Historic Wickham Horse Fair Draws Thousands to Hampshire Village
Travellers descend on tiny village for historic 750-year-old Wickham Horse Fair

Image: Dailystar Co Uk
The Wickham Horse Fair, a 750-year-old tradition in Wickham, Hampshire, attracts thousands of visitors, including Gypsy and Roma travellers, who showcase and trade horses. The event, which has roots dating back to 1269, creates a carnival-like atmosphere, fostering community and social connections among attendees.
- 01The Wickham Horse Fair has been celebrated since 1269, when it was granted a royal charter by King Henry III.
- 02Local resident Mike Taylor described the fair as having a 'carnival atmosphere' with thousands of attendees.
- 03The event features horses and ponies paraded through Wickham Square, which is closed to traffic during the fair.
- 04Travellers from across the UK, including equine enthusiasts from Ireland and Wales, attend to showcase their horses.
- 05Attendees emphasize the fair's social aspect, with many returning to reconnect with friends and trade horses.
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The annual Wickham Horse Fair, celebrated in Wickham, Hampshire, has become a vibrant gathering, attracting thousands of visitors for its 750th anniversary. The fair's history dates back to 1269, when Roger de Scures received a royal charter from King Henry III to hold a market in the village. This year, the event brought together numerous Gypsy and Roma travellers who showcased their horses in a festive atmosphere. Local resident Mike Taylor described the fair as having a 'carnival atmosphere,' noting the friendly interactions among attendees. Wickham Square was closed to traffic from 12 PM on May 19 until 10 AM on May 21, allowing horses and ponies to trot freely through the village. Many attendees, including equine enthusiasts from Ireland and Wales, come to trade horses and socialize. The fair not only serves as a marketplace but also as a reunion for those who have attended for years, fostering a sense of community among the participants. As Connie Hegarty, a long-time attendee, stated, the fair provides an opportunity to meet familiar faces and engage in horse trading, making it a cherished tradition for many.
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The fair boosts local tourism and fosters community spirit, benefiting local businesses and residents.
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