo-medieval tribute to fallen soldiers, unveiled in 1922 within Chester Cathedral's historic grounds.
Pemberton's Parlour
0.2 km
Explore Pemberton's Parlour, a striking red sandstone tower on Chester’s historic city walls, revealing centuries of medieval and Victorian heritage.
Chester Cross
0.3 km
Medieval heart of Chester where Roman streets meet Tudor architecture and civic tradition.
Crypt Chambers
0.3 km
Medieval crypt meets Victorian Gothic Revival in Chester's most architecturally significant commercial building.
Bonewaldesthorne's Tower
0.3 km
Medieval gatehouse controlling Chester's western defenses, standing sentinel on Britain's most complete city walls.
Eastgate Clock
0.4 km
A Victorian clock atop a Roman gateway, Eastgate Clock is Chester’s most iconic meeting point and one of England’s most photographed timepieces.
Roman South East Corner Tower
0.5 km
Explore the enduring Roman South East Corner Tower, a sentinel of Chester’s ancient fortress and a testament to Roman military engineering.
Wishing Steps
0.7 km
Historic stone steps at Chester’s medieval walls where wishes come true through a charming local tradition.
Bridge Gate and Old Dee Bridge
0.8 km
Historic medieval gateway and ancient stone bridge spanning the scenic tidal River Dee in Chester’s charming riverside setting.
Churchill House
0.9 km
A vibrant academic landmark on Chester’s Queen’s Park campus, blending historic charm with modern learning and scenic riverside views.
Statue of Richard Grosvenor, Second Marquess of Westminster
0.9 km
Discover the monumental Statue of Richard Grosvenor in Chester, a testament to history and artistry surrounded by the charm of this ancient city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chester In Lego
0.0 km
Explore Chester’s iconic landmarks reimagined in vibrant Lego bricks at this interactive, family-friendly exhibit in Market Exchange Square.
Storyhouse
0.1 km
Chester’s vibrant cultural hub blending theatre, cinema, library, and community in a stunning Art Deco setting.
Northgate St & Little Abbey Gateway
0.1 km
Historic crossroads where medieval Gothic gateway meets Georgian Chester’s vibrant city life and heritage.
Town Hall
0.1 km
Explore Chester Town Hall, a majestic 19th-century Gothic Revival masterpiece and vibrant civic hub in the heart of historic Chester.
Edwardian Lady Tour
0.1 km
Discover Chester’s Edwardian charm on a captivating walking tour led by a guide in authentic period costume with exclusive Town Hall access.
Chester Free Walking Tours
0.1 km
Explore Chester’s rich history and iconic landmarks on a free, expert-led walking tour through the heart of this ancient city.
Chester Town Hall Square
0.1 km
Historic Chester Town Hall Square offers stunning Gothic Revival architecture and a lively cultural hub in the heart of Chester.
Statue of Janya - the Baby Elephant
0.1 km
A lifelike bronze baby elephant statue symbolizing life, friendship, and Chester’s bond with its zoo, nestled in the historic city center.
Marmalade
0.1 km
Chester’s cozy café serving generous gluten-free breakfasts and specialty coffees in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Chester City Streets
0.1 km
Step into Chester’s historic heart, where Roman foundations meet Tudor Rows and centuries of stories unfold along cobbled lanes and half-timbered streets.
Partly
0.1 km
Chester Market blends local tradition and global flavors in a vibrant, accessible space with award-winning design and community spirit.
Roman Strongroom
0.2 km
Explore Chester’s Roman Strongroom, a free historic site revealing ancient Roman military architecture and the city’s rich heritage.
Morgan's Mount
0.2 km
A historic Civil War tower on Chester’s ancient walls, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into 17th-century military defense.
Chester Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover Chester Cathedral’s timeless blend of medieval grandeur, vibrant worship, and breathtaking views atop its historic tower.
North West Angle Tower
0.2 km
Historic Roman and medieval tower anchoring Chester’s city walls at the northwestern corner, offering iconic views and a glimpse into the city’s defensive past.
Essential places to dine
The Kitchen
0.1 km
A vibrant Western-style eatery at Chester’s Storyhouse, blending seasonal local cuisine with a lively cultural atmosphere.
North Light Chester
0.1 km
A vibrant, stylish restaurant on Chester’s Northgate Street offering fresh, flavorful dishes in a lively, contemporary setting.
Pied Bull Restaurant
0.1 km
Historic Tudor inn and lively pub in Chester’s city centre, offering hearty British fare and charming accommodation steeped in character.
Blue Bell
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a historic 15th-century setting at The Blue Bell 1494, Chester’s charming culinary gem.
Covino
0.1 km
Discover Covino, Chester’s intimate wine bar pairing exceptional organic wines with inventive small plates in a cozy, historic setting.
Chez Jules in Chester
0.1 km
Historic French bistro in a converted fire station, celebrated for seasonal cuisine and outstanding value.
Veeno Chester
0.2 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Veeno Chester – where exquisite wine meets delectable cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
Bollicini
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and stylish Milanese-inspired dining in the heart of Chester’s historic city centre.
Green House
0.2 km
A stylish Chester tapas restaurant blending gourmet small plates, inventive cocktails, and warm hospitality in a modern setting.
Porta Wine & Tapas Bar
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
Olive Tree Brasserie Chester
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean and Greek cuisine in Chester’s historic Watergate Street with warm ambiance and vibrant dining options.
Pars Kahve
0.3 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Duttons
0.3 km
Chester’s stylish modern European bistro blending classic charm with fresh seasonal cuisine and vibrant cocktails in a cozy, elegant setting.
Stile Napoletano
0.3 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza crafted with passion and tradition in the heart of Chester’s historic district.
The Botanist Chester
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at The Botanist Chester - where delicious food meets live music in a beautifully designed setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Chester Zoo at The Market
0.0 km
Discover unique wildlife gifts and support global conservation at Chester Zoo’s vibrant market stall in the heart of Chester.
The Crystal Hut New Chester Market
0.0 km
Discover the vibrant world of healing crystals and spiritual gifts at The Crystal Hut, Chester’s colorful gem in Exchange Square market.
The Gift Shop
0.1 km
Unique gifts and novelties in the heart of historic Chester's medieval city center.
CH.ONE
0.1 km
Discover quirky, stylish bargains at CH.ONE, a unique ladies' clothing boutique in the heart of Chester's vibrant Northgate Street.
The Mug Doctor
0.2 km
Chester's specialist mug retailer offering personalized drinkware and quirky gift finds.
Reminis
0.2 km
Explore Chester's hidden gem, Reminis Gift Shop, for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that capture the essence of your visit.
Elephant
0.2 km
Explore Chester's Elephant Gift Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and charm.
Sweetheart Vintage
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage-inspired fashion accessories in the heart of Chester’s historic Watergate Street.
Harriet & Dee
0.2 km
Charming boutique gift and baby shop in Chester’s historic Watergate Street, known for unique presents and friendly service.
Fifi Bambu
0.3 km
Discover the magic of Chester’s Watergate Street through Fifi Bambu, a charming gift shop filled with unique treasures and enchanting finds.
Rainforest
0.3 km
Discover Chester’s serene spiritual gift shop with crystals, mindfulness tools, and warm hospitality at Rainforest on Watergate Street.
Lily Vintage Boutique
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and unique vintage fashion at Lily Vintage Boutique in Chester’s historic St Werburgh Street.
Foxy Frox Boutique
0.3 km
A stylish women’s clothing boutique in Chester’s historic center, offering contemporary fashion with a personal touch and a relaxed, independent vibe.
NICHOLS
0.3 km
Discover Nichols, Chester’s quirky boutique blending unique ladies’ fashion with antique treasures in a charming historic setting.
Menkind
0.3 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and tech accessories for men and boys in the heart of Chester’s historic shopping district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Music Hall Tap
0.2 km
Chester’s lively craft beer pub with rustic charm, live sports, and a vibrant social scene in the heart of the city.
Watergates Bar
0.3 km
Historic 12th-century crypt pub in Chester city centre, serving classic British fare and real ales in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Metronome Jazz Bar
0.3 km
Chester’s intimate jazz bar with live piano, vinyl classics, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere for a perfect night out.
Havana Chester
0.3 km
Lively Cuban-inspired bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Watergate Street, offering vibrant music, tapas, and creative cocktails.
Prohibition
0.3 km
Step into Chester’s Prohibition for expertly crafted cocktails and a vibrant 1920s speakeasy vibe in a cozy, intimate setting.
Palm Cocktail Bar & Eatery
0.3 km
Chester’s vibrant cocktail bar with expertly crafted drinks, lively atmosphere, and friendly service on historic Watergate Street.
The Guild Chester
0.3 km
Chester’s stylish cocktail bar and live music venue with two bars, terrace, and a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.
BarLounge - Chester
0.3 km
Chester’s premier lounge bar blending refined comfort food with creative cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Commonhall Street Social
0.3 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar with craft beers, delicious food, and a lively outdoor terrace in the heart of Chester’s city centre.
City Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Chester pub blending traditional charm with lively entertainment, great food, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Chester
0.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant on Chester’s historic Bridge Street, blending vibrant social vibes with diverse food and drink offerings.
The Cavern of the Curious Gnome
0.4 km
A cozy upstairs bar in Chester famed for its curated Belgian ales, continental lagers, and British craft beers paired with classic comfort food.
Paysan
0.4 km
Chester’s cozy wine bar with 200+ wines downstairs and a vibrant beer cellar upstairs, perfect for relaxed evenings and casual gatherings.
Red Door
0.4 km
Vibrant late-night cocktail bar and restaurant in Chester’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively music.
The Church Chester Bar & Restaurant
0.4 km
Historic church turned vibrant bar and restaurant in Chester, blending classic charm with modern dining and lively atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rosies - Chester
0.2 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Rosies, a multiroom club with rooftop terrace, VIP lounges, and cutting-edge sound over three lively floors.
Chester City Club
0.3 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at City Club, where modern beats meet historic charm in the heart of St Peters Churchyard.
Cruise
0.4 km
A multi-floor nightclub in Chester offering vibrant music, premium drinks, and lively nightlife across seven bars.
BONOBO Bar & Canteen
0.5 km
A vibrant two-floor bar and canteen in Chester blending American eats, cocktails, video games, and lively music for a unique nightlife experience.
The Live Rooms
0.9 km
Discover Chester's vibrant nightlife at The Live Rooms, where live music, comedy, and unforgettable experiences await.
Mandy & Graham’s
2.4 km
Experience Chester’s vibrant nightlife at Mandy & Graham’s, where pulsating beats and lively crowds create unforgettable party nights.
Ewloe Social and Community Club Ltd
10.8 km
Experience the heart of Deeside at Ewloe Social and Community Club, where fun, games, and community spirit come together.
North Wales Celebrations Wedding & Party Disco DJ
16.7 km
Elevate your celebrations with North Wales Celebrations - the premier mobile disco DJ service for unforgettable weddings and parties.
Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club
16.8 km
Discover the vibrant community spirit at Bryn Griffiths W M Social Club in Mold, where fun meets fellowship and local culture thrives.
Flint Royal British Legion Social Club
17.3 km
A welcoming social hub in Flint supporting veterans and community through camaraderie, remembrance, and local events.
The Magnet Club
17.4 km
Wrexham’s independent venue since 1984, The Magnet Club blends live music, sports, and social games in a welcoming, refurbished space on King Street.
The Establishment
21.7 km
A vibrant Widnes nightclub offering lively events, friendly staff, and a spacious venue for unforgettable nights out.
Supper Club at Blundell Street
23.5 km
Liverpool's ultimate supper club: fuel up on hearty meals, then dance the night away to drag shows, tributes, and non-stop hits near Echo Arena.
The Blue Angel Nightclub
23.9 km
Liverpool's dingy dive for 60s rock legends, dirt-cheap drinks, and sweaty throwback dances—where The Beatles once rocked and students still rage till dawn.
Cool It
23.9 km
A multi-level, student-friendly nightclub on Seel Street offering loud DJ nights, bargain entry and packed late‑night dancefloors.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
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
- Car-Free Access
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
