Get ahead with your Christmas shopping with unique local gifts at the New Forest Marque’s Autumn Market.
The popular event which showcases the best in locally-produced food, drink, arts and crafts will be at a new venue this year – Shallowmead Nurseries in Lymington, on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 October.
Image: Shallowmead Nurseries
The Market offers a fantastic opportunity for Marque members to showcase their artisan produce in one place, and will give visitors a chance to support and shop local independent makers whilst getting a head start on their Christmas shopping. With over 20 different stall holders across both days, expect everything from award-winning chutney and New Forest venison sausages, to handmade silver jewellery and naturally scented candles.
New Forest Marque membership is the sign of true local produce and is awarded to businesses whose products meet the scheme’s local provenance criteria, helping shoppers identify genuine New Forest produce and products through the distinctive navy Marque emblem.
The move to Shallowmead Nurseries brings some new attractions to this year’s Market, including live music, demonstrations and the chance to go behind the scenes at 820 Spirits, the artisan distillery based at Shallowmead that is also a certified New Forest Marque member.
Throughout the Autumn Market weekend 820 Spirits will be offering guided distillery tours. Visitors will get to go behind the scenes to see how their spirits are made, accompanied by a welcome drink and tasting of four spirits. The tours cost £15 per person, as part of a special New Forest Marque offer, with places limited and advance booking recommended.
Image: 820 Spirits
Music will feature over the two days, with acoustic singer-songwriter Jon Yale performing at lunchtime on Saturday. On Sunday afternoon, the Milford West Gallery Quire will bring the sounds and spirit of the West Gallery era to the market, with lively folk-infused songs, characters and dance tunes offering a glimpse of traditional village life at Harvest time.
On-site Mabel’s Café will be open throughout serving light dishes and afternoon tea. The café offers garden views, comfortable sofas and a welcoming dog-friendly space.
Image: Mabel’s Cafe at Shallowmead Nurseries
New Forest Marque Membership Manager Helen Spiller said:
‘We are excited to be bringing the New Forest Marque Market to a new spacious Lymington venue this autumn. With the on-site café, live music and distillery tours, the event promises to be more than just a shopping opportunity, and we are hoping to create a welcome buzz about the place.’
With free entry and parking, the New Forest Marque Autumn Market is a chance to discover local businesses, enjoy delicious food and drink, and get into the autumnal spirit.
Saturday 24 October, 10am–4pm
Sunday 25 October, 10am–3pm
Shallowmead Nurseries, Boldre Lane, Lymington, SO41 8PA
Free entry and parking
Dogs on leads welcome
To book 820 Spirits distillery tours: https://820spirits.com/distillery-tours/