Sweets in Devizes: The Market Place Where Ruth Pierce's Legend Began

Devizes, in Wiltshire, had a population of around 16,800 at the 2021 census — a market town with one of the county's best-known cautionary legends at its centre.

The market place that punished a lie

In January 1753, Ruth Pierce of Potterne is said to have died suddenly in Devizes Market Place after falsely swearing before witnesses that she had already paid her share towards a sack of wheat. The inquest recorded no clear cause of death, and the story passed into local legend; the Market Cross, put up in 1814, still carries a plaque telling the tale as a warning against dishonesty.

What that history doesn't leave behind

This town's history doesn't come with a dedicated sweet shop set up for bulk bags, vegan-specific ranges or halal-friendly lines — not the kind of retail a town this size tends to support locally.

Why Devizes shoppers order online anyway

For anything past a corner-shop bag, ordering online is more consistent — many Devizes shoppers would otherwise have to travel to Swindon or Salisbury for a wider selection.

25,000+ customers, and counting

We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Devizes 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 Devizes?

Yes — we deliver UK-wide including Devizes, Wiltshire, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days.

What is the legend of Ruth Pierce in Devizes?

According to an 18th-century account, Ruth Pierce dropped dead in Devizes Market Place in 1753 moments after falsely swearing she had paid her share for a sack of wheat; the story is still told today, and the Market Cross carries a plaque warning against dishonesty.

Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Devizes?

Not from a local shop — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Devizes addresses instead.

Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.

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