Tavistock Goose Fair – Guy Belshaw

Tavistock Goose Fair is one of the best known events in Devon and one with a rich and colourful history. In this book, journalist and fairground historian, Guy Belshaw, reveals some of the secrets of the fair’s past. He also relates the background to the Rowland family, whose amusements have been prominent at Tavistock for over a century. From Tom Rowland, a stout but genial man, and his wife “One-eyed” Betsy, to the present generation, the family are known throughout the West Country.

Once visitors to the fair could indulge in all manner of entertainments, much of which would be unacceptable by today’s standards. It was an important agricultural event, with the sale of cattle, horses, and, of course, geese.

Over the years it has changed in its nature, but even today it has an atmosphere all of its own as the street traders and travelling showmen stage the annual event for the people of Tavistock and its environs.

Fully illustrated throughout, softback book, 136 pages