Weekly & Specialist Markets

Bedford – a Town of Markets

To view our market rates please click here

2011/12 Specialist Market Tenders now available! 

We are currently tendering for a number of specialist continental Markets in the Town throughout 2011/12. If you are a market operator and would like some more information of the markets available please contact the Markets Manager on 01234 221890.   

NEW MARKETS GUIDE AVAILABLE NOW!!!

Bedford is a thriving market town with its original 'charter' dating back more than 800 years when King Henry II granted it in 1166, allowing Bedfordians to hold their own market. A market has been held on St Paul's Square since the 1500's.

Wednesday & Saturday Charter Market

The general Markets on Wednesdays and Saturdays on the historic Harpur and St Paul's Squares, and on Thursdays on the Saxon Centre, Kempston, has retained a freshness and appeal  by offering a wide range of quality goods at affordable prices, from olives to key cutting services, toys to hot food.

But Bedford’s market trade isn’t just historic – since 2004 the county town has transformed itself into ‘A Town of Markets’ by introducing several new speciality markets.

Thursdays in Bedford are now filled with the sensual delights of its regular Gourmet Food market whilst Fridays plays host to the beautiful Home and Garden market.

Thursday Gourmet Market

The speciality markets are held in Harpur Square in the heart of the historic town centre. Bedford’s Gourmet Food Market, offers a wide range of quality foods and food-related products. The lunchtime trade is also catered for with tasty takeaway food and drinks being available. On the second Thursday of each month the market is boosted by the local Farmers’ Market with its local produce and WI cakes. From February 2009 the Farmer's Market will be on the Market on the second AND fourth Thursday of the month.

Friday's Home & Garden Market

Friday's Home & Garden Market offers an arra y of cut flowers and plants, together with specialist garden products. It’s proving to have a year-round appeal, with shoppers and town centre staff seen carrying armfuls of flowers through the town at lunchtime!

Handmade in Bedfordshire Markets

Talent abounds in the Bedfordshire area.

Come to the Handmade markets and see what talented neighbours you have. These craftspeople gather to display their skills with enthusiasm and pride. They enjoy encouraging others and passing on their knowledge. From painting to pottery, needlecrafts to calligraphy…the market embraces a diverse range of crafts which need your support, and if your craft is not represented please apply to join the market. Besides selling from their stock the stallholders will happily discuss commissions and take orders. Buy British in Bedford. Summer Saturdays will not be the same with the launch of the “Handmade in Bedford” Craft Markets. These will take place on the second Saturday of the month on Midland Road from  May through to September 2010.

Whether you want to bag a bargain, find that unique gift, taste something special or just soak in the atmosphere, Bedford Markets are the place to be.

Local, accessible and fun!

Bedford Market Regulations

Market Application Form

Casual Traders Regulations

Come and experience the crafts, sights, smells and tastes of genuine Tunisian culture. For more information on this and any of our other markets please contact the Markets manager on (01234) 221890 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

For more information please contact the Markets Office, Bedford Borough Council, Town Hall, St Paul's Square, Bedford, MK40 1SJ.  Tel 01234-221890 or 221672 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it