Market Towns in Staffordshire, England: An Insider’s Guide

LOOKING TO VISIT THE MARKET TOWNS OF STAFFORDSHIRE?

When looking up market towns in Staffordshire, chances are you want an insider’s guide to the best ones to visit and what makes each unique. Being a Staffordshire resident myself, born and raised here, means I’ve got a pretty extensive knowledge on each of the towns listed in this article.

Market Towns are an important part of English culture and history, and the county of Staffordshire is chock-full of charming market towns just waiting to be explored. I can’t recommend visiting Staffordshire’s underrated market towns enough.

These little slices of quintessential England offer a refreshingly authentic experience compared to typically overcrowded hotspots in southern England.

Stafford – the county capital

✦ Founded: 700 AD (in the Kingdom of Mercia)
✦ Royal Charter: 1206 AD (market town status by King John)
✦ Population: 71,673 (2021)

Let’s start with Stafford, the county town that has been an important market settlement since receiving its royal charter in 1206. The compact town centre – a fusion of medieval with modern – is a joy to wander, with the narrow Greengate Street lined with Tudor buildings leading to Stafford’s iconic double-headed swan statue.

I’d recommend timing your visit for a Thursday or Saturday when the outdoor market takes over the town’s square and shuts streets. It’s been running in some form since all the way back to the 12th century, with everything from local produce to clothes and antiques for sale.

☆ According to Locals… For the best view of Stafford, head up to the top of the Castle tower overlooking the town.

Be sure to also check out the remains of the ancient Stafford Castle on the edge of town, the scenic Riverside Walk along the River Sow, and the Ancient High House, the largest Elizabethan townhouse in England, and one of the oldest timber-framed Tudor buildings in existence. When you’re done, tuck into some grub at one of Stafford’s finest restaurants.

Stafford Markets:
Stafford Farmers Market (held on the second Saturday of every month)
Stafford Indoor Market (Tue, Thurs, Fri and Sat, 9am-4pm)
Stafford Cheese and Ale Festival (held in June yearly – see site for details)

→ You may also like: Maps of Staffordshire: Free PDF Downloads

Stoke-on-Trent – heart of British pottery industry

✦ Founded: 670 AD (settlement), 1910 (county borough)
✦ Royal Charter: 1925 (city status by King George V)
✦ Population: 258,037 (2021)

From Stafford, it’s just a short drive to the mighty pottery-making capital of Stoke-on-Trent, where the locals are known as ‘Stokies’. Technically, Stoke is not your typical quaint market town – its actually a city of six towns: Burslem, Tunstall, Hanley, Fenton, Longton, and Stoke city.

Did you know that Stoke is the only polycentric city in the UK? You can read more fun facts about Stoke-on-Trent here.

The Potteries as its known to the locals, punches well above its weight with fascinating industrial heritage tied to its ceramics industry, the legacy of this world-famous pottery hub can be seen at factory-turned-museums like Gladstone Pottery, Middleport Heritage and the Potteries Museum with their iconic brick bottle kilns that once dominated the city’s landscape.

☆ Experience the town like a Stokie: Try the local specialty known as ‘oatcake’ – a delicious and cheap quick bite with various tasty fillings, from one of the many oatcake bakeries all around Stoke.

Check out the mind-boggling World of Wedgwood to learn all about Josiah Wedgwood’s pioneering pottery company established in 1759.

If touring disused factories and smoke-stained brick buildings isn’t your scene, at least hit up Stoke’s award-winning indoor market. It dates back to the 1850s and is a lively spot to grab a bite or pick up local goods. Read up on all the top summertime activities in Stoke here.

Stoke-on-Trent Markets:
Hanley Outdoor Market (Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm)
Stoke Indoor Market (Wed, Fri and Sat, 9am-5pm)
Hanley Sunday Market (Sundays 7am-3pm)
Rode Hall Farmers Market (first Saturday of every month)

Although Stoke is known for Oatcakes, there is also an impressive range of restaurants around the city – I’ve written a guide to the best places to eat in Stoke here, and be sure to read our review of the best, award-winning pubs in Stoke.

Related post: Maps of Stoke-on-Trent Maps (Free Downloadable PDFs)

Stone – cosy canal town famed for top-notch food

✦ Founded: 670 AD (settlement)
✦ Royal Charter: 1251 (market town status by King Henry III)
✦ Population: 17,278 (2021)

Now let’s head to one of Staffordshire’s true gems – the small and idyllic market town of Stone. With a population of around 17,000, Stone maintains a wonderfully local vibe without hordes of tourists.

The historic High Street is the centrepiece, flanked by 16th and 17th century half-timbered buildings housing cosy pubs, cafes, and shops.

In fact, this small town has an impressive array of award-winning and top-notch restaurants, including one that features in the prestigious Michelin Guide! On Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, a traditional outdoor market takes over part of the High Street selling fresh local produce and street food.

☆ Insider’s Suggestion: Come hungry on market days so you can sample all the delicious street food stalls.

After exploring the centre, I’d recommend a relaxing stroll along the Trent and Mersey Canal that slices through Stone. The idyllic towpath offers great views of the town’s iconic mills and 19th-century warehouses. This complete guide on Stone covers its history, facts, and things to do.

Stone Markets:
Stone Farmers Market (held on the first Saturday of every month except for January)
Stone Outdoor Market (Tue, Fri and Sat, 9am-5pm)
Crafts and Collectables Market (held on the third Saturday of each month except for January)
Stone Food & Drink Festival (every July)

★ Read More: Guide to The Wrekin – Shropshire’s Iconic Peak

Newcastle-under-Lyme – vintage shops and picturesque parks

✦ Founded: 1173 AD (settlement)
✦ Royal Charter: 1235 (market town status by King Henry III)
✦ Population: 75,082 (2021)

One of the biggest market towns in Staffordshire is Newcastle-under-Lyme, an ancient settlement that dates back 1,000 years to the Anglo-Saxon era. Its long history as a market town is on full display in the compact town centre.

Although tightly surrounded by the six pottery-making towns that make up the city of Stoke, Newcastle-under-Lyme refused to merge as the seventh town of Stoke because it’s not a pottery town; it retains its own independence and uniqueness that is separate from Stoke.

☆ Pro Tip: Check out the monthly Makers Market along the Lyme Valley for local arts, crafts and street food.

As you wander the tight web of Newcastle’s streets and alleys, you’ll encounter remnants of the medieval town walls, historic timber-framed buildings, and not one but two separate covered market halls.

What makes Newcastle one of my favourite market towns is its focus on antiques and collectibles. There’s an antique market on Tuesdays and a car boot sale on Thursdays.

Another reason I regularly visit Newcastle is its impressive restaurants, you can read our guide on the finest places to eat in Newcastle here.

If you need a breather from navigating the bustling town centre, escape to beautiful Lyme Valley Park which runs along the calming Lyme Brook.

Newcastle-under-Lyme Markets:
General Market (held on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 9am-4pm)
Antique Market (held every Tuesday 8am-3pm)
Car boot, bric-a-brac & collectibles Market (every Thursday 8am-3pm)

Being at the edge of the Peak District, Leek is surrounded by some of the finest lodges with hot tubs in Staffordshire – well worth considering for a unique stay.

Related post: Peak District Maps & Guides (Free PDFs)

Cheadle – sleepy town gateway to the Peak District

✦ Founded: 1086 AD (settlement)
✦ Royal Charter: 1250 (market town status by King Henry III)
✦ Population: 12,000 (2021)

While many of Staffordshire’s market towns feel firmly stuck in the past, Cheadle has blended old and new quite nicely. The heart of the town is the historic medieval High Street and the traditional market that still runs on Fridays and Saturdays.

But what makes Cheadle stand apart is the abundance of upscale shops, cafes, and modern amenities catering to locals and visitors alike. It’s like a bite-sized version of a trendy city neighbourhood, with all the usual chain shops and new developments.

☆ My Recommendation: Stop in at the Cheddleton Flint Mill on Cheadle Road to see this unique working museum.

What’s more, Cheadle is every so conveniently located to major hotspots – it’s the closest town to the UK’s favourite theme park: Alton Towers, it’s the gateway to the majestic Churnet Valley, and it’s the perfect launch site into the heart of the Peak District – one of the finest National Parks in the UK.

You can take a break from all the hiking in one of Cheadle’s impressive restaurants or cafes, or have a stayover in one of the town’s many quaint bed and breakfasts or guest houses to fully experience the many activities surrounding Cheadle.

Cheadle Markets:
High Street Indoor & Outdoor Market (held every Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat 8am-4pm)
Cheadle Retail Market (held on Fridays 8am-4pm)

★ Shropshire Market Town Guides:
Market Drayton: Shropshire’s Historic Market Town (Complete Guide)
A Guide to Whitchurch: Shropshire’s Oldest Town
Shifnal: Shropshire’s Lesser-Known Market Town (Ultimate Guide)
Visit Wem: A Shropshire Gem

Lichfield – the UK’s only three-spired Cathedral city

✦ Founded: 666 AD (settlement)
✦ Royal Charter: 1553 (city status by Queen Mary)
✦ Population: 34,738 (2021)

Moving back toward the heart of Staffordshire, one market town not to miss is Lichfield. This historic little cathedral city has a wonderful walkable centre and a vibrant calendar of events.

At its core is the breathtaking Lichfield Cathedral whose iconic three-spired architecture dominates the skyline. But even more impressive are the maze of heritage streets and passageways surrounding the cathedral that are lined with coaching inns, antique shops, and Tudor buildings.

Lichfield is one of a handful micro medieval cities in England that were granted city status centuries ago, when the requirement to become a city was to have a great big cathedral, before the laws changed so that population size determined the city status of places.

☆ Word of Advice: Catch the guided tour at Lichfield Cathedral to fully appreciate its history.

Time your visit for one of Lichfield’s regular market days when stalls fill the city streets. There’s a general market on Wednesdays and Fridays, plus special themed markets throughout the year.

Lichfield Markets:
General Market (Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, from 8am)
Farmers’ Market (held on the first Thursday of the month except January)
Producers’ Market (held on the first Sunday of the month)

Cannock – jewel of Staffordshire

✦ Founded: pre 11th Century AD (settlement)
✦ Population: 29,018 (2011)

The former mining town of Cannock has successfully reinvented itself into a modern commuter town and market hub. At first glance, Cannock may not seem noteworthy but peel back the layers and you’ll find a great base for exploring the surrounding area, in particular the Cannock Chase Forest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The indoor Prince of Wales Theatre is a surprisingly grand venue hosting shows and events. There are also some nice parks and walking trails around the town’s old mining sites and Chasewater reservoir is a nice spot for paddleboarding and other water activities.

☆ Top Tip: Go Stargazing at Cannock Chase Forest and enjoy outdoor adventure at the forest’s Go Ape Centre.

But it’s Cannock’s indoor market that really stands out. Having recently undergone a major renovation, it’s now a bright and lively contemporary space for shopping, grabbing a bite, or catching some live entertainment.

Cannock Markets:
Cannock Street Market (Tuesday and Friday, 9am-4pm)

Uttoxeter – ancient Roman market town

✦ Founded: between 69-400 AD (Roman settlement)
✦ Royal Charter: 1308 (market town status by King Edward II)
✦ Population: 14,014 (2021)

If you find yourself in the far east of Staffordshire near the border with Derbyshire, be sure to swing through the historic Roman market town of Uttoxeter. This one is a bit off the beaten path but well worth exploring.

History runs deep in Uttoxeter. First appearing as a Roman settlement and then an Anglo-Saxon village before becoming a market town, Uttoxeter is where the last major royalist surrender of the English Civil War took place, when the Duke of Hamilton surrendered to Parliamentarian General John Lambert in the summer of 1648.

The town is also the birthplace of Joseph Cyril Bamford – the pioneering founder of JCB (his name abbreviated), the world’s third-biggest construction equipment company, its global headquarters being located just outside the town.

☆ Lesser-known Tip: Seek out the award-winning Denstone Farm Shop & Café for delicious baked goods and meals.

Uttoxeter’s compact town centre feels straight out of a classic novel with its hodgepodge of architectural styles spanning centuries. Timber-framed buildings dating back to medieval times intermingle with elegant Georgian terraces and some quirky modern additions.

At its heart is the old Market Square and Market Place which have hosted a bustling outdoor market since the 13th century. Stop by on Wednesdays, Fridays, or Saturdays to wander the lively stalls selling fresh produce, antiques, clothes, and more.

After working up an appetite, grab a pint and some hearty pub grub at one of the centuries-old inns and coaching houses lining the narrow streets. The Ye Olde Talbot is a local institution that’s been serving weary travelers since 1569!

Uttoxeter Markets:
Uttoxeter Outdoor Market (Wednesday and Saturday, 9am-4pm)
Indoor Craft and Produce Market (first Saturday of the month)
Uttoxeter Makers Market (last Saturday of the month, 9am-3pm)

Rugeley – historic coal mining market town

✦ Founded: pre 10th Century AD (settlement)
✦ Royal Charter: mid 13th Century (market town status)
✦ Population: 26,156 (2021)

Just a short hop from the major town of Stafford, you’ll find the small yet surprisingly vibrant market town of Rugeley. While it may not wow you with tons of historic sights, Rugeley has a strong community feel and makes for an enjoyable half-day visit when in the area.

The heart of the action is around the pedestrianised Brewery Street which hosts a bustling outdoor market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Vendors sell all the usual goods like fresh produce, street food, clothing, and knickknacks. But what makes Rugeley’s market special are the ample spots to eat, drink, and be merry nearby.

☆ A Local’s Favourite: Check out the selection of international cuisine spots like Khatri’s Nepalese on Horse Fair.

Grab a pint at one of the historic pubs that have been slinging drinks since the 1800s or check out the modern array of bars, cafes, and ethnic eateries lining Brewery Street. There’s a real local’s vibe that gives you a feel for everyday life in this corner of Staffordshire.

So while Rugeley may not have an Instagram-worthy ancient church or Tudor mansion, it provides an authentic slice of modern English market town culture. Sometimes that can be even more rewarding.

Rugeley Markets:
Rugeley Artisan Market (first Saturday of each month, 10am3pm)
General Market (every Thursday 9am-3pm)
Rugeley Arts and Crafts Farmers Market (on Saturdays from 8am)

Burton-upon-Trent – historic brewery town

✦ Founded: 666 AD (settlement)
✦ Royal Charter: 1200 AD (market town status by King John)
✦ Population: 76,270 (2021)

Let’s round out this Staffordshire market town tour in Burton-upon-Trent, an often overlooked destination with a surprisingly rich history. Despite its gritty industrial roots, Burton today has a thriving heritage scene centred around – you guessed it – its famous markets.

Every Thursday, Burton’s historic Market Place and pedestrianised surrounding streets transform into a dizzying maze of over 300 market stalls selling anything and everything.

Beyond the markets, don’t miss exploring Burton’s beautifully renovated brewery buildings that nod to the town’s legacy as a major ale-brewing hub. Grab a pint at one of the old pubs or take a tour of the National Brewery Centre & Bass Reds Exhibition to learn about this industry that put Burton on the map.

☆ Insider Advice: Pick up fresh produce at the markets then cookout in Stapenhill Gardens.

For a dose of culture and greenery, wander over to the Washlands area along the River Trent. Here you’ll find lovely meadows, parks, and natural spaces surrounding the ruins of the ancient Burtonic Abbey and the intriguing Dovecliffe Hall mansion.

So while Burton-upon-Trent may not have the postcard-perfect charm of some of Staffordshire’s other market towns, its rough-around-the-edges character and lively market culture provide a refreshingly authentic experience.

Burton Markets:
Outdoor Market (Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 9am-4pm)

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