Celebrate the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of the south coast at the monthly Carlton Place Independent Market, transforming one of Southampton’s favorite pedestrianised streets into a bustling artisanal hub. Taking place on the third Sunday of each month from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, this curated open-air street market brings together the region’s finest independent makers, creative businesses, and local food producers. It is the perfect weekend destination to stroll, socialise, and discover high-quality custom goods.
Event Schedule and Timings
The market transforms Carlton Place into an open-air shopping haven for five hours every month. Note the operating times and upcoming calendar dates for the 2026 season:
- Market Hours: 11:00 AM to 16:00 (4:00 PM) on the third Sunday of each month.
- Sunday 21 June 2026: Midsummer Market celebration.
- Sunday 19 July 2026: Mid-summer artisanal showcase.
- Sunday 16 August 2026: Late summer community fair.
- Sunday 20 September 2026: Autumnal harvest market launch.
Market Highlights and Visitor Features
The market is carefully curated to showcase the very best independent talent, makers, and producers from Southampton and across Hampshire:
- Independent Craft Makers: Discover high-quality, handmade goods ranging from custom jewelry and organic skincare to home fragrance products, zero-waste items, and fashion accessories.
- Original Fine Art & Illustrations: Meet local artists and illustrators selling physical prints, custom stationery, pottery, and canvas pieces directly from their stands.
- Artisan Food & Drinks: Treat your tastebuds to regional honey, small-batch hot sauces, artisan cheeses, fresh sourdough breads, pastries, and custom-packaged gift liquors.
- Pedestrianised Shopping Experience: Because Carlton Place is entirely pedestrianised, you can browse safely at a relaxed pace without dealing with passing city traffic.
Food, Drinks, and Al Fresco Dining
Beyond the market stalls, the location serves as one of Southampton’s premier outdoor dining hotspots, making it highly convenient to combine shopping with a meal:
- Street Side Cafes & Restaurants: The permanent businesses along Carlton Place and Lower Bannister Street feature outdoor al fresco seating, serving specialty coffees, brunch menus, pizzas, and global cuisine.
- Craft Beer & Cocktail Spots: Enjoy a refreshing pint or cocktail from the street’s independent bars to round off your Sunday social.
Admission and Entry Rules
The street market is built entirely on community accessibility:
- Completely Free Entry: There are no entry fees, passes, or online ticketing requirements for the public. Just wander in and start exploring.
- Dog Friendly: The outdoor, traffic-free nature of the street makes it an excellent, welcoming environment for well-behaved dogs on leads.
How to get to Carlton Place
The market takes place right in the heart of Southampton’s popular Bedford Place district at Carlton Place, Southampton, SO15 2DY.
- By Train: The venue is roughly a 10-to-15-minute walk from Southampton Central Railway Station. Head north through the central parks or past the Civic Centre toward the Bedford Place cultural quarter.
- By Bus: Major bus routes (including Bluestar, First Bus, and Unilink networks) stop right nearby on London Road, Above Bar Street, or the Civic Centre, leaving you with a short 2-minute walk to the market street.
- By Foot: Carlton Place cuts directly between Bedford Place and Southampton’s main London Road shopping stretch.
Where to Park
While the market street itself is fully pedestrianised, parking is highly convenient with several council-operated lots right around the perimeter:
- Directly Adjacent Car Parks: Pay-and-display parking is available just seconds away at the Bedford Place multi-storey car park or the open-air Grosvenor Square car park.
- On-Street Parking: Sunday parking rates or time-limited parking spaces may be available along Bedford Place, Canton Street, and Henstead Road (always check local ticket machine signs for current restrictions).
Extend Your Summer Music Weekend
Looking to make a full weekend of your city visit? Check out our comprehensive visitor guide for McFly Southampton 2026 to find stage times, travel info, and ticket details for the massive stadium show.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to book entry tickets for the Carlton Place Market?
- No, the market is completely free and open to the public. You do not need an entry ticket or an advance booking; you can simply walk in and start exploring anytime between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
- How often does the market take place?
- The Carlton Place Independent Market is held on the third Sunday of every month, offering a reliable monthly showcase of regional makers throughout the spring, summer, and autumn seasons.
- Are dogs welcome at the market stalls?
- Yes, absolutely! Because Carlton Place is completely pedestrianised and closed to vehicle traffic on market days, it provides a safe and highly welcoming environment for well-behaved dogs on leads.
- Is the street market accessible for wheelchair users and strollers?
- Yes, Carlton Place features level pavements and wide pedestrian walkways, making it fully accessible for pushchairs, mobility scooters, and wheelchair users.
- Can I get hot food and refreshments at the event?
- Yes, in addition to the artisan food stalls selling take-home treats, Carlton Place is lined with independent cafes, bars, and restaurants featuring extensive al fresco seating areas for outdoor dining and drinks.
