Market Place Shopping Centre, Bolton
Historic charm meets modern shopping and entertainment at Bolton’s Market Place Shopping Centre, a vibrant hub for all ages.
Market Place Shopping Centre in Bolton is a vibrant retail and leisure hub housed within the historic setting of Bolton’s original covered market from the 1850s. It offers a diverse mix of high-street brands, unique independent shops, eateries, a cinema, and family-friendly entertainment, all under one roof. With convenient facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, it serves as a central destination for shopping, dining, and socializing in Bolton.
A brief summary to Market Place Shopping Centre
- Knowsley St, Bolton, BL1 2AL, GB
- +441204361100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early on weekends to enjoy less crowded shopping and easy parking.
- Take advantage of the Little Rascals Kids Club for free children’s activities.
- Check cinema showtimes in advance to catch the latest films during your visit.
- Use the free wheelchair service available at the Customer Service desk if needed.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Bus
Frequent bus services connect Bolton town centre with surrounding areas, with stops near Market Place Shopping Centre. Typical journey times range from 15 to 40 minutes depending on origin. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 one way. Services run daily with reduced frequency in evenings and Sundays.
-
Train
Bolton railway station is about 0.5 miles from the centre, approximately a 10-minute walk. Trains from Manchester and other regional hubs take 20-40 minutes. From the station, local buses or taxis provide quick access. Train fares vary but typically start around £5 for short regional trips.
-
Car
Driving to Market Place is straightforward via the M60, M61, or M6 motorways. The centre offers a multi-level undercover car park with disabled spaces on Level 2 Green. Parking fees apply, generally around £2-£5 per hour. Traffic can be busy during peak shopping hours.
-
Walking
If staying in Bolton town centre, Market Place is easily walkable with flat, paved routes suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Walking times vary from 5 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point.
Market Place Shopping Centre location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Market Place Shopping Centre
A Historic Heart Transformed into a Modern Retail Hub
The Market Place Shopping Centre stands on the site of Bolton’s original covered market, established in the 1850s. This historic foundation gives the centre a unique character, blending heritage with contemporary retail experiences. Over the years, the space has evolved into a bustling shopping destination that respects its past while embracing modern consumer needs. The architecture subtly reflects this fusion, preserving elements of the old market’s charm alongside modern design features.Diverse Shopping and Dining Experiences
Inside the Market Place, visitors find an exciting mix of high-street favourites and independent retailers offering fashion, beauty products, gifts, and essentials. The centre caters to a wide range of tastes and budgets, making it accessible to all shoppers. Complementing the retail options, a variety of cafes, restaurants, and food outlets serve global cuisines and local favourites, providing ample choices for quick bites or leisurely meals.Leisure and Entertainment for All Ages
Beyond shopping and dining, Market Place hosts leisure activities including a modern cinema showcasing the latest blockbusters and family films. The centre also features entertainment options for children and families, such as the Little Rascals Kids Club, which offers free activities for young children aged 3 to 8. This focus on family-friendly amenities makes it a popular gathering spot for all age groups.Convenient Facilities and Accessibility
The centre is equipped with practical amenities including accessible public toilets, a multi-level undercover car park with designated disabled parking spaces, and a free wheelchair service available from the Customer Service desk. These facilities ensure a comfortable visit for shoppers with diverse needs. The centre’s location on Knowsley Street places it within Bolton town centre, making it easily reachable by various transport modes.Community and Events
Market Place also serves as a community hub, hosting events and seasonal activities that engage local residents and visitors alike. Its blend of retail, leisure, and social spaces fosters a lively atmosphere throughout the year, making it more than just a shopping centre but a focal point of Bolton’s urban life.A Unique Shopping Destination in Bolton
With over 2400 photos capturing its dynamic environment, Market Place Shopping Centre is recognized for its unique blend of historic roots and modern appeal. It offers a comprehensive retail and entertainment experience that reflects Bolton’s vibrant community spirit and evolving urban landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wayoh Reservoir
7.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Wayoh Reservoir in Bolton, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Rivington Pike Tower
8.5 km
Historic 18th-century hunting lodge atop Rivington Pike offering panoramic Lancashire views and rich cultural heritage within scenic Lever Park.
Rivington Pike
8.5 km
Discover the breathtaking views and rich history at Rivington Pike, a perfect hiking destination in Lancashire for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Robert Peel Statue
8.8 km
Honouring Bury’s most famous son: the 1851 bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel, twice Prime Minister and founder of the modern police force.
Peel Tower
9.2 km
Historic Peel Tower on Holcombe Hill offers panoramic views and a tribute to Sir Robert Peel’s legacy near Bury.
Sussex Close
9.9 km
Discover the charm of Wigan through Sussex Close, your essential bus stop to explore local attractions and immerse in the vibrant culture.
Sussex Avenue
11.5 km
Discover the charm of Bury from Sussex Avenue, your convenient gateway to local attractions and experiences in this historic English town.
Heaton Park Papal Monument
12.5 km
A granite testament to faith and history where 200,000 gathered for a papal milestone in 1982.
Lumb Viaduct
12.6 km
Discover the historic Victorian Lumb Viaduct, a stunning railway landmark offering scenic walks and cycling across Lancashire’s Rossendale Valley.
Manchester Old Town Hall Colonnade
12.8 km
A neoclassical relic of Manchester’s first Town Hall, relocated and preserved as a serene monument in Heaton Park.
Heaton Park Temple
12.8 km
Discover the tranquil neoclassical Heaton Park Temple, perched atop Manchester’s largest park with stunning city views and rich historic charm.
Barton Swing Aqueduct
12.9 km
Explore the world’s only swing aqueduct, a Victorian engineering marvel carrying the Bridgewater Canal over the Manchester Ship Canal since 1894.
Salford Lads Club
15.5 km
A Victorian youth sanctuary where music history, social purpose, and community spirit converge.
Sky Hook Statue 1
16.1 km
Towering steel sculptures marking Trafford Park’s industrial heritage with humor and monumental design.
5 Sir Matt Busby Way
16.2 km
Old Trafford, the legendary Theatre of Dreams, is Manchester United’s iconic home since 1910, blending rich football history with modern innovation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Victoria Sq
0.3 km
Victoria Square is Bolton’s iconic civic hub where historic grandeur meets lively community spirit in the heart of the town.
Hall i' th' Wood Museum
2.3 km
A rare Tudor manor house in Bolton, famous as the home where Samuel Crompton invented the Spinning Mule, now a museum of domestic and industrial history.
Smithills Hall
3.0 km
Explore Smithills Hall, a historic Bolton manor blending medieval charm, Victorian elegance, haunting tales, and serene gardens on the West Pennine Moors.
Moses Gate Country Park
3.5 km
Explore Bolton’s largest nature reserve with lakes, woodlands, wildlife, and family-friendly trails at Moses Gate Country Park.
Jumbles Country Park
4.9 km
Peaceful reservoir walks, accessible trails, and woodland serenity await at Bolton’s Jumbles Country Park.
Turton Tower
5.9 km
Discover 600 years of history in a tranquil Tudor manor nestled in beautiful woodlands near Bolton, with gardens, a café, and engaging volunteer guides.
Radcliffe Tower
8.1 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Radcliffe Tower, a must-visit landmark in Manchester that encapsulates the essence of local heritage.
Bury Transport Museum
8.7 km
Explore vintage vehicles and interactive exhibits in a historic 1848 railway warehouse celebrating Northwest England’s transport heritage.
East Lancashire Railway
8.7 km
Step aboard the East Lancashire Railway for scenic steam and diesel journeys through historic Lancashire, starting at the iconic Bury Bolton Street Station.
Rivington Terraced Gardens
9.0 km
A magical Edwardian hillside garden of terraces, follies, and lakes, now open to all beneath Rivington Pike.
Worsley Delph
9.5 km
Historic canal basin and underground mine entrance in Worsley, showcasing the heart of Britain’s Industrial Revolution heritage.
Liverpool Castle
9.5 km
Discover the history and beauty of Liverpool Castle, a stunning architectural gem nestled in the heart of Bolton, England.
Lancashire Mining Museum at Astley Green
9.5 km
Explore Lancashire’s coal mining heritage at Astley Green, home to the last surviving headgear and winding engine of the Lancashire coalfield.
Go Ape Rivington
9.9 km
Experience thrilling treetop adventures and breathtaking reservoir views at Go Ape Rivington, Lancashire’s premier high ropes course.
Monton Lighthouse
11.0 km
A quirky, privately built lighthouse on the Bridgewater Canal offering scenic views and a unique inland maritime charm in Manchester.
Essential places to dine
Nick's Restaurant
6.8 km
Experience exquisite Modern European cuisine in a lively, cozy setting with attentive service at Nick's Restaurant in Horwich, Bolton.
Ewe Restaurant and Bar
7.6 km
Modern British cuisine meets stylish comfort in Bolton’s Ewe Restaurant and Bar, perfect for memorable meals and special occasions.
Crowded House Restaurant
9.1 km
A vibrant blend of modern British dining, quirky charm, and lively bar culture in the heart of Bury.
Northern Crafthouse
9.3 km
A vibrant brew house in Whitefield blending modern style, craft beers, and hearty American comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Cherry Tree at Blackrod
11.1 km
A vibrant modern British gastropub in Bolton offering classic dishes, elegant events, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Retreat Adlington
12.1 km
A vibrant grill and cocktail bar in Adlington offering quality steaks, pizzas, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Fat Olive Restaurant
13.7 km
Experience vibrant Mediterranean and British flavors in a welcoming, lively setting at Wigan’s beloved Fat Olive Restaurant.
Gallimore's Fine Restaurant
13.9 km
Contemporary British dining in Wigan’s historic town centre, offering quality menus in a stylish, welcoming setting.
The Wheel Restaurant
14.0 km
Experience award-winning, student-prepared cuisine in a warm, welcoming setting at Wigan’s unique Wheel Restaurant.
The Botanist Media City
14.9 km
A botanical-themed restaurant and bar in MediaCityUK offering creative cocktails, hanging kebabs, live music, and striking Salford Quays views.
The Alchemist MediaCity UK
15.0 km
Experience innovative cocktails and global cuisine in a striking futuristic setting overlooking Salford’s historic quays at MediaCity UK.
Nando's Salford Quays
15.1 km
Savor flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken in a lively, accessible setting at Nando's Salford Quays, where Portuguese and South African flavors meet Manchester’s vibrant quayside.
Lime
15.1 km
Savor grilled delights and Asian fusion by Salford Quays' waterfront, where relaxed lunches flow into lively nights in a spacious, vibrant venue.
Unagi
15.2 km
Experience the North West’s largest sushi bar with vibrant pan-Asian street food, crafted cocktails, and a lively atmosphere at MediaCityUK’s Unagi.
Harvester Quayside Mediacityuk
15.2 km
Flame-grilled favorites and endless fresh salads on Salford Quays, where family dining meets MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Salford Shopping Centre
14.0 km
Affordable shopping precinct in Salford's Pendleton, with free parking, daily essentials, and community conveniences under one roof.
The Works
15.1 km
Unleash creativity at unbeatable prices: books, crafts, toys and more in Salford Quays' discount haven.
Next Outlet
15.2 km
Discounted designer fashion, homewares and shoes in Salford Quays' bustling MediaCityUK hub – style-savvy shopping with premium brands at outlet prices.
M&S Outlet
15.2 km
Bargain-hunting haven in Salford Quays: M&S discounted fashion, homeware, and beauty amid MediaCityUK's creative buzz.
The Sweet Emporium
15.2 km
Discover UK's vastest sweet collection at The Sweet Emporium in MediaCityUK—a family-run paradise of nostalgic candies, retro treats, and global confections that sparks joy for every sweet tooth.
The Body Shop
15.2 km
Compact MediaCityUK branch of The Body Shop with core cruelty‑free ranges, seasonal gifts and refill options on the Salford Quays Quayside.
Flock and Gaggle
15.2 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and local artistry in MediaCity UK's creative gem, where independent makers shine amid Salford's quayside buzz.
SPAR Salford Quays
15.8 km
Small, practical 24-hour convenience store on Trafford Road serving Salford Quays visitors, residents and shift workers.
Once Upon a Smile
16.3 km
Explore Once Upon a Smile in Manchester for unique clothing that reflects your personal style.
House of Fraser
16.3 km
Discover House of Fraser in Manchester, where fashion meets home decor in a stylish shopping experience. Explore designer brands and unique finds.
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
16.4 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Pulse
16.4 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Rams Gift World
16.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Søstrene Grene
16.4 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
16.5 km
Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Piggy Banks
0.7 km
A friendly, affordable bar in Bolton offering a great selection of ales and simple food in a cozy, welcoming setting near the train station.
The Nook & Cranny Bromley Cross
3.9 km
A cozy, community-focused tap house in Bromley Cross serving quality cask ales in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Waggon & Horses
7.1 km
A lively traditional British pub in Westhoughton offering hearty fare, well-kept beers, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Rivington
7.6 km
A stylish gastropub in Horwich offering fresh, quality dishes and a welcoming atmosphere for families and friends.
Sherringtons Bar
13.8 km
A welcoming and lively bar in Wigan offering great drinks and a cozy atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Wiend Bar
13.9 km
Energetic cocktail bar and nightclub in Wigan offering strong drinks, vibrant DJ sets, and a lively atmosphere for late-night socializing.
Little Fifteen
13.9 km
Stylish wine bar and Italian restaurant in Wigan, blending vibrant atmosphere with classic design and a curated wine selection.
The Dockyard
14.9 km
Rugged dockside pub in MediaCityUK: cask ales, hearty pies, and industrial charm for after-work vibes and Quays camaraderie.
SEVEN BRO7HERS BEERHOUSE Media City
14.9 km
Craft beer haven in MediaCityUK: house-brewed IPAs, pizzas, and lively vibes await at Seven Bro7hers' Salford outpost, perfect for post-work pints or casual hangs.
Craftbrew
15.1 km
Salford Quays' craft beer haven: artisan brews, tapas, and coffee in industrial-chic style, from dawn brunch to midnight pours.
Reflexion Lounge Manchester Shisha
15.1 km
Luxury glass-fronted shisha lounge on Salford Quays, blending waterfront views, flavorful hookahs, Moroccan teas, and plush VIP vibes for unforgettable evenings.
11 Central
15.3 km
Riverside bar in MediaCityUK serving craft brews and bites amid Salford's creative quayside energy—ideal for relaxed evenings with canal views.
Riley's Taproom and Wine Bar
15.5 km
A stylish and welcoming taproom in Chorley offering craft beers, fine wines, and a cozy atmosphere for relaxed socializing.
The Shed Chorley
15.6 km
A vibrant micro bar in Chorley offering rustic charm, live music, and signature wine and cheese platters every weekend.
Matchstick Man
15.7 km
Waterside, budget-friendly pub serving hearty classics and live sport in a modern, family-friendly setting at Salford Quays.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Level Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Bolton’s vibrant nightlife at Level Nightclub, where dynamic music, affordable drinks, and lively atmosphere create unforgettable nights.
Underground
4.3 km
Experience classic rave vibes and late-night energy at Underground, Bolton’s intimate clubbing hotspot in Farnworth.
Ibiza Nightclub
13.9 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Ibiza Nightclub, where music, dance, and unforgettable Saturday nights come alive until dawn.
Pure Nightclub
14.0 km
Experience Wigan’s vibrant nightlife at Pure Nightclub, where energetic beats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night memories come alive every Saturday.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
15.6 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
Bijou Club
16.1 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Club Liv Manchester
16.4 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Cargo
16.4 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
42's
16.5 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
16.5 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Royal Vida Night Club
16.5 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Venue Nightclub
16.5 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Ark Manchester
16.7 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
16.8 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Bliss Club Manchester
16.9 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Family Friendly
- Casual
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly