We operate eight markets across North Yorkshire in Helmsley, Knaresborough, Northallerton, Pickering, Ripon, Scarborough, Thirsk and Whitby.
Helmsley market
Where: Market Place, Helmsley, YO62 5BH
When: Every Friday from 8.30am until 4pm throughout the year, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day.
Helmsley lies on the edge of the North York Moors National Park. Helmsley market is held in the central, ancient Market Square and is alleged to date back to the 13th Century when Robert de Ros created a charter for his Burgesses of Helmsley. The market has been established on the current site since 1467. It was held originally in the churchyard, with the market cross being moved from there to its current position. The Market Square is also home to the iconic Helmsley Market Cross, a 19th-century sandstone structure.
In 1670, the Duke of Buckingham established a Charter Market in Helmsley, which included a weekly market and three fairs. Between 1784 and 1861, the Thorpe family collected the tolls. In 1966, the market was conveyed to the Rural District Council of Helmsley by a vesting deed involving the Earl of Feversham Trustees.
The market offers a wide variety of goods, including food, flowers, clothing, and household items. In addition to the regular stalls, the Town Hall often hosts a craft fair.
Knaresborough market
Knaresborough market is held on Market Square, Knaresborough, HG5 8AL
It takes place every Wednesday from 7.30am until mid-afternoon throughout the year, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day.
Knaresborough is charming, picturesque and historic market town that town lies in the heart of North Yorkshire and is mentioned in the Doomsday Book as Chednarsburg. Knaresborough boasts a rich heritage, with Knaresborough Castle dating back to Norman times. The towns market began back in the 1200s and was granted a royal charter by Kind Edward II in 1310.
Knaresborough market is held in the bustling marketplace and offers a range of essential goods. From fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, cheese, fresh eggs to homemade cakes, savoury bakes and locally reared meat. You can also find ladies and gents fashion, bags and scarves, phone accessories and watch repairs, household essentials, pet products, fresh flowers, plants and much more - there’s something for everyone.
Northallerton market
Northallerton market is held on the High Street, Northallerton, DL7 8QR.
It takes place every Wednesday and Saturday from 8.30am until mid-afternoon throughout the year, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day.
Northallerton is a vibrant and bustling market town with roots tracing back to Anglo-Saxon times. Originally known as Alverton or Aelfereton, the name meaning ‘the farm belonging to Aelfere’, which was a relatively common Anglo-Saxon personal name.
The market was granted the Royal Charter around 1200 and it remains a thriving hub today. Northallerton Market is held on both Wednesdays and Saturdays on both sides on the high street and offers a variety of essential goods. From fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, cheese, cakes, savoury bakes to locally made pies and reared meat. You can also find ladies and gents fashion, bags and scarves, phone accessories and watch repairs, household essentials, pet products, plants and much more.
Pickering market
Pickering market takes place on Market Place, Pickering, YO18 7AE
It takes place every Monday from 9am until 4pm throughout the year, including Bank Holidays except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day.
Pickering market, established in 1201 is popular with locals and tourists offering a delightful array of fresh, local produce and other essential goods from local vendors, continuing a long-standing tradition. Pickering is reputed to be one of the oldest towns in Ryedale, founded by King Peredurus around 270 BC.
Pickering is a historic market town and the official gateway to the North York Moors National Park. It hosts the North York Moors Steam Railway, the longest in England, which operates an 18-mile line to Grosmont through the heart of the National Park.
Ripon market
Ripon market is held on the Market Place, Ripon, HG4 1BZ
It take place every Thursday from 7.30am until mid-afternoon, and a smaller market every Saturday from 7.30am until 2.00pm throughout the year, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day.
Ripon is one of the smallest and most picturesque cities in England, situated on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. It boasts a stunning Gothic cathedral and a historic market that dates back to the 11th century, with the obelisk in the market square erected in 1702.
The Thursday market offers a range of essential goods, including fresh fruit and vegetables, fish, cheese, eggs, homemade cakes, savoury bakes and locally reared meat. You can also find ladies' and gents' fashion, bags and scarves, phone accessories and watch repairs, household refillable essentials, fresh flowers, plants, and more. The smaller Saturday market features fruit and vegetables, locally grown plants, and locally reared meat.
Scarborough market hall and vaults
Where: St Helen's Square, Scarborough, YO11 1EU
When: Monday to Saturday from 8am until 5pm.
Scarborough Market Hall & Vaults is a historic venue in the heart of Scarborough, opened in 1853. The refurbishment in 2017 added a gallery floor, enhancing its appeal while maintaining its historic charm.
The market has an exciting range of shops, cafés and stalls, spread over three floors. You’ll find an array of eateries, crafters and gift shops across the main floor and gallery. Below the market, the Vaults deliver a unique shopping experience, not to be missed.
As well as a shopping destination, it is also a cultural venue with a programme of upcoming music and events. To find out more visit the Scarborough Market Hall website.
Thirsk market
Thirsk market takes place on Market Place, Thirsk, Y07 1LH.
It is held every Monday and Saturday from 8.30am until mid-afternoon throughout the year, including Bank Holidays except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day.
Thirsk is a vibrant historic market town, famous for being the home of the world-renowned vet James Herriot author of All Creatures Great and Small.
A market has been held in Thirsk since the 12th century, and it was granted the royal charter in 1145.
Thirsk market is held every week, on Mondays and Saturdays, in the town’s picturesque cobbled Market Place, offering a delightful array of fresh, local produce and other essential goods.
Whitby open market
Where: Dock End, New Quay Rd, Whitby, YO21 1DH
When: Every Tuesday and Saturday from 8.30am until 6pm, and every Sunday from 9am until 5pm throughout the year, except Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year's Day.
Whitby’s market, traditionally held in Market Square, has temporarily moved to New Quay Road due to redevelopment work.
Known for its lively atmosphere, the market offers a variety of goods, including fresh produce, crafts, and local specialties.
The relocation has allowed the market to continue serving the community while maintaining its vibrant character. Once the work is complete, the market is expected to return to its historic location in Market Square.
How to apply for a market pitch
Other markets, not operated by us, are held across the county. For more details visit our markets page.
There is always space for more traders. You can trade as frequently as you wish. To join our markets community, you can apply for a market pitch online or email parkandgroundcommercial@northyorks.gov.uk.