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Leicester Market: A Historic Hub of Freshness and Culture

Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.

Leicester Market, located at 2 Market Place in Leicester, England, is Europe’s largest outdoor covered market with over 700 years of history. Open Monday to Saturday, it offers a vibrant array of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and specialty goods from diverse cultures, alongside permanent units selling clothes, cosmetics, and more. The market is a lively cultural and culinary destination, featuring a weatherproof canopy and undergoing refurbishment to enhance its facilities.

A brief summary to Leicester Market

  • 2 Market Pl, Leicester, LE1 5GF, GB
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit weekday mornings for the freshest produce and fewer crowds.
  • Explore the diverse food stalls offering global street food flavors.
  • Check out the nearby Leicester Corn Exchange for dining and historic ambiance.
  • During refurbishment, visit the temporary market on Green Dragon Square to continue enjoying local produce.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Multiple city bus routes serve Leicester Market with frequent stops nearby; travel times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on starting location. Buses run regularly Monday to Saturday with fares typically under £3.

  • Car

    Driving to Leicester Market is possible with several public car parks within a 5-10 minute walk. Parking fees range from £1.50 to £3 per hour. Note that parking availability can be limited during peak market hours, especially weekends.

  • Walking

    If staying within Leicester city center, the market is accessible on foot within 10-20 minutes over flat, paved streets. The area is pedestrian-friendly and suitable for all mobility levels.

Leicester Market location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Leicester Market

Centuries of Market Tradition in the Heart of Leicester

Leicester Market boasts a remarkable history spanning over 700 years, making it one of the oldest continuously operating markets in Europe. Originally established around the 13th century and protected by a Royal Charter, the market was relocated to its current site approximately 700 years ago. This charter historically restricted other markets from operating within a 6⅔-mile radius, underscoring Leicester Market’s longstanding significance to the city’s commerce and community.

A Diverse Marketplace Under One Canopy

Today, Leicester Market is the largest outdoor covered market in Europe, featuring around 48 stalls and 10 container units beneath a weatherproof canopy. This setup ensures year-round trading regardless of weather, offering a diverse selection of goods. Visitors can find fresh fruits and vegetables, quality meats and poultry, artisan cheeses, and a wide range of fish and seafood, including king prawns, scallops, salmon, and even lobster. Specialty stalls provide exotic produce reflecting Leicester’s multicultural population, with African, Caribbean, and Indian vegetables among the offerings.

Permanent Units and Culinary Delights

Alongside the outdoor stalls, permanent market units sell clothing, cosmetics, fabrics, greetings cards, pet products, and household goods such as carpets and bedding. The market also features a café and several food vendors offering global street food flavors, making it a vibrant culinary destination. The nearby Leicester Corn Exchange, dating from 1850, adds historical charm and now serves as a bar and restaurant, enriching the market’s social atmosphere.

Ongoing Renewal and Community Focus

Leicester Market is currently undergoing major refurbishment to modernize and improve facilities, with work expected to complete by Christmas 2024. During this period, a temporary market operates on Green Dragon Square, maintaining the market’s essential role in the community. The City Council manages the market, balancing its historic legacy with contemporary needs, including hosting seasonal events like Christmas markets and a monthly Farmers’ Market nearby.

Experience and Atmosphere

The market pulses with the energy of Leicester’s multicultural community, offering a sensory feast of colors, aromas, and sounds. From the vibrant displays of fresh produce to the enticing aromas of street food, visitors experience a lively, welcoming environment. The market is a hub for locals and visitors alike to shop affordably, discover unique goods, and immerse themselves in Leicester’s rich cultural tapestry.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Open Monday to Saturday, typically from 8 or 9 AM to 5 or 6 PM, Leicester Market is centrally located and accessible by numerous bus routes. While parking is available nearby, it can be limited during busy periods. Entry is free, with visitors paying only for purchases. The market welcomes all ages and backgrounds, making it a family-friendly and inclusive destination in Leicester’s city center.

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