A Landmark in the Heart of Holsworthy
The Old Market Inn in Holsworthy is one of the town’s most recognisable historic pubs, located right in the centre of this charming market town in north-west Devon. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and long-standing ties to Holsworthy’s agricultural heritage, the inn has been a hub of community life for centuries. Its name reflects the town’s market tradition, a vital part of Holsworthy’s identity since medieval times.
Holsworthy as a Market Town
Holsworthy’s history as a market centre dates back to a royal charter granted in the 12th century, allowing the town to host regular markets and fairs. These gatherings quickly became essential for farmers and traders across Devon and Cornwall, who brought livestock, produce, and goods to sell. Inns like the Old Market Inn naturally grew around this activity, providing food, drink, and lodging for travellers and traders. The inn’s location made it a central meeting point, where deals were struck and stories exchanged after market day.
The Inn’s Historic Character
The Old Market Inn still carries the flavour of its past. With its traditional façade, cosy interior, and wooden furnishings, it reflects the rustic character typical of West Country pubs. Over the centuries, it has served generations of locals and visitors alike, offering a space not only for refreshment but also for community gatherings. Its walls, if they could speak, would tell countless stories of market traders, farmers, and townsfolk.
Still Open and Welcoming Today
Unlike many historic pubs that have closed over time, the Old Market Inn remains open today and continues to serve as a vibrant part of Holsworthy life. Visitors can expect real ales, traditional pub food, and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It is also known for its live entertainment, pub games, and welcoming service, making it a favourite both for locals and for tourists exploring Devon’s countryside.
How to Reach the Old Market Inn
The inn is located right in the centre of Holsworthy town square, making it impossible to miss. For those travelling by car, Holsworthy is easily reached from Bude, Launceston, and other nearby towns in north Devon and north Cornwall. Buses also serve the town, connecting it to larger hubs like Exeter and Barnstaple. Its central location makes the Old Market Inn a perfect stop for anyone exploring the historic market town.
Connection to the Market Tradition
As its name suggests, the inn is closely tied to Holsworthy’s market heritage. The town still hosts one of the most important livestock markets in the South West, held at the Holsworthy Livestock Market. While the market itself has moved from the square to a modern site, the inn remains symbolically linked to this tradition, preserving its name and role as a meeting place. Traders and farmers once gathered here after long days of selling cattle and produce, keeping the inn at the centre of local economic and social life.
Curiosities and Local Stories
Over the years, the Old Market Inn has witnessed centuries of change in Holsworthy. From the bustle of medieval fairs to Victorian market days and today’s more modern rhythm, the inn has remained a constant. Many locals still recall community celebrations, music nights, and sporting gatherings held there. Its long-standing reputation as one of the town’s most traditional pubs makes it not just a place for a drink, but a piece of Holsworthy’s living heritage.
Why Visit the Old Market Inn
The Old Market Inn is more than just a pub. It is a window into Holsworthy’s past and present, embodying the character of a rural market town while continuing to serve as a social hub. Visitors can enjoy a pint of local ale, soak up the historic atmosphere, and experience a place that has been central to the community for centuries. For anyone exploring Devon, the Old Market Inn offers both refreshment and a chance to step into the history of one of England’s oldest market towns.