In 2026, Ringwood will mark 800 years since it was granted its Royal Market Charter in 1226.
As an historic market town, the market has long been at the heart of Ringwood’s identity — but many residents are unaware of its rich past.
This anniversary offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with our heritage and create a lasting celebration that reflects our town’s story.
To celebrate this milestone, a community celebration event took place on Sunday 12 July in Ringwood Market Place,
offering residents and visitors the chance to reflect on the town’s rich history as a market town and its continuing role at the heart of the community.
To view the official event programme click here
History of the Market
The original grant to hold a market on Wednesdays was made in March 1226 in the reign of Henry III.
It should have been confirmed when he reached his majority, but was not until 15 May 1553 in the reign of Edward VI.
This gave the right to hold two fairs a year on 30 November and 29 June. With the change of the calendar in 1752 these were altered to 11 December and 10 July.
The fairs were held until just prior to the Second World War and the weekly market has been held continuously since 1226.
A livestock market ran as part of the Wednesday market and many may remember the cattle market in the Furlong that ran until 1988.
To celebrate this historic anniversary, a special community celebration took place on Sunday 12 July in Ringwood Market Place.
The day began with a church service in the Market Place from 10.30am to 11.30am, followed by the official event hosted by Ringwood Town Council from 11.30am onwards. Celebrations continued throughout the afternoon and evening until 7.30pm, followed by a funfair on Bickerley Green.
The event offered a full day of family friendly entertainment and traditional festivities. Visitors enjoyed spectacular performances and a variety of live stage entertainment throughout the day, including the headline act Farm Yard Circus - a warm and cheery, family-friendly, farm-life inspired spectacle, Farm Yard Circus is a bewildering display of group acrobatics and juggling using hay bales, wheelbarrows, a tractor tyre, and even an old scarecrow!
Additional attractions included Morris dancers, traditional village games organised by local Girl Guides and Scouts groups, interactive market stalls such as woodwork and beekeeping, and a BBQ provided by Ringwood Round Table. A bar was provided by Ringwood Carnival.
Ringwood Town Council recognises the importance of celebrating the town’s rich heritage and worked closely with local community groups, stall holders and businesses to ensure the event reflects the spirit and history of this significant occasion.
For more information please contact Ringwood Town Council - events@ringwood.gov.uk
You can view the Event Facebook page here
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Ringwood marked the 800th anniversary of its Royal Market Charter with a vibrant community celebration on Sunday 12 July. The event honoured the town’s heritage and the people who make Ringwood such a special place.
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