Sunday morning stroll around a Scottish farmers market? It doesn’t get much better than that. It’s no surprise Scotland has some of the best farmers’ markets (we’re definitely not biased…) – according to the Scottish Agricultural Census in June 2023, 69% of Scotland’s land is for agriculture.
That’s a seemingly never-ending 5.33 million hectares of land. Not sure what 5.33 million hectares of land looks like? It’s 13165100 football pitches, to be precise. You’re probably not even sure what that looks like – then again, neither are we.
But this expansive landscape breeds the freshest local produce you’ll ever lay eyes on. And if you’re doing more than window shopping, our motorhome hire customers always tell us it’s the freshest produce that’s ever tantalised their taste buds. Don’t get us started on the traditional farmers market buzzing atmosphere you simply can’t find anywhere else.
Hungry for more? Below, we’ll tell you about four of the best Scottish farmers markets not to miss this Autumn.
Edinburgh Farmers’ Market
With over 1,100 reviews and 4.5 stars on Google, Edinburgh Farmers’ Market is a great place to start. Started in 2000, this market has 24 years of experience bringing the best Scottish produce suppliers and putting them into one great market.
The Edinburgh Farmers’ Market is the Rolls Royce (or the Etrusco T7400, if we’re talking motorhomes) of farmers markets. Located at the NCP Castle Terrace Car Park, Castle Terrace, Edinburgh and voted Market Of The Year four years in a row (2018, 2019,2020 & 2021), this isn’t one to miss. And if you don’t want to miss it, ensure you’re there every Saturday between 9 am – 2 pm.
You’ll find everyone who’s anyone here, from the Arran Cheese Shop to East Coast Organics, and the atmosphere is always great. We’d personally recommend visiting the Creelers stand for the freshest seafood. Or, if that isn’t your thing, pop over to the Hammond Charcuterie stand for the most delectable charcuterie board essentials.
Take a coat in Autumn – Edinburgh is wetter than most people expect.
Kelso Farmers Market
Now, onto the more recent winner of a Scottish farmers market award. Winning the Market of the Year Award at the Rare Breeds Survival Trust’s (RBST) Scotland Food & Farming Sustainability Awards, the Kelso Farmers market has over 20 years of experience in a stunning location. Becoming a regular home to over 24 stands every 4th Saturday of each month, you’ll find this delightful market in The Square, Kelso.
What made this farmers market award-winning? We’d say everything. It’s a non-profit organisation that sends all the proceeds made on the day back to the local community in charity donations. The small, independently run small businesses consistently produce some of the finest foods and drinks you’ll ever see.
It’s open from 9:30 to 1:30 during Autumn and is well worth a visit if you’re looking for a traditional Scottish farmers market with a wholesome vibe.
Aberdeen Country Fair and Market
Another Rolls Royce (or Etrusco A7300), the Aberdeen Country Fair and Market will show you what a real Scottish farmers market is like. Attracting up to 30,000 people each day, the atmosphere is what a true Scottish farmer’s market should feel like.
What started in 2000 as a small market in the courtyard of The Academy Shopping Centre, quickly grew into a Scottish farmers market phenomenon, moving to Belmont Street to cope with the ever-increasing crowds desperate to get their hands on Aberdeen’s freshest local produce.
Aberdeen is famous for producing some of the most well-known produce sold across the globe, including the Aberdeen Angus beef steak. If steak isn’t your thing, wander over to the fish stands with freshly caught fish coming straight to the market from Aberdeen and Peterhead harbours. And don’t get us started on the vibrant selection of fruits and vegetables,
It’s no surprise that you’ll find some of (if not the) Aberdeen produce at this market.
The market runs on the first and last Saturday of the month, running between 9 am to 5 pm. If you want our advice, go early to avoid the crowds…unless you love the hustle and bustle of a busy farmers market.
There are so many other great farmers markets in Scotland that are perfect for an autumn stroll – the Loch Lomond Shores, Glasgow, St Andrews: our list could and would never end. Top tip: you’re not doing a farmers market right if you don’t take every free sample, and maybe even do a second lap for more.
