Sweets in Boston: The May Fair, Trading Since 1125, and What the Market Never Stocked in Bulk

Boston, Lincolnshire, had a population of 45,339 at the 2021 census — a fenland market town whose trading history stretches back further than almost anywhere else on this list.

The May Fair and a market since 1125

The annual Boston May Fair has been held in the town since at least 1125, traditionally opened by the mayor on 3 May, and the town's formal market charter followed in 1546. The market itself still trades every Wednesday and Saturday in the Market Place, in the shadow of St Botolph's Church — known locally as "the Stump" — the largest parish church in England, visible for miles across the flat Lincolnshire fens.

Boston's retail history hasn't all gone the market's way, though: Marks & Spencer closed its Boston branch in 2019 after more than a century in the marketplace, and Oldrids, a local department store, closed in 2020 after 216 years on the same site — a reminder that even a market town with nine centuries of trading behind it isn't immune to the retail changes every high street has faced.

What nine centuries of market trading doesn't stock

A market built around stalls, twice-weekly trading days and a centuries-old fair was never going to hold 3kg bulk bags, a vegan-specific range, or a halal-friendly selection ready for a business order.

Why Boston shoppers order online anyway

For anything past a Wednesday or Saturday market bag, ordering online and having it delivered is the steadier option — available every day, not just market day.

25,000+ customers, and counting

We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Boston included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.

Frequently asked questions

Do you deliver sweets to Boston?

Yes — UK-wide, including Boston, Lincolnshire, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.

Does Boston have a historic market?

Yes — the May Fair since at least 1125, a market charter from 1546, and trading every Wednesday and Saturday — but never a bulk trade.

Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Boston?

Not from the market — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Boston addresses instead.

Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.

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