The Old Gods Witch Market

The Anathema Witch Market is a monthly themed alternative market held inside the historic Royal Arcade in Boscombe, Bournemouth, between February and November each year. Created by Anathema Emporium as a celebration of creativity, folklore, community, and independent trade, the market has quickly become one of the South Coast’s most unusual and atmospheric events, drawing visitors from across Dorset and beyond.

Each market centres around a different seasonal or folkloric theme inspired by the wheel of the year, mythology, ancestral traditions, and the changing energies of the seasons. The Old Gods Witch Market is dedicated to ancient stories, divine masculine archetypes, old ways of living, sacred craft, and the enduring relationship between humanity and the natural world. Visitors can expect an immersive and welcoming environment filled with independent makers, artists, performers, readers, and small businesses offering a carefully curated range of handcrafted and alternative goods.

Stalls throughout the Arcade feature handmade jewellery, ritual tools, candles, crystals, incense, herbal products, gothic and alternative fashion, fantasy-inspired artwork, taxidermy art, leatherwork, natural skincare, curiosities, books, divination decks, home fragrance, and one-of-a-kind artisan creations. Alongside shopping, visitors can often experience tarot and oracle readings, live folk and acoustic music, demonstrations, workshops, and opportunities to meet makers passionate about traditional crafts and folklore-inspired artistry.

The market is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and welcoming to everyone, whether they actively follow pagan or spiritual paths, enjoy alternative culture, or are simply curious to experience something different. Many visitors attend in themed dress, adding to the atmosphere and sense of occasion, though no prior knowledge or participation is needed to enjoy the event.

Held within the Grade II listed Royal Arcade, built in 1892, the market also celebrates Boscombe’s rich Victorian heritage. The Arcade has long been associated with independent traders, creativity, entertainment, and spiritual curiosity. Anathema Emporium continues this tradition with what it describes as “a modern revival of Boscombe’s Victorian curiosity and fortune-telling culture,” helping to bring new life, footfall, and cultural activity into the historic shopping arcade and surrounding town centre.

The Anathema Witch Market has grown into a recognised community event known for its warm atmosphere, distinctive aesthetic, and support of small independent businesses. It offers visitors the opportunity to discover unusual handcrafted products, connect with artists and makers, explore folklore and seasonal traditions, and experience an event unlike anything else in the region.

The Royal Arcade has three public entrances and is located in the heart of Boscombe’s shopping district, close to cafés, independent shops, beaches, and local amenities.