Posted by Maris on 31st Oct 2023
10 Best Markets in Scotland To Enjoy Local Culture
The numerous markets in Scotland provide a magnificent display of local items, arts & crafts, and antique apparel. These are fantastic social gatherings that are intertwined with the cultural fabric. If you consider yourself a self-professed bargain hunter or are looking for ways to support local companies, browse our list of the greatest Scottish markets.
1. Barras Market
The iconic Barras Market is undoubtedly worth a visit, even if only for nostalgia reasons, even if it lacks the excitement of the past. A world of bargains awaits in Glasgow's East End (look for those enticing archways). The number of odd stalls will keep you busy for hours, and those who prefer separating rubbish from treasure will feel perfectly at home. In fact, the Barras is a must-see for hardcore flea market aficionados, and it has been around since the early 1900s, when traders operated from handcarts.
2. Aberdeen Country Fair
The Aberdeen Country Fair, a well-planned event, emerges in the heart of the city on the last Saturday of the month. Drop by any time between 9 am and 5 pm to browse the countless stalls meticulously set up beneath gazebos. With a variety of fresh meat, fish, cheese, artisan beer, fine spirits, home baking, arts, crafts, and jewelry, the tribe of local producers is always ready to tantalize and pique attention.
3. Kelso Farmers Market
If you happen to be in or around Kelso on the fourth Saturday of the month, make a point of stopping by the Kelso Farmers Market. We swear it'll be worth it! Combining organic pork, vegetables, purebred Aberdeen Angus cattle, homemade baked products, bread, and eggs results in a veritable epicurean's feast. In Kelso Square, critically acclaimed Scottish Borders cuisine will be served.
4. Loch Lomond Shores Farmers Market
The Loch Lomond Shores Farmers Market is the starship in the Scottish market universe. The entire spectacle is expertly orchestrated and, to put it mildly, fantastic. It includes the usual suspects of sinfully rich cheeses, homemade jams, macarons, chutneys, oils, shortbread, and artisanal bread, in addition to seasonal stock like particular vegetables, rare breed meats, specific seafood, and more.
Waffles, churros, street cuisine, cold process soaps, fudge, and bratwurst are just a few examples of welcomed wildcards. Loch Lomond stands out thanks to its seasonal focus, preference for handmade foods, and picturesque setting.
5. Perth Farmers Market
Perth boasts an ethereal farmers' market that looks like an outdoor delicatessen. The booths were started in 1999 by James Fairlie, a sheep farmer in the area, and each year they improve. The 45 or so vendors offer a diverse selection of regional goods and are open on the first Saturday of each month. Aside from the quantity of samples, the monthly cooking demonstrations by properly educated local chefs may be the highlight of the event.
6. Fair City Markets
The Fair City Markets are a valuable addition to Perth's already illustrious market scene. They attract ardent consumers looking to support local companies, as well as Upcyclers and knick-knack hunters. Seasonal commodities such as plants and shrubs, trees, Christmas decorations, arts and crafts, gifts, paintings, pottery, and food and drink are stacked high and inviting at these sporadic markets. These mixed fairs are appealing because they are unique.
7. Montrose Makers Market
The Montrose Makers Market, with its selection of handcrafted goods and upmarket purchases, is a wonderful example of the incredible talent that exists in Scotland, particularly in Angus. As a place for artists and creative types, there are numerous wonderful finds and works of art available. From cute skilled knits to beautifully embellished pottery, there will be plenty of lust-worthy gift inspiration.
8. Urban Market
If you appreciate craft beer and have a strong desire to defy the existing quo, Glasgow's Urban Market is one to keep an eye on. This market, held on the first and third Sundays of each month at the Drygate Brewery, attracts hipsters with its well-curated stalls selling anything from crocheted cacti and natural cosmetics to scented soap, oil paintings, and stylish t-shirts. It's a win-win situation because of the wonderful cuisine and fantastic drinks.
9. A Spoonful Of Vintage
Keep an eye out for A Spoonful Of Vintage, a vintage fair of epic proportions made specifically for fashion connoisseurs and brought to us by The Vintage Vendors. Clothing, accessories, pottery, furniture, and home products are all available at these seasonal markets. Naturally, all of the significant eras are represented at the fair in a mash-up of flashbacks that wish to return to their glory days.
10. European Christmas Market
Edinburgh transforms into a beautiful winter wonderland the instant December arrives, made even more joyous by the European Christmas Market. The top producers, craftsmen, craftspeople, and foodies from near and far are invited to this yearly Christmas market to put on a meal fit for a king.
The endless variety of sausages and cured meats are complemented by copious amounts of mulled wine and adult hot chocolate. Similar to how the traditional German Christmas ornaments are best enjoyed while admiring, the Belgian chocolate fondue delights. Be prepared for everything!