Well, this market was an unexpected pleasure! I didn’t expect very much, being in a village hall, but boy was I surprised. There was a fabulous array of 18 stalls and some outstanding locally known brands too. This was the second-ever market of the monthly Saturday market which runs from 9.00 to 1.30 every third Saturday of the month.
Organised by the forward-thinking parish council who clearly worked hard to attract some excellent food stalls, namely Bread & Roses, Murphy’s Kitchen and Meraki Chocolates and some very talented craft fairs that all had customers interested in their products. One plant stall stood out, with beautifully exhibited house plants on display.
Bellingham was an important market town in years gone by and the parish council felt that it would be great to reinstate the village’s status as the go-to local shopping destination for the area. Not only is this small village the last stop before venturing west into Northumberland’s National Park, but it also hosts the 13th Century, Church of St Cuthbert, known for its three miracles and Cuddy’s Well, an ancient holy well.
Chatting to our favourite baker, Andrew from Bread & Roses!
The village hall seemed at full capacity with around 15 stalls in the main room and 3 stalls up on the stage. Hats off to the parish council for having the idea to host their own village market and for actually getting it off the ground. Much support from the local shops, who may have imagined that such a market would detract from their own trade, but of course, we all know that a market in any town, brings many more visitors IN and thus the much-valued footfall for all.
At 9.30 am, the market already had a good number of customers mulling about and buying. It looked as though footfall would continue to build throughout the morning.
Speaking with one of Bellingham Parish Councillors… How to start your own market in a village hall is just a matter of getting on with it and ensuring that everyone is happy!
| Pitch Fee | £10 |
| Contact for Stalls | clerk@bellinghamparishcouncil.gov.uk |
| Market Day | 3rd Saturday in the month |
| Market Times | 9.00 – 1.30 |
| Parking | Around the back of the building |
| Facilities | Inside, so loos and coffee making facilities |
| Added Benefits | St Cuthbert’s 13C Church | Northumberland National Park | Hareshaw Linn Waterfall |
Bellingham Indoor Market really is a little gem of an event. From a stallholder’s perspective it is great because it doesn’t go on too long (finishes at 1.30) and it looks like there will be a steady increase in trade as word gets around. It may slacken off when the tourists go home, but the wares are such staples it may do well all-year-round too. Whether you want gin, fudge or fresh cheese or are just looking to browse the talented craft folk’s wares, this unassuming market delivers and because it is so well advertised with very clear signage it has the marks of being a market to watch! 9/10 for effort and potential!
Good trading!