Trade has always been a fundamental part of society, originating with bartering and evolving into monetary transactions. Traders would gather in specific locations to sell their goods, giving rise to informal markets. Today, we focus on Kirkgate Market, a prominent landmark in Leeds and the largest covered market in Europe. Learn more about its fascinating history below. Next on leeds1.one.
The Origins of the Market
Before becoming Europe’s largest covered market, Kirkgate Market started as an open-air bazaar in 1822. By 1850, the first covered sections were built, beginning with the central market hall along Duncan Street. This hall was surrounded by shops on three sides, primarily selling meat and fish, while the interior housed dairy products, fruits, and vegetables.
The market expanded significantly in 1857, and additional land was purchased in 1875 to extend it southward and eastward. The central market area developed around the Corn Exchange, the First and Third White Cloth Halls.
In 1894, Fish Row was established for fishmongers, and a domed glass roof was added to the market hall. A dedicated meat market followed in 1899.
Kirkgate Market is also famously the birthplace of Marks & Spencer. A clock in the market hall, bearing the brand’s name, commemorates this fact. Notably, in 2012, Marks & Spencer returned to the market, opening a stall near the iconic clock.
Key Developments at Kirkgate Market
Leeds gained city status in 1893, prompting efforts to improve the market’s surroundings, which included slums and neglected buildings. A competition was held to design a new hall in front of the market, with a prize of £150 for the winner.
The project’s initial budget was £80,000, and engineers Jay Bagshaw and Sons of Batley were appointed. Construction began in 1901, despite protests from traders who demanded compensation for vacating their stalls. The new hall opened in 1904, exceeding the budget and costing £116,700.
During World War II, the market continued operating, albeit at a reduced scale. Bombing in 1941 caused minor damage, allowing trade to resume quickly. Post-war redevelopment included a £55,000 investment to create new warehouses, reopen the market, build a parking area, and establish twenty new meat stalls while renovating the old ones. By the 1950s, 400 traders operated in the market, attracting 100,000 shoppers every Saturday.
The market continued to grow, acquiring land at Pontefract Lane in Cross Green for further expansion.
The 1975 Fire and Its Aftermath
In December 1975, a devastating fire struck the market, requiring over 100 firefighters to extinguish. Although the roof collapsed, the hall in front of the market sustained less damage. Many traders lost their stalls and temporarily relocated elsewhere in Leeds city center.
Reconstruction began promptly, and the first hall reopened in 1976, built with steel sheets. A second hall followed in 1981. Though appearing as a single structure from the outside, the two halls were separated by a wall.
A comprehensive redevelopment plan was approved in 1991, addressing the market’s exterior stonework, entrances, and upper floors, which were repurposed into office spaces. The renovations included upgraded utilities, fire safety measures, improved drainage, and ventilation systems. Following this transformation, Kirkgate Market was elevated from a Grade II to a Grade I listed building, signifying its architectural significance.
Further renovations occurred in 1995, restoring the roof and interior stonework to the original Victorian design. The outdoor market was also revamped, and multi-level parking facilities were constructed.
Kirkgate Market stands as Europe’s largest covered market and a symbol of Leeds. It draws tourists eager to admire this historical architectural marvel. The market has also become a popular filming location for movies, shows, and television programs.