15+ Best Market Towns in the UK
If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away or a mid-week getaway, why not visit one of the UK's beautiful market towns?
Staying in one of these market towns allows you to explore the bustling stalls, local high streets, and picturesque countryside all in one trip. To make your adventure easier, we’ve created a list of the best market towns in the UK, nearby campsites for a stress-free break, and local attractions to enjoy.
- Bakewell, Derbyshire
- Northwich, Cheshire
- Chertsey, Surrey
- Winchcombe, Gloucestershire
- Crowborough, East Sussex
- Dunbar, East Lothian
- Scarborough, North Yorkshire
- Brentwood, Essex
- Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire
- Bala, Gwynedd
- Shrewsbury, Shropshire
- Haltwhistle, Northumberland
- Swanage, Dorset
- Rugeley, Cannock Chase
- Scone, Perth and Kinross
- Nairn, Inverness
- Clitheroe, Lancashire
- Keswick, Cumbria
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District National Park is the breathtaking market town of Bakewell. Famous for its shortcrust pastry layered with jam, known as the Bakewell tart, this delicacy is a must-try. A highly recommended spot to enjoy freshly baked Bakewell tarts is the Bakewell Pudding Shop. After savouring this delicious treat, explore the town's independent shops and cafes or visit the incredible weekly market.
If that hasn't peak-ed your interest, walkers, cyclists and nature enthusiasts will be kept entertained by the countless Peak District's walking routes, local wildlife, and scenic lakes and reservoirs
While visiting the market town, unwind and relax at our nearby Bakewell Club Site campsite. There’s plenty to do near the campsite, including visiting the Nine Ladies Stone Circle, Haddon Hall and Thornbridge Brewery. Other great areas to explore during your trip include Dovedale, Buxton and Matlock.
Nearest campsite: Bakewell Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Derbyshire.
Northwich is a thriving market town with timber-framed Victorian properties lining the commercial centre. There’s a fantastic mix of national retailers and specialist independent stores on the high street, which you can browse. If you’re visiting on the second Saturday of every month, why not explore the Northwich Artisan Market, where you’ll find a mixture of locally produced food, gifts and other essentials. There’s also an indoor market that takes place on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday on Whitton Street, across from Barons Quay Shopping Centre.
Once you’re done shopping, you can explore the rest of Cheshire. Visit the Lion Salt Works, which is the last open pan salt works in the area or explore the Weaver Hall Museum and Workhouse. The Anderton Boat Lift is also a popular attraction, and it is one of the 'Seven Wonders of the Waterways', which you would not want to miss.
For those wishing to explore away from the town centre, Delamere Forest is just a 20-minute drive away, with miles of paths and trails to explore on foot or by bike. Our campsite of the same name boasts its green forest surroundings and environmentally friendly features. Those camping at Delamere Forest Club Site have so much to do close by, including a trip to Chester Zoo or the Chester Roman Amphitheatre.
Nearest campsite: Delamere Forest Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Cheshire.
Southwest of London, approximately 50 minutes by train, lies the pretty town Chertsey. This market town is flooded with rich history, and you’ll be able to see a lot of Georgian properties lining the streets while you browse through the local shops.
Chertsey Abbey is a focal point of the town’s history, having been founded in 666 AD. There is not much left to see of the Abbey now, but Chertsey Museum is free to enter and has an exhibition with a 3D model and information.
Away from the town, you’ll find attractions such as Thorpe Park, Hampton Court Palace, RHS Garden Wisley and LEGOLAND. Our campsite in Chertsey sits on the bank of the River Thames with direct access to endless walking routes, including the Thames Path National Trail.
Nearest campsite: Chertsey Club Site
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See the Cotswolds at its finest in the pretty market town of Winchcombe. Quaint tea rooms, inns and restaurants line the streets, which are full of charm and character. We recommend taking a stroll down Castle or Vineyard Street to see beautiful stone cottages alongside the wonderful Cotswold countryside. Like any town in the Cotswolds, Winchcombe has excellent walking footpaths with exciting things to see. Visit in May to take part in the annual walking festival.
Away from the town, major attractions include Sudeley Castle, Broadway Tower and Hailes Abbey, which all showcase fascinating local history. The town of Cheltenham is around 15 minutes away and offers plenty of things to do for a day out. Cheltenham Racecourse, Pitville Pump Rooms and The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum are all worth visiting. Wine lovers can visit Three Choirs Vineyard for a detailed guided tour and tasting.
Nearest campsite: Winchcombe Club Site
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Crowborough sits within the awe-inspiring countryside in the High Weald National Landscape (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).
On your doorstep is Ashdown Forest, which is renowned as the setting for the Winnie the Pooh books. The countryside alone makes Crowborough a perfect location for a camping getaway.
In the market town, you’ll find plenty of little historic gems, including a statue of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes. As you stroll through the busy streets, you’ll find a mix of the usual retailers and independent shops, including a farmers market that takes place on the last Saturday of every month.
Nearest campsite: Crowborough Club Site
Click here for more campsites in East Sussex.
See the beautiful North Sea coast on a visit to Dunbar, which is just 30 miles away from Edinburgh.
The beautiful market town is overlooked by the Edinburgh Castle, which was once one of the most important fortresses in Scotland. You can learn all about the town's historical importance on your visit as you walk around the grand high street, which is flanked by wonderful old stone buildings and offers a mix of retail stores and award-winning food and drink establishments.
Once you’re done exploring, rest at our peaceful campsite three miles from the town. Dunbar Club Site is not only a great base for anyone exploring East Lothian, but it also has phenomenal coastal views and the popular Whitesands Bay within walking distance. The Scottish Seabird Centre, the John Muir Country Park, and Pease Dean Wildlife Reserve are other nearby attractions you could visit during your stay.
Nearest campsite: Dunbar Club Site
Click here for more campsites in East Lothian.
A coastal town with two sandy bays, untamed moors to explore and dramatic castle ruins, Scarborough makes for a lovely breakaway.
Just a short cliff-top walk or bus ride away from our Scarborough Club Site, you’ll find the town with the Rotunda Museum, Scarborough Market Hall and Vaults, and the retro Harbour Bar, which has been selling its own ice cream since 1945.
There are plenty of other things to do in and around the town, including a trip to the ruins of Scarborough Castle, a visit to the Victorian outdoor promenade at Scarborough Spa and the climb up to St Mary’s Church and Anne Bronte’s Grave. Avid walkers can set off from Scarborough Club Site and enjoy the Cleveland Way National Trail or walk through the North York Moors National Park.
Nearest campsite: Scarborough Club Site
Click here for more campsites in North Yorkshire.
Leafy Brentwood is the ideal market town for anyone wanting a combination of busy high street and beautiful countryside.
The town is a popular destination as it was featured on the hit reality TV show The Only Way is Essex. If you’re not a fan of the show, don’t let that put you off because, alongside the bustling high street, which is a serious shopper’s paradise, Brentwood has plenty of green spaces and historical attractions to visit. The Grade II listed Mountnessing Windmill, RHS Hyde Hall and beaches at Southend and Canvey Island are all within easy driving distance and make for great days out.
Our Kelvedon Hatch Club Site is a 10-minute drive away from the market town Brentwood and offers a relaxed base to explore the area. One of Kelvedon Hatch's attractions is the Kelvedon Hatch Secret Nuclear Bunker, which is the biggest Cold War bunker open to the public.
Nearest campsite: Kelvedon Hatch Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Essex.
The family-friendly market town of Mablethorpe offers access to beautiful beaches and plenty of outdoor fun.
The sandy beach at Mablethorpe is two miles long, and the promenade has a lot of places to eat, drink and refuel. There are many attractions in the town, including the Seal Sanctuary, Adventure Golf and the Sand Train. Away from the coast, the Lincolnshire Wolds are brilliant for walkers to amble a day away. Both Lincoln and Skegness are within driving distance from Mablethorpe, with plenty to do and see.
Nearest campsite: Mablethorpe Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Lincolnshire.
Bala is a historic market town that sits in the Snowdonia National Park. On your trip to Bala, you’ll find independent stores, a local farmers' market, and much more.
If you enjoy spending time in the beautiful outdoors, you’ll have a lot to explore when visiting Snowdonia. This area of North Wales is alive with incredible wildlife, picturesque views and great activities and attractions. You’ll find magnificent waterfalls, deep valleys, mountains, and beautiful forests.
If you’re looking for a place to wind down after a long day of exploring, Our Bala Club Site is a short drive away from the town and less than an hour from Snowdon, Wales’ highest peak. You can pitch up and relax, ready for another day of adventures.
Nearest campsite: Bala Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Gwynedd.
Shrewsbury is an incredible market town which sits inside a loop of the River Severn. On your visit, you can see the town's medieval architecture, explore the Square and the Old Market Hall, step into Shrewsbury Cathedral, or walk through Quarry Park.
Did you know that one of Shrewsbury’s most famous residents was Charles Darwin? This is just a small insight into all the fascinating things you can learn on your adventure to the market town.
Nearest campsite: Ebury Hill Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Shropshire.
Surrounded by the Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines, Haltwhistle is ideal for anyone looking for an active holiday.
You’ll find a selection of shops in the town centre, perfect for an afternoon of browsing or stocking up on supplies. The town and surrounding areas are so popular among walkers that they host the bi-annual Haltwhistle Walking Festival, which takes place in the spring and autumn.
Our secluded campsite of the same name sits within a clearing in Bellister Wood in the North Pennines National Landscape (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). Places to visit from the campsite include the Roman Army Museum, Killhope North of England Mining Museum and Hadrian’s Wall, which is just 5 miles away.
Nearest campsite: Haltwhistle Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Northumberland.
Glorious Dorset beaches lined with pretty beach huts, the wonderous Jurassic Coast and fantastic attractions await anyone visiting the coastal town of Swanage.
Just a 31-minute drive away from our Moreton Club Site, Swanage boasts Blue Flag beaches, day cruises to see the beautiful Jurassic Coast by boat and plenty of stories to uncover in the Swanage Museum. The Victorian town is characterised by its pier, freshly caught seafood and plenty of places to grab an ice cream. Swanage is a great place to visit from our campsite to stock up on the independently run bakers, butchers, and fishmongers. Remember to stop by the markets, which run every Friday.
Other popular attractions you need to visit near this charming town include the Bovington Tank Museum, Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, and Athelhampton House.
Nearest campsite: Moreton Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Dorset.
Visit the quaint town of Rugeley in Staffordshire and admire one of the Midlands’ most famous beauty spots, Cannock Chase.
Just eight miles away from Lichfield, Rugeley is a small market town with plenty of Staffordshire's attractions nearby. The town centre has a mix of big high-street brands, cafes, and pubs to keep shoppers happy, and the indoor market opens on a Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, so there are plenty of days to stop off and bag a bargain or two.
Our Cannock Chase Club Site is less than a ten-minute drive from Rugeley and offers the ideal base to explore all of Staffordshire major attractions. Direct access to the Chase is available, which gives you endless miles of walking, mountain biking trails and brilliant wildlife and scenery to observe. Tamworth, Lichfield and all of their attractions can be easily reached by car.
Nearest campsite: Cannock Chase Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Staffordshire.
The Medieval town of Scone has lots of history and beautiful sights to soak up during your visit.
Camp within the grounds of Scone Palace, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area and explore all that Perth and Kinross have to offer. A vibrant and friendly town, fascinating wildlife and golden sandy beaches are all within your reach.
Directly from our Scone Club Site, you can set off and explore the local area, including the River Tay and explore the vast estate. Other attractions worth visiting include Huntington Tower, Kinnoull Hill and the Blue Flag beach at Broughty Ferry.
Nearest campsite: Scone Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Scotland.
With two Blue Flag beaches and a unique forest setting, Nairn is a beautiful market town on Scotland's sunshine coast.
Nairn’s major asset is its wonderful sandy beaches with views over the Moray Firth. Keep your eyes peeled for a chance to see the famous Moray Firth dolphins, a real treat for animal lovers. Nairn Museum, the promenade, and brilliant water sports are all options to consider when looking for things to do close to and in the town.
You can walk to the beach directly from our Nairn Club Site, which also has numerous walking routes that lead straight into the woodland. This campsite is a great place to pitch up and explore this interesting area of the Highlands. Within an hour's drive, you can visit attractions, including Culloden Battlefield, Loch Ness and Cairngorm Mountain Railway.
Nearest campsite: Nairn Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Inverness.
Visit the glorious Ribble Valley to explore the market town of Clitheroe and nearby attractions.
The ancient market town of Clitheroe is a shopping haven with unique gift and antique shops, local produce suppliers and a weekly outdoor market. Dating back to Saxon times, the town has plenty of historical attractions to visit. Clitheroe Castle is ideal for all ages, with 16 acres of landscaped gardens to explore.
Our Clitheroe Club Site is just over a mile away from the town. There are some fantastic walking trails you can access from the campsite, including The Tolkien Trail and the walk along the river to Waddington. Officially recognised as a National Landscape (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), the Forest of Bowland is a must for those wanting to explore on foot or by bike.
Nearest campsite: Clitheroe Club Site
Click here for more campsites in Lancashire.
Keswick is a breathtaking market town located in England's stunning Lake District. Nestled between the mountain of Skiddaw and the vast Derwentwater, two of the biggest attractions in the Lake District National Park, Keswick offers a picturesque setting.
During your visit, you can explore quaint boutiques and independent stores, where you’ll find a variety of unique, personal, and locally sourced goods. The market town is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot local wildlife, enjoy water sport activities, or embark on long walks in the national park.
However you choose to spend your time in Keswick, you're sure to be enchanted and eager to return for more.
Nearest campsite: Keswick Club Site
What’s your favourite market town to visit in the UK? If it’s one we haven't listed, let us know on Instagram or Facebook.