Shopping Locally

Somerset has a wealth of local produce available – world-famous cider, cheese and apples, and a whole host of everyday essentials – meat, dairy products, fruit, vegetables, bread, cakes, chutney, jam, soup… the list is endless. We also have a fine tradition of farmers markets, farm shops, food trails and events.

Local Food Direct won Moving Forward's Smarter Travel Management Award in 2010.

Many producers sell their products at farmers markets across the county – nearly all the larger towns have one at least once a month. Find out where and what day your local farmers market is held by following the links in the Related Information box. Give it a try - you may be surprised what you find.

Another way to buy local produce is through farm shops. These often sell other local produce as well as their own products. Pick-your-own farms allow you to pick your own fruit and veg in season – the freshest possible fruit and the most fun way to get it! Also look out for orchards, cider farms, breweries, bakeries and more offering on-site sales. There are some links on this page to help you investigate.

Buying from producers closer to home means you are getting fresher food, supporting the local economy and reducing the pollution and climate change impacts caused by transport food over long distances. Even if it has not been transported by air, food and other products brought into Somerset for distant parts of the UK has to be brought here by lorry, adding to the problems on our roads.

Buying little and often means you can reduce the amount of food you waste. Remember to take your own bag with you to cut down on plastic!