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Whether you’re searching for fresh local produce, artisan gifts, vintage treasures or lively food festivals, Somerset and Bath are home to some of the South West’s most charming local markets.
From historic charter markets in Glastonbury and Wells to the vibrant Frome Independent and seasonal food festivals across the region, these markets are a fantastic way to experience local life during your stay.
This guide covers some of the best markets and food events across Somerset and nearby Bath, including opening days, parking information, transport tips and what you can expect to find.
While Glastonbury is famous worldwide for its iconic music festival, it’s also home to one of Somerset’s best-loved farmers’ markets. In fact, Glastonbury hosted the very first Somerset Farmers’ Market back in 1999.
Held on the fourth Saturday of each month (usually, but not always, the last Saturday), the market runs from 9am to 2pm in The Market Place, Glastonbury.
Visitors can browse fresh local produce, artisan breads, cakes, cheeses, handmade gifts and seasonal Somerset specialities.
Nearby public parking is available at St Dunstan’s Car Park and around Glastonbury town centre.
Established in 1189 by Royal Charter, Glastonbury’s historic Charter Market is one of the oldest markets in the UK.
Held every Tuesday from 9am to 3pm across St Dunstan’s Car Park and the town centre, this market features more than 35 stalls selling everything from fresh produce and clothing to crafts, gifts and local food.
The lively atmosphere makes it a great day out for both visitors and locals exploring the historic heart of Glastonbury.
St Dunstan’s Car Park offers convenient parking close to the market.
Wells Market Place has been the focal point of the city for centuries and remains one of Somerset’s most popular traditional local markets.
Held twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the market offers a wide range of local produce, baked goods, flowers, clothing, gifts and everyday essentials.
Parking is available in nearby city centre car parks including Union Street and Waitrose car parks.
Wells Bus Station is only a short walk from the market square.
The annual Wells Food Festival is one of the highlights of Somerset’s food calendar.
Taking place on Sunday 11 October 2026 from 10:30am to 4:30pm, the festival features more than 200 stalls selling local food, drinks, street food and homewares.
Visitors can enjoy English wines by the glass or bottle, cookery demonstrations, family activities and the popular Food for Thought talks exploring current topics in the food world.
Additional event parking is usually available around Wells during the festival weekend.
The Frome Independent is one of the South West’s most celebrated destination street markets.
Held on the first Sunday of every month from March to December, the market transforms Frome town centre into a lively hub of independent makers, designers, food producers and vintage traders.
More than just a market, visitors can enjoy live music, DJs, workshops, street performances and activities for all ages.
The event attracts thousands of visitors every year and has become one of Somerset’s must-visit monthly markets.
Several public car parks are available around Frome town centre, though visitors are encouraged to arrive early on market days.
Frome Railway Station is approximately a 15-minute walk from the market. There are also multiple Park & Ride options available.
CC Alice Whitby
Set within the beautiful 400-year-old market square, Axbridge Farmers’ Market is one of Somerset’s most picturesque local markets.
Originally launched as a small trial market in 2001, it became a permanent monthly fixture in 2002 and remains popular with both locals and visitors.
The market usually features around 25 stalls selling local produce, crafts and handmade goods.
Axbridge Town Car Park on Old Church Road and the smaller Moorland Road car park are both within easy walking distance.
Visitors are advised not to park in the Market Square itself.
The 126 bus service between Wells and Weston-Super-Mare stops directly in the square.
Bath is home to an excellent mix of regular farmers’ markets, artisan events, flea markets and seasonal celebrations.
Alongside the city’s independent shops and boutiques, Bath’s markets provide a fantastic opportunity to discover local food, vintage finds, handmade gifts and artisan products.
Held at Green Park Station every Saturday morning, Bath Farmers’ Market was the first farmers’ market in the UK.
Visitors can browse local cheeses, organic fruit and vegetables, artisan breads, fresh fish and a wide range of Somerset produce.
Nearby city centre parking is available at Charlotte Street and Avon Street car parks.
Bath Spa Railway Station is approximately a 10-minute walk away.
Held on the last Sunday of every month at Green Park Station, this popular vintage market is packed with antiques, furniture, collectables, retro homeware and unique finds.
It’s an excellent destination for antique lovers and anyone searching for one-of-a-kind treasures.
Taking place on the first Saturday of each month in Queen Square, Bath Artisan Market showcases talented artists and makers from across the South West.
Visitors will find jewellery, ceramics, artwork, textiles, home décor, beauty products and handcrafted gifts.
Bath’s popular Saturday Flea Market is ideal for discovering vintage bargains, second-hand books, clothes, crockery and quirky collectables.
Located in Bath’s Artisan Quarter, it’s a great stop for treasure hunters and vintage enthusiasts.
Bath Christmas Market is one of the UK’s most magical festive events.
From Thursday 26 November to Sunday 13 December 2026, Bath’s historic streets transform into a festive winter wonderland filled with twinkling chalets, handmade gifts and seasonal food and drink.
Bath becomes extremely busy during the Christmas Market period, so visitors are encouraged to use Park & Ride services or arrive by train where possible.
Held on the last Sunday of every month, Shepton Mallet Sunday Market brings together local traders, street food vendors, vintage sellers, artisan makers and live entertainment.
The lively atmosphere makes it a great family-friendly event in the heart of town.
Town centre parking is available within walking distance of the market.
The Giant Shepton Flea Market is one of the South West’s biggest indoor and outdoor flea markets.
With over 250 indoor stalls and many more outside, visitors can browse antiques, retro furniture, vintage clothing, books, fabrics, toys, jewellery, homeware, artwork and artisan foods.
There is also a large food court and licensed restaurant on site.
Extensive on-site parking is available at the showground.
Eat Festivals celebrate the very best food and drink producers from across the South West.
These lively town-centre festivals bring together artisan makers, street food vendors, local breweries, bakers and independent producers in a fun and family-friendly atmosphere.
All events are free to attend, dog friendly and fully accessible for wheelchairs, scooters and pushchairs.
Visitors can enjoy:
Established in 1996, Cheddar Car Boot Sale and Market is now one of the South West’s best-known car boot and market events.
Located just one mile from the famous Cheddar Gorge, the market takes place on a working farm surrounded by beautiful lakeside scenery beneath the Mendip Hills.
The event includes both indoor and outdoor areas and operates every Sunday, rain or shine.
On-site parking is available.
Taking place at The Kings Head on Silver Street, this lively local festival combines outdoor BBQ food, cider, gin and live acoustic music.
The Cheddar Food & Drink Festival usually takes place in early September and celebrates local West Country food and drink producers.
Visitors can enjoy tastings, live music, artisan stalls and family-friendly entertainment near the spectacular setting of Cheddar Gorge.
Official 2026 dates are yet to be confirmed.
Some of the most popular farmers’ markets in Somerset include Glastonbury Farmers’ Market, Wells Market, and Frome Farmers’ Market.
The Frome Independent, Shepton Sunday Market and Cheddar Car Boot Sale all operate on Sundays.
Many are dog friendly for well behaved dogs on leads.
Bath Artisan Market, Bath Vintage & Antiques Market, and The Frome Independent are all excellent choices for artisan shopping near Bath.
Our location makes an ideal base for exploring Somerset markets, food festivals and historic towns.
We are within an hour of all of the local markets featured in this guide, with many of Somerset’s most popular markets — including Glastonbury, Wells, Cheddar, Shepton Mallet and Frome — all within around 30 minutes.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend break, a foodie getaway or a longer countryside stay, these markets offer a fantastic opportunity to experience authentic local life, discover independent businesses and sample some of the South West’s best food and drink.
After a day exploring bustling market squares, artisan stalls and food festivals, guests can return to the comfort of our peaceful Somerset base while still being perfectly placed for day trips across the region.
Many visitors combine local markets with nearby attractions including Cheddar Gorge, Wells Cathedral, Glastonbury Abbey, Bath’s historic city centre and the beautiful Mendip Hills.