Abergavenny is known as a market town because it was, traditionally, a centre to which sheep and cattle were brought for sale. If you go out walking in the Black Mountains you are quite likely to walk on one of the old drovers’ routes.
In the early nineteenth century animals were sold in the streets of the town, but later a special site was established. There are still sheep for sale at Abergavenny Cattle Market on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, but many market visitors probably visit our Market Hall on that day of the week simply to buy fruit and vegetables, much of which is fresh local produce.
If you’re a first-time visitor there’s an extra treat in store for you in the Market Hall. An array of huge colourful flowers and bees can be ssen hanging from the ceiling. These were made by a team of volunteers for last September’s Food Festival, and have been left in situ to delight visitors and locals alike throughout the year. The decorations always have a food-related theme – one year we even had flying chefs!
We also have a retail market on Fridays and Saturdays, a weekly flea market on Wednesdays and occasional specialist events. The fourth Thursday of the month sees lots of local producers coming in for the Farmers’ Market, with a wonderful range of produce from fish to hats to French bread and patisserie.
There’s a great community atmosphere, with Abergavenny and Crickhowell Friends of the Earth Group providing tea and coffee for stall holders and shoppers.
You’ll find the market under the green tower in the centre of town. It’s unmissable, in both senses of the word!