The Edinburgh Farmers' Market is a weekly outdoor market that offers fresh and local produce, including meats, cheeses, bakery items, beer and a variety of foods and crafts from local producers. This award-winning weekly market is held all year long in the shadow of the historic Castle Terrace. In this market, you won't just find the normal staples. Here, you can find exotic fare, such as game meat like venison, plus homemade jellies and chutneys, handcrafted chocolate and home-brewed organic beers.
The market is a local, bustling staple that has served the city for nearly 2 decades. Many vendors offer home-cooking recipes for you to try when you pick up their goods, and you'll find many prepared dishes that you can eat at the market or on the go. The Edinburgh Farmers’ Market is consistently rated as one of the top farmers’ markets in the city.
Edinburgh Farmers' Market - one of the highlights of 14 Best Places to Go Shopping in Edinburgh (Read all about Edinburgh here)
Highlights and features of the Edinburgh Farmers' Market
The Edinburgh Farmers' Market provides just about every kind of common and specialty food you could think of, from meat, fish and dairy to fruits, vegetables and plants. You'll find beverages and juices, confections, pastries and candies, specialty produce and a rotating schedule of special featured events. The number of vendors changes seasonally but usually includes at least 10 stalls or vans and sometimes 50 or more.
Besides specialty local food items, you'll find arts and crafts, which may include leather works, handmade soaps, knitted specialty clothing from organic wool, and stalls that focus on educating visitors in neighborhoods such as farming, fermentation and cooking. Prepared food offerings can also be found, including homemade soups, salads, sausage rolls, pies and even vegan-friendly dishes. Whatever goods you're looking for, each stall is focused on locally sourced goods that are organic and sustainable.
Story of the Edinburgh Farmers' Market
Edinburgh has several high-quality outdoor markets and bazaars, but in 2001, the Edinburgh Farmers' Market appeared on the scene in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh Farmers' Market aims to provide an outlet for those who run local farms and who provide sustainable and locally sourced products. It also supports artisans and local businesses who offer creativity and sustainability. Additionally, it's among the only Scottish markets accredited by FARMA.
The Edinburgh Farmers' Market thrives today, surviving through economic downturns and keeping in compliance with all regulations and legislation to provide a fun, exciting and unique atmosphere to all shoppers. Visitors to the Farmers' Market have consistently found something new to enjoy, and for many, it has become a staple of their weekly shopping.
Good to know about the Edinburgh Farmers' Market
The Edinburgh Farmers' Market is only open on Saturdays but is held year-long. It's an outdoor market, so be sure to bundle up in the colder months. Parking is available on Castle Terrace and entry to the market is free.
Many producers allow for placing orders in advance through the market's website, so you can simply swing by and pick up your order. Some vendors offer delivery services so you can order and have your food or crafts brought to you. Check the Edinburgh Farmers' Market website for information on ordering delivery service from any of the participating vendors.
Edinburgh Farmers' Market
Location: Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EN, UK