About Handleys

'Handleys' is a family business based at Chelmsford Retail Market selling haberdashery, fabric and craft to the general public. Established in 1965 by Pauline and Brian Handley, the business travelled to Sudbury, Chelmsford, Braintree and Clacton markets every week before settling permanently under cover at Chelmsford. 

Initially, the business sold mainly general haberdashery lines before expanding to stock craft lines and, more recently, fabric in 2014.

Pauline still works part time at the market with Brian taking a more administrative role. Today, both Clare and Chris Handley play an important role in the running of the business and at least one of them can be found at the market on most days that it's open.

On our product pages you will find a taster of the products we stock on a regular basis although please be aware that due to our quick turnover of stock and suppliers constantly updating their lines, we cannot guarantee that any one particular line will be available at the time of your visit.

The website is purely intended to give you an idea of the stock that we carry at the stall and is not currently an online shop.

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Friday - 8.30 am to 4.00 pm

Saturday - 8.30 am to 5.00 pm

Sunday & Monday - Closed

How To Find Us

Handleys Haberdashery, Fabric & Craft

Units 69, 72, 73, 74,  Chelmsford Retail Market, (library end of the market beneath the multi storey car park)

Bellmead, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1LE

For enquires please email info@handleys1965.co.uk