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fair
attractions
history
guild
fairslang
rides
porthcawl
westernsupermare
barryisland
blackpool
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 As far back as Roman times the fair has been a way of life in
Great Britain, the word 'fair' coming from the Latin for holiday, 'feria'.
The travelling fairs of today are the direct descendants of the
medieval fairs. Early fairs were principally markets where
livestock, slaves or inanimate objects were sold or bartered.
Travelling people would also attend, showing off their juggling,
acrobatic skills or dancing animals. The early Christian church was
frequently involved in arranging events of this nature, either to
celebrate a Christian festival or to convert a pagan festival into a
Christian one.
As trading increased and more fairs became established, many became
Charter Fairs, the right or 'franchise' for which was a valuable
privilege. It was granted by the King in the form of a 'Charter' or
letters patent or by prescription which laid down the dates,
provided for protection against rival fairs and gave the right to
collect dues and tolls.
In every County of Britain fairs still exist, held according to
the Charter. For example, on St. Valentine's day the Travelling
Showmen start their season at King's Lynn according to the Charter
granted by King John in 1204.
Before the eighteenth century there were peep shows, freaks,
performing animals, fortune tellers, exhibitions of curiosities and
strolling players entertained the crowd.
In the 1870s, Savage, of King's Lynn, successfully
harnessed steam to the Rides.
Funfair
Attractions
History Guild
Fair Slang Rides
Porthcawl
Western Super Mare
Barry Island
Blackpool |
