• Home
  • About
    • CONTACT
    • WORK WITH BE-LAVIE
    • TESTIMONIALS
  • DESTINATIONS
    • AFRICA
    • ASIA
    • CARIBBEAN
    • CENTRAL AMERICA
    • EUROPE
    • NORTH AMERICA
    • OCEANIA
    • SOUTH AMERICA
    • LEICESTER, UK
    • TYPE 1 DIABETES TRAVEL
  • HOTELS
    • ASIA
    • CENTRAL AMERICA
    • EUROPE
    • NORTH AMERICA
    • SOUTH AMERICA
    • OCEANIA
  • FOOD & DRINK
    • AFTERNOON TEA
    • CAFES, COFFEE & CAKE
    • CASUAL RESTAURANTS
    • BARS
    • BRUNCH
    • COOKERY CLASSES
    • FINE DINING
    • GASTRO PUBS
    • INTERNATIONAL FOOD GUIDES
    • MICHELIN STAR
    • PLANT-BASED & VEGETARIAN
    • RECIPES
  • SUSTAINABILITY
  • THE BE-COLLECTIVE
  • TRAVEL RESOURCES

Be-lavie

Support Local at Leicester Market

SUPPORTING LOCAL AT LEICESTER MARKET

20th September 2018

Last Updated on 22nd September 2020 by Bejal

My family and I have been visiting Leicester Market ever since I can remember for fresh produce including fruit, vegetables, world-inspired produce, fish, flowers and the odd household item. I am a great advocate of supporting local and really love Leicester’s landmark market place, which brings back so many nostalgic memories from when I was younger. To me Leicester Market is a melting pot of cultures, flavours and traders whom I’ve got to know over the years and visit religiously for fresh produce. It’s a place that is just so authentic to Leicester and I can guarantee that on almost every visit I’m sure to bump into an old auntie or friends!

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

Yes, it was here that I was introduced to the home-boy Garry Linekar’s parents pick your own fruit and veg stall! Leicester Market is a place where, whilst you make your way through the narrow paths in between the stalls, glancing occasionally down at your food list, with the loud cries of traders shouting out about their offerings, you will begin to hear yourself mentally concocting dishes with the fresh harvest presented before you!

Support Local at Leicester Market

Being boastfully proud of the market in my hometown, it was only apt that it gets a proud stretch of web space on be-lavie and show you around a place that contributes to the true essence of my calling Leicester home!

Support Local at Leicester Market

One Friday lunchtime myself and a fellow blogger, Neha met up with Leicester Market’s development manager, Adam Piotrowski, who kindly filled us in with the recent changes to the market and its local offerings. But first a whistle-stop history tour…

LEICESTER MARKET: LETS TALK HISTORY

Many moons ago, back in 1229 Henry VIII granted a fair in Leicester entitled “good men of Leicester” where the city became the centre for trade in the area. A market took place bounded by the city walls and the corn exchange, used by horse dealers to display the speed of their animals. The corn exchange still stands but has now been converted into Lloyds, a popular watering hole.

Support Local at Leicester Market

The market was mentioned in the market charter and since the 1850s was held on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays in contrast to now where it operates six days a week!

Support Local at Leicester Market

The market area was an open public space used for many protests and parades including political rallies held by the suffragette Alice Hawkins, who played a big role in the 100 mile march to London raising awareness of the plight of the unemployed in 1905. A statue of Alice Hawkins was unveiled in February 2018 to mark the centenary of the Representation of the People Act 1918, the act that gave all men and some women the right to vote. However, Alice campaigned with fellow suffragette, Emmeline Pankhurst to allow women the freedom to have the right to vote and exercise that vote as equals to men. In June 2014, the new food hall opened to house dry goods, replacing the old 1970’s building and fish market. This light and airy almost Scandi-design building has won several awards including Britain’s Best Food Market in 2015!

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

SUPPORTING LOCAL

Support Local at Leicester Market

The Food Hall butchers offer a large selection of quality meat and poultry. The Deli traders have a fantastic variety of artisan cheeses such as Red Leicester, Melton Mowbray Pork Pies, cooked sliced meats, bacon and local pork pies and are happy to give you samples to taste before you purchase.

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

There are two fishmongers stocking a wide selection of fish and seafood: king prawns, scallops, salmon, seabass, shark steak, cod, tuna, lobster and even shark steak!

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

There are in the region of 80 traders at the market with the fruits and veg traders occupying between 2-4 stalls to show off their delicious produce. The outdoor market is the best place to get quality fruit and vegetables.

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

There is also exotic produce on offer from a range of speciality sellers offering African, Caribbean and Indian vegetables. A lot of the produce is not grown locally as you can imagine with the location of Leicester but is bought in from the wholesalers, which are not too far from the Leicester Market location.

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

However, the Food Hall does have a large proportion of cheeses and other products, which are locally sourced such as the Long Clawson Stilton and Belton Red Leicester.

Other stalls include household goods such as carpets, bedding, curtains, plants to name a few! I’m particularly a fan of the flower stall, which provide fresh cut hand-tied bouquets.

Support Local at Leicester Market

Lets not forget about the small tantalising fact that you can grab yourself a Falafel wrap (and other falafel goodies) and a Moroccan tea at the Just Falafel stall just outside the Food Hall.

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

Additionally there is Burt’s café for traditional English grub and the coffee shop just at the front of the market arch entrance, Bocca.

It is also great to see so many of my favourite local restaurants and bars supporting the markets, such as Kai, who I’ve bumped into on numerus occasions at the Food Hall and also 33 Cank Street for those citrus fruit drink accompaniments.

Support Local at Leicester Market

Leicester Market has undergone multi-million pound improvements including the creation of a large, open public square beside the new food hall. Look out for a variety of special events in the new space including an annual Christmas market, first held in 2017, and Zumba classes on Fridays with the lovely Leona Knott.

Support Local at Leicester Market

The summer period also saw a regular cookery series on Friday lunchtimes, where local eateries such as Lilu Fine Dining and Head of Steam, to mention a couple, did a live cookery demo using ingredients sourced from the market.

Support Local at Leicester Market

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

INCREASING FOOT FALL

I was happy to hear from Adam that there are grand plans instore for the market with a huge focus on increasing the foot fall into the area. Leicester Market very much upholds the ethos of it being a working market place with a huge focus on providing good quality fruit and veg alongside other elements such as the food stalls and other sellers. Plans are in place for a screen to be erected behind the historical Corn Exchange where people can gather and watch content projected from a projector, which will be placed close to the Knight and Garter. This is due for completion around Feb 2019.

Support Local at Leicester Market

Additionally, Dolphin Square just in front of the iconic Fish Market building is set to get a face lift in 2019 so the entire area will feel more welcoming and will be able to be seen from Horsefair Street too. The section of the market facing Dolphin Square will be opened up to reveal more specialist stalls such as vintage, antiques with seating being put up opposite the square. January 2019, will additionally see an introduction to new lighting in the market space to make the area inviting and attractive to walk through. Exciting plans ahead to show off our lovely market to its full potential and encourage locals to use this space as it was intended back when it was funded.

RECENT MILESTONE EVENTS IN LEICESTER MARKET’s HISTORY

1998
700-year anniversary.

2002
Introduction of the permanent cafe and 15 further units on the outdoor market.

2005
Introduction of the Farmers Market.

2009
Leicester Market crowned ‘Britian’s Favourite Market 2009’ in Nabma awarded public vote.

2011
A newly-refurbished Market Corner is opened to provide an open space for events and specialist markets to be held upon.

2014
The magnificent new Food Hall opens its doors for the first time and is later awarded the 2014 New Build Award at Leicester Civic Society’s Annual Civic Society Awards.

2017
A stunning new space behind the historic Corn Exchange is opened – the new Market Square – with the first Leicester Christmas Market held in December.

2018

Unveiling of the local suffragette Alice Hawkins’ statue in Market Place, who campaigned tirelessly to give woman the right to vote.

Support Local at Leicester Market
Support Local at Leicester Market

Many thanks to Leicester Market development officer, Adam Piotroski for the tour. As always all opinions, views and photography are my own and remain a copyright of be-lavie.

Leicester Market

Market Place

Leicester

LE1 5HB

Tel. 0116 4543185

Find out more about Leicester Market

Web: www.leicestermarket.co.uk        Facebook: @leicestermarkets

Twitter: @LE1Market                    Instagram: @le1market

Do you support local in your city or Town? I’d love to know in the comments below!

À Bientôt…

Blog Signature

 

PIN FOR LATER

  • Supporting Local at Leicester Market
  • Supporting Local at Leicester Market
  • Supporting Local at Leicester Market
12 Comments
Share
Bejal

I’m Bejal aka Be, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and digital content creator. I have travelled to 6 continents, visited 70 plus countries, including an around the world trip, making me quite the expert in crafting intricate itineraries. I love to discover some of the world's more remote destinations and stay in some incredible hidden location eco-hotels. My aim is to transport you, my audience, to inspirational and cultural global spots that are less visited and allow you to see the 'real' and authentic side of destinations through detailed guides with a sprinkling of luxury. The spotlight is on eco-friendly responsible experiential travel with lifelong memories.

You May Also Like

TWENTY-TWO MUST-DO THINGS IN ATHENS

4th April 2018

THE GROVE NARBERTH: A SUSTAINABLE LUXURY HOTEL

6th July 2021

INTRODUCING PRINCE PANAMA’S JAUNTS

9th November 2018
  • ndsouza2006
    20th September 2018

    Thanks for sharing the lovely history- it’s all fascinating. I do like to support local markets and this one in our hometown has definitely a lot more exciting times for us. X

    Reply
    • Bejal
      ndsouza2006
      22nd September 2018

      Yes absolutely agree! I love our local market and feel so lucky that we have such an amazing place on our door step! Support local all the way! x

      Reply
  • Binny
    20th September 2018

    Sounds like a fab market. For me its Borough thats my fave and full of nostalgia

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Binny
      22nd September 2018

      So good Binny! I do love Borough market myself and try and grab some bites when I’m in London!

      Reply
  • Mackenzie Orrock
    22nd September 2018

    Loved this post! Definitely need to pay this place a visit x

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Mackenzie Orrock
      22nd September 2018

      Thanks Mackenzie! If you’re in Leicester, you have to visit and then you can come and meet me for a coffee! xx

      Reply
  • louiseloveslondon
    27th September 2018

    I love markets!!!
    I have never been to this one, but what a history!! Everything looks super fresh and delicious. No wonder it is a favourite of yours! And the whole “girl-power” thing is pretty cool too! Here’s to equal rights!! Another thing I really like, is when they give you samples to taste… Not everything is cheap, so you want to make sure, that you are buying the good stuff. right? 😀
    Louise X

    Reply
    • Bejal
      louiseloveslondon
      7th October 2018

      Yayy me too!! Yess I love the girl power history bit too and you’re right they do actually let you taste samples of the produce. Its always good to know what you’re buying.Thanks Louise, maybe we need to go to a market together next time and if you’re ever in Leicester, I’d be happy to show you ours! xx

      Reply
  • Laura
    10th October 2018

    I love a local market, always such beautiful fresh produce!

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Laura
      10th October 2018

      Absolutely and the colours and smells are so inviting.

      Reply
  • Rachael Fratczak
    2nd August 2019

    I used to go to Leicester market as a kid with mum and I’ve just got back into using it myself, i love it and look forward to my weekly visit.

    Reply
    • Bejal
      Rachael Fratczak
      2nd August 2019

      Aww it’s such a great asset to the city and the produce is fantastic! Wishing you many more enjoyable market jaunts!

      Reply

Leave a Comment Cancel Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Previous Post
COASTAL HOTEL REVIEW: THE PIG ON THE BEACH, DORSET
Next Post
BELMOND VILLA SAN MICHELE: A STUNNING LUXURY HOTEL IN FIESOLE
Hi, I'm Bejal aka Be
Lets get acquainted

Lets get acquainted

Hello, I'm Be, an ex-scientist turned travel writer and digital content creator having travelled to 70 plus countries, all over the globe. My aim is to transport you to less visited inspirational and cultural global spots showing off the 'real' authentic side of destinations through detailed guides with a sprinkling of luxury. The spotlight is on eco-friendly responsible travel with lots of coffee spots and veggie food thrown in!

Jump to these here

Reads That May Interest You

About Be-lavie

Travel Destinations

UK Travel

Leicester Local

Food & Drinks

Beautiful World Hotels

Sustainable Travel & Eco-living

Join The Members only Community

Recommended Travel Resources

Amazon Associates Disclosure

Be-lavie is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com.

Looking for Something?

Current Location

Current Location

Leicester, UK

Book Your Next Stay

Booking.com

Always Travel With Insurance

Safety Wing Travel Insurance Graphic

Follow These Little Squares @be_lavie

Be-lavie Home page instagram-like grid

Travel Resources

Travel Resources Side bar Banner

Search For Your Flights Now

Book Tours

Powered by GetYourGuide

eSIM

Recent Posts

  • Cappuccino in a grey cup at Kanela, Chicago.

    THE BEST COFFEE SHOPS IN CHICAGO FOR VEGETARIANS & VEGANS

    14th May 2025
  • The Tina Turner Musical, Jochebel Ohene MacCarthy (Tina Turner) singing on stage with lead guitar player.

    THEATRE SPOTLIGHT: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL AT CURVE LEICESTER

    12th March 2025
  • The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe at Curve with the white witch adn the lion infront of a starry night sky backdrop

    THE LION THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE AT CURVE LEICESTER

    30th January 2025
  • Sustainability at The Datai Langkawi: Green tree frog in the lily pond

    PLEDGES OF SUSTAINABILITY AT THE DATAI LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA 

    28th January 2025
  • Sustainability at The Datai Langkawi: The Datai Bay with its powedery white sand, turquise blue sea and Tarutao Island in the distance

    6 BEAUTIFUL ECO-FRIENDLY HOTELS IN LANGKAWI & THEIR SUSTAINABILITY PRACTICES

    28th January 2025
  • The lily pond at The Datai Langkawi with pink lilies, green lily pads and the lobby lounge in the distance

    STAY AT THE SUSTAINABLE LUXURY DATAI LANGKAWI RESORT: A REVIEW

    25th January 2025
  • Things to do in Langkawi: The Datai Beach & rainforest with Tarutao Island. jpg

    20 AMAZING & UNIQUE THINGS TO DO IN LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA: A GUIDE

    16th January 2025
  • Vegan and Vegetarian food in Langkawi: Amuse Bouche at The Dining Room at The Datai, Langkawi

    A GUIDE TO BEST VEGAN AND VEGETARIAN FOOD IN LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA:

    14th January 2025
  • Sustainable Guide to Houston: Buffalo Bayou Park with Downtown Skyline in the background

    SUSTAINABLE HOUSTON GUIDE: 7 WAYS TO BE MORE GREEN

    9th December 2024
  • Photo locations in Houston: Houston Love Mural

    BEAUTIFUL PHOTO LOCATIONS IN HOUSTON, TEXAS

    6th December 2024

Travel Resources

Affiliate Links Sidebar Widget

Search Categories

BE-LAVIE'S WORDS TO LIVE BY

'Travel the World, Experience the Culture, Feed your Curiosity, Enrich your Soul, Tell the Story'

More About Be-lavie

Instagram static images banner with 7 images
  • CONTACT
  • TESTIMONIALS
  • WORK WITH BE-LAVIE
  • COOKIE POLICY
  • DISCLOSURE POLICY
  • PRIVACY POLICY

Copyright © 2025 Be-lavie. All Rights Reserved. | Site Powered by Pix & Hue.

Be-lavie is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising & linking to Amazon.com. Site Powered by Pix & Hue.