Geography
The market place is by far the largest in the district. It is tightly bordered on its south and west sides by ranges of two- and three-storey buildings. To the south-east, lies St Mary's Church with its large churchyard.
Of note for a relatively small town is that it is home to two working breweries, Black Sheep Brewery and Theakstons, situated only a few hundred yards from one another. It is also home to one of the oldest markets in the UK, receiving its first market charter in 1250. Wednesday and Saturday are market days, popular among both locals and visitors. Masham's importance as a major sheep market is the reason for the huge market place and its beautiful Georgian houses. The market originally thrived because of its nearness to Jervaulx and Fountains Abbeys, with the monks' large flocks of sheep. The annual Sheep Fair is in September.
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