Events · Marlborough
Marlborough Mop Fairs 2026: Road closure details and travel advice
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Motorists are advised to prepare for significant traffic disruption as Marlborough prepares to host its traditional annual Little Mop and Big Mop fairs this October.
Drivers heading through Marlborough this autumn should prepare for disruption as the town prepares for the arrival of the annual Little Mop and Big Mop fairs. Wiltshire Council has confirmed that a series of temporary road closures will be in place to ensure public safety during the two weekends of festivities.
The traditional chartered fairs, organised by the Western Section of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain, will require the closure of several central routes to accommodate the events. Residents and commuters are being urged to factor extra time into their journeys as increased pedestrian activity and congestion are expected.
Closure dates and times
The restrictions will be split over two distinct periods:
Little Mop: From midday on Friday, October 9, until 8am on Sunday, October 11.
Big Mop: From midday on Friday, October 16, until 8am on Sunday, October 18.
Affected roads
The following areas will be closed to general vehicular traffic during these times:
Marlborough High Street: Closed from the junction with Bridewell Street and Pewsey Road northwards to the junction with Kingsbury Street and New Road.
Kingsbury Street: Closed from the junction with the High Street north-westwards to Silverless Street.
New Road: Closed from the junction with the High Street eastwards to the junction with Barn Street and London Road.
These temporary measures are being implemented under Section 21 of the Town Police Clauses Act 1847 to prevent obstruction. While general traffic will be diverted, Wiltshire Council has confirmed that emergency service access will be maintained throughout both weekends. Additionally, provision has been made for buses to enter New Road when approaching from the direction of The Parade.
Fair-related vehicles will be permitted access to the affected roads during the setup and operation of the events. Motorists are advised to check local travel updates before travelling through the town centre during these dates.
Source: Swindon Advertiser - Lifestyle · View original