The Wimbledon Farmers’ Market was established 24 years ago, in May 2000. It has since become a focal point of the local community, providing an amazing variety of produce sold by cheerful and welcoming stallholders.

 

The market is held at Wimbledon Park Primary School every Saturday, and, for many local residents, it is a regular part of their week to buy groceries, flowers, and other organic produce there. Over 52 businesses sell their goods at the market, whether they are seasonal stalls or weekly constants. For example, ‘The Tomato Stall’ are one of the most popular regular suppliers at the market, garnering long queues, and selling high quality, affordable tomatoes, straight from the Isle of Wight. Another, more seasonal seller, is ‘The Culinary Herb Company’, who provide small potted herbs that buyers can take home, and grow themselves! The stallholders are incredibly passionate, with seemingly infinite knowledge they are more than happy to bestow on anyone who is interested.

 

The Farmers’ Market truly does have something for everyone, and many stalls also sell items that are vegan, or free from common allergens such as gluten and dairy. ‘Cakehole’ is a great example of this, selling delicious baked goods, including a variety of gluten-free options.

 

Sustainability is also a key part of the Wimbledon Farmers’ Market, with many stallholders committed to providing organic produce with a lower environmental impact. ‘Wild Country Organics’ sells fruit and vegetables grown without any artificial heating, so their produce is truly seasonal, and often in high demand when it is available. ‘Bradfields Farm Dairy’ are also focused on reducing their environmental impact, using glass bottles to minimise plastic waste. Based in Essex, they also do not have far to travel, so help to offset carbon emissions.

 

The London Farmers’ Markets organisation, which helps to coordinate the Wimbledon Farmers’ Market, as well as 18 other markets throughout London, also encourages those attending to be as environmentally friendly as possible. Buyers bring their own reusable bags, and much of the produce sold is packaged in reusable containers, or paper bags. The market is a great way to connect with the local community: a large proportion of those living nearby attend, and stallholders build up a great relationship with their customers. I would highly recommend attending the Farmers’ Market in your local area, to buy produce of exceptional quality, and support small businesses!