Best market towns for a weekend break

15 destinations picked for this guide.

A market town weekend is a classic British break, with a market square, independent shops, a pub with a fire and countryside on the doorstep. These are some of the best market towns in the UK, from the Yorkshire Dales to the Welsh borders and the West Country.

AlnwickNorthumberland · Mid-range

A castle town with a famous garden, a giant bookshop and the sea nearby

 BakewellDerbyshire · Mid-range

The home of the Bakewell pudding, beside Chatsworth and the White Peak

 HelmsleyNorth Yorkshire · Mid-range

A pretty market town and the gateway to the North York Moors

 HexhamNorthumberland · Mid-range

An abbey town in the Tyne Valley, the best base for Hadrian's Wall

 KendalCumbria · Mid-range

The Auld Grey Town, a gateway to the Lakes and the Dales

 MaltonNorth Yorkshire · Mid-range

Yorkshire's food town, beside Castle Howard

 Richmond (North Yorkshire)North Yorkshire · Mid-range

A Georgian market town beneath a Norman castle, at the door of Swaledale

 RiponNorth Yorkshire · Mid-range

A tiny cathedral city next door to Fountains Abbey

 SkiptonNorth Yorkshire · Mid-range

A busy market town and gateway to the Yorkshire Dales

 TotnesDevon · Mid-range

A bohemian market town on the River Dart, with a Norman castle

 WellsSomerset · Mid-range

A tiny cathedral city with a moat, swans and a medieval street

 KeswickCumbria · Higher-priced

A lively Lakeland market town between lake and mountains

 LudlowShropshire · Higher-priced

A medieval market town with a castle and a big reputation for food

 MalmesburyWiltshire · Higher-priced

A hilltop town with a ruined abbey and a claim to be England's oldest borough

 TetburyGloucestershire · Higher-priced

A Cotswold market town of antiques, a pillared market house and royal neighbours

Frequently asked questions

What makes a good market town?

A historic centre, regular markets, independent shops and good places to eat, with walks nearby.

Which market day is best?

Check each town's calendar, because markets are often held on particular days such as Tuesday, Friday or Saturday.

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More guides

Best weekend breaks from Manchester and the North WestBest weekend breaks from LondonBest weekend breaks from Birmingham and the MidlandsBest weekend breaks in Yorkshire and the North EastBest weekend breaks in ScotlandBest weekend breaks in Wales

Last reviewed October 2026. Prices and journey times are estimates, so check before you book. Report an error or share a tip.