by zteve t evans

Created on: February 20, 2010   Last Updated: February 21, 2010

A Traditional English Market Town

The Borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire is a typical traditional English market town situated 5 mile west of the City of Stoke-on-Trent.  There is a misconception that Newcastle-under-Lyme is part of Stoke-on-Trent because outlying districts of both merge into one another.  This gives the impression of one large city when in fact they are two separate entities.

Known simply as  ‘Castle’ by locals there is a traditional open-air market held in the High Street, also known as the  “The Stones” 6 days a week. This is a popular attraction bringing in many visitors from neighbouring towns and village.

Although the cattle and livestock market is no longer held an antiques market trades on Tuesdays and a bric-a-brac market trades Thursdays  and a general market trades every other day except Sundays.   There are also regular Farmer’s Markets selling local and traditional produce and Continental Markets selling goods and produce from many European countries.

Beautiful Floral Features

Great use is made of flowers to provide colour and cheer to the many historic and traditional buildings in the town centre.   The market and town centre are pedestrianised areas so it is safe to wander at your own speed while safely browsing the many stalls and taking in the atmosphere.  Beautiful floral features can be found all around the town centre and there are many benches where shoppers and visitors can relax and appreciate the flowers, perhaps while enjoying a snack. 

Follow Your Nose

A  good selection  of bakers offer fresh sandwiches, rolls , baguettes, paninis, pies and pasties while street vendors serve up baked potatoes, burgers, hot dogs and the local delicacy of oatcakes.   There are also cafes serving traditional cooked English breakfasts and of course there are fish and chip shops. Just follow your nose to your favourite food and enjoy.

All these wonderful colours and smells and with the odd busker, or public performer providing street entertainment  there is a lively and stimulating atmosphere.  This helps attract people to the town centre with its many and varied  shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants.

A Glimpse of Victorian Times

For those who are interested in history and tradition the  Borough Museum and Art Gallery  provides a glimpse of Victorian times with life-size scenarios from within Mellard’s

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>