The original fairs took place on the Day of Annunciation (25 March), St John the Baptist’s Day (24 June), St Bartholomew’s Day (24 August), and St Jude’s Day (28 October).

 

Each fair featured a special court, known as a Court of Pie Powder (which means ‘dusty feet’), to resolve any disputes from the fair’s commerce.

 

The Corporation paid an annual fee of £3 to the Exchequer for the right to collect tolls and fees at the fairs.