10 Best Market Towns to Live in the UK

<h2>10 Best Market Towns to Live in the UK</h2> What are the best market towns to live in the United Kingdom? When people imagine the charm of the British countryside, they’re often thinking of a market town—places filled with cobbled streets, local stalls, historic buildings, and a strong sense of community. These towns aren’t just pretty—they’re full of life, culture, and tradition. For centuries, they’ve been gathering spots for locals and visitors alike, combining commerce with companionship. Whether you’re looking for food festivals, medieval landmarks, or riverside walks, Britain’s market towns offer something for everyone. In this video, we count down the Best Market Towns in the UK, where history meets hospitality and every corner tells a different story. Ten. Beverley, East Yorkshire Tucked away in the heart of East Yorkshire, Beverley has long been a symbol of rural sophistication. The town’s story stretches back over a thousand years, with the magnificent Beverley Minster—a gothic masterpiece—towering over red-brick townhouses and narrow medieval lanes. The town’s markets are the soul of the place. Held every Wednesday and Saturday, they offer everything from Yorkshire cheeses and pies to vintage homeware and garden goods. Beverley isn’t just about pretty sights. It’s a thriving town with a rich arts calendar, horse racing at the historic Beverley Racecourse, and one of the UK’s most respected music festivals. Whether you’re a culture buff or a casual browser, you’ll find yourself lingering longer than expected. It’s this mix of character, community, and culture that makes Beverley one of the Best Market Towns in the UK. Nine. Ludlow, Shropshire If there’s one place that defines the term “foodie heaven,” it’s Ludlow. This picturesque market town sits in Shropshire’s lush countryside, crowned by the mighty ruins of Ludlow Castle. Markets take over the main square four days a week, with specialty farmers’ markets held twice a month. From handcrafted chutneys to heritage pork sausages, it’s all delicious and local. But Ludlow is more than just markets. It was the first UK town to be named a Cittaslow, a “slow town” celebrating local traditions and high-quality living. Its food and drink scene is world-class, with independent restaurants, organic shops, and a festival that attracts over 20,000 visitors every September. Ludlow balances medieval charm with modern taste—no surprise it’s considered one of the top Best Market Towns in the UK for food lovers. Eight. Hexham, Northumberland Hexham is a Northumberland gem that often flies under the radar, but those who know it, love it. Set against rolling hills near Hadrian’s Wall, Hexham’s winding alleys, traditional stone buildings, and majestic Hexham Abbey feel like a living history book. The Saturday market in the old town centre is full of character—expect local honey, preserves, rare-breed meats, and handcrafted soaps. What makes Hexham stand out is its rich cultural layer. It hosts book festivals, orchestral performances at the Queen’s Hall Arts Centre, and historical reenactments celebrating its Roman heritage. With affordable homes, great schools, and access to stunning countryside, Hexham isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s a town people are proud to call home. Seven. Stamford, Lincolnshire Stamford feels like it was built for postcards. The town has over 600 listed buildings and is often described as England’s finest stone town. Its Georgian architecture is wonderfully preserved, and it even played host to films like The Da Vinci Code and Pride and Prejudice. Stamford’s Friday market is a tradition going back centuries—locals still gather for produce, flowers, crafts, and street food. But the town’s charm doesn’t end there. Burghley House, just outside the town, is one of the grandest Elizabethan estates in the country. Credit to : Learning Canteen