Meppel's market days

Meppel's market days are the weekly street market of this Drenthe town, a regular event that draws residents from the surrounding villages and gives visitors an easy way into local life. The market is held on Thursday mornings on the Kerkplein, the church square in the middle of the old centre, and it follows the long Dutch tradition of fresh food markets that turn a public square into a temporary shopping street. Check the schedule before visiting, as holidays and special events can change the arrangement.

A typical Dutch weekly market combines a few reliable types of stall. Fruit and vegetable sellers take up much of the space, and there are usually stands for cheese, fish, bread and pastries, flowers and plants, and household goods. Some stalls offer regional specialities, such as cheeses, smoked fish and sweet treats like stroopwafels, which are best eaten fresh and warm. Prices are posted openly, vendors call out their offers, and it is normal to taste before you buy. Cash and card payment are both common, but small stalls sometimes prefer cash.

The setting adds to the experience. Meppel is a town on the water, with canals running through the centre, and the market is a short walk from the Grachten van Meppel and from the Meppeler Toren, one of the town's landmarks. Meppel is also home to the Drukkerijmuseum, a museum about printing, and to Bad Hesselingen, the town's swimming and recreation area. Together with the market they make a good half-day, and the compact centre is easily explored on foot or by bicycle.

Meppel sits in the northwest of Drenthe, close to the Overijssel border and the famous water village of Giethoorn, and it has good rail links with Zwolle and Groningen. This makes the market a convenient stop for travellers moving through the region, and an easy day trip from Zwolle.

The market suits food lovers, photographers, families and anyone interested in everyday culture. It is at its liveliest in the early part of the morning and winds down around midday, so arriving early gives the best choice. Bring a shopping bag, as plastic is discouraged, and a little patience in busy periods. Afterwards you can sit down on a terrace nearby for coffee and a slice of local cake before exploring the canals.