A Tour around the Stalls at Kelso Farmers’ Market in July

Kelso Farmers’ Market is one of my favourite markets to have a stroll around. Back in February, I had a wander around the Kelso Farmers’ Market. It was a cold but sunny day and it was great to see so many stalls on display.

I was back in Kelso in July and, as if they changed it just for me, the Farmers’ Market was a week early so I could have another mooch. This time it was a gloriously hot sunny day and there were some different stalls for me to tell you about.

The stalls at Kelso Farmers’ Market

Hardiesmill Beef

Hardiesmill is a family run business who raise only pedigree Aberdeen Angus cattle on their farm north west of Kelso. One of the upcoming generation, Richard, 12, was keeping an eye on the stall when I visited. Hardiesmill prides itself in their ethically raised cattle on grass and grass-silage and it shows in the quality of their meat. Although most of their business is trade, they do bring a range of their cuts to Kelso farmers’ Market. Have a look at their website – Hardiesmill.

Stichill Jerseys

It was a surprise to see a fridge in the square in Kelso, but for the Stichill Jerseys it is essential. Their fresh Jersey creams, handmade butter and delicious cheesecakes in vanilla, double chocolate, blueberry and stem ginger and apple pie flavours all need to be kept chilled in the July heat. They also offer a range of tasty home baked tarts, quiches and smooth lemon curd. The mother and daughter team are based near Kelso and prefer to use traditional methods for their production of the cheese and cream. Check out their Facebook page at Stichill Jerseys

Ginger House Garden

The exquisite floral bouquets on sale at the Ginger House Garden stall were stunning. They are artfully casual arrangements with all the seasonal British flowers grown on the family farm near Berwick-upon-Tweed. I had a quick look at their Instagram account @gingerhousegarden and was blown away by the variety and colour! They specialise in growing flowers for weddings, florists, farmers markets and local bouquets. Contact the girls on their website – Ginger House Garden

Nourish by Rebecca

If you are looking for indulgent gluten-free, dairy-free and refined sugar-free goodies, look no further than Nourish by Rebecca. From granolas to raw bites or oat and seed bars and these amazing raspberry and cacao raw cakes, every bit is a delight. Rebecca changes the flavour of her raw cakes monthly so look out for other delicious combinations. One thing that I am particularly impressed by is Rebecca’s commitment to using sustainable packaging and the majority used is made from plants & not plastic. Check out the Nourish by Rebecca’s Facebook page for information on classes, recipes and her shop.

Going Native Butchers

Mary Howlett believes in keeping the tradition of native breed cows and sheep and she believes that their meat needs to be appreciated. Interestingly, Mary sources all the meat either directly from local farms or through livestock markets. Along with her 2 butchers, she produces an amazing selection of sausages, pies, steaks all with provenance. There were also locally caught fresh haggis!

Northern Ark Nursery

I do have a soft spot for plant stalls and imagine my garden at home blooming with all the wonderful plants and herbs on offer. So I couldn’t resist having a chat with Simon on the Northern Ark Nursery stall. All the plants were so vibrant and healthy with a great range of hardy perennials, shrubs and herbs. I must admit that I indulged in an unusual Campunula “Pink Octopus”.The nursery is based in Morpeth in Northumberland, but they are regulars at the Kelso Farmers’ Market. Have a look at their website www.northernarknursery.co.uk

Luckie Beans Coffee

The aroma of freshly ground coffee lured me over to the Luckie Beans stall. Ground and then brewed in front of you, a cup of Luckie Beans coffee is perfect every time. With intriguing names such as Mexico Terruno Narayita, Peru Emmeline, Sumatra Mandheling Grade 1 or even Molten Candy, there is a coffee roast to suit all tastes. The beans are available whole or ground to the correct fineness for espresso, filter, cafetiere or aeorpress. The Luckie Bean website gives you the background behind each blend and you can order online.

Lyne Organics

With enticing scents including lavender, clary sage and ylang ylang, I had to have a look at the Lyne Organics stall. The Natural Organic Home Fragrances using special blends of organic wax, base and essential oils from around the world to create harmony in your home. Using all organic ingredients and with beautiful packaging, these really are a treat. The range includes toiletries, shampoos, body lotions, candles, reed diffusers, burner oils & bath salts. Maggie also provides a Wedding and Special occasion gift box service. Check out Lyne Organics on Facebook

Wonky Woolies

Now I do have to admit that it was a surprise to see a stall selling woolly hats and scarves in the middle of summer, but we are in Scotland. Alison explained that she was testing out her new autumn colours and sales were actually quite brisk! Set up in 2010, Alison and her team of skilled local knitters make and finish all the hats and scarves by hand. Fancy your own personalised hat? Wonky Woolies also offer a customising service for your own logo or name. For 10% off your order enter KELSO10 on the checkout page at the website – www.wonkywoolies.com.

About Kelso Farmers’ Market

If you are in the Borders area, try to make it along to the market. It is on every fourth Saturday of the month in the Square from 9.30 to 1.30pm. Check out the Kelso Farmers’ Market on Facebook for upcoming dates. The next market is on Saturday 25th August.

Future dates for Kelso Farmers’ Market:

August – Saturday 25
September – Saturday 28
October – Saturday 26
November – Saturday 23

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Do you have a Farmer’s Market near you? What is your go-to stall? We’d love to hear from you!

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