Hampshire Farmers’ Markets brings fabulous produce to seven towns and cities across the county each and every month. Showcasing the best of what Hampshire has to offer, all of our stallholders are the producers; small businesses based in rural areas growing and rearing their own to bring to customers.
Authentic Hampshire Foods
HFM has long supported rural businesses, offering advice and support and, most importantly, a shop front for their produce. To become a member and bring goods to market, producers have to fulfill specific criteria. Firstly, they must source at least 20% of their ingredients from Hampshire or within a 20-mile radius. It must also be that any produce that is grown, reared or raised must spend at least 50 per cent of its time with the producer.
HFM became an independent not for profit organisation in 2002 and the same year became accredited by FARMA (Farmers Retail & Markets Association), giving their customers assurance that the markets were affiliated to an official and respected organisation.
It’s fair to say a lot has changed over the last 20 years in terms of what consumers like to buy, what we like to eat and how we like to eat it. There is certainly a great fondness for farmers’ markets and people love the idea of having a local one to them. From bread to beer and gin to game, visitors are able to discover a varied range of produce. At every market there is usually hot food to go.
Hampshire Food Festivals & Special Food Events
Throughout the year HFM also organises and attends some of the best foodie festivals in the county. We are in Hamble each May for their Hamble Spring Festival and again in September for the Hamble Food Festival. The Alresford Watercress Festival is a regular on the annual calendar for May. It is always worth checking our markets page for upcoming events. Not only will you find the best in food and drink, but also live music, craft stalls, face painting and hands-on experiences for all the family.
All of our members have fabulous products, which we think need to be shared with everyone in Hampshire. Come along on a Saturday or Sunday to your local market to pick up something special and say hello to the friendly folk who are passionate about local produce.