North Devon Handmade Collective Appointed New Licence Operator for Great Torrington Pannier Market

North Devon Handmade Collective (NDHC) has been appointed as the new licence operator for Great Torrington Pannier Market, marking the beginning of an exciting new programme of market, community and visitor initiatives designed to secure the future of North Devon's oldest pannier market.

Established in 1842, Great Torrington Pannier Market is recognised as North Devon's oldest pannier market. For almost 184 years, the market has been at the heart of Great Torrington's commercial and community life, serving generations of residents and visitors while retaining its unique character and historic significance.

Located within its iconic Victorian arcade and Market House, the Pannier Market remains one of Great Torrington's most important heritage assets and a focal point for independent businesses, community activity and local enterprise.

NDHC will take responsibility for managing and developing the market, building upon the strong foundations established by the current operator while introducing carefully considered initiatives designed to increase visitor numbers, support independent traders and strengthen Great Torrington's position as a destination for heritage, creativity and community.

The existing Friday and Saturday general markets will continue alongside the popular Wednesday Community Lunch, ensuring continuity for traders, customers and community groups. Looking ahead, NDHC plans to introduce a programme of specialist Sunday markets, creating new opportunities for artisan makers, craftspeople and community organisations while encouraging more visitors to discover Great Torrington.

The first of these events, Handmade in North Devon, will take place on Sunday 23rd August and will celebrate the very best of the region's creative talent. The event will showcase up to 40 local artisans and makers, featuring a highly curated collection of handmade work including jewellery, embroidery, fused glass, ceramics, artisan soap, folk art, painting and mixed-media artwork.

The market is intended to establish Great Torrington Pannier Market as a destination for high-quality handmade products and authentic creative experiences. Future specialist markets will build on this foundation while complementing the market's existing offer and creating additional reasons to visit Great Torrington throughout the year.

 Andrew Cross, Chair of North Devon Handmade Collective, said:

"Great Torrington Pannier Market is one of North Devon's most remarkable heritage assets. As the oldest Pannier Market in the region, it represents nearly two centuries of trading, enterprise and community spirit. We are honoured to be entrusted with its future and are committed to preserving its heritage while creating new opportunities that will attract visitors, support local businesses and strengthen its role as a vibrant community hub."

"Our ambition is to establish the market as North Devon's leading destination for independent makers, local creativity and authentic market experiences. By introducing specialist Sunday markets and community-focused events, we hope to build on the market's success and ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come."

Many of the market's traders and shopkeepers have served customers for years, helping to make the Pannier Market a familiar meeting place for residents and visitors alike. NDHC's plans have been developed with a focus on supporting those existing businesses while expanding the market's appeal to new audiences.

Sam Duckworth, Pannier Market Manager, added:

"I am incredibly grateful that the market has such a fantastic community of traders, shopkeepers and loyal customers. Our focus will be on supporting existing traders, attracting new visitors and introducing carefully curated specialist markets that complement what already makes the Pannier Market special."

The new programme of events aims to increase year-round visitor numbers, create additional opportunities for independent traders and makers, and reinforce the market's role as a key contributor to the local economy. The programme will also create new opportunities for local artists, makers and community groups to engage with residents and visitors through a growing calendar of events and activities.

Councillor Cottle-Hunkin Lead Member for Culture & Community Engagement commented,

''I'm delighted that North Devon Handmade Collection (NDHC) has been appointed as the new licence operator for Great Torrington Pannier Market. The Pannier Market is an important part of our community, supporting local traders, community groups and attracting visitors to the town. We look forward to seeing the new opportunities that NDHC will bring and to working with them to build on the market's success. It will be fantastic to see the town's position as a destination for heritage, creativity and community continue to grow''

NDHC will work closely with traders, local organisations, community groups and residents over the coming months to develop a programme of events and activities that celebrate the market's heritage while supporting the continued growth of Great Torrington's visitor economy.

The long-term vision is to establish Great Torrington Pannier Market as North Devon's destination market for makers, heritage and community, ensuring that this historic market continues to play a central role in the life of the town for generations to come.

Trader applications for Handmade in North Devon and further details about future specialist market events will be announced in the coming weeks.

July 2026