Kendal Farmers’ Market has been named a national champion at a prestigious rural business awards ceremony.
Kendal Farmers’ Market won the Local Food and Drink Award category at the Countryside Alliance Awards this week, held at the House of Lords.
More than 50,000 people cast votes in the awards this year.
Kendal Farmers Market, which supports producers within 30 miles, continues a tradition dating back to 1189, when Richard I granted Kendal its Market Charter.
It is now one of the oldest farmers’ markets in the UK.
Since March 2024, the market has been held twice monthly on alternate Fridays. It currently has 35 stalls and said it was exploring opportunities to grow due to rising footfall, increased visitor spending and growing trader demand.
Harriet Pugh, a trader at the market from Sweet Treats by Martin Frickel, said: “It was an incredible honour to be at the House of Lords representing Kendal Farmers’ Market and the traders who make it what it is.
“Standing in a room celebrating rural businesses from right across the country, and knowing our market was being recognised as the very best for local food and drink, was a genuinely proud moment.
“It’s a real testament to the community spirit here in Kendal, and to the customers who turn out, month after month, to support us.’’
Market manager Marian Graveson added: “’We are absolutely thrilled to have won the national title as Local Food & Drink Champion in the Countryside Alliance Awards 2026, which is a fitting follow on to the North West award we received earlier this year.
“Kendal Farmers’ Market continues to go from strength to strength, and operating twice a month is a testament to the growing passion for high-quality, locally produced food and drink.
“This award celebrates not only the market itself, but the farmers, producers and artisans who work tirelessly to bring the very best of our region to Kendal. It was also lovely to have our local MP, Tim Farron, join us on the day to support the team; his encouragement means a great deal to everyone who works so hard to make the market a success.’’
