History
Take a look back at the history of Quiggins in Liverpool
1 year ago
Strap on your Doc Martens, don your vintage band tees, and let’s embark on a retro-fabulous voyage down memory lane.
Let’s take a look back at the vibrant, kaleidoscopic world of Quiggins – a legendary indoor market that was the beating heart of alternative culture in our beloved city.
Picture this – it’s the 90s, Britpop is on the radio, and the air is buzzing with the energy of counterculture.
Quiggins, housed within the historic 1866 Palatine Building, was the place where the cool kids congregated to find their own unique style. Imagine a labyrinth of independent stalls, each one a treasure trove of goodies.
Stepping through the doors you were greeted by an explosion of colours, sounds, and aromas. Remember those funky neon lights that adorned every corner, casting an otherworldly glow on everything they touched?
The scent of incense swirling in the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of worn leather jackets and vintage records.
Quiggins was more than just a market; it was a cultural melting pot, a hub of creative expression, and a sanctuary for those who dared to stand out. From goths to punks, ravers to rockers – every subculture found a welcoming home here.
And oh, the fashion! Where else could you find an endless array of platform shoes, PVC skirts, and flannel shirts in a single, gloriously eclectic space?
It was a symphony of individuality, each stall holder added their own unique note to the mix. And who could ignore the indie bands that would sometimes set up impromptu gigs at the Brook Cafe!
Sadly Quiggins was not to make it in the city for the long run. The market faced challenges, and eventually closed its doors in 2006.
The spirit of Quiggins lived on for a while in Grand Central Hall on Renshaw Street, under the banner “Quiggins at Grand Central”, retaining the alternative store/indoor market ethos. Sadly though, this building’s operations as Quiggins had ceased by 2018.
Whether you were a regular visitor or simply heard the tales whispered through the years, Quiggins will forever remain a beacon of alternative charm in the heart of our city.