The ancient heart of Bromley, the Market square, was redeveloped in 1863 when an all purpose town hall (centre background), was erected.

At various times it housed the police, the local board, the literary institute and meeting rooms.

The market, established in 1205, continued to meet weekly outside.

By the time of this photo the increased traffic in the town centre conflicted with the market and most of the town hall functions had been transferred elsewhere. So, in 1933, the market was moved to Station Road and the town hall and island shops demolished to be replaced by the present suburban style mock tudor block.

Payne's returned after the rebuild and continue to trade from the same site today.

Photograph taken on 2nd February 1929.