Final preparations are underway for the reopening of Carlisle Market Hall this weekend.
Work has been ongoing on a major transformation of the hall into a food court and community hub.
Carlisle Market Hall will officially reopen to the public tomorrow, Saturday November 22.
The extensive project, led by Bearmont Group in partnership with Cubby Construction and Knightsbridge House Interiors, and supported by Cumberland Council, has focused on modernising facilities while celebrating the building’s Victorian heritage, the group said.
The upgrades deliver a flexible, open-plan layout across 5,000sq ft of space, enhanced communal seating areas, improved lighting, and completely refurbished public toilets. The refreshed interior has been designed to welcome visitors of all ages, creating a truly modern city centre destination.
The new food court will feature a mix of existing and new local food and drink vendors.
It aims to become a central hub for residents, shoppers, and visitors looking to meet and eat in the city centre.
Rob Lloyd, CEO of Bearmont Group, said: “We’re thrilled to be reopening Carlisle Market Hall, complete with its new food court and vastly upgraded facilities.
“This extensive refurbishment has been designed to significantly enhance the experience for visitors, traders, and the wider community, all while ensuring we preserve the heritage of this iconic space.
“Projects like this only succeed through strong partnerships, and we are proud to have worked closely with Cumberland Council, Cubby Construction, Knightsbridge House Interiors, and our dedicated suppliers to bring this vision together.
“We fully acknowledge the disruption this essential work has caused for our valued stallholders and the public, particularly with the temporary closure of the public toilets.
“The work was major and carried out with public safety as our overriding priority.
“However, by working closely with our partners, we were incredibly proud to have managed to keep the market open throughout.
“To guarantee the highest quality outcome, Bearmont Group also committed an additional £120,000 investment to complete the food hall work.
“The final result is a major transformation – a modern, flexible space that will benefit the Market Hall and the city for years to come.”
The official reopening weekend will include community-focused celebrations with food, music, and family-friendly activities.
Cubby Construction will sponsor the opening festivities, presenting a cheque to Sense Charity as part of the event.
Bearmont Group has also donated a large Christmas tree, a free-standing Father Christmas, and £10,000-worth of festive decorations.
