Exploring Kent's Past

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Monument details

Summary

In or rather, west of the High street, beside St. Mary Bredman's Church was anciently kept a fish market. This market perhaps originating during the late Saxon period, is mentioned in a deed of Christchurch dated 1187, where the Parish of St. Mary's is called the Church of the Fishmongers.

Monument Types

• FISH MARKET (Medieval - 1180 AD? to 1450 AD?)

Full description

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In or rather, west of the High street, beside St. Mary Bredman's Church was anciently kept a fish market. This market perhaps originating during the late Saxon period, is mentioned in a deed of Christchurch dated 1187, where the Parish of St. Mary's is called the Church of the Fishmongers.

The church was once called St. Mary Fishman's Church. However, by the 17th century a Bread Market had become established also near the church and the church then become St. Mary's Bredman's Church. A fish market was held daily throughout the year.

During the late 18th century fish was being sold toll free in the lower part of the old Corn Market House on the north side of the High Street.

Hasted, E, 1799, The History of the Ancient and Metropolitical City of Canterbury. Vol 1. Canterbury (Article in monograph). SKE29735.

Brent, J., 1879, Canterbury in Olden Time. (Article in monograph). SKE29965.

Urry, W., 1967, Canterbury under the Angevin Kings (Monograph). SKE28529.

Sources and further reading