Hailsham Street Market Builds Momentum with Second Event at Vicarage Field

Hailsham Town Council is pleased to report another successful Hailsham Street Market following its return to Vicarage Field, with the second market in its new town-centre location taking place recently [28 August].

The latest event, despite some heavy rain showers, attracted a steady stream of shoppers, residents and visitors throughout the morning, with a lively atmosphere across Vicarage Field and encouraging feedback from both traders and the public.

The market’s return to its traditional home has brought a diverse selection of local businesses, independent traders, artisan producers and makers back into the heart of the town. Visitors were able to browse a varied range of products, including locally produced food, freshly baked goods, flowers, jewellery, clothing, gifts, handmade crafts and homeware.

The move back to Vicarage Field followed feedback from traders, residents and visitors, and the Town Council has now established the market as a regular monthly event during the market season. Hailsham Street Market will take place on the last Friday of each month from March to September, providing a consistent opportunity for people to shop locally and discover new independent businesses.

Tony Lee, Operations and Facilities Manager at Hailsham Town Council, said: “The return of Hailsham Street Market to Vicarage Field has got off to a fantastic start. The second market was another encouraging event, with a great mix of traders and a steady flow of people coming into the town centre to enjoy the market. It’s particularly pleasing to see the positive response from both stallholders and visitors.

“Markets like this are an important part of a thriving town centre. They give small and independent businesses an opportunity to connect directly with customers, while offering residents and visitors something different to enjoy. We look forward to continuing to build on this momentum and making the market an established part of Hailsham’s monthly calendar.”

Councillor Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Town Council’s Communities Committee, said: “It has been fantastic to see Vicarage Field brought to life again by the return of the Street Market. The response from the community has been very positive, and the first two markets have demonstrated the value of having a regular market in such a central and accessible location.

“We are also delighted by the level of interest from traders, with almost all available pitches for this season now booked. This demonstrates the confidence businesses have in the market and its potential to become a well-established attraction for the town. We hope its continued success will benefit traders, shoppers and the wider Hailsham community.”

The Town Council hopes that Hailsham Street Market will continue to encourage people to visit the town centre, complement existing High Street businesses and provide a valuable platform for local entrepreneurs, independent retailers and small businesses.

The next Hailsham Street Market will take place on Friday 25 September, marking the final market of the 2026 season. With only a small number of pitches remaining, traders interested in taking part are encouraged to register their interest as soon as possible.

For further information about Hailsham Street Market, or to enquire about future stall availability, contact Hailsham Town Council on 01323 841702 or email markets@hailsham-tc.gov.uk.