St Nicholas Market

A market in a Georgian exchange

The Exchange was built between 1741 and 1743 to designs by John Wood the Elder, better known for his work in Bath. It is Grade II* listed. In front of it, on Corn Street, regular outdoor markets set up, including the Bristol Farmers' Market, the Nails Market and the Slow Food Market. The Rummer next door is where the first Berni Inn opened in 1956.

Finding your way round

The market is split into distinct areas. The Exchange Hall is a big open trading floor with an eclectic spread of stalls. The Covered Market is a tangle of alleyways with small shops selling books, records and gifts. The Glass Arcade is where most of the food is, with counters serving dishes from around the world.

When to visit

Come at lunchtime on a weekday for the food stalls, or set aside an hour for browsing the Covered Market's records and books. The surrounding streets of the old city are packed with pubs and bars, so it pairs well with an evening out; The Boardroom and The Mothers' Ruin are both within a minute's walk. The harbourside is about five minutes away on foot if you want to carry your lunch down to the water.

Highlights

• Housed in John Wood the Elder's Grade II* listed Exchange (1741–43)
• Over 60 independent traders
• Glass Arcade of world-food counters
• Records, books and gifts in the Covered Market

Good to know

• The indoor market trades Monday to Saturday; check current times before visiting.
• Outdoor markets on Corn Street, such as the farmers' market, run on set days.

Frequently asked questions