Northampton Market

Northampton's Market Square is one of the oldest and largest in England. It dates from 1235 when Henry III forbade the selling of goods in the churchyard of All Saints and ordered that the Market be moved to a space north of the churchyard, its present site. Markets are held Monday to Saturday. Monday is fresh fruit, vegetables, cut flowers and plants only. Tuesday to Saturday are the general market days. The Market Square is surrounded by many interesting buildings, notably, Welsh House, Beethoven House, and Victoria House. The older buildings date mainly from the 18th and 19th centuries. Before the advent of regular markets, fairs were held in the church and churchyard of All Saints. In 1189 Northampton received its first Market Charter allowing markets and fairs to be held on the ground east of All Saints. This charter allowed tolls to be charged and prohibited the operation of rival local markets. In 2006 Northampton Market changed shape. This was to open up an Events Area for alternative markets, exhibitions, promotions, demonstrations, and entertainment.