When I first to the North West (of England) around 40 years ago the old covered markets (like Stockport, for example) used to be fun. They were a bit scruffy and full of character and characters - and there was a sense of history about them. There was also, at least the possibility, of obtaining a bargain. Now they've been tarted up and they're just dull, dull, dull, dull! They're also full of cheap Chinese tat that's not worth buying.