Faversham Market – History

History

Completed in 1086, William the Conqueror’s Domesday Book recorded that Faversham was a royal manor, with a market and two salt-houses.  Faversham was one of only 42 places in England where a market was recorded.   It’s not known how long the market in Faversham had been in operation, but it is likely to have been for many years prior to the records being gathered to produce the Domesday Book.

A Charter of Incorporation by Henry VIII in 1546 granted, amongst other items, the privilege of a market three times a week and on half-holidays, and a fair in February and August. This was reaffirmed by a Charter of Re-Incorporation by James II in 1685.

Faversham was also granted certain rights by the monarchy, one of which states that a new market town could not be established within the distance it took to drive a herd of sheep to market in one day, probably in the region of 6 miles. This distance is still law in England today.

When visiting Faversham Market, you’ll be part of an age-old ritual, for Faversham’s Market is the oldest in Kent. It won’t surprise you that the setting perfectly captures centuries of history, with a backdrop of picturesque old medieval, Tudor, Georgian and Victorian buildings, all beautifully kept. Bring a camera, if you can. The Market Place is an excellent place to sit and enjoy a pint of local beer or a coffee. Historic doors open-up to reveal a wealth of original features, with pubs and cafe’s offering visitors a warm and friendly welcome.

Conjure up famous figures from the past as you browse and buy. The scene you see has changed so little it would still be recognised by Shakespeare, who acted here, and Queen Elizabeth I, who visited the town in 1572. Royal visits never come cheap: the Council presented her with a silver cup costing £27.10. (This is the equivalent today of over £4,000. In addition, accommodating the Queen and her ladies in waiting cost another £7,000.)

Other rulers and famous characters who have visited Faversham include King Stephen and Queen Matilda; Henry V,  Henry VIII (on three occasions);  Charles II, James II, and John Wesley who preached here in 1738 (and described the locals as ‘more savage in their behaviour the wildest Indians’).

Faversham had a cattle market between 1864 and 1955, which operated opposite the Recreation Ground and traded on Tuesdays. This is why the Market Inn is sited next to the Recreation Ground and not in the Market Place. There was also a Corn Market trading in the Market Place during the same time.

Moments of Faversham’s history, experienced by Faversham Market

Faversham Market has played an important part of the town’s history for an estimated thousand years.  Hence its popular description as the ‘Market Town of Kings’.  Faversham long history has been marked by the involvement of kings and queens as well as other landmark events and actions, many of which would have had an impact on the town’s market.

For a round-up of key events and visits, take a look at our blog here.  You’ll be surprised by some of the very famous characters who have come to Faversham over the years!