Real Markets Ltd run ‘Yorkshire’s friendliest markets’, as they are known, and this week we got to find out what makes them so special. We spoke to organiser Lucy about how she creates such a friendly atmosphere, how Real Markets are packed full of brilliant stallholders, producers and makers, and other reasons that you should visit (as if that’s not enough!).
Check out our Q&A below…
What makes Real Markets ‘Yorkshire’s friendliest markets’?
We are incredibly proud to have built a range of markets in beautiful locations, with Yorkshire’s friendliest traders.
We are known as ‘Yorkshire’s Friendliest Markets’, and that is down to our carefully selected traders, many of whom have been trading with us since we first started years ago. We really do have the best selection of Yorkshire-based producers, makers and suppliers, and the wonderful family atmosphere at our markets is down to them – they’re all friendly, approachable and knowledgeable.
8 years ago we also made a commitment to offer free stalls to local community projects and charities, and in that time we have met, and given a platform to, hundreds of inspiring people and organisations, from pre-schools to hospices, charity bike rides across America, and support for children’s mental health initiatives. We continue to explore other ways to support local causes.
How long have Real Markets been running for?
We started the Real Markets in Yorkshire around 2014-15, so well over 8 years now!
As they’re so long-established, we’ve got a really good following and reputation now.
What is your newest market, and why is it worth visiting?
Our newest market is Real Markets at Ripley Castle – click here to see when it’s next on!
We are incredibly fortunate to hold all our monthly markets in stunning venues (for example Ilkley in the shadow of the mighty Ilkley Moor, Grassington in the stunning cobbled marketplace at the centre of a town now famous for being Darrowby in All Creatures Great and Small), and now we hold a monthly market in the grounds of one of Yorkshire’s most beautiful castles, which has been occupied by the same family for over 700 years! This venue is truly special and alive with history.
The market we hold there is free to enter, taking place in the Castle Courtyard of Ripley. As well as a fabulous line-up of local and speciality producers and makers, you can enjoy free access to Ripley Castle’s estate grounds and gardens on market days.
What is your favourite market to date?
It’s impossible to say – that’s like choosing between children! All of our markets are special – our venues each seem to generate wonderful welcoming and friendly atmospheres.
However, Ilkley will always be special to us as it was our very first market. Click here to find out more about it.
As well as your regular/monthly markets, tell us about your one-off events…
We appear throughout the year in Skipton High Street for special events, and in the summer we are holding summer pop-ups in a fabulous venue on the edge of Harrogate, The Outside Inn, with stunning views of the Yorkshire Dales.
Click here to find out about the next Skipton Foodie Weekend in August 2023.
Keep an eye on Pedddle for details of our other upcoming events! Click here to browse all upcoming Real Markets events on Pedddle.
A huge thanks to Lucy for taking the time to talk to us! Click here for the Real Markets website.