'Geordie institution' celebrating 190 years this month

An integral part of Newcastle’s heritage - and still going strong today, the Grainger Market marks its 190th anniversary this month.

- By DAVID MORTON

The bustling Grade I listed covered market in the heart of the city centre is a Geordie institution and home to more than 100 independent traders and small businesses.

Step inside and you'll find high-quality butchers, greengrocers, artisan bakers, street food traders, coffee shops and cafes, craft stalls, mini bazaars, jewellers, clothing and plant stalls. There's also the famous Marks & Spencer Original Penny Bazaar dating from 1895, and the traditional 19th century weigh house where traders would weigh their goods and today you can get weighed yourself on the scales.

Built on what is thought to be the old burial site of nuns from the order of St Bartholomew, the Grainger Market opened in 1835 - two years before a young Queen Victoria acceded the British throne.