Devon indoor market crowned Britain's best

Chloe Parkman
BBC News, South West
BBC A group of traders gather outside of Tiverton Pannier Market. The group, made up of about 20 people, are standing in front of a stone wall. A sign which shows the market's opening hours is in front of the group. BBC
One stallholder said "visitors love it"

A large indoor market in Devon has been crowned Britain's best as part of the Great British Market Awards 2025.

Tavistock Pannier Market was named best large indoor market as part of the awards, which are hosted by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA).

It said the market, which dates back to 1105, was "dynamic, busy at the heart of the town centre and its success is regarding as a measure as to the performance of the high street itself".

Household goods stallholder Charlie Snell said: "[The town] wouldn't be the same without it... and neither would I."

Inside Tiverton Pannier Market. A number of stalls are scattered around the market. Stallholders are making last minute adjustments to their displays. The stone hall is filled with goods including antique items cushions and household goods. Lights hang from the ceiling, illuminating the hall.
The market dates back to 1105

Mr Snell said he had been running his stall for more than 50 years.

"I like the people that come here mainly," he said.

Another stallholder, Judy, said she had been selling goods at the market for about 14 years.

"I don't want to go anywhere else," she said.

"I enjoy it here, I have customers that come to see me and I like the people."

Judy said the award was "well deserved".

"There are so many different things you can buy here. Visitors love it," she added.

South Molton Pannier Market won best market attraction as part of the awards.

David Preston, chief executive of NABMA, said the winners "highlighted the incredible innovation and resilience" within market communities.

"From centuries-old traditions to cutting-edge initiatives, these winners and nominees embody the very best of British markets," Mr Preston said.

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