From early times markets were important to the townsfolk of Shrewsbury, the first being held in a corner of St. Alkmund's Churchyard. Today, besides the well known chain stores, Shrewsbury houses many small specialist shops ranging from Italian delicatessans to antique interior decorating shops. Handmade soaps, needlework supplies, and stencil shops can be found. Modern shopping centres and a centre of small shops converted from a former hospital are situated adjacent to the town centre. Markets are held inside the Market Hall on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Therein are a number of plant stalls; the number growing around the time of the annual Shrewsbury Flower Show held in August.. Local produce from the WI is also available - try the scones and home-made cakes and lemon cheese. A Farmers Market is held on the last Tuesday of the month (tel.01743 462807 for details).
