Herefordshire Council has confirmed that both fairs will continue to be held in their usual city and town-centre streets, following a review of their future.

The decision follows a public consultation held between 23 April and 23 May 2026, which received 1,366 responses, including 1,051 about Hereford May Fair and 315 about Leominster May Fair.

The results showed clear support for keeping the fairs in their traditional locations, with 71 per cent of Hereford respondents and 55 per cent of Leominster respondents believing their city and town-centre streets remain the right places to hold the events.

The fairs’ contribution to local character and atmosphere was also recognised, with 73 per cent of Hereford respondents and 60 per cent of Leominster respondents agreeing that the events add to the character of their surroundings.

Most people who responded also said the fairs did not cause them significant disruption, including 77per cent in Hereford and 72 per cent in Leominster.

Hereford May Fair is particularly historic, with its charter dating back to 1121, making it the oldest surviving charter fair in Britain.

Both fairs attract thousands of visitors each spring, bringing traditional fairground rides, stalls, food and entertainment into the heart of Hereford and Leominster.

Listening to local views

While most people supported keeping the fairs in their traditional locations, some also raised concerns about the impact on nearby residents and businesses.

The Council will use this feedback to help plan future fairs, with a focus on making them safe and enjoyable for visitors while reducing disruption for people who live and work nearby.

Following the consultation, Councillor Barry Durkin, Cabinet Member for Roads and Regulatory Services, has approved keeping the fairs in their current locations as the basis for planning future events from 2028, until the next review.

Councillor Barry Durkin said:

“Our May Fairs are a much-loved part of Herefordshire’s history and heritage. They bring families and communities together and help create a real sense of excitement in our town and city centres.

“The engagement has shown just how much people value these events and how important it is to keep them in their traditional locations.

“We also know that holding large events in busy town and city centres can cause disruption, particularly for people who live and work nearby. We have listened to those concerns and will use the feedback to help make the fairs even better in the future.

“I would like to thank everyone who took the time to have their say. Their views have helped us make a decision that protects an important part of our county’s heritage while taking account of the needs of residents, businesses and visitors.”

Planning for the future

The Council carried out the consultation as it prepares to renew the agreements that allow the fairs to take place.

The decision means both fairs will remain in their traditional locations, with further work to plan how they will operate from 2028, until a future review.

The Council will continue to work with local businesses, residents and other groups to help make sure the fairs remain popular events while keeping disruption to a minimum.

You can view the full results of the consultation here: Leominster and Hereford May Fairs consultation - Herefordshire Council