Market Drayton wears its history proudly. From the cobbled charm of Cheshire Street to the ancient roots in its name, markets have always been at the heart of this Shropshire town.
And that’s no accident—Drayton became Market Drayton in 1245, when King Henry III granted it the right to hold a weekly Wednesday and Saturday market. Over seven centuries later, those market days are still the beating heart of the town, bringing people together, supporting small businesses, and keeping the community spirit alive.
One group helping to breathe fresh energy into this age-old tradition is Castle Artisan Markets, who have quickly become part of the town’s story.
We caught up with Mike and Jake, founders of Castle Artisan Events, Kate Gittins, Markets Manager for Market Drayton, and Sarah, who leads their publicity, to find out why markets matter more than ever—and why Market Drayton has something truly special.
From Puddings to Pop-Ups
Mike left behind a career in IT six years ago to launch Punx Puds, making traditional puddings to sell at artisan markets. When their local council in Newcastle-under-Lyme asked them to start a Sunday market in town, it was the beginning of something bigger. Now, Castle Artisan Markets runs successful events in six locations—and growing.
“We love supporting local makers, bakers and creatives,” says Mike. “And Market Drayton really stood out. There’s such a friendly, welcoming vibe here—it’s the first thing traders comment on.”
Kate, who joined as Markets Manager a year ago, was drawn to the challenge of regenerating the market.
“This was a brilliant opportunity,” she says. “I’ve worked at other markets, but there’s a real buzz in Drayton. People want to see their town centre thriving—and we want to be part of that story.”
Why Markets Matter
Markets, the team agree, are much more than a place to shop.
They’re a lifeline for small businesses and start-ups—many of whom can’t afford the overheads of a bricks-and-mortar shop. For some, a market stall is their first step toward launching a full-time business. For others, it’s a creative outlet that helps keep traditional crafts alive.
“It’s a great incubator,” Kate explains. “We’re seeing younger people getting involved, and some traders go on to open shops or studios. Markets are also a place where people chat, mingle, and catch up—it’s about community.”
Sarah adds,
“If you lose your market, you lose your meeting place. These events are about interaction as much as transaction.”
A Market with a Memory
Market Drayton’s market isn’t just historic—it’s full of heritage in every stall.
“Some traders have been here for decades,” says Kate. “Paul Bond, the rug man, started when he was 17. He’s 54 now—and his dad still has a stall too. Shaun the sock seller comes from a family of market traders. It’s a generational thing.”
The town’s long-standing weekly markets brings in regulars, but Castle Artisan Markets has added a new layer—monthly Saturday markets that draw visitors from across the region
Curated with Care
Unlike some markets that rely on volume, Castle Artisan curates its stalls to avoid repetition.
“We want each visit to feel fresh,” says Mike. “That’s why we rotate new traders in regularly. It’s not just good for customers—it keeps the experience interesting for stallholders too.”
Most traders are within a 45-minute radius, and word-of-mouth is key.
“We have a waiting list of people who want to trade with us,” says Mike. “And we promote heavily on social media with dedicated pages for each location, running competitions and showcasing products in the lead-up to every market.”
A Boost for the High Street
The market isn’t just good for stallholders—it’s great for the town centre too.
“Some shops say market days are their busiest days of the month,” Kate notes. “Even the museum only opens on market days. It brings people into town who might not come otherwise—and they’ll pop into a café, a shop, or just stop to enjoy the atmosphere.”
In fact, over the last twelve months, footfall has visibly improved.
“Traders say it’s the best it’s been for six years or more,” says Kate.
What’s Next for Market Drayton?
The team are ambitious: they hope to double the size of Market Drayton’s artisan market in 2025. That means more stalls, more visitors, and more reasons to come and explore the town.
There are seasonal events on the calendar too—including Easter, Halloween, and Christmas-themed markets, complete with family-friendly activities and trails.
And if you’re curious about giving market trading a go yourself, the weekly Wednesday street market has an introductory stall offer of £60 for six consecutive weeks—just £10 a week to get started.
“If You Haven’t Visited Yet…”
“You’re missing out,” says Mike with a smile. “You’ll find unique, handmade products, delicious food, and a brilliant community vibe. And you’ll be supporting local artists and businesses every time you visit.”
So whether you’re a shopper, a creative looking for a stall, or someone who just loves a good chat and a browse, Market Drayton’s market scene has a place for you.
After all, it’s what our town was made for.
