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Skipton Market – A True Yorkshire Market Town Experience

If you love a good bargain, enjoy discovering treasures you won’t find on the high street, or simply appreciate the lively atmosphere of a traditional market, Skipton Market is a must-visit destination in North Yorkshire.

Held right in the heart of the town, Skipton Market transforms the broad and historic High Street into a vibrant trading space four days a week. With an ever-changing mix of stalls and traders, no two market days are ever quite the same.

A Bustling Market in the Heart of Skipton

On market days, traders line both sides of Skipton’s wide High Street, setting up stalls on the cobbled areas known locally as the “setts”. These cobbles sit between the formal footpaths and the main road and have hosted traders for centuries.

Unlike permanent markets, Skipton Market has no fixed stalls. Each trader brings their own setup, building their stall at the start of the day and dismantling it at closing time. This traditional approach preserves the authentic street-market feel and allows the High Street to return to normal use once trading ends.

What You’ll Find at Skipton Market

Skipton Market offers an eclectic mix of goods, appealing to both locals and visitors. Depending on the day, you’ll find stalls selling:

Fresh fruit and vegetables
Local cheeses and dairy products
Fish and locally sourced meat
Clothing, scarves, and footwear
Arts, crafts, and handmade items
Yorkshire-made blankets and textiles
Homewares and everyday essentials

With a rotating selection of traders, each visit brings something new to discover.

Market Management & Trading Standards

Skipton Market is managed day-to-day by Skipton Town Council, operating under an agreement with the owners of Skipton Castle. The Town Council acts as the official Market Authority, responsible for:

Approving traders and stall applications
Regulating what goods can be sold
Maintaining a balanced mix of products
Ensuring traders follow market regulations
Promoting the market to residents and visitors

This careful management helps preserve the quality, variety, and reputation of the market.

For trader enquiries:
📧 market@skiptontowncouncil.gov.uk

A Market with Mediaeval Roots

Skipton Market has a long and fascinating history dating back to mediaeval times. A Royal Charter granted by King John gave the Lord of the Honour of Skipton Castle permission to hold a market on Skipton High Street — a right that still exists today.

For centuries, the market was closely linked to animal trading, particularly sheep. In fact, the name Skipton is believed to mean “Sheep Town”, reflecting the area’s agricultural heritage.

While livestock trading has now moved to the purpose-built Skipton Auction Mart on the outskirts of town, the market’s core purpose remains unchanged: traders gathering on the High Street to sell their goods to the local community.

One of Yorkshire’s Most Regular Outdoor Markets

Skipton Market is one of the most frequently held outdoor markets in Yorkshire, taking place four days every week. Combined with Skipton’s independent shops, historic buildings, and surrounding countryside, it plays a central role in the town’s identity as a true market town.

Market Days & Opening Times

Market Days:

Monday
Wednesday
Friday
Saturday

Trading Hours:

9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
(Individual stall times may vary.)

Weekly Schedule

Monday: 9:00 – 16:30
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 9:00 – 16:30
Thursday: Closed
Friday: 9:00 – 16:30
Saturday: 9:00 – 16:30
Sunday: Closed

Why Visit Skipton Market?

✔ One of Yorkshire’s most historic markets
✔ Four market days each week
✔ Huge variety of traders and goods
✔ Authentic street-market atmosphere
✔ Located on a beautiful historic High Street
✔ Perfect to combine with shopping, cafés, and local attractions

Things to Do Nearby in North Yorkshire

A visit to Skipton Market fits perfectly into a wider day out exploring North Yorkshire. Nearby highlights include:

Exploring historic abbeys, churches, and castles

Walking and cycling in the Yorkshire Dales

Visiting breweries and artisan cheesemakers

Family attractions and animal experiences

Outdoor adventures, water sports, and scenic walks

Theatres, galleries, and cultural exhibitions

Skipton’s location makes it an ideal base for discovering the very best of the region.

Final Thoughts

Skipton Market is more than just a place to shop — it is a living tradition that has shaped the town for centuries. From its mediaeval origins to its modern-day role as a vibrant street market, it remains at the heart of Skipton’s identity.

Whether you’re hunting for fresh local produce, unique gifts, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a market in full swing, Skipton Market offers an authentic Yorkshire experience you won’t want to miss.

Where is Skipton Market located?

Skipton Market is held on Skipton High Street in the town centre of Skipton, North Yorkshire. The wide, cobbled high street provides the perfect setting for a traditional outdoor market.

What days is Skipton Market open?

Skipton Market takes place four days a week: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

What time does Skipton Market open and close?

The market operates from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, although individual stallholders may open or close slightly earlier or later.

Does Skipton Market have the same stalls every day?

No. The market has a rotating mix of traders, meaning each market day offers a slightly different selection of stalls and products.

Who manages Skipton Market?

Skipton Market is managed by Skipton Town Council, which acts as the Market Authority under an agreement with the owners of Skipton Castle.

Was Skipton Market originally an animal market?

Yes. Historically, Skipton Market was closely linked to livestock trading, particularly sheep. Animal trading now takes place at the Skipton Auction Mart outside the town.

What makes Skipton Market special?

Skipton Market combines centuries of history, a central town-centre location, a wide variety of traders, and a lively traditional atmosphere, making it one of Yorkshire’s standout markets.