St Nicholas Market
Shopping Center | Bristol | England | United Kingdom
Oldest covered market in Bristol
The "St Nicholas Market" in Bristol, England, is one of the oldest and most well-known covered markets in Great Britain and a central part of the historic city center. It was opened in 1743 and is considered the city's oldest continuously operating market, currently housing over 60 independent traders. The market was originally established to shift trade from the streets to an organized, covered space and has undergone multiple expansions and restorations over the centuries. It is located in a Georgian building known as "The Exchange," a listed structure designed by John Wood the Elder. "St Nicks," as it is affectionately called by locals, attracts thousands of visitors annually and serves as both a shopping destination and a cultural institution in Bristol.
Historic market in Bristol city center
The shopping offerings at "St Nicholas Market" are diverse, with a focus on independent traders who often sell local and handmade products. The market is divided into three main areas: the covered main hall, the "Glass Arcade," and the "Covered Arcade." The main hall is dominated by food stalls, including traditional butchers like Brian Haskins Butchers, which offer fresh meat, as well as cheese vendors like The Little Cheese Stall featuring regional specialties. The Glass Arcade is known for its variety of street food stalls serving international cuisine such as Moroccan tagines, Caribbean curries, or Thai noodle dishes. The Covered Arcade, on the other hand, offers a mix of crafts, vintage clothing, and jewelry, with stalls like Sissi’s Vintage Clothing and the Bristol Artisan, which sells handmade leather goods. This variety makes the market attractive to shoppers looking for unique products and fresh food.
Diverse food stalls at the market
In addition to shopping, "St Nicholas Market" is a significant culinary and social hub. The Glass Arcade hosts numerous food stands, including popular vendors like Matina, a Kurdish grill shop, and Ahh Toots, known for its handmade cakes and desserts. There are also cafés like Café Revival, which has been around for over 30 years and offers a relaxed atmosphere. The market is particularly appreciated for its street food culture, which provides an alternative to standardized restaurant chains and often features award-winning dishes. Additionally, regular events take place, such as the weekly "Friday Night Market" with live music and extended stalls or seasonal markets like the "Christmas Market," which strengthen community ties and attract additional visitors.
Independent traders at St Nicholas Market
The architecture of the market is another outstanding feature. "The Exchange," the main building, was constructed between 1741 and 1743 and showcases Georgian elegance with its tall columns and open courtyard. The covered market hall itself consists of a network of aisles with high ceilings and cast-iron structures added in the 19th century to meet the growing demand for sales space. The Glass Arcade, a later addition, is notable for its glass roof, which allows daylight in and creates a bright, inviting atmosphere. This historic architecture, combined with the vibrant bustle of the market, gives "St Nicks" a distinctive charm that reflects its past as a trading center.
Experience street food culture in Bristol
The center is well integrated into the urban transport network. It is located in the heart of Bristol and is surrounded by several pedestrian zones, making it easily accessible. There is no dedicated parking, but its proximity to public transport such as bus lines and Bristol Temple Meads train station ensures good connectivity. This location makes the market appealing to both locals and tourists, who often visit other nearby attractions like St Nicholas Church or the Bristol Old Vic Theatre.
Throughout its history, "St Nicholas Market" has undergone various changes. During the World Wars, it was used as a storage space, and in the 20th century, it faced periods of decline before being revitalized in the 1980s. Today, it is managed by the Bristol City Council, which focuses on supporting small businesses. The market has received numerous awards, including the title of "Britain’s Best Large Indoor Market" at the Great British Market Awards 2023, highlighting its significance and quality. It is also a hub for local culture, with regular markets like the "Bristol Farmers’ Market" on Wednesdays or the "Street Food Market" on Tuesdays, reflecting the city's diversity.
