Bartering encouraged at Arndale Market

In some parts of the world, it's perfectly normal, and even expected, to barter on goods at the market. Do it in the UK and you might get lucky, or you might end up with a frosty stare and a curt 'Get out of here!'

At the Arndale Market from 27-30 August, hagglers are in no danger of causing offence. It's the official Make Me An Offer Weekend where bartering is positively encouraged.

The British can be a very reticent bunch though, far too polite to start arguing over money in public. So to make it easier, shoppers will be given a Haggle Paddle which they can use to barter for the best price on the non-food stalls.

The food stalls meanwhile will be taking out any need for haggling by offering very low prices from the off. Stalls marked blue mean you're free to barter. Stalls marked red mean look out for bargains.

The Arndale Market was recently named one of the top ten in the UK by The Guardian. It's the place to go for all manner of handy and desirable items – mobile phones, luggage, jewellery, kitchenware, textiles, clothes, cards, gifts. There are also services like key cutting, clothing alterations, nail bars and hair salons. It's modern, urban and a great place for a bargain, even when they're not running a promotion like this.

In the other half of the market, you'll find freshly prepared food from around the world – quesadillas from Mexico, jerk chicken from Jamaica, sushi from Japan and so on. There's also the fabulous fish market, plus exotic fruit and veg from Strawberry Gardens, fine cheeses from Hansfords, and lots more to fill your baskets or your stomach. There's seating in there for 150 diners. You might need a place to relax when you've finished haggling next door.

The Make Me An Offer Weekend runs from Friday 27 - Monday 30 August. For the microsite click here.