Markets

Darlington is an award-winning Market Town. In 2008 it won the top award at the industry's Oscars where it was named 'Market of the Year' (Markets Attraction).

The award reflects Darlington's commitment to quality markets and central to the town centre experience. Singled out for special praise was the Darlington 'Summer Market Spectacular ' event which is set to become even bigger and better this year when it is staged on the 15th-18th August.

As a compact and contemporary shopping destination Darlington's long-established market tradition sits hand in hand with today's discerning shopper's needs. Darlington's open-air markets take place in the town centre in front of the iconic Victorian Covered Market Hall, everything the market shopper needs in one convenient location!

For variety, good old fashioned service, buzz and value for money Darlington Markets are hard to beat.  The traditional Monday and Saturday Outdoor Markets and daily Indoor Market (closed Sunday), attract shoppers from far and wide and espeically so on Bank Holiday Mondays.

Monthly Craft Markets are now held every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month with the monthly Farmers' Markets being staged every 3rd Friday of the month.  

Throughout the year there are other speciality markets to enjoy too. The bi-annual French and Continental Markets visit in May and October (16th-18th this year), with a brand new Italian Market coming to town from 19th-22nd September too.

Winter brings the Thursday Christingle Markets on 24th Novewmber and 4th December, which tie in with late night Christmas shopping.  December also brings the ever popular Winter Wonderland market event on 11th-15th to put everyone in seasonal mood.

The discerning shopper has never had it as good as in Darlington, come and discover the difference and check out our What's On page to find out full details of all market events!