Covered Market

The Covered Market is a market hall in central Oxford housing over 50 independent shops, cafes, and food stalls within a large Victorian indoor structure with multiple entrances. The building features covered walkways that protect shoppers from weather while displaying a mix of food vendors, clothing shops, and specialty retailers side by side.

This market opened on November 1, 1774, designed by architect John Gwynn to organize street vendors who had previously crowded Oxford's main streets. The planned solution helped the town consolidate its trading activity into a single covered space.

Local butchers continue making Oxford sausages following traditional recipes that have been part of the town's food culture for generations. The market remains a place where people from the area gather to shop for everyday goods and specialty items.

The market has entries from High Street, Cornmarket, and Market Street, so you can access it from several directions. Since it is located in the old town center, arriving on foot works best and allows you to explore nearby attractions.

The building underwent major restoration in the early 2010s that added new facilities and improved its exterior while keeping the historic character intact. This work modernized the space for today's visitors without losing its original Victorian appeal.