Visitors to Kendal Farmers' Market are invited to discover the stories behind their food when the popular Food School returns on Friday 10th July, featuring a packed programme of guest speakers with an interactive question-and-answer session led by two experienced nutritionists.

Taking place in Kendal's Market Place, the special edition of Food School will get underway at 11.30am and will welcome local producers Frank Hunter of Piperhole Goat Farm, Chris Evans of Askerton Castle Estate and Aidan Monks of Lovingly Artisan Bakery. Joining them will be nutritionists Lin Petry and Libby Bateman, who will host a live Q&A exploring how locally produced food supports communities, strengthens the local economy and contributes to healthier, happier lives. Visitors will also have the opportunity to ask questions about nutrition, local produce and making healthier food choices.

Shopping at a farmers' market offers far more than fresh, local produce. Every purchase supports local farmers, growers and independent food businesses, helping to strengthen the local economy and sustain rural livelihoods. Choosing locally produced, seasonal food also reduces food miles while giving shoppers access to fresher ingredients that can support a healthier diet. Just as importantly, meeting the people who grow and make your food helps build stronger connections with the local community and a greater appreciation of where your food comes from.

The remaining Food School programme held on the second Friday of each month for 2026 includes:

Friday 14th August

11:00am – Leaf TRNR: Olivia Dacosta demonstrates fresh smoothie making
12:00pm – Martindale Muscovies & Waterfowl: Laura Robinson discusses egg production
1:00pm – Bean & Dunne: Mike Dunne demonstrates coffee roasting techniques

Friday 11th September

11:00am – Catlow Yarns: Georgina explores sustainable wool and natural dyeing
12:00pm – My Gourmet Mushrooms: Steve Gorst explores the fascinating world of fungi
1:00pm – Pennington's Spirits and Liqueurs: Mike Pennington discusses artisan distilling

Each session provides the chance not only to learn new skills but also to build meaningful connections with the people who produce the region's food and drink. Through demonstrations, tastings and open conversation, Food School celebrates the craftsmanship, care and passion behind every product.

Kendal Farmers' Market Manager Marian Graveson said: Marian Graveson, Manager of Kendal Farmers' Market, said: "We're especially excited about the Q&A session on 10th July because it gives visitors the chance to have genuine conversations with the experts. Having our producers alongside nutritionists Lin Petry and Libby Bateman means people can ask everything from how food is grown and produced to how choosing fresh, local ingredients can support a healthier lifestyle. It's a rare opportunity to hear directly from the people behind the food and leave feeling inspired, informed and more connected to what you're eating."

For more information about Kendal Farmers Market, visit: https://kendalfarmersmarket.co.uk