Accrington’s magnificent Victorian Market Hall will be 150 years old this month and a number of activities are planned to celebrate this historic building’s big anniversary.

The Market Hall was commissioned in 1867 and designed by architect James Francis Doyle who also designed the Royal Insurance Building in Liverpool and Llandudno’s Grand Hotel.  Opening its doors in October 1869, the Market Hall is one of the finest buildings in the town centre, with a £2m revamp of this historic Grade II-listed building completed in 2010 and the exterior of the Market Hall and its proud neighbour, Accrington Town Hall, illuminated in the evenings as part of the 2018 Town Square revamp. The Market Hall is home to friendly traders, selling quality fresh local produce at value-for-money prices with a caring personal service.

Come along to the Market Hall on Saturday 26 October, from 10am to 4pm, to be part of the free celebration activities for all the family, including crafting sessions with the chance to put your stamp on a giant birthday banner. You can also have your picture taken with a vintage camera in vintage themed clothing and see the exhibitions in the Market Hall featuring 150 years of its rich history and heritage.

Outside the Town Square will have all the fun of a vintage themed fair during the day, along with FREE candy floss, popcorn and toffee apples on offer.  The Square will also be the backdrop for the Town Cryer’s birthday proclamation there at 12 noon.

Later at 12.45pm inside the Market Hall the Mayor, Cllr June Harrison, will cut a birthday cake and there will be the chance for everyone to see the displays.