Makers markets are really making a comeback and as the breadth of talented creative small businesses steps up a gear, we spoke to Nicki from Pedddle (who is an expert in these matters) to find out where to find the top 10 markets in Britain...
Spot On Design Market, Scotland
Pedddle was founded when I realised that there was a lack of informative websites to help you find makers markets and events.
Nicki, Pedddle.com - Founder
What should we expect to see at a makers market?
Firstly, most of the markets host food and craft stalls. A healthy mix of both makes for a great event. However, some do just focus on either the food or the art and craft stalls and these are great to attend too as you get some really interesting and special stuff.
The markets I have chosen for my Top 10 list are in no particular order and are spread out around the country so there is something for everyone. We believe there to be over 3000 creative markets (varying in size) happening across the UK so there will most certainly be one near you.
Scotland
Spot On Design Market, Glasgow
They hosted their first market in late spring and it looked fantastic. Keep watching this market. It is due to return for the Winter Edit on Saturday 16th November, 2019, 11am - 4pm. Location: Southside Glasgow.
We can’t wait!
England
Northern Craft Fair, Sheffield
Northern Craft host many markets in Sheffield, Leeds, York and Gateshead throughout the year.
These craft events are forward thinking and uber cool. The team behind Northern Craft started with a dream of creating a community in which makers can grow and thrive - exactly what we hope from market organisers!
Haddon Hall Artisan Markets, Bakewell, Derbyshire
Haddon Hall hosts 3 markets throughout the year so be sure to pop them in your diary.
With over 90 stall holders plus live music and a Prosecco van or mulled wine (depending on the season) they really are a treat. The location and the grand Georgian listed hall, which is accessible within the price of tickets for the Spring and Winter markets, makes the event a really special occasion.
The Pop-up in the Palm House, Liverpool
The Pop-up in the Palm House, Liverpool
When this market comes to town it is one of the real delights of Liverpool. Held in Sefton Park’s Palm House, the setting is fabulous and the stalls are stunning. You will not be disappointed here: there is a healthy mix of food, drink, arts and crafts makers and the quality is certainly very high.
South Coast Makers Markets, Bournemouth
Showcasing over 25 makers and artists plus locally sourced food and drink from the local area. Jo and her team are really keen to do their bit and support local makers in and around the Bournemouth area. It's a plastic free market too - bonus!
Native Makers, Devon
They host a monthly market in Cornwall and have a Winter market in Plymouth on the horizon too. These markets have a really unique vibe and the quality of makers is outstanding.
SoLo Craft Market, London
The Green Rooms Market, London
London:
SoLo Craft, South London based organisation run by Catherine and Rebecca.
They pride themselves in running a craft market that dedicates time to promoting their individual stall holders, musicians and workshop leaders, which gives them a good platform to grow their business.
The Collective Markets - Curators and SE London residents Jayne & Kat established The Collective in 2018. Their aim was to bring together communities of unique and diverse businesses and workshops to showcase their work in exciting & inspiring social spaces. Their markets have a great community feel and each stall holder is hand-picked.
Always original, never mass produced.
The Green Rooms Market, London
These are, as the name suggests, predominantly botanical markets featuring a whole host of goodies for those with green (or greening!) fingers.
The markets are full to the brim with plants, foliage, pots, macrame and more for your home.
We love these events as they are just a little different and everything is made by talented craftspeople so well worth a visit.
Wales
Craft Festival, Cardiff
Craft Festival, Cardiff
Originally at Mill Marsh Park Bovey Tracey, Craft Festival are expanding and it is great to see such highly selective craft focused events gaining momentum - they now also hold events in Cardiff and Cheltenham.
The Cardiff event features over 100 makers, with stalls, plus a selection of workshops, masterclasses, demos and music.
The next event is at Cardiff City Hall, 1 - 3 November 2019.
If you want to find out what is on near you each week take a look at the Pedddle market timeline.
If you enjoyed this have a read our other blogs about 'What's On' >
