When you think of iconic buildings in Radstock, the Radstock Market Hall probably comes to mind. The building today is Grade Two listed and is home to Radstock Museum.

The architect was a Radstock man, born and bred: Thomas Martin. Thomas was commissioned by George Coombs, of Coombs Brewery, who owned the buildings next door and behind the Market Hall for brewing and owned The Bell Inn (now converted to flats), The Waldegrave (now the Radstock Hotel) and The Lamb, in Clandown. The Market Hall was built in 1898 and replaced an old outdoor market on the same site.

For over fifty years, the Radstock Market Hall was the centre of social life on a Saturday afternoon and evening. Stallholders came from surrounding towns with food, confectionary, china, clothing and footwear. Radstock Market was an occasion not to be missed and after a long working week, those with a little money left over were entertained there and enjoyed fish and chips.

Coombs and company were the proprietors and the market dues were collected by Willie Line and later, by his daughters. Thomas Martin was also the architect for Radstock Methodist Church, completed in 1902.

Radstock Museum recently hosted afternoon tea for Thomas Martin’s family, who attended the unveiling of a new permanent display board in recognition of Thomas’ work. Alex Hann, one of Thomas’ descendants, sponsored the board and spoke about his ancestor’s achievements.

Also new in the museum is the latest exhibition in the Villages and Communities series, featuring Pensford and The Harptrees, both rich examples of the history of our area; one industrial coal mining, with nearby metal working mills on the River Chew, the other truly rural. The exhibition runs until 30th November.