Stowmarket has a rich history of being a market town. Edward III granted the town a market charter in July 1347 and the market continues to serve local people every Thursday and Saturday in the Market Place. This popular traditional market is supplemented with occasional specialist markets, the summer Food and Drink Festival and the Christmas Market.
Twice weekly street market
Come and discover our twice-weekly street market featuring a wide range of stalls and vendors. Based in the town centre, the market operates throughout the day every Thursday and Saturday.
2026 is a very exciting time for Stowmarket Market, with the return of the Farmers Market (every 1st Saturday of the month) and a brand new Family Friendly Market (every 3rd Saturday of the Market).
Keep a look at our social media for more details, activities and up to date information.
If you are interested in attending any of these markets please email emilyc@stowmarket.org
Support your local market – shop locally!
Our traders sell a variety of goods including fruit and veg, fish, flowers, eco-friendly toiletries, sweets, household essentials, clothing, wool and gifts, mobile phone accessories, bread and sweet treats.
During the warmer months Foodie Thursday’s happen every Thursday with a different hot food trader coming to the market, for you to enjoy on benches accompanied by some live entertainment.
Introductory offer for new traders
The Council are keen to welcome new traders to our twice-weekly street market. Traders who have not previously traded on the market can enjoy the first four weeks rent free. Thereafter the rates are £12.50 per standard pitch for a casual trader.
For more information, please contact us on 01449 612060 or email emilyc@stowmarket.org
The Town Council has prepared a Policy Statement on Trading to provide a policy framework which controls market trading and town trading regulations. click to view the Market Regulations 2026