Grainger Market Newcastle: The Food Market That Puts London to Shame (2025)

There’s something quite magical about Grainger Market Newcastle. I find myself here at least once a week, partly because the dumplings are ridiculously good, but mostly because this place just feels different to anywhere else in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

Picture this: you’re standing under a beautiful Victorian glass roof from 1835, eating handmade Chinese dumplings, while next door there’s a pet store that’s been run by the same family since 1929. Down the alley, there’s a Swedish bakery that just opened last week, and around the corner you’ll find the world’s smallest Marks & Spencer from 1895. This mix of old and new shouldn’t work, but somehow it does.

Grainger Market was named Britain’s Favourite Market in 2020, and once you visit, you’ll understand why. Over 100 independent businesses operate here, from butchers whose great-grandfathers worked these same stalls to young food vendors serving Korean corn dogs and Cuban sandwiches.

I remember when I first moved to Newcastle Upon Tyne, someone told me to visit Grainger Market and I thought it would be like any other indoor market. I was so wrong. Yes, you can buy your weekly fruit and veg here, but you can also eat your way around the world, hunt for vintage jackets, watch a jeweller repair your necklace, or just wander around soaking up nearly 200 years of Newcastle history.

And now whenever someone is new to Newcastle Upon Tyne, I always would recommend them to go to Grainger market for lunch, there’s something for everyone in the family or group of friends. For dinner or lunch on Sundays, there are plenty of restaurants around Newcastle Upon Tyne for you try.

So whether you’re here for lunch, shopping for something unique, or you just love food markets (like me), here’s everything you need to know about Grainger Market.

The contents in this Grainger Market guide:

1. How to get to Grainger Market and Practical Info
2. The History of Grainger Market (I Promise This Is Interesting)
3. When to Visit Grainger Market Newcastle
4. Where and what to Eat in Grainger Market
5. Bakeries and Coffee in Grainger Market
6. Food Shops in Grainger Market
7. Where to Shop in Grainger Market (Beyond the Food)
8. Fashion and Vintage shops in Grainger Market
9. Gifts and Bits
10. Jewellers
11. Events and Special Things

How to get to Grainger Market and Practical Info

Address: Grainger Street, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 5QQ
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm (closed Sundays, Bank holidays except some dates before Christmas where they might open later and open on Sundays leading up to Christmas)
Phone: 0191 211 5541

The market is right in the city centre, about two minutes from Grey’s Monument. If you’re taking the Metro, get off at Monument station and you’re practically there. Buses run constantly along Blackett Street and Market Street, both really close by. Coming from Central Station? It’s maybe a 10 minute walk, down through the city centre.

Once you’re in the area, you can’t really miss it. The main entrance is on Grainger Street, just down from Grey Street (which, by the way, is stunning and worth walking down even if you’re not shopping). There are also entrances from Clayton Street and Nun Street if you happen to be coming from those directions.

It’s like a big maze inside, well not really, they have about 5 to 6 aisles with about 5 entrances. The entrances all lead inside the market and you can just walk around and browse.

The History of Grainger Market (I Promise This Is Interesting)

I know history sections can be boring, but Grainger Market’s story is actually quite fascinating.

The market opened on October 24, 1835. Richard Grainger was redeveloping Newcastle city centre and needed to replace the old Flesh Market (lovely name, right?) that was being demolished to make way for Grey Street. So he built this new market between Clayton Street and Grainger Street, designed by architect John Dobson who was basically responsible for most of beautiful Newcastle.

Here’s where it gets interesting. When they started digging the foundations in March 1835, they discovered an ancient burial ground. We’re talking stone coffins, lead coffins, human bones, entire skulls. Apparently it was the burial site for nuns from the order of St. Bartholomew. Can you imagine being the workman who dug that up?

The original market had two sections, one for butchers and one for vegetables. By 1898, the vegetable market roof was falling apart, so they replaced it in 1901 with the gorgeous glazed barrel roof that’s still there today. When you visit, look up. The Victorian ironwork and glass is beautiful.

When Grainger Market opened, it was considered one of the most modern indoor markets in Europe. Nearly 190 years later, it’s one of the few market halls in the UK that’s still being used exactly as intended. No fancy conversion into flats or offices, it’s still a proper working market. That’s quite special.

In 2020, Grainger Market was named Britain’s Favourite Market in the Great British Market Awards. And right now, there’s an £8.2 million restoration happening thanks to the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund. They’re fixing the roof, making it more accessible, adding flexible event spaces. So this place will be around for another 190 years, no doubt.

When to Visit Grainger Market Newcastle

The market is open Monday to Saturday. I’ve been at different times and days, and they all have their own vibe. Normally open from 9am to 5pm but by half 4, most places have closed or closing already during the weekday. Christmas periods are generally busy.

Tuesday afternoons (2pm to 4pm) have this Slow Shopping trial happening, which is nice if you want a more chilled browse without the crowds.

Thursdays at lunchtime are when it’s gets real busy. All the office workers and students during term time come for lunch. It can feel a bit hectic if you don’t like crowds though especially during the Xmas time.

Saturdays get special markets in the Grainger Arcade. First Saturday of the month is the Make and Mend market, second Saturday is Arts and Crafts. Both run 9am to 5.30pm.

If you want to avoid the crowds completely, come on a weekday morning. The market opens at 9am and it’s lovely and quiet before lunchtime hits.

During summer holidays, they put on free entertainment for families, which is nice if you’ve got kids. And before Christmas, they open on some Sundays and do this big Christmas Night Market that gets packed but is really festive. Check their Instagram @thegraingermarket for dates and special events because they’re always doing something.

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Where and what to Eat in Grainger Market

This is honestly why most people and myself come to Grainger Market these days. The food scene here has just exploded over the past few years. I’m going to break this down by what you’re after.

If You fancy Dumplings:

Nan Bei Dumplings

I’m starting with this one because it’s one of my favourites. These dumplings are one of the best in Newcastle upon Tyne, hands down. They make them by hand right in front of you, and it’s great to watch them make it. The soup dumplings, when they have them, are incredible. Just be careful because the soup inside is boiling hot and I’ve definitely burned my mouth more than once.

Their Char Siu bao buns are amazing, soft and fluffy and lovely char siu inside. And they also do noodles which is really nice with wantons.

It’s £5 for dumplings and a bao, or you can get 3 buns for a fiver. The filling is really good and everything tastes fresh. Get there at lunchtime for the best selection because they do sell out. I’ve turned up at 3pm before and been disappointed (on a Saturday).

If You Want Pizza

Slice

Slice does thin-crust pizza by the slice for £3 each run by Italians. They are very popular, and big slices too! They have ham and mushroom, peperoni, margarita and calzones. Please don’t get detered by the queues as the queue moves fast and two slices make a great lunch for £6. or a Calzone for 3.5. You can get a full pizza for about 20, and share with a family or 4 or a group of friends.

If You Want Greek Food

Acropolis

My partner is Greek (I mention this a lot, I know) and he rates this place, which tells you everything. Their gyros are £7 to £9 and the portions are ridiculously big. They pile on the meat and veg. There are vegan and veggie options too which is great.

One gyros could honestly feed two people if you’re not starving. We usually share one and get something else from another vendor.

If You Want Indian Street Food

SnackWallah

This is a lovely Indian street food and it’s vegan but you wouldn’t know it. Their samosa chat is lovely and their wraps are around £5 to £8 and they’re packed with flavour. Favourite is their lassi if it’s available.

Everything here is fresh and vibrant. You can taste the difference. Order at the till, find a spot, and when you have finished your food, they encourage you to take your tray back to the tray area by the till.

If You Want Spanish tapas and wine

La Gamba and La Casa Delicatessen

La Gamba is serving Spanish tapas and vermuteria. They have charcuterie, Spanish wine, Chorizo and Iberica ham and more. You can also purchase their produce and wine from them too.

If You Want Fried Chicken

Feds Chicken

When you need fried chicken and you’re not trying to spend loads, this is your spot. The coating is perfectly crispy, the chicken is juicy, and their burgers are excellent. Everything is £6 to £8, which is really reasonable for the quality.

If you fresh Delicious Sausages

Geordie Bangers

Their sausage rolls are famous and oh so so so good! The staff are amazing and so kind, always ready to help you. And mind you, these aren’t your standard Greggs sausage rolls (although I love Greggs too), they’re massive, made with proper locally sourced sausages, and they’re best eaten hot. £4 to £5. One of those things where locals are like “you HAVE to try the sausage roll” and for once, they’re right.

They are I would say, 80 percent sausage filling and 20 percent pastry, and they have different flavours too. Their loaded hot dogs are unreal!

If you fancy Korean

Sogu & Gogi Express

Korean corn dogs! Have you tried one? They’re about £5 and so addictive. Basically a hot dog wrapped in dough, deep fried until it’s crispy, served with various toppings. They’re slightly sweet, very crispy, and I probably eat these more often than I should admit.

If you fancy Mac and Cheese

Red Heads Mac N Cheese

Comfort food at its finest. You pick your toppings and they make it fresh for you. Around £6 to £8. Great for kids, great for adults, great for when it’s cold and wet outside and you need something warm and cheesy.

If you fancy Noodles

Biang Biang Noodles

Handmade noodles that are thick and chewy. The portions are generous and everything is between 8 to 15 pounds.

If you fancy authentic Sri Lakan food

Dinithi Street Food Sri Lanka

Delicious food by Srilankan chef, they serve traditional treats like lamb lamprais, seafood koththu and vegetable roti and big portions too. Never had this and it was really nice, some dishes are spicy mind but a good kick. Do give them a try!

If you fancy Cuban Sandwiches

Cubanos

This one opened fairly recently. Cuban street food with Cuban sandwiches, rice bowls, all that good stuff. They do chimichurri, chipotle, pink pickled onions, nachos, saffron rice, mango salsa. Really flavourful and around £8 to £12.

If you fancy Bagels:

King Baby Bagel

These bagels are huge. Like, New York-style huge. The team used to be at Tynemouth Market and built up a loyal following there. Open Tuesdays 10.30am to 4pm, Wednesday to Saturday 8am to 4pm. Bagels are £6 to £9 depending on what you get. The fillings are generous and everything is fresh.

If you fancy Fresh seafood and Oysters:

Lindsays Bros Quality Fish and Seafood

Lindsays have been around for many years and provide the freshest seafood which you can buy and they also provide to restaurants locally.

While you are here, you can sample some of their offerings, Oysters are very popular and also their seafood platter.

Bakeries and Coffee in Grainger Market

Midsommar Bakery (This has Just Opened!)

This is Newcastle’s newest addition and it’s bringing Swedish fika culture to the North East. It opened at the end of November 2025, so it’s still really new. Founded by a Swedish baker called Nathalie Stern and a Newcastle lad called Ben Dickenson.

They do small-batch stuff baked on site every day. Cinnamon buns (to die for, best one ever), cardamom buns, all the Swedish pastries you’d expect and Princess Cake. Plus savoury smörgås, which are basically fancy open sandwiches with fresh-baked bread, butter, and toppings. Pastries are £3 to £5, sandwiches are £5 to £8.

The whole concept is about fika, that Swedish thing where you take a break with coffee and cake. It’s not just grabbing something on the go, it’s actually sitting and enjoying it. I love this addition to the market.

French Oven

Independent artisan bakery that’s been here for a while now. They do fresh breads, scones, and pasties, combining French techniques with British classics like pies. Everything is £2 to £5. Perfect for grabbing something fresh on the go.

Pet Lamb Patisserie

Pet Lamb is a Geordie phrase for someone you’re fond of, which I think is lovely. Katie and Kay started this place after teaching themselves to bake. Their brownies and cakes are some of the best in Newcastle and everything is £3 to £5.

They bake everything on site and the smell when you walk past is dangerous. They even deliver across the UK now, which shows how good they are. A huge fan favourite across the city and beyond.

Pumphreys Coffee

This isn’t really a cafe, more like a coffee bar. But Pumphreys has been roasting coffee in Newcastle since 1750. Think about that. 1750! One of the oldest coffee roasters in Britain and they’re still here in Grainger Market.

Coffee is £2 to £4. You can buy their beans to take home or just grab a quick espresso. The selection is excellent from different varieties from Indonesia as well. And they have great coffee!

Food Shops in Grainger Market

Butchers

Several traditional butchers operate here, some with histories spanning generations. Oliver & Eden’s Family Butcher opened in 1925 and the tradition continues today. Quality meat and personal service, the old-fashioned way. Finlay’s Family Butchers is also another butchers there, you can check each one’s offering and they are kind and will help you.

Greengrocers

Greengrocers where you can buy exactly what you need rather than pre-packaged supermarket amounts. Fresh fruit and veg, locally sourced, competitive prices. They have seasonal produce, and sometimes cheaper than the supermarkets and great for having them on the day or two.

There’s about 2 main ones, Hector Hall in the picture below and they are in the middle of the market, and Hutchinsons by the entrance to Clayton street and Bryan Muers and Sons have been around for decades. I tend to go to both and see what they have and compare prices and produce as well.

Fishmongers

There’s about 2 or 3 at the back the Grainger market or the front depending on which entrance you pop inside. There’s Chirton Fisheries and also Lindsays Fish Bro. They are located opposite the Korean places. They sell fresh fish daily from local suppliers. The quality is excellent and prices are fair.

And Lindsays for example has a menu of their fresh produce and sandwiches to get.

Cheese and Delis

Matthew’s Cheese is famous for their selling quality cheeses, and you find all sorts from them and you pay per gram. Other shops at the arcade also selling cured meats, olives, and deli items. Perfect for picking up ingredients for a picnic or dinner party.

Fruit & Nut Weigh House

There’s also a stall near the Acropolis on Alley One that sells all sorts from Baking and Bicarb soda, nuts, spices, pasta, lentils and more. You take a bag and use the available shovel and put them in the bag and weigh it. You pay by weight. I adore this spot, it’s cheaper than the supermarkets, they are good products, and you can buy what you need.

Where to Shop in Grainger Market (Beyond the Food)

The food is what draws most people in, but Grainger Market has some seriously cool shops too. Here are the ones I always end up browsing.

The Historic Ones

Marks & Spencer Original Penny Bazaar

This is the world’s smallest M&S and honestly, it’s a piece of retail history you can actually shop in. It opened on April 11, 1895, making it 130 years old. The cherry red and gold signage is still the original from when it opened.

This is the last surviving Penny Bazaar shop, which is basically how M&S started. You can still buy quality items at reduced prices, just like people’s great-grandparents did. It’s tiny but it’s a proper time capsule.

Robinson’s Pet Store

If you have a dog or cat, you need to visit Robinson’s. It’s Britain’s oldest family pet store, opened in 1929 and now run by third-generation Robinson, Nick.

The family history is quite something. Nick’s great-grandfather George was a butcher in Grainger Market, and his grandfather Ernest bought the corn shop in 1929 after complaining about the service somewhere else and deciding he could do better. And he did! They pioneered loads of firsts in the pet trade, including Britain’s first self-service pet store and the first canned puppy food.

They sell everything your pet could need. Toys, treats, food, beds, leads, harnesses, collars, the lot. The natural treats on the counter for dogs and cats are their most popular products. Nick has been serving customers for decades and has shared in both the joy and sadness of pet ownership with his regulars. It’s that kind of place.

Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm.

The General Weigh House

This is a quirky one. The original weighing facility used by retailers and customers to check the weight of their goods. These days it’s mainly used for checking body weight (there’s even a notice saying “Please do not bring food or drink into the Weigh House” which made me laugh).

The original metal scale could weigh up to 24 stones and was used to weigh everything, including deer carcasses apparently. It costs 10p to use and it’s a fun piece of market history that’s still working.

Fashion and Vintage shops in Grainger Market

The Yesterday Society Vintage Shop

Wall to wall vintage and retro stuff. They update their rails of vintage clothes daily and have shelves full of bargain retro accessories and homeware. Prices are £10 to £100 depending on what you find. Check their social media before you go to see what’s new.

Analog

Marc runs this place and he’s serious about vintage. He travels to places like Denver and Bangkok to handpick rare items. Vintage Carhartt from America, 90s Tommy Hilfiger pieces, that kind of thing. This dedication has made Analog one of the best vintage shops in Newcastle. Expect to pay £30 to £150.

Tender Hooligan

Adam and Jenn started this after bonding over their love of subculture and vintage clothing while working together at Grainger Market five years ago. Now Tender Hooligan is the go-to spot for subculture brands like Fred Perry and Dr. Martens. Prices are £50 to £200.

Gifts and Bits

Geordie Gifts

Craig Finnigan created this to celebrate Newcastle. His passion for the football club, the heritage, and the people comes through in his hand-drawn and printed works. If you want actual good Newcastle-themed souvenirs (not the tacky tourist trap stuff), this is it. Prints, gifts, cards, all that. £5 to £30.

Tian’s Gifts

Influenced by Chinese culture, Tian Allsop carefully curates handmade oriental gifts. Decorative items, practical pieces, all chosen with care. £5 to £50.

Little Bazaar

Caroline runs this generation-old store and spends her days handpicking crystals and dreamcatchers. Perfect if you’re into spiritual items and bohemian gifts. £5 to £40.

The Shaver Centre

Michael Grant and his stall have been in Alley 1 for decades. He sells everything from headphones to hair clippers, clocks to kettles. Proper household necessities at modest prices. £10 to £100. The kind of place where you pop in for one thing and come out with three.

Jewellers

Amblergem

Paul became an apprentice goldsmith fresh out of college 40 years ago. Now he’s co-owner of Amblergem, one of Newcastle’s few jewellers offering on-site repairs and alterations. You can watch him work among flying sparks and glowing metal, which is quite cool. £50 to £500+ depending on what you’re after.

Murrays Jewellers

Over 120 years of trading in Grainger Market. Their tenancy dates back to 1901, making them one of the oldest continuous traders in the market. Prices vary.

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Events and Special Things

Throughout the year, Grainger Market does special events:

Christmas Night Market is huge. Extended hours, special stalls, festive atmosphere. They also open on some Sundays in December, which they don’t normally do.

The Great Market Caper is a food treasure hunt around the market. You discover vendors and try different foods. Quite fun if you’re into that sort of thing.

Heritage Open Days with tours and talks about the market’s history and architecture.

Live Music happens regularly, especially during summer and holidays.

Craft Workshops teaching various crafts and skills pop up occasionally.

Family Entertainment with free programmes during summer school holidays if you’ve got kids.

Follow @thegraingermarket on Instagram or check their website for what’s coming up.

Questions People Always Ask about Grainger Market

Is Grainger Market free to enter?
Yes, completely free. You only pay for what you buy at the shop itself, and free to browse and wander around the shops.

Can I get stuff delivered?
Yes! Grainger Market Delivered does fruit, veg, meat, fish, cheese, baked goods, cupboard staples. Order before 4pm for next-day delivery. They extended the delivery area during the pandemic and kept it going.

Is Grainger Market accessible?
Grainger market has wide alleyways inside but there are some parts which are they working on as part of their big restoration. There are some areas that are tight in spaces at the moment but Grainger market has multiple entrances so it’s possible to maneuver around. Keep in mind it can get crowded at times.

Can I bring my dog to Grainger Market?
No, pets are not allowed with the exception of Medical Service dogs are welcome.

Where can I park?
Several NCP and Q-Park car parks nearby. Grainger Town Car Park and Eldon Garden are closest. Expect £2 to £4 per hour.

Do they take cards?
Most vendors take card and contactless, but some smaller stalls are cash only. Bring some cash just in case.

How long should I spend here?
Quick lunch? 30 minutes. Wander and explore? At least and hour or 2 hours. If you’re really into food, you could easily spend half a day here, especially if you go on Grainger Market food tour.

My Tips for Visiting Grainger Market

Come hungry. Seriously. With so many food vendors, you’ll want to try multiple things. If you’re in a group, share dishes so you can sample more.

Bring cash. Most places take cards but some smaller vendors prefer cash. There are ATMs nearby.

Visit on a weekday if you want a more chilled experience with shorter queues.

Look up. The architecture is stunning, especially the glazed barrel roof from 1901. I spent ages just staring at the Victorian ironwork and glass when I first visited.

Talk to the traders. Many are family-run businesses that have been here for generations. They’re friendly and love sharing stories about the market.

Check Instagram before you go. @thegraingermarket posts about new vendors, special events, and what’s happening that day.

Try something new. You’ve got vendors from all over the world here. This is your chance to sample cuisines you might not have tried before.

Support independent businesses. Every purchase goes directly to small business owners and keeps this historic market going.

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Finding Your Way Around Grainger Market

The market can feel like a bit of a maze, which is part of its charm but can also be confusing. Don’t worry, everyone gets lost here, even locals like me.

There are several entrances:

• Main entrance on Grainger Street
• 2 Entrances from Clayton Street (Where the big Tesco is)
• Entrance from Nun Street

Inside, it’s organised into alleys and arcades. Food vendors are generally in the main market hall area, while the Grainger Arcade (running along one side) has many of the specialty shops.

If you can’t find something, just ask any trader. They’ll point you in the right direction and probably throw in a story or recommendation too.

What Else is Nearby

After Grainger Market, you’re perfectly placed to explore more of Newcastle:

Grey Street is one of England’s most beautiful streets and it’s literally just up the road. Great for photos.

Grey’s Monument is a two-minute walk. You can even climb to the top of Grey’s Monument during summer months for views over the city.

Theatre Royal is at the bottom of Grey Street. Beautiful Victorian theatre.

Central Arcade is another stunning Victorian shopping arcade nearby with gorgeous tilework and more independent shops.

Chinatown is just around the corner on Stowell Street if you want to continue your food adventure.

The Quayside is a 10-minute walk down the hill. Seven bridges, bars, restaurants, and lovely views.

For a full day out, check my complete guide to Things to Do in Newcastle Upon Tyne.

My Final Thoughts

Grainger Market is what I love most about Newcastle. It’s authentic, unpretentious, and genuinely welcoming. Historical shops that have been serving families for generations sit next to exciting new ventures, and somehow it all just works together.

You can come for lunch, browse for vintage treasures, pick up fresh veg for the week, or just wander around soaking up the Victorian atmosphere. It’s not trying to be a slick shopping centre or a sanitised tourist attraction. It’s a real, working market that happens to be beautiful, historic, and full of incredible food.

After nearly 190 years, Grainger Market is still Newcastle’s beating heart. And with the restoration work happening now, it’ll be here for another 190 years.

Next time you’re in Newcastle city centre, step inside from the streets and experience this place for yourself. Walk through the historic alleyways, try the dumplings, chat with the traders, and see why this was named Britain’s Favourite Market.

Trust me, it’s worth it.

Courtney xx

More Newcastle Upon Tyne Travel and Food Adventures on WhatsupCourtney:

Want to explore Newcastle’s food scene further? Here are some guides that might help:

30 Places to eat in Newcastle Upon Tyne City Centre 2025 : Street food, vegan, kid friendly, buffets, Michelin, carvery places in Newcastle City centre

Complete Guide to Grainger Market : Deep dive into Britain’s Favourite Market with all the best food vendors

25 Things to Do in Newcastle Upon Tyne : My complete guide to the city including more food recommendations

Newcastle Match Day Guide : Where to eat and drink before NUFC matches (trust me, you need this)

9 Best Bakeries to try in Newcastle Upon Tyne : Find out the bakeries to get the best croissants, pastries, doughnuts, and sourdough

10 Things to Do in Tynemouth : Including Riley’s Fish Shack, one of the best seafood spots in the North East

Climbing up Grey’s Monument : Climbing Grey’s Monument: Is it worth it and the Costs?

Riley’s Fish Shack Review: The Famous Riley’s Fish Shack in Tynemouth: Is it worth it?

If you’re visiting from abroad, grab an eSIM before you arrive so you can easily look up bakery opening hours and directions while you’re exploring.

If you are travelling abroad to Italy or Japan, find my Travel Guides on WhatsupCourtney below:

Lake Como Travel Guide: Como City

Best things to do in Varenna, Lake Como Italy 2025 + One Day Itinerary

4 Days in Kyoto Itinerary: Complete First-Timer’s Guide

8 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD STAY AT CANDEO HOTELS ROPPONGI TOKYO

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