The Island Farmers' Market

Members of the Isle of Wight Farmers' market meet to sell their goods directly to the public.

When and Where

A Farmers' Market is one in which farmers, growers or producers from the local area sell their produce directly to the public. All the products on offer will have been grown, reared, caught, brewed, pickled, baked, or otherwise processed by the stallholder. The public can be confident of the origins of the foods, and ask the farmers involved questions about their produce. Farmers' markets offer food producers a low-cost opportunity to sell directly to the public.

Farmers' markets are good for the environment since the food sold is grown or processed in the locality. Thus they reduce distribution "food miles". Food sold in supermarkets is transported by aircraft, ship and by road - a major cause of congestion and pollution. Local farmers are also careful to reduce wasteful packaging and keen to foster a sense of community in the local area.

The Newport Market was set up with the help of the Island 2000 Trust as part of a strategy to re-vitalise Island town centres to make shopping a sociable and enjoyable experience. If you would like join the Island farmers' market contact them via their website.

Further information on farmers' markets and on NAFM certification standards is available from the National Association of Farmers' Markets (NAFM) website.

Isle of Wight Farmers Market

Rick Stein food hero

Royal Visit 2004