A Fair Steeped in History

The Tavistock Goose Fair is one of the oldest traditional fairs in the UK, with roots stretching back to the early 12th century. Originally held as a Michaelmas Fair on September 29th, it was a key date for farmers to bring their geese to market, ready for fattening ahead of Christmas. The name “Goose Fair” reflects this tradition, and even today, live geese and poultry are sold at the Whitchurch Road livestock market to honour its heritage.

In 1752, the adoption of the Gregorian calendar shifted the fair’s date to October 10th, and it has since been held on the second Wednesday of October each year. Over the centuries, the fair has evolved from a livestock market into a lively celebration filled with stalls, rides, food, and entertainment, while still retaining its deep historical roots. 

A Wonderful Community Moment

This year, Castlebridge School was proud to contribute to the fair’s success. The atmosphere in our car park was truly lovely, with families and visitors enjoying the stalls and the festive spirit. It was heartwarming to see our site become a part of such a cherished local tradition.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Tavistock Town Council for their exceptional work in setting up and clearing the event. Their team worked tirelessly, packing everything away by 1am, ensuring that our site was fully accessible and ready for normal use the very next day.

Looking Ahead

The Goose Fair remains a highlight of Tavistock’s calendar, and we’re thrilled that Castlebridge School could play a role in this year’s celebration. We look forward to welcoming the community again in future events and continuing to support the traditions that make our town so special.