The Old Market Hereford is one of the most striking examples in the UK of how a historic market site can be reimagined for the 21st century. Located in the heart of Hereford city centre, this open-air shopping and leisure complex sits on the very ground that once housed the city’s livestock market for more than 150 years.
Today, Old Market blends modern retail, dining, and entertainment with a strong connection to the town’s agricultural heritage. Opened in 2014, it has become a focal point for both locals and visitors, offering a mix of well-known brands, independent shops, restaurants, and a state-of-the-art cinema — all within walking distance of Hereford Cathedral and the River Wye.
The origins: from market town to retail destination
Hereford’s agricultural legacy
For centuries, Hereford was known as a major market town, serving as a trading hub for farmers from across Herefordshire and neighbouring counties. The area now known as Old Market was historically occupied by the Hereford Livestock Market, which opened in the mid-19th century.
The market was one of the busiest in the West Midlands, famous for cattle and sheep trading. Every week, the site buzzed with activity — wagons, farmers, traders, and the distinctive sounds of rural commerce. The market was not just a place of trade; it was a social meeting point, a space that connected urban life with the surrounding countryside.
However, as agricultural practices modernised and new transport infrastructure developed, the livestock market began to decline. By the early 21st century, the site was ready for transformation.
The redevelopment project
The redevelopment of the Old Market site began as part of a wider urban renewal initiative aimed at revitalising Hereford’s city centre. The livestock market was officially relocated to a new purpose-built facility outside the city, freeing up prime real estate for a new project.
Developers Stanhope PLC, in partnership with Herefordshire Council, led the ambitious plan to transform the space into a mixed-use retail and leisure destination. After years of planning and consultation, construction began in 2012, and the Old Market Hereford officially opened in April 2014.
Architecture and design
A blend of heritage and modern vision
The design of Old Market Hereford pays homage to the site’s agricultural roots while embracing a contemporary urban aesthetic. The development covers approximately 310,000 square feet, featuring pedestrianised streets, open squares, and modern architecture that echoes the scale and layout of traditional market towns.
Architects and planners sought to retain a sense of openness, with wide walkways, public seating, and landscaping that make the space feel inviting and accessible. The materials used — including natural stone, timber, and brick — reflect Hereford’s rural character and blend harmoniously with the city’s historic architecture.
The design also incorporates sustainability features, including energy-efficient lighting and eco-conscious construction materials, reinforcing the city’s commitment to modern environmental standards.
The Old Market experience today
Shopping, dining, and entertainment
Since its reopening, Old Market Hereford has quickly become the city’s premier shopping and leisure destination. It houses a variety of national and international retailers, including fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands, alongside smaller local businesses that give the site its unique identity.
Beyond shopping, Old Market offers a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, and bars, ranging from popular chains to independent eateries. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating areas creates a lively, continental-style atmosphere — particularly in the warmer months, when the square fills with people enjoying food and drinks in the open air.
One of the key attractions is the ODEON Luxe cinema, a modern multi-screen venue offering luxury seating and the latest releases. The presence of this entertainment hub has helped make Old Market not just a shopping district but a social and cultural centre for Hereford.
Events and community life
Old Market is more than a retail space; it regularly hosts community events, pop-up markets, and seasonal celebrations. During the holidays, visitors can enjoy Christmas lights, artisan markets, and outdoor performances. In summer, the site often features live music and family-friendly activities that attract both locals and tourists.
This focus on community engagement reflects Hereford’s traditional market-town spirit, ensuring that the new Old Market remains a meeting place in the truest sense — a continuation of the social role once played by its predecessor.
Accessibility and location
Getting to Old Market Hereford
The Old Market is located just off Newmarket Street, within a short walk of the city centre and Hereford Cathedral. Its location makes it easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport. The development includes ample parking spaces, bicycle facilities, and excellent links to local bus routes.
For visitors arriving by train, Hereford Railway Station is less than ten minutes away on foot. The central location also means that visitors can easily combine a trip to Old Market with other nearby attractions, such as the Mappa Mundi exhibition, The Black and White House Museum, or a walk along the scenic River Wye.
The future of Old Market
A sustainable vision for Hereford’s growth
The success of Old Market Hereford has played a key role in revitalising the city’s economy, attracting visitors and encouraging investment in the wider area. The development has also helped reposition Hereford as a modern, forward-looking city that embraces innovation while respecting its history.
Looking ahead, there are ongoing plans to expand and diversify the site’s offerings, with more independent shops, cultural events, and green initiatives designed to keep the space dynamic and community-oriented.
In this sense, Old Market Hereford serves as a model for other towns seeking to balance heritage preservation and urban regeneration. It proves that even the most traditional market grounds can be reborn — not by erasing the past, but by building upon it.
A modern market with ancient roots
Old Market Hereford stands today as a symbol of transformation. Where once livestock and traders gathered, now stand bustling cafés, modern shops, and cultural events that reflect the evolving spirit of Hereford itself.
By blending commerce, leisure, and heritage, the site has succeeded in creating something rare — a place that feels both new and familiar, urban yet steeped in rural memory. Whether you come to shop, dine, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, Old Market Hereford offers a vivid example of how history can thrive in a contemporary world.