Perfect pitch for local traders as new artisan market comes to Leeds

A new artisan market is set to add an extra touch of handmade magic to Briggate in Leeds city centre.

Leeds Briggate Market will be running once a month on the much-loved shopping street, with a launch date of Sunday, June 23.

Showcasing and celebrating the work of independent producers and makers, its outdoor stalls will be selling everything from clothing, jewellery and art through to home décor, toys and pet treats. Visitors will also be able to tuck into a range of delicious street food and enjoy live music.

The attraction replaces a previous Briggate-based market which was run on selected Sundays by Leeds City Council and had for many years a strong focus on food.

The new market will be managed for the council by Little Bird Made, a company that has had significant success with similar ventures in other parts of Yorkshire.

It already operates monthly markets in nine locations – including Wetherby, Knaresborough, Harrogate, Ripon and Thirsk – and also works in partnership with Harewood House on the estate’s annual winter artisan market.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s deputy leader and executive member for economy, culture and education, said:

“We’re hugely proud of our existing retail offer here in Leeds, but equally we are always striving to make it even better by providing more choice and more attractions for residents and visitors alike.

“The new Leeds Briggate Market – as well as the ongoing success of the revitalised Leeds Kirkgate Market and other shopping destinations – shows the benefit of that kind of ambitious approach.

“The partnership between ourselves and Little Bird Made is really exciting, and one that we hope will give many local traders the chance to sell their goods and meet new customers in one of the city centre’s best-known locations. I look forward to seeing the market open for business this summer.”

Little Bird Made was chosen to operate the market following a competitive tendering process.

Jackie Crozier, managing director of Little Bird Made, said: “We want to give local communities the best artisan stalls, while also giving traders – from Leeds, Yorkshire and beyond – the best opportunities to showcase and sell their handmade goods.

“Bringing people together by creating a fun space where they can hang out, eat and shop has been our mission ever since I founded the company in 2018.

“I’m delighted to be bringing Little Bird to Leeds city centre. Having previously lived in the city for 10 years, it feels like coming home.”

The market’s opening hours will be 10am to 5pm and it is being held on the fourth Sunday of each month.

Traders interested in finding out more about the opportunities offered by Leeds Briggate Market are asked to visit the Little Bird Made website.