Town Council Announces Return of Hailsham Street Market to Vicarage Field

The Town Council has confirmed that Hailsham Street Market will return to Vicarage Field in the town centre from July 2026, following a trial period at Blackman’s Yard last autumn and earlier this year.

The market trial at Blackman’s Yard was generally well-received, with traders and visitors praising the initiative and the opportunity to explore a new setting. However, after careful review and consideration of feedback from stallholders, shoppers and local residents, the Council determined that Vicarage Field provides higher footfall, greater visibility and a more central location, enabling the market to achieve maximum impact for both the community and participating businesses.

Tony Lee, Operations and Facilities Manager at Hailsham Town Council, said: “The trials at Blackman’s Yard were worthwhile and gave us valuable insight into the logistics and experience of holding the market in a different location. Many people enjoyed the events, but overall it became clear that the market thrives best in the heart of the town centre, where it can attract the largest number of visitors and support our local traders effectively.”

Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, who sits on the Council’s Communities Committee, added: “We listened carefully to feedback from both the public and traders. While the Blackman’s Yard trials were considered fairly successful, many agreed that the market’s impact and vibrancy are stronger when it is in Vicarage Field. Bringing it back to the town centre allows more people to enjoy the market and encourages residents and visitors to spend time in Hailsham’s heart.”

The market will now take place from 9.30am to 1.30pm on the last Friday of each month, running from March through to September. The Council anticipates that this schedule will give residents a regular opportunity to browse local produce, artisan goods, crafts, and a variety of independent businesses, while also enhancing the town’s community atmosphere.

The Council is inviting stallholders and local businesses to participate in the first Vicarage Field market of the season, scheduled for Friday 31st July. The move is intended to support local traders by maximising exposure to shoppers and visitors, and to provide a lively, family-friendly event for the wider community.

Cllr Ricketts added: “We encourage all interested stallholders to get involved. It’s a great opportunity to showcase your products to the community, connect with customers, and be part of a long-standing Hailsham tradition. We’re confident that moving the market back to Vicarage Field will enhance the overall experience for everyone.”

Hailsham Town Council remains committed to listening to feedback and continuously improving town centre events to ensure they provide maximum benefit for residents, traders and visitors alike.

For further information or to book a pitch (£10 fee), please contact the Town Council on 01323 841702 or email markets@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.