The Heart of Bideford: Exploring the Rich History and Community of the Pannier Market

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Looking for a truly unique shopping experience in North Devon? Look no further than the Pannier Market in Bideford.

With over 20, sorry now 30! independent businesses offering a diverse range of products and services, this thriving indoor market has been a hub of the local community for over 150 years.

From locally produced foods and crafts to vintage clothing and antiques, there is something for everyone at the Pannier Market.

Read on to learn more about this historic market and why it is a must-visit destination in North Devon during your stay here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Pannier Market is an indoor market located in Bideford, Devon, open six days a week, from Monday to Saturday.
The market has been a vital part of the town’s community and economy for over 150 years and is an excellent place to find unique and locally made products.
The market is housed in a beautiful historic building that was originally built in 1884.
The Pannier Market is home to over 30 independent businesses offering a diverse range of products and services. The vendors are a tight-knit group who works together to promote the market and support each other’s businesses.
In addition to historical and community significance, the market is also an important part of the town’s identity.

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The Pannier Market in Bideford

The Pannier Market in Bideford is a thriving indoor market located in the town of Bideford, Devon, in the southwest of England.

The market has been a vital part of the town’s community and economy for over 150 years, serving as a hub for local businesses and visitors.

The market is housed in a beautiful historic building that was originally built in 1884.

The building was designed by architect J. Chudley and features a stunning glass and iron roof that allows natural light to flood the market hall.

The building underwent a major renovation in 2016, which included the installation of new lighting and heating systems, as well as the addition of modern amenities like Wi-Fi.

Today, the Pannier Market in Bideford is home to over 30 independent businesses, offering a diverse range of products and services.

Visitors can find everything from locally produced foods and crafts to vintage clothing and antiques. The market is open six days a week, from Monday to Saturday, and attracts visitors from all over the region.

One of the unique features of the Pannier Market is its sense of community. The vendors are a tight-knit group who works together to promote the market and support each other’s businesses.

There is a real sense of pride and ownership among the vendors, who often refer to the market as their “second home.”

The market also hosts regular events and activities, such as craft fairs and farmers’ markets, which bring people together and help to build a sense of community.

The Pannier Market in Bideford is also an important part of the town’s history. The market has survived wars, fires, and other challenges that have faced the town over the years. It has been a vital source of income for many local families and businesses and has played a significant role in shaping the town’s identity.

Inside the Pannier Market

In the market, you can find the following:

Butcher’s Row

A stunning row of artisan studios with a mix of artists, crafters, delicious food and also local services. They are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. 

Market Hall

This is a huge hall with permanent studios, a cafe, and a children’s play area. They also have accessible toilets.

Bideford Pannier Market is open on Tuesday and Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm. The hall studios are open from 10 am to 3 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. 

In addition to its historical and community significance, the Pannier Market in Bideford is also an excellent place to find unique and locally made products. The market offers visitors the chance to buy products directly from the makers, which is a great way to support small businesses and artisans. Visitors can also sample locally sourced foods and beverages, such as Devonshire cream tea and fresh seafood, which are a must-try when in the area.

And Finally…

The Pannier Market in Bideford is a historic indoor market that has been a vital part of the town’s community and economy for over 150 years.

The market is home to independent businesses, offering a diverse range of locally produced foods, crafts, vintage clothing, and antiques.

The vendors are a tight-knit group who work together to promote the market and support each other’s businesses, making it a unique and welcoming place to visit.

With its stunning historic building, sense of community, and diverse range of products and services, the Pannier Market in Bideford is a must-visit destination for anyone in the Southwest of England, especially if you are nearby on holiday or looking for somewhere that little different to take the family (it’s indoors so perfect for a wet weather day).

Author Matt Ogborne
Matt Ogborne
About the Author

Welcome to Bideford.com! I’m Matt, a seasoned explorer and avid fan of Bideford and the broader North Devon area. With over a decade of consistent family visits, virtually every weekend, I’ve immersed myself in the rich history and vibrant culture Bideford & North Devon.

On this site, you’ll find a wealth of knowledge amassed from my adventures here. From in-depth local guides to engaging blog posts about Bideford. Whether you’re looking for recommendations on things to do or guidance on where to stay we have you covered. Join me as we delve into the heart of Bideford, North Devon – a town that’s more than just a destination, but an experience waiting to be discovered.

Do you want to see your favourite Bideford attraction, place to stay, event or activity listed here? Contact Us!