Coach
Parties
If you are interested in visiting the market, either for a day trip or a short
break, we can offer you a package of benefits designed to make your visit more
convenient. As well as dropping off and picking up places, opposite the market,
we can also offer the operator free parking on the nearby main bus station concourse.
For the driver we can also provide |
p
a free meal voucher. With public toilets, the Post office
and plenty of places to eat, the market is an ideal location for that short break
to stretch and exercise those aching legs. We can provide street plans, leaflets
and details of other attractions within the town.
So if you are planning a visit, contact the Market Office on 01772
906048, Fax 01772 906069 or e-mail markets@preston.gov.uk
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Harris
Museum and Art Gallery
A day out at Preston Market is not complete without a visit
to the nationally acclaimed Harris Museum and art gallery, which is less than
5 minutes walk from the market. Built in 1893 it looks over the ancient Market
Square known locally as the Flag market. The grade 1 listed building was designed
by Preston architect James Hibbert. The magnificent Greek revival building now
houses collections of historical and contemporary fine art, decorative art and
social history artifacts. It offers a vibrant programme of free exhibitions, accompanied
by events and activities for all the family. The "Story of Preston" gallery within
the museum tells the history of the town from prehistoric days to the present.
For further information contact 01772 258248
or 01772 257112. |
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Disabled
Access
Excellent parking facilities are provided for disabled drivers,
with the market surrounded by parking bays, designated for disabled customers
between the hours of 10.30 am and 3.30 p.m. In addition disabled toilets |
p
facilities
are provided adjacent to the Market Hall. All areas of the market are designed
to provide good access for wheelchairs etc. We have ramps, lifts and a special
wheelchair access lift available on level three of the adjacent multi storey car
park.
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History
Markets can be traced far back into history, in fact they
are mentioned as being quite common in both the Old and New Testaments of the
Bible. Whilst Preston Market does not go as far back as that, records show that
the original Charter for the Market was granted in 1179 by King Henry II. This
was followed by 12 more, up to the reign of Charles II in 1685. In 1199 the original
Charter of Henry II was confirmed by King John, who also gave the town the right
to hold a Fair for a week on August 15th each year. He also gave permission to
hold three "Pot Fairs" which were originally held on the site of what is now the
Town Hall. The only remaining Pot Fair now, is the August event. The charters
granted, which as well as giving the right to hold Markets, fairs and charge tolls
also protect the Council against rival markets being set up within a distance
6 2/3rd miles of Preston markets.
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Although
the sale of goods and animals took place on various sites in the town centre,
the market square or Flagged Market as it is known locally, is considered to be
the original site of the early markets. In fact, the ring used for Bull Baiting/Bear
Baiting can still be seen at one of the corners. In October 1972 trading ceased
on the flagged market when the purpose built indoor Market Hall was opened adjacent
to the outdoor market. The present outdoor market structure actually collapsed
during construction on the 6th August 1870. The work was finally completed by
a local firm of boat builders, Messrs. Allsops in 1875. The roof span, unsupported
centrally, is still admired by all that appreciate the difficulties of engineering
in the 19th century. The smaller market, known as the Fish Market was roofed in
1924. |
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Trade
Publications
There are currently two publications available for sourcing information in relation
to Market trading. The weekly publication MT (Market Trader) priced at 50p available
from main newsagents. Tel: 0161 683 8000
Or the monthly Market Trade News, which is a free publication with copies available
in the Market Office. Contact 01775 711777
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National
Market Traders Federation
For expert advice on market issues, be it Insurance or Legal advice contact the
Federation on 01226 749021 or visit the website: www.nmtf.co.uk
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