Pannier Market, South Molton facts for kids
The South Molton Pannier Market is a special covered market in the town of South Molton, located in Devon, England. It sits right behind the town's historic Guildhall. The Guildhall is a very old and important building, built between 1739 and 1741. It's so important that it's called a Grade I listed building, meaning it has special historical value.
South Molton Pannier Market
A "Pannier Market" gets its name from the large baskets, called panniers, that traders used to carry their goods. These markets are often covered spaces where many different sellers can set up their stalls.
A Look Back: How the Market Started
Long ago, people in South Molton sold their goods in an older building called the Old Market House. Before that, there were even smaller shops and butcher stalls around the main Market Square.
In 1860, the South Molton Town Council decided to build a new, covered market. The Town Council is a group of local people chosen to help run the town. They wanted a better space for all the sellers. They bought some land next to the Guildhall.
The first stone for the new market was laid in 1863. Above the market, a large room with a beautiful arched ceiling was built. This room was called the Assembly Room. The new Pannier Market officially opened in February 1864. The Mayor of South Molton, who is the leader of the Town Council, opened it.
What You Can Find at the Market Today
The South Molton Pannier Market is still a busy place today! It opens every Thursday and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM. About 70 local businesses set up their stalls here.
You can find many different things, especially fresh, local food. This includes:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Freshly baked bread
- Fish and meat
- Eggs and pasties (a type of savory pastry)
Besides food, you can also buy:
- Flowers and plants
- Clothes and jewelry
- Antiques (old and valuable items)
- Handmade crafts
On Sundays, the market sometimes hosts special events. These can include "Salvage Fairs" where people sell rescued or recycled items, and "Flea Markets" which are like big garage sales with many different sellers.
