Kingsbridge Fair Week 2019

Kingsbridge Fair Week 20^th – 27^th July

This July, the bustling market town of Kingsbridge will once again be hosting its annual fair week celebrations, now in its 50^th year!

Steeped in history and steered by time-honoured tradition, this longstanding event continues to attract people in their droves to the pretty streets and parks of Kingsbridge.

The fair week programme is once again set to be crammed with activities, anything from bowls on the town square or the undulating 10K road race.

The Fair Week Committee have named this year’s fair queen, princess and royal attendants, all of whom will be star attractions at the crowning ceremony on the opening day of this grand old occasion.

Much of the fun and entertainment will be taking place on the town square, including an exciting musical line up on the bandstand stage. The historic streets will be lined with supporters and well-wishers as they gather to enjoy the floral dance, lantern parade and spectacular firework display lighting up the night sky above Kingsbridge harbour.

The town also looks forward to the return of Rowlands Fun Fair which will provide a whole host of wild rides and amusements throughout the week.

The jam-packed seven days culminates with the carnival procession which never fails to draw in the crowds with its dazzling and imaginative themes and its raucousness and revelry.

 

The 50^th Kingsbridge Fair Week programmes will be on sale at the following locations: Kingsbridge Information Centre, Martin McColl (Fore Street) Martin McColl (The Quay) Co-op (Ilbert Road), Tesco, Ashby’s Easy Stores.

Did You Know?

The origins of Kingsbridge Fair Week go back as far as 1461 when Abbot John Matthew applied for a royal charter to hold an annual fair in the town. In those days, the fair was seen as an important commercial event where livestock was bought and sold, debts were settled, and dues were collected.

Traditionally, the fair falls on St Margaret’s Day; a popular and venerated saint who survived being swallowed by a dragon and who is believed to be one of the fourteen Holy Helpers.

Kingsbridge honours its ancient fair week charter during a glove hanging ceremony (held on the Wednesday evening) which sees a garlanded glove hoisted above the Shambles in Fore Street to signify that the fair is in progress – a symbol of fair trade and clemency.

Discover the waterside town of Kingsbridge in the heart of the South Hams…

The historic market town of Kingsbridge is a thriving coastal community with a busy high street, popular markets, and a pretty promenade. With wonderful views of the tidal estuary, Kingsbridge is a great central base for those looking to explore the surrounding coastline, with the added convenience of local shops, pubs and restaurants.

Toad Hall Cottages has a long list of fabulous holiday properties in and around the picturesque town of Kingsbridge. Whether you’re looking to book a couple’s retreat or a family escape, our expert team can help you find your perfect South Devon setting. Scroll out listings, take a virtual tour or chat to one of our friendly bookings team on the phone and start planning your South West adventure.