This March, Love Your Local Market celebrated its 15th year, serving as a reminder of just
how special Norwich Market remains for shoppers and traders alike.
By Rosy Kidjana
Over two weeks, the campaign shone a light on the importance of diverse and creative local
markets such as our own. The Future Radio team was able to have first-hand experience in
the world of vendors during the 3-day pop-up stall in the heart of the city. Through
conversations with vendors,locals, and tourists, it became clear why the 900 year old market
was still so integral to the people of Norwich: it was not just a place of business, but a hub
for community.
History of Norwich Market
Established in the 11th century, Norwich Market is now one of the oldest and largest open-air
markets in England, made up of around 200 stalls. By the 14th century, Norwich was one of
the most populated cities in England and the landmark became a very successful place for
trading, especially for cattle, grain and poultry. However, the market did not always have its
rows of stalls, topped with the iconic colorful tilts. This all came after a major redesign during
the 1930s that has remained since, with only a few refurbishments, last dating 2006.
The market matters to the community
There is a reason why Norwich Market is always at the top of suggestion lists for things to do
in Norwich- the diversity of it means that you can never run out of things to do! From food, to
fashion, to trinkets and plants, a full day out can be spent at this hub, and it is what keeps
people coming back. Many visitors spoke about their appreciation for this aspect and how it
“almost feels continental”, making it unique to Norwich city. Norwich remains one of the few
cities in England to have a daily general marketplace running 6 days a week, despite the
number of traders decreasing nationwide, and this is not unrecognised. There was a
clear, shared appreciation for its bustling atmosphere, beautiful colours and rich history,
which make this a place that draws people in.
Vendors shared this sentiment, expressing their love for the culture built from working in a
marketplace like Norwich Market. Charlene Cary, owner of Cary’s Flowers, shared on her
own journey working at her family-owned stall. Being the oldest stall in the market of 150
years, this business has always been part of their lives. Not only does Charlene feel genuine
passion for her business, she sees the customers as friends, having known some for years,
seeing their kids grow into adults, while they also witness her family and business blossom.
This personal relationship where vendors and customers can “grow with each other” is what
makes working at the market so special for the Cary family and other vendors alike.
For newer stalls, like The Bodega, which has found great success in Norwich market, it is
the freedom to create a niche that drives them. Edd Watkinson, the owner, highlighted that
“running a business can be sterile”, but the New York-style sandwich stall has given him the
opportunity to express himself and build something authentic. All through the market,
different personalities are reflected in each stall, and the vendors’ passion, time and hard
work is apparent, which makes their success that much more meaningful.
A learning experience
Norwich Market was first a place for shopping and trading goods, but beyond that, it has
become a part of the lives of many locals in the city, and a major attraction for visitors.
Without it, the city would lose a massive part of its soul and historic charm. Whether it is for a
lunch spot, a meeting point or a place to socialise, the identity of the market has become so
multi-faceted. It only took 3 days of running a pop-up stall to truly understand how much
culture and connection lives within it and deepen the appreciation for our city’s vendors.
