If you’re looking to spend a day in the country to enjoy a quintessential day out in an idyllic setting, Barkway Market on Saturday 10th May, is for you.
One of Hertfordshire’s popular country shows, Barkway Market is held within the beautiful grounds of Manor Farm, one of the village’s oldest houses, alongside a craft fair in the neighbouring Church.
The event, which is held in Barkway is part of the old London to Cambridge coaching route and is expected to attract over 4,000 visitors. The event dates back to medieval times in 1270. It was re-established in 1977 as a ‘Street Market’ when residents Molly Bruce, Mr Fidler and others wanted to raise money for a village party to celebrate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee.
Barkway’s Grade II Listed ‘Carriage Wash’, which can be found close to Manor Farm, is a monument to the coaching village’s past and was added to Historic England’s National Heritage List in 2024.
The annual Market is organised by a team of volunteers on behalf of Barkway Village Hall, which is a registered charity and hosts many of Barkway’s community groups. All proceeds go towards the running of the Hall and in 2024, just under £10,000 was donated to local community groups and projects.
The Market is also an opportunity for local organisations to raise funds including the Barkway Church, The 7th Royston Barkway Scout Group, and Barkway School.
At this year’s event, there will be over 180 stalls selling unique items ranging from ranging from antiques to bric-a-brac, artisan food & drink to homewares, garden wares to plants, clothing to jewellery, curiosities and more.
Entertainment will also be provided for all the family. Catering will include homemade sweet and savoury delights from Barkway Church as well as a food court with a licenced bar, fresh coffee and delicious food from local food vendors to satisfy all appetites. And ice cream too!
There will be a small entrance fee of £5 for adult visitors (no charge for children 16 and under). To help reduce queuing times, organisers are encouraging online ticket sales only this year. Tickets will be available to purchase via www.barkwaymarket.org and via QR codes which will be on display as you approach the entrance gate on the day. There will be a suggested donation of £2 for car parking, which goes directly to Barkway Scouts who marshall the car park. Parking is provided for in adjoining fields.
For more details about the Market, please visit www.barkwaymarket.org or follow @barkwayvillagemarket on Facebook or @barkwaymarket on Instagram.
Some stalls are still available, but selling out fast – a link can be accessed via the website or for information, please email bookings@barkwaymarket.org
