Market Drayton has long been known as the Home of Gingerbread, and for more than two centuries this delicious local treat has been part of the town’s story. Whether you’re visiting for a day out, exploring independent shops, or simply looking for something sweet to take home, Market Drayton’s gingerbread is a true taste of local heritage.
A Sweet Slice of History
Gingerbread has been baked in Market Drayton for hundreds of years. The first recorded reference dates back to 1793, when a local baker named Roland Lateward was making gingerbread in the town.
By the early 19th century several local bakers were producing their own versions, including Billingtons, whose famous gingerbread recipe dates back to 1817 and is still made in Market Drayton today.
These crisp gingerbread fingers became a favourite on market days, when visitors and traders would stop for refreshments. One local tradition was to dip gingerbread into a glass of port, enjoying the spicy biscuit as they relaxed and chatted after shopping in the bustling market town.
Today, people still enjoy gingerbread the same way — although many now dunk it in tea or coffee while catching up with friends in the town’s cafés.
Meet the Gingerbread Man
Visitors to Market Drayton may even spot a very special character.
At selected community events throughout the year, the town’s Gingerbread Man makes a special appearance, bringing smiles, photo opportunities and plenty of fun for families.
The next chance to see him will be at the Community Event outside Market Drayton Town Hall on Saturday 11 April. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the town centre, meet local traders and celebrate one of Drayton’s most famous traditions.
Enjoy Gingerbread – and Explore Local Shops
If you’re spending the day in Market Drayton, there are several places where you can pick up this famous local treat while enjoying the town’s welcoming independent businesses.
Drayton Deli
Located in the town centre, Drayton Deli is a great stop during a day out in Market Drayton. Known for its range of local produce and freshly prepared food, it’s the perfect place to pick up some gingerbread alongside other tasty treats to enjoy on your visit.
Fields Kitchen
Fields Kitchen is a popular deli on Market Drayton’s High Street where visitors can buy local produce, homemade food and, of course, the town’s famous gingerbread. The building itself is part of Market Drayton’s gingerbread heritage, as it was once the bakehouse where Billington’s gingerbread was originally produced in the early 1800s.
Boyes
Boyes is a well-known high street store offering a wide range of household items and essentials. While browsing the store, visitors can also pick up Billingtons Gingerbread, bringing a taste of Market Drayton’s heritage home with them.
Gingerbread from Local Farm Shops and Villages
If you live nearby and fancy a taste of Market Drayton gingerbread before your next visit, you can also find it in a number of local farm shops and village stores across the area:
Fordhall Farm Shop
A well-loved organic farm and shop just outside the town, Fordhall Farm is a great place to explore local food and produce — including Market Drayton’s famous gingerbread.
Hinstock Village Store & Post Office
This friendly village shop stocks everyday essentials as well as local products, making it a handy place for residents and visitors travelling through the countryside.
Homedene Farm Shop, Shawbury
Homedene is a popular farm shop offering a range of locally sourced food and treats — a great place to pick up gingerbread alongside other Shropshire produce.
The Village Pantry, Shrewsbury
A specialist food shop known for quality local produce and gifts, perfect for discovering regional favourites including Market Drayton gingerbread.
Greenfields Farm Shop, Donnington, Telford
Located on the edge of Telford, Greenfields Farm Shop is another place where you can find gingerbread along with fresh produce and farm shop favourites.
So if you live in Telford, Shrewsbury or surrounding areas and can’t wait for a taste of Market Drayton gingerbread, you may be able to pick some up locally but don’t let that stop you from making your day trip to Market Drayton as there’s a lot more you can explore.
Plan a Gingerbread Day Out
Of course, the best way to enjoy Market Drayton gingerbread is with a visit to the town itself.
Hop on the bus, stroll around the historic market town, browse the independent shops, enjoy lunch in one of the cafés, and pick up some famous gingerbread to take home.
And if you visit on Saturday 11 April, you might even catch the Gingerbread Man making a special appearance outside the Town Hall.
Because when it comes to gingerbread, there’s no place quite like Market Drayton — and every visit is a chance to enjoy the town’s heritage, friendly shops and delicious local produce. 