Explore the history of Loughborough Market in new exhibition

A new exhibition charting the 800-year history of the market is now on display at Charnwood Museum.

The Market 800 exhibition has been created by Leicestershire County Council’s Communities and Wellbeing Team, working with Loughborough Library Local Studies Volunteer Group, Charnwood Borough Council and market traders.

The colourful panels in the display chart the history of the town’s market from the first Royal Market Charter of 1221, which also permitted an annual fair in the town, through to the developments and expansions in the 20th and 21st centuries along with memories and expressions of what Loughborough’s markets mean to people today.

Councillor Christine Radford, Cabinet member for heritage, leisure and arts, said: “Historic market towns such as Loughborough are such rich sources to draw upon to tell the history of Leicestershire.

“This wonderful exhibition is the result of an excellent collaboration and shows the importance of Loughborough’s Markets, not just to history, but to our communities and all the many people who buy and trade at them throughout the year."

Councillor Jenny Bokor, Charnwood Borough Council’s lead member for Loughborough said “We are incredibly proud of Loughborough Market and this fantastic exhibition explores it’s rich history and the many fond memories of local people and market traders.

“I would encourage residents to visit Charnwood Museum to have a look at the wonderful exhibition and learn more about the Market’s history over the last eight centuries.”

The exhibition can be seen in Charnwood Museum, from 10am to 4pm from Tuesday to Saturday and 10am – 1pm on Sunday. Admission is free.