Top 5 Farmers' Markets

Farmers' markets are fast becoming one of the most popular ways to obtain healthy locally produced food in Scotland. We've picked our top 5 from around the country.

Farmers markets have, of course, been around for a very long time, but interest dwindled as the larger supermarkets and convenience stores moved in. Now it's a different story – as demand for organic food and support for local farmers and producers is now at an all time high, the farmers' market is experiencing a renaissance.

With around forty markets operating on a monthly, twice monthly or weekly basis under the banner of the Scottish Association of Farmers' Markets alone, there are plenty to choose from all over Scotland. Find one near you by visiting the Scottish Association of Farmers' Markets website.

We've picked five from across the country that are definitely worth a visit...

Aberdeen

Belmont Street
Last Saturday of every month
9am-5pm
Tel: 01224 649000

This is one of the largest farmers' markets in Scotland and regularly attracts over 30,000 visitors every month. With around 40 stalls offering a range of local produce as well as craft and artisan stalls, this market has plenty to offer everyone.

Blairgowrie Community Market

Fourth Saturday of every month
9am-2pm
Tel: 018280 640763

Set in the pleasant surroundings of Strathmore, this area is famous for its soft fruit and the market attracts many people looking for ingredients for jams and preserves between May and October. That's not all on offer here though as up to 20 local producers offering a wide variety of local foods are also represented and the town has many attractions for anyone wishing to have a nice day out.

Balerno

Main Street
Second Saturday of every month
10am-1pm,
Tel: 01738 449430

Although smaller than the main Edinburgh Farmers' Market, this monthly market in nearby Balerno is well worth a visit and has a wide range of products on offer from the surrounding area. The main street where the market takes place is a great example of Scotland's traditional village high street that has been well maintained and provides and idyllic setting.

Stirling

Maxwell Place
Second Saturday of every month
9am-2pm
Tel: 01877 330151

This popular and busy market is very well supported by the locals and it's not hard to see why with its excellent cross section of producers from all over Central Scotland, easy access and car parking. The market is well organised and there's lots to do in the surrounding area as well, ensuring that it has a great family atmosphere.

Perth

King Edward Street
First Saturday of every month
9am-2pm
Tel: 01738 450417

This was the first Farmers' Market to be established in Scotland and it still takes place in the traditional market place – a feature of many Scottish villages, towns and cities. With producers from the local area's rich farmland and many stalls offering speciality foods there is a great range from basics to luxuries on offer.