Where Are the Best Farmers Markets in the UK?
Welcome to the wonderful world of farmers' markets!
As proud advocates for British farmers and big believers in supporting local businesses, a farmers' market is often the perfect place for the Holland family to spend a weekend.
The independent stalls of these delicious food markets are stacked full of fresh produce, with everything from seasonal fruits and veggies to artisan bread and cheese. You can stock up your fridge and pantry, treat the kids (and yourself!) to something yummy, and even find great gift ideas.
For us, these markets are also a celebration of community, a nod to a bygone era when you knew your butcher, baker, and greengrocer by name. They are a way of connecting with our farmers - the people who grow the food we put on our tables - and hearing their stories, chatting with them, and learning how the produce is grown.
So, if you're looking for something to fill your upcoming Easter weekend with, what better way than by visiting some of the best farmers' markets the UK has to offer?
In this blog post, we're sharing some of our favourite markets to check out this Easter from all across the country. Grab your loved ones and lace up your walking boots, because it's time to fill our hearts (and our bellies!) with joy.
Please note that every effort has been made to provide the correct information here below, but refer to the official websites or social media platforms for each market to stay up-to-date.
1. The Big Easter Market: Lemon Quay, Truro
Date: Saturday, 30th March
Time: 9AM to 4PM
Mark your calendars as Lemon Quay transforms into The Big Truro Market, a celebration of spring and all things Easter!
A few exciting things happening are:
- 60+ Stalls: Full of hot cross buns, colourful vegetables, handmade crafts, and street food stalls selling freshly cooked churros and waffles.
- Live Music & Easter Trail: The kids will love the atmosphere and buzz, and there's an Easter Egg Hunt too (Note the time of 10AM for prize announcement!)
- Seasonal Produce: Fresh fish, meats, and a variety of fruits and veggies that you won't want to miss out on.
This promises to be a great day out for all the family, so enjoy!
2. Arngask Home Farm Easter Market: Glenfarg, Perth
Date: Saturday, 30th March
Time: 10AM to 4PM
Head to the Arngask Home Farm for a truly egg-citing Easter Market right on the farm!
Here's what you can look forward to:
- Family-Friendly Fun: This event is perfect for families. Kids will love seeing chicks, piglets, and chickens up close, plus there's face painting and an Easter Egg Hunt for extra fun.
- Fresh Lamb: You can pick up a fresh cut of lamb ready for Sunday dinner the next day. Truly from the farm to your fork!
- Small Business Food Producers: There is a great line-up of small businesses that will be selling fresh and hot food, ready for your lunch as well as stocking up the fridge.
Entry to the market is completely free, but make sure to grab your Eventbrite free ticket (available on their website) for speedy entry on the day.
3. Winchester Farmers' Market: Winchester, Hampshire
Date: Sunday, 31st March
Time: 9AM to 2PM
This market is not just any ordinary market—it's officially the largest Farmers' Market in the UK, boasting a whopping 95 stalls!
Here are a few reasons to check it out:
- Be Adventurous: Have you ever tried water buffalo steaks or ostrich meat? Well, now is your chance! Step outside your comfort zone and pick some up from this market.
- Local Flavours, Local Favourites: Support your local farmers and producers while enjoying the best flavours the region has to offer. Try gorgeous cheeses from Ellie's Dairy and a handmade pie from FNK Pie House.
- Community Vibes: There's a true community spirit here, with friends, family, and neighbours coming together over great food.
No doubt you'll find yourself there again - it runs on the second and last Sunday of every month.
4. Real Markets at Ripley Castle: Ripley, North Yorkshire
Date: Sunday, 31st March
Time: 10AM to 3PM
Located in the scenic village of Ripley, North Yorkshire, the Real Markets guarantee a fabulous day out for all the family.
What you can expect from the day:
- Easter Fun for Kids: Children over the age of 4 can jump into the excitement of crafting clay dishes, wands, or mobiles, as well as scavenging in the Ripley Castle Gardens and taking home a sunflower plant to look after themselves.
- Free Access to Gardens and Grounds: On market days, you can take advantage of free access to the Castle's gorgeous gardens and grounds.
- Local Talent and Produce: Support local businesses and pick up mouthwatering fresh foods - perfect for Easter holiday picnics or family dinners.
Plus, well-behaved dogs on leads are more than welcome to join in on the fun!
5. Taunton Farmers Market: Taunton, Somerset
Date: Thursday, 28th March
Time: 9AM to 2PM
Can you believe that Taunton Farmers Market is now in its 21st year? I suppose when you consider the countless awards it has won, it's not surprising that it continues to be so popular!
Here's a few good reasons to check it out:
- Community Spirit: Every Thursday, High Street transforms into a hub of small businesses, making it the perfect opportunity to 'buy local' and support the cooperative of farmers and producers.
- Local Delights: Enjoy a true taste of Somerset! Pick up some cider from J Budd & Sons, stock up on fresh veggies from Rays Veg Ltd, and treat yourself to gorgeous cheeses from the family-run Batch Farm Cheesemakers Ltd.
So, this Easter, join the community in celebrating at this ever-popular market. You can connect with the organisers over on Facebook too, and see more sneak peaks of the wonderful stalls!
6. Blackheath Farmers' Market: Blackheath, London
Date: Sunday, 31st March
Time: 10AM to 2PM
Most people will have heard of the Borough Markets in London, but the Blackheath Farmers Markets have made quite a name for themselves too! In fact, you might have caught them on BBC One's The Farmers Country Showdown.
A few reasons why it's so popular are:
- Taste the Seasons: From crunchy asparagus in spring to mouthwatering cherries in summer, Blackheath Farmers' Market serves up the best of each season, fresh for you.
- Community Minded: Swap hellos with farmers and artisans like old friends! It's the norm at these markets to become on first-name terms with the smiling faces behind the stalls.
- Sustainable Shopping: This market promotes BYOB (Bring Your Own Bags) and containers to cut down on plastic waste and show some love for Mother Earth. It's a win-win!
It's like a little village in the big city, so it's a great way to spend your Easter weekend.
7. Ashton Farmers and Producers Market: Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester
Date: Sunday, 31st March
Time: 9AM to 1PM
Something close to home for us! Held outside the historic market hall on Bow Street, it has a brilliant range of stalls to browse through.
- Mouthwatering Finds: From organic honey to oven-warm meat pies and extra gooey camembert, the stalls are overflowing with delicious treats that will make your Easter celebration extra special.
- Farm-to-Table Feast: Pick up everything you need for an Easter feast, with local meats, cheeses, pies, cakes, chutneys, and veggies all available to buy fresh.
- Grab a Bargain: In true Northern fashion, there's a part of the market where everyone flocks to bag themselves a fantastic bargain! Look out for the popular "giant table-top market", which is held under covered gazebos.
All items are fresh and grown locally, and this market has continued to grow in popularity over recent years. They even got a mention in the Manchester Evening News!
8. Edinburgh Farmers' Market: Edinburgh, Scotland
Date: Saturday, 30th March
Time: 9AM to 2PM
Start your Saturday right and swing by the Edinburgh Farmers' Market, nestled in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle ramparts on Castle Terrace.
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Fresh Fare: From succulent cuts of venison, beef, chicken, lamb, and pork to an array of seasonal fruits and vegetables, Edinburgh Farmers' Market boasts a diverse selection of fresh produce that's second to none. Whether you're planning a hearty Sunday roast or a vibrant salad, you'll find everything you need right here.
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Artisanal Goodies: Indulge your cravings with an assortment of artisanal treats, including juicy jams, chutneys, chillies, and cheeses. Pair them with crusty bread, handmade chocolates, or organic beer for the ultimate gourmet experience. Trust us—you won't leave empty-handed!
This market is a continual highlight on the Scottish culinary calendar, and you'll soon see why if you pop along this Easter.
9. Kendal Farmers Market: Kendal, Lake District
Date: Friday, 29th March
Time: 8AM to 3:30PM
The Lakes are always a gorgeous place to be, and, if you find yourself up there this Easter then make sure you take a trip to Kendal Farmers Market.
- Meet the Makers: As you wander through the market, you'll have the chance to connect with the talented farmers and artisans behind the products. From Mrs Kirkham’s Lancashire Cheese Co. to The Flying Chocsman and Deer and Dexter Venison & Beef, each vendor has a story to share and is eager to connect with you.
- Local Love: A beautiful market square filled with the freshest fruits, veggies, cheeses, and homemade goodies—all sourced from local producers who pour their hearts and souls into their craft.
Some of Cumbrian's finest farmers are ready to show you the best of British food, so check it out and pick up some great goodies!
10. Stroud Farmers’ Market, Stroud
Date: Saturday, 30th March
Time: 9AM to 2PM
Well-known as one of the biggest, busiest, and most popular farmers' markets in the UK, this is definitely one to go to if you live locally.
- Award-Winning Excellence: Stroud Farmers’ Market held the prestigious title of Best Farmers’ Market in the UK for 2013, awarded by FARMA, and it also has made headlines in everything from the Sunday Telegraph to the Country Living Guide.
- Artisan Producers: Gorgeous food is on offer here, including sweet treats from the Humble Crumb Bakery. We took one look at their Curly Wurly, Buttons, and Caramel Freddo cookies (pictured above), and almost hopped on a train straight down there!
Located on Cornhill Market Place & Surrounding Streets, it's a great place for you and your family to be this Easter.
Summary
At Hollands, we're all about supporting local. It's not just about fresher produce or unique finds; it's about backing the hardworking folks who keep our countryside thriving.
If you've enjoyed our farmers' market tour, why not dive deeper into country living? Check out our other blog posts, including one which shares some of our favourite farm-to-table dishes that you can enjoy making with all your treats from the markets.
Are you heading to a farmers market this Easter? Please share your favourite spots in the comments below - we'd love to hear from you.
From all of us here at Hollands Country Clothing, we wish you a fantastic Easter filled with good food, great company, and the simple joys of country life. See you at the market!
About the Author
With her extensive firsthand experience of farm life and a keen eye for quality, Sarah Holland's advice on womens country clothing reflects her genuine appreciation for the joys and comfort of rural living. Whether it's a smart tweed jacket for a formal occasion or durable wellies for muddy walks, she knows what works for life in the countryside. Sarah loves sharing her knowledge and insights to help others discover the perfect attire for their outdoor lifestyle.
