Historic Background

In the Severn Vale, between Gloucester and Bristol, a combination of good soil, pleasant climate and generations of able farmers have produced a cornucopia of good food. The cheeses were justly famous, produced originally from the milk of Old Gloucester cows, the orchards were home to many local varieties of apple, pear and plum, which were made into cider and perry and used in pies and preserves; they were also home to the Gloucester Old Spot, the famous orchard pig of the vale, noted for its tenderness and flavour. Times moved on, and many will think these traditions are part of a colourful past, now sadly lost.

Severn Farmers' Markets bring this tradition back: milk from Old Gloucester Cows is still used to make cheese which is available at Farmers' Markets, the Old Spot pig is flourishing and her products are available at all our Farmers' Markets. Sadly, cider and perry are not available because of the licensing regulations, but apples and plums are turned into many tasty dishes and preserves.

Farmers' Markets are not just about tradition. Other varieties of good food, produced in the area can be sampled, goats cheese, lamb from the Cotswold and other breeds, local Old Gloucester and Hereford beef and many varieties of poultry, including eggs from Khaki Campbell ducks, originally bred at Uley a century ago. Game lovers can enjoy local venison and rabbit.

Cooking has always been a vital skill for farmers wives, who fed healthy appetites, honed by fresh air and hard work; local cakes and preserves, developed in this tradition, are available at all Farmers' Markets.

Farmers' Market shopping is an opportunity to tantalise your senses, the brilliant colours of just picked berries, the smell of mature cheeses, bacon and sausages fried for tasting, the amazing variety of eggs available (have you tasted a turkey or pheasant egg?) Enjoy your visit and take home a taste of Traditional Gloucestershire.