On a drizzly Monday afternoon during the Easter holidays, I found myself wandering alone through the Weston Indoor Market in Weston-super-Mare. At first glance, the market looked deserted. Only two stalls were open—one offering a collection of watches, the other brimming with vintage records and music memorabilia. Many units stood empty, stripped of signs and stock, while others like a café and hairdresser remained closed. One stall had its wares laid out, yet no vendor was in sight.
The atmosphere felt desolate, with harsh fluorescent lighting and caution tape marking off sections, giving the impression of an unfinished space. I couldn’t help but connect it with the broader signs of economic struggle familiar in the area: a series of shuttered shops along South Parade and a beloved chippy shuttered after two decades.
However, my initial assumptions were challenged after meeting Ronnie Searl, 68, the charismatic owner of the record stall. Ronnie is a man of many tales—having met Amy Winehouse, sold a camera to the elusive Banksy, and received a jumper from Harry Styles now proudly displayed in his shop. Despite his worldly travels, his heart remains with Weston.
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“Weston has the most beautiful sunset in the world, did you know that?” Ronnie shared warmly as we stood outside the market. Locals stopped by to greet him, clearly recognizing his local celebrity status.
Far from viewing the market as struggling, Ronnie described it as thriving. The café and hairdresser simply had an off day, and more importantly, Weston Indoor Market serves as a launching pad for emerging businesses. It’s a place designed for change and evolution rather than permanence. Visiting next year might offer an entirely new experience as new vendors arrive and fresh energy pulses through the space.
In fact, as we spoke, potential new stallholders were making inquiries. Ronnie’s optimism painted the market not as a victim of decay but as a dynamic, ever-changing community hub.
Despite his gentle skepticism towards mainstream media, Ronnie offered a gracious and insightful perspective, reminding me that first impressions don’t always tell the whole story. The market’s sign at the exit—“You are most welcome, call again soon”—felt like an invitation to witness its ongoing transformation.
Weston Indoor Market remains open daily, from 9am to 5pm Monday through Saturday, and from 11am to 4pm on Sundays. Next time you find yourself in Weston-super-Mare, it might just be worth a second look.