Located in the heart of Bolton town centre, Market Place is one of Greater Manchester’s most recognised shopping, leisure, and entertainment destinations. Combining historic architecture with modern retail and dining experiences, Market Place has become a vibrant hub for local communities, visitors, and independent events such as the Artisan Street Fayre.

Originally built around Bolton’s historic market halls, parts of the site date back to the 1800s, with the original Market Hall opening in 1855 and once being recognised as the largest covered market in the UK. The stunning Victorian vaults beneath the centre have since been transformed into stylish dining and leisure spaces while still retaining many original architectural features.

Today, Market Place continues to evolve as part of Bolton’s wider regeneration plans. Significant investment has helped transform the centre into a modern destination featuring shopping, entertainment, restaurants, family attractions, and community events. The redevelopment has brought new life into the town centre and continues to support local businesses and independent traders.

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Shopping, Dining & Entertainment

Visitors to Market Place can enjoy a wide mix of high street retailers, independent stores, cafés, restaurants, and leisure attractions all under one roof. The centre also features a cinema, family entertainment venues, and “The Vaults” dining quarter, which has become a popular destination for food lovers across the region.

Just a short walk away is Bolton Market, one of the North West’s best-known indoor markets, offering fresh produce, artisan foods, crafts, gifts, and local traders.

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Accessibility & Disabled Facilities

Market Place is designed to be fully accessible and welcoming for all visitors. The centre offers:

• Disabled parking spaces close to entrances

• Fully accessible toilets on every floor

• Baby changing facilities

• Free wheelchair hire

• A dedicated Changing Places facility

• Sensory rooms and sensory gardens for visitors with additional needs

These facilities make the venue highly suitable for families, disabled visitors, and those requiring extra accessibility support.

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Parking Information

The centre benefits from over 500 secure parking spaces with direct access into the shopping complex. Parking is affordable and convenient for shoppers and event visitors alike.

Parking Prices

• Up to 2 hours – £1.50

• Up to 3 hours – £2.50

• Up to 4 hours – £3.50

• Free parking after 6pm

Sat Nav Postcode: BL1 2AL
Car park entrances are located via St George’s Road and Bridge Street.

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How to Get There

By Car

Market Place is easily accessible via the M61 motorway and A666, with clear town centre signage directing visitors straight to the shopping centre.

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By Train & Bus

Bolton Bus and Rail Interchange is approximately a 10-minute walk away, with regular services connecting Bolton to Manchester, Wigan, Preston, Blackburn, and surrounding areas. Local bus stops are also situated directly outside the centre.

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