Published: Monday, 7 December 2020

Oxford Covered Market will have extended opening hours in the run-up to Christmas.

The aim is to help the market’s independent traders maximise revenue in the crucial trading weeks leading up to Christmas, and enable shoppers to more safely disperse across more hours.

Christmas opening times

The Covered Market is now open from 7am, rather than the usual 8am, Monday to Saturday.

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday (10-12 December) the market will be open until 7pm. If this proves successful, the market will also be open until 7pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday next week (17-19 December).

In the week of Christmas, the opening hours will be:

  • Monday 21 December: 7am to 7pm
  • Tuesday 22 December: 7am to 7pm
  • Wednesday 23 December: 7am to 7pm
  • Thursday 24 December: 7am to 4pm
  • Friday 25 December: Closed

The market normally opens from 8am to 5.30pm between Monday and Saturday, and from 10am to 5pm on Sunday.

Individual traders’ opening times may be different from the market’s opening times. For the most up-to-date information about trader opening times, please visit the Covered Market’s website.

New social distancing stewards

The City Council, which manages the 18th century market, has hired stewards to help people maintain social distancing and help traders manage queues in the market’s narrow avenues.

The stewards, which started last week (4 December), will operate during the busiest days – Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays – in the run-up to Christmas.

There will initially be one steward operating on Fridays and Sundays, and two on Saturdays. However, the number of stewards and the days of their operation could be increased in the coming weeks, if needed.

Further measures to protect the public

The City Council has also reinstated a one-way system through the market to help people maintain social distancing.

Signs have been installed throughout the market to help people navigate the one-way system.

Face coverings continue to be mandatory – for everyone who can wear them – when entering the Covered Market.

Home delivery

For people unable to visit the Covered Market in person, the majority of traders are now offer home delivery for sales either online or via the phone.

For more information about buying online from Covered Market traders this Christmas, visit the Covered Market’s website.

“The Covered Market has a wide range of independent retailers offering everything from chocolates and cheese to soap and sports equipment. It is a one-stop shop for everything you’ll need this Christmas.

“So if you’re looking for the perfect trimmings for your Christmas meal or a unique gift for family and friends, please visit the Covered Market and support Oxford’s independent businesses this Christmas.”

Councillor Mary Clarkson, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Covered Market and Culture

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