History, Ringwood | Posted on June 19th, 2026 | return to news

Ringwood to mark 800th Charter Market anniversary

There will be a huge variety of entertainment taking place on 12 July, including a funfair, group acrobatics and juggling acts.

People will be able to gather in Ringwood on Sunday 12 July to celebrate 800 years of history.
The town’s Market Charter was granted in 1226, and to mark this there will be a day filled with live entertainment, local interactive market stalls, family activities, food, music and community spirit in the very place where Ringwood’s market heritage began.

The market has played an important role in shaping Ringwood into the vibrant and welcoming town we know today. From medieval traders and livestock markets to modern community events and independent businesses, the spirit of the market has endured through centuries of change.

This celebration is not only a reflection of Ringwood’s rich history but also a celebration of its future — recognising the people, organisations, volunteers and local businesses who continue to make our town such a special place. The event promises a full day of family-friendly entertainment and traditional festivities.

Churches Together head to the stage to conduct a church service from 10.30am–11.30am. This will be followed by the main event from 11.30am–7.30pm in Ringwood’s Market Place. The Bickerley will host a funfair alongside free inflatables on the village green. A full programme with timings can be seen on Ringwood Town Council’s website: https://www.ringwood.gov.uk/.

Visitors will be able to enjoy spectacular performances and a variety of live stage entertainment, including the headlining act Farm Yard Circus, who are a bewildering display of group acrobatics and juggling acts using hay bales, wheelbarrows, a tractor tyre and even an old scarecrow. This high-energy, boot-stomping show is set to a score of old-time tunes and raucous rhythms.

Additional attractions will include Morris dancers, traditional village games organised by local Guides and Brownies groups, interactive market stalls such as willow basket making, woodworking crafts and honeybee display demonstrations, and a selection of hot and cold food.

Families can also enjoy an animal petting experience hosted by Riverside Lakes, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ringwood. A town crier in training activity will include some younger members from local schools, and there will be a traditional auction kindly hosted by Ringwood Auctions, paying tribute to Ringwood Market’s roots. Proceeds raised at the auction will go to Greyfriars Community Centre and Moyles Court Wildlife Rescue.

Ringwood Town Council are working in partnership with culture in common, who are supporting a number of projects to involve as many residents as possible in the Ringwood 800 celebration in 2026.

Ringwood Mayor Cllr Mary DeBoos said: “Ringwood Town Council is proud to celebrate our town’s rich heritage and has worked alongside local community groups and businesses to create an event that truly captures the spirit of this remarkable milestone.

“Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting for the day, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From spectacular live performances and traditional entertainment to delicious food and drink, free children’s activities, and inspiring community showcases, we hope visitors of all ages will discover something special.

“Thank you for joining us as we mark 800 years of Ringwood’s Royal Market Charter and celebrate the people, traditions, and community that continue to make our town so unique.”

For more information, or to share plans for the celebration, please contact Ringwood Town Council.