He was the fourth son of a family of thirteen, who were all of normal build. At the age of 20 he was an amazing seven feet and nine inches tall, and weighed 27 stones. He died on the 30th May 1820.

He spent some years as the 'Yorkshire Giant' with a group of travelling showmen, before eventually retiring to his native Market Weighton.
After his death he was buried in the grounds of All Saints Church, but as it was feared that body snatchers might attempt to steal his remains, he was later re-interred inside the church itself.

William Bradley's house in York Road, Market Weighton.
The house was constructed for him, with rooms and doorways large enough to accommodate his exceptional build.

William Bradley's house in York Road, Market Weighton. The house was constructed for him, with rooms and doorways large enough to accommodate his exceptional build.

Market Weighton Chamber of Trade plan to locate a life size bronze statue of William Bradley in a prominent position within the town, hopefully to enhance the tourist attractions available.

The Chamber of Trade commissioned sculptor Chris Wormald to produce this magnificent prototype miniature statue, which stands a tiny one foot tall compared to the 7 feet 9 inches of the final version.

Funds are being raised to complete the project, and hopefully the life size statue will a reality in the not too distant future.

William Bradley is an essential part of Market Weighton's recent history, and his life has been celebrated each year at the annual 'Giant Bradley Day' celebrations, the first celebration taking place in May 1996. During the celebrations the main street through the town is closed to traffic so that the local population, and the many visitors to the town, can enjoy the various stalls, exhibitions, entertainers, etc. This is a wonderful day for everyone, especially the children, and should not be missed.

Christopher Greener, Europe's tallest man at seven feet six and a quarter inches, just under
three inches shorter than William Bradley, is a regular visitor to
Market Weighton's William Bradley Day celebration.

Watch the Giant Bradley Day video 2008