Kingsbridge Fair Week

Kingsbridge has had a long association with the Abbots of Buckfast, who were originally lords of the manor of Churchstow when Kingsbridge parish formed part of the manor. The then Abbot obtained the right to hold a weekly market in Kingsbridge in 1219, and later the Abbot John Matthew applied for a royal charter to hold an annual fair in the town. This was confirmed in 1461.

The link with the 1461 charter is continued at the glove hanging ceremony on the Wednesday evening of every Fair Week, when the charter is read by the town mayor and a stuffed and garlanded glove is hoisted on the Shambles in Fore Street, to show that the fair is in progress and to signify free trade and clemency for its duration.

Today, the fair is a full week of events and entertainment for townspeople and visitors alike.