Not Shrewsbury or Bridgnorth - the Midlands' best market town is crowned

If you are looking for a relaxing day out with a bit of culture, charm, and plenty of great shopping? You can’t beat Britain’s traditional market towns and Shropshire has plenty to choose from - but which one is best?

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Now coach company Bullocks has compiled a list of the best market towns in the UK - and one of Shropshire’s has made the list.

The coach firm says market towns that offer cobbled streets and quirky shops to artisan food stalls and centuries-old traditions, provide a proper slice of British life – and a warm welcome too.

Shropshire has plenty of market towns to choose from, and while Shrewsbury and often Bridgnorth are cited as among the best - they don’t make the grade, according to Bullocks.

According to the coach firm, Ludlow in South Shropshire is the county’s best market town, and the UK’s fourth best overall.

It describes Ludlow as a “Foodie Heaven” due to its foodie scene, and its award-winning market.

Bullocks said of Ludlow market: “It’s been trading in Castle Square for over 900 years!

“With over 40 outdoor stalls, you’ll find artisan cheeses, fresh produce, books, crafts, and local wines. Sundays often feature flea or special themed markets too.

“Just imagine all of this set in the shadow of Ludlow Castle – a gorgeous backdrop for a day of browsing and tasting. But don’t just take our word for it. Explore Ludlow Market with our coach trip today!”

The ten best market towns in the UK

1. Fleetwood, Lancashire – This delightful coastal town on the Fylde Coast features a Victorian market with more than 200 stalls, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
2. Ripon, North Yorkshire – An historic Yorkshire town hosting a market that's nearly 1,000 years old every Thursday, featuring a bellman opening ceremony and the ancient Hornblower tradition at 9pm.
3. Stamford, Lincolnshire – A picturesque town built from honey-coloured stone, where Friday and Saturday markets offer everything from artisan cheese to vintage vinyl.
4. Ludlow, Shropshire – A culinary destination with more than 40 stalls in Castle Square that have been trading for over 900 years, open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
5. Cirencester, Gloucestershire – This Cotswold town with Roman origins hosts Monday and Friday Charter Markets that trace back to the Domesday Book and are so photogenic they've appeared in television adverts.
6. Skipton, North Yorkshire – A mediaeval market town featuring a cobbled High Street market operating four days weekly, with Skipton Castle and canal cruises as nearby attractions.
7. Totnes, Devon – Among the UK's most unconventional towns, offering eclectic Friday and Saturday markets with ethical products, street food, antiques, and vintage treasures.
8. York, North Yorkshire – This historic city hosts the daily Shambles Market, selling handmade jewellery, street food, and more, nestled amongst mediaeval streets and iconic landmarks.
9. Hexham, Northumberland – A peaceful and inviting Northumberland town with a Tuesday market, a daily covered Shambles, and a fortnightly Farmers' Market near the impressive Hexham Abbey.
10. Bury, Greater Manchester – Having claimed the Britain's Favourite Market title on multiple occasions, this bustling venue boasts more than 200 stalls, including a dedicated fish and meat hall, and welcomes visitors on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.