History:

Romford Market began after permission was granted by King Henry III in 1247. It allowed a livestock market to be held every Wednesday where local farmers could sell sheep and cattle. The market was set up to provide an outlet for the leather trade operating at Hornchurch.

King Henry III's Royal Charter declared: "Concerning the holding of a market. It is ordered that the Sheriff of Essex shall proclaim publicly throughout his county and its hundreds the establishment and holding of a market at Romford on Wednesdays, with all the liberties and customs belonging to the said market."

Around the 17th Century the market also opened on Mondays and Tuesdays, but only for a short while. In 1919, the market became a daily event, however by 1925 the market reverted back to Wednesday, Friday and Saturday only. Cattle continued to be sold on Wednesdays until 1958. Friday and Saturday were more general in character where traders sold fruit, vegetables and a range of household goods.

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