The Bartholomew Fair was one of London's most prominent summer charter fairs, established to support the Priory of St. Bartholomew. Its origins date back to 1133 when King Henry I granted a charter to fund the priory. Held annually on August 24th, the fair was located next to Smithfield Market, London. It wasn’t just a market—it was a vibrant mix of trade, entertainment, and celebrations that drew crowds from all over. But as the fair grew more raucous, it started causing trouble, with frequent public disturbances. Eventually, in 1855, authorities ended it, closing the chapter on a tradition that had lasted over 700 years.
