A Cumbrian farmers’ market has been named the UK's Best Small Outdoor Market.
Kendal Farmers’ Market was awarded Best Small Outdoor Market 2026 at the Great British Market Awards, organised by the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA) and held this year at its annual conference in Birmingham.
The win highlights national recognition for the market's contribution to the local economy, sustainability, and community engagement.
David Catterall DL, chief executive of NABMA, said: "The judging panel at NABMA, made up of industry experts, all agreed that Kendal Farmers' Market absolutely deserved this award.
"We were really struck by how much they champion local producers and farms, and how genuinely committed they are to helping small sustainable businesses grow.
"Their work with education and the wider community really stood out.
"The team has clearly put in a huge amount of effort to build a market that’s become a real asset to Kendal and the surrounding area; they should be very proud."
Known for its strict producer-only policy, the market only features traders located within a 30-mile radius, ensuring all products are authentic, traceable, and locally made.
This approach has helped establish Kendal Farmers’ Market as a hub for high-quality, artisan food and goods.
Marian Graveson, manager of Kendal Farmers’ Market, said: "I would like to offer huge congratulations to everyone involved in Kendal Farmers’ Market on this fantastic achievement.
"This award highlights the strength of the partnership between the market, the local community, and Kendal as a whole.
"It demonstrates the market’s central role in supporting and guiding traders as they grow their businesses, while championing our local farming community and artisan producers.
"By attracting large numbers of visitors into the town every second Friday, the market also supports local bricks-and-mortar businesses, helping to create a vibrant and attractive place to shop where customers can access fresh, locally grown, reared, and crafted produce, which has become an increasingly popular and important part of Kendal’s community both from a business and residents' perspective."
The market has not only helped drive footfall into the town centre but has also played a significant role in supporting business growth.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic, Kendal Farmers’ Market has supported the launch of 31 new businesses.
Of these, 60 per cent have become regular stallholders, building loyal customer bases, while 20 per cent have grown to the point of moving into their own premises in the area.
The market’s proactive approach to supporting new traders includes help with regulations, display standards, and early promotional opportunities, helping them build confidence and find success.
Education also plays a role in the market’s success.
Food School demonstrations allow producers to showcase skills, test new ideas, and engage directly with customers.
Seasonal guest traders, like Lyth Valley Damson Co., keep the market fresh and appealing.
This latest award follows Kendal's previous success as Cumbria Farmer Award Food Retailer of the Year 2025.
The Great British Market Awards saw a record number of nominations this year, reflecting the growing recognition of the importance of markets in supporting communities, driving regeneration, and encouraging entrepreneurship.
The judging panel described the market as “a launchpad for sustainable small businesses” and praised its “strong educational links and community value.”
Kendal Farmers’ Market runs every second Friday and continues to draw visitors from across the region, highlighting the enduring appeal of shopping local and supporting Cumbrian producers.
Share