If there's something I could talk about all day, it's Bury market in Greater Manchester, North England. Why? Simple, nowhere keeps it as real as Bury does. As someone who is a foreigner to North England I go there as a spectator. The noises, smells, colours, low prices and friendly chit chat are a novelty to me. And even though I am an outsider I am welcomed with a grin and open arms, a sausage bap in one hand and a Manchester tart in the other.
Perhaps, rightfully, my love for Bury market dates back to during Lockdown. I moved to Manchester in December 2020, during a very cold, dark winter. The mood was as bleak as the weather. Lockdown restrictions meant only essential shops were allowed to stay open. It was a dull and honestly, slightly depressing. One day my sister’s friend Z. invited us to Bury market. Z. is a wonderful woman, born and bred in Bury. Her hair is a different colour every time I see her, always more fabulous than the last time. She said she would show us around. We learnt as it was considered a food market, most of food stalls could stay open. We were sold. We jumped on the tram from Victoria to Bury and off we went.
My first trip to Bury was a snowy but exciting one. As I stepped off the tram at Bury station the smell of sausage rolls greeted me. From there it was a just a short walk over to the market.
Before I continue, I would like to say as disclaimer. Bury Market is not a fancy place. It is however a down to earth market with hard working locals, good food, fair prices and interesting bargains. For example, expect cardboard signs with pen written pricing - sometimes even scratched out numbers replaced with sales and discounts as the day goes on. And it's not only loved by me, Bury Market has won "Market of the Year" in 2006, 2009, 2012 and 2015, as well as being voted Britain's Favourite Market in 2019 and 2022.
One of my favourite parts of the market is the food and fish section. I was hypnotised by the fishmongers slicing salmon and captivated by the butchers shouting out orders. The variety of products and choice was something I would have expected more in La Boqueria in Barcelona, rather than a market outside Manchester. It's impressive.
Across the market, the stall holders are all friendly and will have a chat with you. The produce is fresh and of high quality. I especially enjoyed scanning the cheese stalls, feeling the need to purchase a mystery plastic bag of different cheeses for 60p.
Tarts and pastries are abundant too, and just a few pounds can get you far. Local delicacies range from Manchester tart, Eccles cakes and of course Black Pudding. Last time we took home potato and meat pies for dinner - in the oven for 20 minutes and were ready - and they were delicious with steamed broccoli (also from the market) and gravy - it hits the spot!
Apart from food, the market has a fantastic variety of stalls, from clothing to pet treats, and everything in between. Pretty much anything you can imagine, there's probably a stall for it in Bury. For instance, I especially enjoyed rummaging through construction workers stalls for surprisingly trendy-looking bomber jackets. My sister actually bought a dark green one which looked like straight out of a Yeezy advert. I was slightly jealous of her find, but then I found a great pair of overalls to wear for painting which shut me up.
Unsurprisingly, there are many spots to pick up a snack or sit down for lunch in the market or around it. If you're looking to eat in the market itself, there is cafe with outside seating which serve up hog roast baps, sausage sandwiches, scones with butter, jam and cream, coffees and teas (pics below).
I ordered the hog roast bap. It came with an apple sauce. The meat was smoky, tender and a little bit sweet. Overall, a solid 7/10. But the scone stole the show, it took me right back to my Mum's kitchen. It had a nice texture, soft in the inside, with juicy raisins, rich butter, sweet strawberry jam and fresh cream. I payed £11 for the hog roast, the scone and a cappuccino. What could be better in life? Oh, and the company wasn't bad either!
But, if you are looking for more of a restaurant sit down experience in Bury, I recommend the Racconto Lounge. It's a trendy spot with an international menu, serving up dishes inspired by cuisine from Mexico, Morocco, Japanese and more. The space is very cool, with art covering the high walls.
Since my first escape to Bury market I no longer live in Manchester, but I still try to visit regularly when I come back to Manchester. Every time is as exciting as the first. Each time I find something new, and now only when wandering around the market but also exploring Bury. For example, last time I went to Bury I visited the Bury Art Museum. It's a three-story building serving as an art gallery, a museum space, and a contemporary sculpture centre. It means the museum showcases a range of art. The ground floor had a contemporary art sculpture exhibition called “Genetic Material' by Rosie Edwards. The second floor has a wonderful little cafe, and there was an exhibition from many local artists. The shop has some really fun cards and Bury inspired art too. It's definitely worth popping into. 
How to visit Bury
Transport: The best way to visit Bury market is to catch the tram from Victoria to Bury, the trip takes about 30 minutes.Time: The market stalls are open every day except Sunday, from 9am to 5pm. However, I recommend going in the morning as most produce sells, and then have lunch in the market.
Good tip: Take a few tote shopping bags with you as well as cash. I always think I won’t buy too much and end up seeing exciting vegetables, pies, cheese, or surprisingly nice outfits. Tote bags will help with carrying everything, and some stalls only accept cash.