The 10 best markets in Birmingham you’ll wish you knew about sooner
Ever opened your fridge, only to find it completely empty? And the pantry’s not much better? Yeah, we’ve all been there. Looks like it’s time for a trip to the market!
Lucky for you, Birmingham’s got some awesome markets where you can grab not only all the food you need but also a few things you didn’t even know you were missing.
My team and I put together a list of the best markets in Birmingham so you can make the most of your next market adventure.
1. Bullring Open Market
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Address: 5BB, Edgbaston St
Contact details: +44 121 464 8349
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday to Monday: Closed
Price: £
The Bullring Open Market is right next to the Indoor Markets and the Bullring Shopping Centre, making it a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.
This vibrant market has been around in some form since the 12th century. It started as a corn market called Corn Cheaping and grew into the bustling place it is today.
With around 130 stalls, there’s so much to explore. Fabrics and household goods are all on offer, but the fruit and veggie stalls are the stars. Deals like “£1 a bowl” make it easy to stock up without breaking the bank.
It’s also super easy to get around! The market has wide, covered aisles that are wheelchair-friendly.
Pro tip:
Keep an eye out for seasonal produce and special deals at the fruit and vegetable stalls. Many even accept NHS Healthy Start Vouchers, making it a great option for families looking to save.
2. Bullring Rag Market
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Address: 50 Edgbaston St
Contact details: +44 121 303 0208
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday to Monday: Closed
Price: £
The Bullring Rag Market in Birmingham is a lively spot full of history and character. Opened in December 2000, it replaced the original market that had been part of Birmingham’s shopping scene for centuries.
With 350 stalls and 17 perimeter shops, you’ll find all sorts of treasures here—fabrics, haberdashery supplies, and vintage clothes. There are even household goods, gifts, and crafts!
The market is especially loved by fabric lovers, both hobbyists and pros. This is mainly because of the amazing variety and great prices the stalls offer.
The market has a cool history, too. The Bullring area has been a hub since the Middle Ages, originally as a busy open marketplace. Its name, “Bull Ring,” comes from the old bull-baiting days when bulls were tied to a ring in the ground.
Pro tip:
Bring cash with you, as some vendors might not accept card payments. This way, you can shop without any hiccups.
3. Birmingham Indoor Market
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Address: 26-30 Pershore St
Contact details: +44 121 303 0208
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: £
The Birmingham Indoor Market, or Bull Ring Indoor Marke,t has been a vibrant part of Birmingham since it opened in October 2000. It took over from the historic Bull Ring Market Hall, which dates back to 1835. It’s one of the UK’s largest fish markets.
With around 140 stalls, the market offers a little bit of everything, such as fresh meat, poultry, and seafood. You’ll also find speciality stalls for spices, nuts, and sweets.
The atmosphere is lively, with vendors shouting out deals and customers haggling for bargains.
Pro tip:
Visit early in the day, especially on weekends, to avoid the larger crowds. This will allow you to explore the market when it’s quieter, browse more comfortably, and enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience before the busy rush begins.
4. Birmingham Artisan Market
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Address: York Rd, King’s Heath
Contact details:
Operating hours:
- Sunday: 10 AM – 3 PM
- Monday to Saturday: Closed
Price: ££
Birmingham Artisan Market is a vibrant showcase for local creativity, giving independent makers and small businesses a place to shine. Since starting in 2023, it’s become a great way to celebrate the city’s talent while bringing the community together.
The market rotates through spots like Kings Heath, the Jewellery Quarter, and Bournville. Each event features vendors offering everything from handcrafted jewellery and original art to home decor and gourmet treats. You can even find natural skincare products!
Kings Heath hosts its market on the second Sunday of each month. These markets aren’t just about shopping—they’re about connecting with artisans and enjoying a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that everyone can be part of.
Pro tip:
Take a moment to chat with the artisans! It’s a great way to learn about their craft and feel good about supporting local talent.
5. Red Brick Market
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Address: Red Brick Market, 119 Floodgate St, Deritend
Contact details: +44 121 616 6188
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 6 PM
Price: ££
Red Brick Market is a fresh and fun place to shop for anyone looking to explore unique finds. It’s a relaxed space packed with handcrafted goods, quirky treasures, and plenty of local charm. It’s all about supporting independent businesses and discovering something different.
The setup is part of what makes it special. Vendors design their stalls to reflect their style and don’t have to be there all the time. Shoppers simply pay at a central desk on their way out, making the whole experience easy and stress-free.
Find upcycled furniture at Sargent Vintage Interiors, antiques at Sarah Jones, and unique decor at Inland House. Art lovers can browse prints and crafts from My Vintage Prints and The Vend, while foodies can grab local sauces from Epicuriousity Eats and Pip’s Hot Sauce.
Pro tip:
If you’re into fashion, check out Cow and Dark Bull Vintage for trendy outfits. You can also stop by at Selected Steeze and On The Sunshine for vintage accessories and handmade jewellery.
6. Birmingham Bizarre Bazaar
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Address: 18 Kent St
Operating hours:
- Sunday: 11 AM – 5 PM
Price: £
Birmingham Bizarre Bazaar (BBB) is a fun, alternative lifestyle market that’s been running since 1999. Held at The Nightingale Club on Kent Street every third Sunday of the month, it’s all about exploring kink, fetish, and alternative lifestyles.
Entry is £7, and it’s for adults 18 and over. The event has an open, welcoming vibe with no strict dress code—though many attendees get creative with their outfits. It’s a space where people can express themselves freely.
With around 50 stalls, there’s plenty to explore. There are leather and latex wear, bondage gear, and some handmade crafts.
You can also catch performances like burlesque acts, educational workshops, and live demos on things like whip handling and rope bondage.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the afterparty from 6 PM to 10:30 PM after the market. It’s the perfect chance to mingle, show off your new purchases, and enjoy even more entertainment.
7. Birmingham Wholesale Market
Address: The Hub, Nobel Wy
Contact details: +44 121 796 1291
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday: 3:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- Saturday: 3:30 AM – 9:30 AM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: £
Birmingham Wholesale Market is the biggest combined wholesale fresh produce market in the UK. It’s around 330,000 sq ft and has 90 trading units offering everything from meat and fish to vegetables and flowers.
The new market is split into specialised sections: the Horticultural Market, the Meat Market, and the Fish and Poultry Market. It runs from the early hours (3:30 AM) and serves around 13,000 customers each week.
What sets this market apart is that it’s the only fully integrated wholesale market in the UK. It has 78 units of fresh produce, 9 warehouses, and a café. There are also management offices and a central indoor walkway called the Buyers’ Walkway to help you get around more easily.
Pro tip:
Always wear high-visibility clothing when visiting the market. With all the forklifts and delivery vehicles moving around, high-visibility gear helps ensure you’re seen by drivers and operators. This will keep you safe in a busy environment.
8. Moseley Farmers’ Market
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Address: Alcester Rd, Moseley
Contact details: +44 121 449 3156
Operating hours:
- Saturday: 9 AM – 2 PM
- Sunday to Friday: Closed
Price: ££
Moseley Farmers’ Market, nestled in Moseley Village, is a local favourite. It runs on the last Saturday of every month from 9 AM to 2 PM. It has won the FARMA award for Best Farmers’ Market several times, most recently in 2023.
The market has over 60 stalls offering a great variety of products. You’ll find fresh produce from local farms, cheeses and milk products from nearby dairies, and locally reared meats (even ostrich!).
There are also plenty of baked goods from local artisans, plus a selection of local beers, wines, and spirits. The market also caters to vegans and offers international foods like falafels and samosas, alongside seasonal treats.
And it’s not all about food; you can check out craft stalls with handmade jewellery, home decor, and more.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to snag the freshest produce and baked goods before they sell out. Plus, you’ll get a chance to explore the stalls without the bigger crowds that show up later in the day.
9. Kings Heath Farmers Market
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Address: Kings Heath News, 2 High St, King’s Heath
Contact details: +44 121 444 4344
Operating hours:
- Saturday: 9 AM – 2 PM
- Sunday to Monday: Closed
Price: £
Kings Heath Farmers Market takes place on the first Saturday of every month from 9 AM to 2 PM at Kings Heath Village Square. It’s a great spot for picking up fresh, locally made goods while connecting with farmers, artisans, and locals.
The market has a variety of stalls offering everything from fresh produce to locally sourced meats and fish. You’ll also find homemade bread, artisan cheeses, and coffee. There are even stalls with fairly traded goods, like the Traidcraft Stall.
The market, started by the Kings Heath Business Association, focuses on supporting local businesses and sustainability. It’s the perfect place to chat with producers about their products and how they’re made.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to bring reusable bags with you when you head to the market. Not only will you be helping reduce plastic waste, but you’ll also avoid the hassle of needing to grab bags at the stalls.
10. Kings Norton Farmers Market
Media credits: kingsnortonfarmersmarket
Address: The Green
Contact details: +44 121 458 1887
Operating hours:
- Saturday: 9 AM – 2 PM
- Sunday to Friday: Closed
Price: ££
Kings Norton Farmers Market in Birmingham runs on the second Saturday of every month from 9 AM to 2 PM, featuring over 25 local producers. You’ll find fresh fruits, veggies, and fish sourced within 40 miles of Birmingham.
The market started in 2005 to support local food and build community. It was the first farmers market in England to be run as a Community Interest Company (CIC), meaning the profits go back into the community.
It’s a great spot to not only grab fresh food but also chat with vendors about their products and farming practices. The market has earned praise for its positive impact, even winning the West Midlands Farmers’ Market of the Year award in 2008.
Pro tip:
Check what’s in season before you go. It’ll help you find the freshest items and give you a chance to try new ingredients in their best flavour from Kings Norton Farmers Market.