Urmston’s ‘favourite day of the month’ draws up to 5,000 visitors

Now in its ninth year, Urmston Artisan Market has become a well-established and much-loved fixture in the borough of Trafford, packing in about 100 traders and attracting up to 5,000 visitors.

Run by The Market Co, it comes to Golden Hill Car Park off Park Road North in the heart of the town on the first Saturday of the month. The next market is on Saturday 7 February from 10am to 4pm.

Ryan Taylor of The Market Co, which also puts on markets in Wilmslow, Haigh, Northwich, and Chesterfield, said: 

“Over time, Urmston’s market has evolved into a central attraction for the town, contributing to the town’s identity as a vibrant, welcoming, and creative place.

“It is a destination to meet friends and family, hang out and enjoy food and entertainment as well as to shop.”

The market mixes handmade crafts with high-quality sweet and savoury food from skilled local artisans. The shopping offer is complemented by live music and a range of hot food, creating a lively, inclusive atmosphere, to appeal to all ages.

Ryan continued: 

“We want to support small, independent businesses and help them to grow their customer base and build sustainable enterprises. Our traders have gone on to open their own shops, expand what they do and branch out to bigger events, further afield.

“In addition, the market plays an important role in the wider local economy. By bringing thousands of people into Urmston, it helps drive footfall to surrounding shops, cafés, bars, and services, supporting the high street and encouraging repeat visits to the town beyond market days.”

Market trader Nicola Navqi, pictured above, has been running her stall, Margi Rose, with Aaron Fisher, for the past year. She said: 

“There’s a really cool vibe at the market and so many beautiful things to buy for your home, or as gifts – and of course the food!

"You get a mixture of ages and groups coming along. Everyone is super friendly and kind. The traders are like a family here. We look out for each other and help where we can. The love is real!”

Kay and Dan Diamond, who run Dan's Cookies, have traded at other markets over the years – but Urmston’s is their favourite. Dan says: 

“The local population strongly supports the market and there is always a lovely atmosphere and real sense of neighbourhood. We have lots of regular customers that we see at each market.

“There is definitely a sense of family and community every month. It's a local event serving local people, but it also brings visitors to Urmston, for the quality of what's on offer.”

Su Mace, pictured above, who has been selling personalised gifts at the market for three years, added: 

“It’s more like a community event than just a market. It attracts a lovely mix of customers, local families, creatives, and people who really value supporting small businesses. Shoppers are very friendly, loyal and interested in the stories behind the products.”

Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: 

“Urmston Artisan Market is a real jewel in the crown for Trafford, a shopping and leisure experience that’s grown to become a lynchpin of our retail scene.

“The Market Co and the traders work hard every month to put together a high-quality, welcoming experience with wide-ranging social, cultural, and economic benefits. Long may it continue!”

Looking to the future, The Market Co hopes to bring additional events to Urmston, including a summer street party.