Time travel

Hong Kong Central Market

The historic Central Market was one of the first wet markets to open on Hong Kong Island after the occupation in 1841.

The influx of Chinese artisans and food traders called for a base to buy day-to-day items. And it quickly became a bustling meeting place, selling everything from meat, noodles and sauces to household odds and ends.

In the 1850s, after rapid population growth, the second generation Central Market was established, followed by a third, completed in 1895.

The fourth incarnation of the market, dating back to 1939, is a four-storey building, highly regarded at the time for its avant-garde and functional style. It’s since been upheld as a notable example of classic Hong Kong Bauhaus architecture.

Despite being part of local street life for many generations it closed in 2003 and was left unused and abandoned.

The government attempted to sell the building for commercial development back in 2009, but after public backlash, it was handed over to the Urban Renewal Authority for conservation and revitalisation. After four years of renovation works, Central Market has reopened its doors with a fresh new look.

Dubbed as a “Playground for All” visitors will now find family-run eateries, artisan cafes, high-end grocery stories, speciality restaurants and event spaces. centralmarket.hk

A reminder of

Hull’s maritime heritage will be fully revealed back in its

coveted position on the city’s skyline for a centenary celebration. Its restored Guild hall Greenwich Time Ball

will be in working order by spring, marking 100 years since the ball last dropped. It’s part of the Hull: Yorkshire’s Maritime City project. maritimehull.

co.uk