Things to do > Market towns > Retford
Retford: ancient traditions The ancient market town of Retford was granted its first charter (the right to hold a fair) by Henry III in 1246. This was extended by Edward I in 1275 to holding a Saturday market: a tradition that continues today. The town features fine Georgian buildings, a spacious square, and two theatres – the Little Theatre on Wharf Road and the Majestic on Coronation Street. The town played a remarkable part in the story of the Pilgrim Fathers, who fled to America in 1620 after being persecuted for their religious beliefs. Explore their story on the Mayflower Trail, a circular tour starting at nearby Babworth. < back to Market towns
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