The Saturday market formerly held at Manston airport has found a new home – The Oval Bandstand and Lawns in Cliftonville.
Last month the organisers of Manston market announced it is to shut with immediate effect.
The Saturday market at the airport was previously run by Bray Markets, which also is in charge of the Friday market at Ramsgate. It was taken over by Les and Michael Stevens, who launched as Stevens Markets, in May.
But soon after the closure was announced. Initially Stevens Markets said Thanet council had declined a planning application to allow trade to continue but it came to light no application had been received and airport owners RSP issued a statement saying: “Manston Airport and the operators of the Saturday market have decided to part company by mutual consent. It is understood that the market is now pursuing other sites in east Kent.”
Now a new market will launch at The Oval Lawns from June 21.
Announcing the new venue, Stevens Markets said: “Stevens Markets Ltd is delighted to announce the launch of a new weekly Saturday market at The Oval Bandstand & Lawns, bringing a vibrant mix of traders, food stalls, and vendors to the heart of Cliftonville.
“This exciting development follows the recent closure of the Manston Market, which ceased operations in May 2025. The market, previously held at Manston Airport, was an important fixture for Thanet, offering a diverse range of goods and fostering a lively atmosphere. Its sudden closure left both the operator and the traders seeking a new venue to continue this beloved tradition.
“Recognising the importance of preserving this vibrant community asset, Stevens Markets Ltd has partnered with GRASS Cliftonville CIC to provide a new home for the market at The Oval, which is only 10 minutes from its old site in Manston.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome the traders and regulars of the former Manston Market to Cliftonville,” said Simon Bell, Director of GRASS Cliftonville CIC. “The Oval has a long tradition of hosting markets and community events and is ideally suited to this type of activity with fantastic support from the local community. We’re proud to offer a new home for the market on this iconic clifftop site and look forward to seeing it thrive.”
The market is being managed to ensure it complements other site activities, including GRASS’s events programme and community café. The new market will operate every Saturday from 8:30am to 3pm.
Directors Michael and Leslie Stevens said:“We’re thrilled to be partnering with GRASS Cliftonville CIC on this exciting new venture. The Oval is a stunning location and we’re committed to building a high-quality, friendly and inclusive market that serves both locals and visitors alike.”
For more information about the market or to inquire about stall availability, please contact: 07971 73 82 39
A far more sensible location, but aren’t these the people who forced the Farmer’s Market to move out?
Ramsgate port would have been far better than the Oval. There is a large empty car park at ramsgate.
Better for who? There are very few direct buses from Westgate and Birchington, and it’s a long walk from the station.
No Peter have you been watching the news, Reform are in charge now they will send a bus to your door and take you wherever you want to go. It’s true Mr Farage said so.
I voted Labour because they promised to improve bus services – and as soon as they got in, fares went up!
Wait till end of December when labour end the fare cap .
Then the fares will jump .
Wish I’d voted Tory now. They pledged in their manifesto to keep the cap for their entire term.
No chance the labour are all take and no give .
They say everything they are going to do to get into office then
Completely backtrack on it .
Don’t vote for any of them, it only encourages them!
10 minutes from Manston airport to the oval Cliftonvile ! Maybe when there’s no traffic, not nowadays!
Perhaps they meant flying!
Ironic to say the least after the treatment of the Cliftonville farmers mkt by Grarse
The Brim, I agree.
Let us hope the farmers’ Markets loyal customers continue to support this excellent FM.
With everything they had to put up with this dreadful group even sending the market manager a threatening solicitors letter accusing her of running an illegal market with TDC’s knowledge.
All a pack of lies, and to think they had been gifted the whole site freehold for £1 by TDC who they were accusing.
It was all in the press at the time.
Look at the FM now, the largest in Kent with 50 – 55 stalls each month selling first class produce.
Seriously James nobody cares you need to get out more mate that was like 5 years ago
No mate, 4 years this August
You obviously don’t care but many do.
Regarding me getting out more, there is no need to worry about me as I travel extensively.