From then to now—Wrexham’s markets have always played a central role in the local community and economy.
Discover more about Wrexham's markets.
1330
According to an article from the Wrexham Leader in 1960—the earliest markets recorded were held in the Churchyard on Sundays. When the Parish Church's tower was destroyed, the local townsfolk saw it as a sign of God's anger and. in repentance, moved market day to a Thursday in a new location.
1463
The earliest record of the Beast Market in Wrexham, was included in a deed that dates back to the third year of Edward IV’s reign, where it was referred to as the Mercatus Averriorum, which means the Bird Market in Latin.
1620
By the time John Norden, a surveyor commissioned by Charles Prince of Wales to survey all of the prince’s property, completed the survey, the market was already referred to as the Forum Bestiale — the Beast Market.
1848
Wrexham’s first indoor market, the Butchers' Market, opens in March 1848.
1879
The Butter Market, opens its doors in 1879, with the purpose of being the centre of trade for farmhouse goods such as butter and milk.
1879—1880
The Butchers' Market is expanded, with a new rear entrance added that leads to Henblas Street.
1898
The Borough Council buys the sites known as Queen Square, a small development near Queen Street, and Birmingham Hall, extending the area and roofing it over. The area was then re-designated as the Vegetable Market.
1939
With the onset of World War II, rationing and new hygiene regulations led to the transformation of The Butter Market. It was converted into the General Market, and its traditional role in dairy trading was significantly diminished.
1975
The Monday Market relocates to the site where Eagles Meadow stands today.
1990
The Vegetable Market is demolished.
1992
On the site of the old Vegetable Market, the People's Market is built in its place.
1992
The Butchers' Market is refurbished. The restoration involved removing the suspended ceiling to expose the original roof trusses, as well as restoring the sandstone entrances, and giving the internal and external walls a new coat of paint. During the work, the original market bell was discovered, restored and sounded to signal the start and end of each trading day.
2015
In December, the plans to change the People's Market into a market and arts development were first announced. The refurbishment would include the addition of two galleries, a performance area, a gallery shop and additional market stalls.
2018
Tŷ Pawb opens its doors to the community of Wrexham in April, its main purpose—to serve as a venue for arts, cultural and community events, as well as being a market and an art gallery.
LEARN MORE ABOUT WREXHAM'S HISTORY
While Wrexham’s markets are an important part of our history, they are just one facet. Wrexham’s past is rich with fascinating stories, from football to urban legends, and mysterious underground tunnels. Learn more about the people who have shaped our city.
Wrexham Heritage
A starting point for discovering the eventful history of this region on the Welsh-English border.
Wrexham Heritage WebsiteThe Leader's Local Bygones
Local history features and nostalgia galleries, including photos from The Leader archives.
Visit the Local Bygones page
