Successful Return for Hailsham Street Market at Vicarage Field

The Town Council is celebrating the successful return of Hailsham Street Market to its long-standing home in Vicarage Field, following a busy and well-supported event held last Friday [31 July].

The first market in its restored town centre location attracted a steady flow of shoppers, residents and visitors throughout the morning, with traders reporting strong interest as the popular community event began a new chapter in the heart of Hailsham.

Returning to its traditional home after a successful programme of trial markets at Blackman’s Yard, the market once again showcased a wide range of local businesses, artisan producers, makers and independent retailers, offering everything from artisan food and freshly baked goods to flowers, jewellery, clothing, gifts, crafts and homeware.

Following feedback from traders, visitors and residents, the Town Council took the decision to relocate the market back to Vicarage Field, where it will now be held on the last Friday of each month during the market season (March to September), helping to establish a regular shopping event in the town centre.

Tony Lee, Operations and Facilities Manager at Hailsham Town Council, said: “We’re delighted with the success of the market’s return to Vicarage Field. It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the event and supporting our local traders, creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the morning.”

“The feedback we’ve received from both visitors and stallholders has been extremely positive. Markets like this play an important role in supporting independent businesses, encouraging people to spend time in the town centre and showcasing the wealth of local talent and enterprise we have here in Hailsham.”

Councillor Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Town Council’s Communities Committee, said: “It was wonderful to see Vicarage Field bustling once again with shoppers and traders. Bringing the Street Market back to its traditional location has clearly been welcomed by the community, and the success of the first event demonstrates just how important it is to have a thriving market at the heart of our town.”

“We’re particularly pleased that all available pitches for this season are fully booked. The enthusiasm shown by both traders and visitors gives us every confidence that the market will continue to grow and become an even stronger attraction for Hailsham in the years ahead.”

The Town Council hopes the market will continue to attract visitors into the town centre, complement existing High Street businesses and provide a valuable platform for local entrepreneurs and small businesses.

The next Hailsham Street Market will take place on the last Friday of August, with the final market of the 2026 season taking place on the last Friday of September. Only a few available pitches remain for the current season, and traders interested in taking part are encouraged to register their interest as early as possible due to increasing demand.

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.