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The Farmers' Market in Ayr was one of the first in Scotland
to commence operations. In 1999, it's success led to the formation
of Ayrshire Famers' Market Co-operative which has set an exciting
and dynamic standard over the subsequent years, working in concert
with local colleges and supporters.
Ayrshire Farmers' Market was the outright winner of the Scottish
Tourism Thistle Award for Best Small Business Marketing Initiative'
in 2003. It has formed the core of the supplier base of the
acclaimed Ayrshire Food Network since 2004 and opened a ground
breaking Cooperative shop at SAC Auchincruive in March 2006.
The market is very committed to giving excellent customer service
and has a strong track record in this regard. The quality of
food attracts local ward winning chefs who can be spotted early
in the morning sourcing produce for their lunch time menus.
The current market site is beside the river, on the north side,
adjacent to the (so called) New Bridge and in front of the Borderline
Theatre. It is a great location and a customer friendly atmosphere
is created by the layout, which invites a walk around the stalls
that are set up in an outward facing circular pattern.
The market reflects the farming families that make up the cooperative
together with interesting guest and other seasonal producers.
Grass - reared Ayrshire lamb, beef, pork and venison are on
offer, together with excellent bacon, good meats and pies. Locally
raised chicken and other smoked produce is definitely worth
a try!
Game is available according to the seasons, and abundance of
west coast seafood is provided by fisheries and smoke houses.
The famous range of cow, goat and ewes' cheeses from Dunlop
are certainly worthy of attention, together with excellent home
baking, tasty soups, award winning free range eggs including,
even, duck and quail!
These delights are complimented by farmhouse produced ice-cream,
high quality confectionery, amazing local honey, local Ayrshire
potatoes and other vegetables. Soft fruits in season and specialities,
such as fresh raspberry juice and acclaimed Christmas puddings
are very special indeed.
The colourful atmosphere is highlighted by a wonderful stall
displaying locally grown plants according to the season. Market
themes follow the calendar of festivals in Ayr, including, 'Burns
and a' that' and the highly successful summer flower show.
Other community groups join in with the market and include,
Fair Trade stalls, crafters and, by invitation, musicians and
the occasional choir ...... look out for the roving haggis!
Ayrshire Farmers' market run on the first Saturday of each month
(except January). 09.00-13.00.
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