In a nutshell: A huge array of stalls offering nearly everything you could ever need, plus loads of stuff you’ll never need, from food to fancy dress to musical instruments
Opening hours: The indoor markets open every day except Sunday 9–4.30; the farmers’ market is every third Thursday in the month from 9am; the Saturday outdoor market is in the marketplace weekly from 9am; plus the occasional continental market and Christmas markets
Admission prices: free!
Best feature: The stall holders are all lovely and really happy to help you find what you’re looking for; you can be sure you’re helping local entrepreneurs; there is some top-notch local food available; often cheaper than Tesco
Worst feature: As well as being a lot of really great stuff, there is a lot you might not be interested in so it can be a little difficult to find what you need and the sheer amount of things on offer can be a little overwhelming, as can navigating the indoor market. But then again, that’s often how you find great stalls selling things you never knew you needed!
Market Square
DH1 3NJ