History |
This page gives a short history of Leighton Buzzard Market from its early conception to the present day.
Traders have enjoyed plying their wares on a Market at Leighton Buzzard for many years. Indeed there has been a market here or on a site near the present one since approximately 909AD. There are still reminders of those early times today. The present Church of All Saints was built in the 1200's but on a site used by churches from an earlier age.
The market enjoys Charter status which was given to it around the time of The Doomsday Survey of 1086. The market took place on land owned by the Crown and is one of only three markets recorded in the Bedfordshire area at the time of the Survey.
There are many historic sites of interest in the local area. Many dating back to when Leighton Buzzard itself was evolving. The local library will be able to give all the relevant details concerning the historyof Leighton Buzzard with pictures, maps etc.
If you are looking for family sites to visit, there are many places to go once you have visited the market. In Leighton Buzzard there is a reknown model railway within a short distance from the High Street. The Grand Union Canal runs through Leighton Buzzard and often attracts many narrow boats of all shapes and sizes and is a nice walk on a sunny summers day. Whipsnade Zoo is a short drive away as is The Dunstable Downs.
As, throughout the ages, traders have come from far and wide to attend the market. Some travelling in excess of 100miles round journey. Like in its conception, the present traders have formed a bond only these days that bond is in a form of a committee. Like the early days, the market is also a meeting place for the public. Where the cattle market along side the general market used to be the attraction it is now coffee shops and cafes that appeal.
It was with great sadness that the Traders were told of the Passing of long standing trader Bridget Yates on Monday 6 th June 2005. Bridget, along with husband Tony had run the card stall on Tuesdays and Saturdays for many years. To many, she was more than "just another trader", she was a friend. Apart from her own stall, Bridget was also a member of the Traders Committee and played a vital role in keeping traders informed on matters arising when on her rounds collecting the lottery. Without realizing it, she was the link between the North & South, and top & bottom areas of the market. Bridget had a lovely, forthright, "what you see is what you get" manner about her which endeared her to all. She will be sadly missed by all that knew her.The Traders and customers of Leighton Buzzard would like to wish Tony and his family all the best for the future
Church of All Saints