The Lake District, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage, is also home to a variety of charming markets that cater to the needs and tastes of expats and digital nomads alike. Whether you’re looking for fresh local produce, unique crafts, or vintage clothing, the markets in the Lake District offer a delightful shopping experience. Here are some of the best markets in the area that are worth a visit.
Keswick Market
Location: Market Square, Keswick
Type of Market: General Market
Open: Thursdays and Saturdays, 8-4:30
Keswick Market is a bustling outdoor market set in the heart of the Lake District. With a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery, this market offers a wide range of goods, from fresh local produce and homemade food to crafts, clothing, and accessories. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs, as well as to sample the local life.
We Recommend: Trying the locally made Cumberland sausage, a regional specialty known for its distinctive blend of herbs and spices.
Ambleside Farmers Market
Location: Market Cross, Ambleside
Type of Market: Farmers Market
Open: Wednesdays, 10-2
Set in the quaint town of Ambleside, this farmers market is a haven for foodies. It features a selection of the finest local produce, including organic vegetables, artisan cheeses, and freshly baked bread. The market is also a great place to interact with local farmers and producers, gaining insights into the region’s agricultural practices.
We Recommend: Sampling the homemade jams and chutneys, which are made using traditional Lake District recipes.
Ulverston Market
Location: Market Street and New Market Street, Ulverston
Type of Market: General Market
Open: Thursdays and Saturdays, 8:30-3
Ulverston Market is a traditional market that has been running for centuries. It offers a variety of stalls selling everything from fresh produce and meats to clothing and household goods. The market is known for its friendly atmosphere and is a great place to soak up the local culture.
We Recommend: Checking out the handcrafted jewelry and pottery, which make for perfect keepsakes or gifts.
Cockermouth Market
Location: Main Street, Cockermouth
Type of Market: General Market
Open: Fridays and Saturdays, 8-4
Cockermouth Market is a vibrant outdoor market located on the town’s historic Main Street. It features a diverse range of stalls, from local food producers to antique dealers. This market is particularly popular among those looking for unique finds and vintage items.
We Recommend: Browsing the antique stalls for rare books and vintage collectibles that are full of character and history.
Grange-over-Sands Promenade Art and Craft Market
Location: Grange Promenade, Grange-over-Sands
Type of Market: Art and Craft Market
Open: Selected Sundays, 10-4 (check local listings for specific dates)
This picturesque market is set against the backdrop of Morecambe Bay and offers a delightful array of handmade arts and crafts. It’s an excellent spot for finding unique artwork, textiles, and jewelry crafted by talented local artisans.
We Recommend: Picking up a piece of original artwork or a handcrafted piece of furniture that captures the essence of the Lake District.
Bowness-on-Windermere Craft Market
Location: Glebe Road, Bowness-on-Windermere
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Sundays, 10-4 (seasonal, typically April to October)
Located in one of the Lake District’s most popular tourist spots, this craft market is a treasure trove for those seeking handmade goods. With a focus on quality and originality, the market showcases the work of local artists and crafters.
We Recommend: The hand-knitted woolens and textiles, which are not only beautiful but also practical for the Lake District’s often-chilly weather.
Kendal Indoor Market
Location: Market Place, Kendal
Type of Market: Indoor General Market
Open: Monday to Saturday, 8:30-5
Kendal Indoor Market offers a year-round shopping experience in the historic Market Hall. With a diverse selection of stalls, visitors can find everything from fresh local meats and cheeses to books, clothing, and gifts.
We Recommend: The locally produced Kendal Mint Cake, a peppermint-flavored confection that is a classic Lake District treat.
Cartmel Village Shop
Location: The Square, Cartmel
Type of Market: Specialty Food Shop
Open: Daily, 9-5:30
While not a traditional market, Cartmel Village Shop is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Famous for its sticky toffee pudding, the shop also offers a range of other local delicacies, including cheeses, chutneys, and ales.
We Recommend: Indulging in the shop’s signature sticky toffee pudding, which has gained nationwide acclaim.
Hawkshead Artisan Market
Location: Hawkshead Village Square, Hawkshead
Type of Market: Artisan Market
Open: Occasional Sundays, 10-4 (check local listings for specific dates)
This quaint market in the village of Hawkshead is a celebration of local craftsmanship and gourmet produce. It’s an intimate setting where you can find a curated selection of goods, from organic skincare products to gourmet pastries.
We Recommend: The artisanal cheeses and locally brewed craft beers, which are perfect for a picnic by one of the nearby lakes.
