Celebrating 800 years of Leek markets this Autumn

Published on 4 November 2019

We're celebrating Leek's long and illustrious history as a market town this Autumn with a series of seasonal markets and special events.

King John granted the town its royal market charter on 23 November 1207 - and markets of various forms have thrived in the town ever since. A special day of celebrations will be taking place on Saturday 23 November this year telling the story of markets in Leek and marking over 800 years of history.

Activities planned on the day itself include a special reading of the original medieval Charter at midday by the town crier, a guided walk and talk by historian Cath Walton on the history and heritage of Leek markets and the launch of a new market heritage quiz trail with young trailers receiving a markets explorer sticker for completed trails.

And that's not the only event planned for the busy and exciting build-up to the festive season.

With the markets opening until 9pm for the Christmas Lights switch-on on Friday 15 November and a Christmas twilight market on Friday 6 December, together with the Farmer's Market on 16 November and a Christmas Farmer's Market on 21December, there's plenty of opportunity for seasonal shopping.

And you can pick up those last-minute essentials right up to Christmas Eve as the indoor markets will be open on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 December with extra Sunday opening on 1 and 15 of the month.

Councillor Edwin Wain, Cabinet Member for Planning, Development and Property at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, said: "Leek has a long and illustrious history as a market town and we're proud that through to the present day we still boast a thriving market scene in the town.

"Shopping locally boosts the economy and we're offering people plenty of opportunities to pick up gifts and goodies alongside their groceries during November and December.

"We all know how busy this time of year can be so I hope people will come along and support their local traders and businesses as they enjoy taking part in the seasonal festivities happening in Leek."