Fleetwood Market sited on Victoria Street and Adelaide Street is one of the largest covered markets in the North West, with over 200 stalls. It was first opened in 1840, although the present stone building dates from 1892.
The market started out life in 1840. Market rights were granted to Fleetwood Market in 1215 to the Rossall Estate that owned the land that became Fleetwood, but it wasn't until 1840 that Sir Peter Hesketh started using them, and a Victorian market was built in the port.
The original market was surrounded by a stone wall, with a wooden access gate at each end. In the middle of the open area was a basic wooden building, with a slate roof, providing shelter for the stalls from which local people sold farm produce and traders from Manchester sold textiles and clothing. Later on, a cattle market was also added.
Two years later, the present stone building was constructed – which included offices and living accommodation for staff over the years.
The building has stayed true to its Victorian heritage over the last century, and has changed very little.
In 1990, the market was extended, making it one of the biggest in the North West.
