A popular independent and sustainable market returns to Discovery Quay (formerly Events Square) in Falmouth next month, bringing local produce to the quayside twice a week. Discovery Market will pop up outside the National Maritime Museum every Thursday and Saturday, 10am – 4pm, from 4th May onwards and promises an irresistible line-up of local artisan producers and a strong sustainable ethos.
The twice-weekly gathering of food and drink traders alongside art and craft makers will also see a revolving selection of street food stalls make an appearance, tempting locals and visitors alike with everything from sweet treats to nourishing lunches on the go. The soundtrack to this colourful waterside market will be provided by young local musicians and talented buskers; anyone keen for an opportunity to perform should contact the organisers.
Discovery Market is sister to Truro Farmers Market and is run with the same commitment to giving local enterprises a platform to sell direct – reducing food miles, lowering carbon emissions, and keeping hard-earned cash in the local economy.
Da Bara Bakery will be putting in regular appearances at the market, as will Herland Roots – a market garden which produces an array of fruit and veg at their ¾ acre site near Hayle. The exact mix of traders will change on a weekly basis so there’ll always be something new to discover, with everything from jewellery to organic skincare, hand-thrown ceramics to sustainable swimwear in the mix.
The market took place throughout spring and summer 2023, creating a vibrant gateway to the town for those arriving in Falmouth via boat or train, and conveniently located for locals looking to stock up with their favourite goodies for the weekend – from handcrafted beers to sustainable seafood.
Market Director Stewart Girvan said: “The location is perfect as the stalls can be spread out over the square, creating a relaxing shopping experience with plenty of opportunities to tuck into some street food or enjoy the laidback live music performances. The mix of traders will showcase Cornish creativity and our amazing local food and drink, against the beautiful backdrop of the waterfront in Falmouth.”
The market was previously designated ‘plastic free’, but as Stewart explained this was too restrictive for small food traders and so the rules have been relaxed for 2024.
He said: “Our ambition is to make our markets as sustainable and low-impact as possible, but the use of plastic is still so ubiquitous in the food trade – often for health and safety reasons – that last years’ rules excluded too many brilliant small local food and drink businesses from taking part. Our traders naturally care hugely about the local environment and have their own carefully considered sustainability strategies in place, as does the market as a whole.”
Discovery Market is currently accepting applications from prospective traders via the website www.discoverymarket.co.uk.
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