Kendal Farmers’ Market has announced the return of its much-loved Food School.
Held on the second Friday of each month in Kendal’s Market Place, the Food School is designed to bring together local producers, passionate food lovers and curious visitors, it provides a unique opportunity to learn directly from the people behind the produce.
Across three engaging sessions at 11am, noon and 1pm, stallholders and guest producers take to the stage to share their expertise, demonstrate techniques, and spark conversations around provenance, seasonality and flavour.
Visitors can discover how to make the most of fresh, local ingredients while hearing the stories that make each product unique.
The 2026 programme features a varied line-up of artisan makers, growers and producers.
April 10
- 11am: Mrs Kirkham’s: Graham Kirkham shares insights into artisan cheesemaking – A Life in Curds and Culture
- Noon: Provino Wine: Alberto Zambianchi introduces wines from his family’s Italian vineyards
- 1pm: Sweet Treats by Martin Frickel: How we create seasonal bites
May 8
- 11am: Lovingly Artisan: Aidan Monks shares his insight on milling, flour, full circle production, and collaborating with Mrs Kirkham’s cheese
- Noon: Pistachio and Moore: Alex Moore – how and why we started, our love of pistachios
- 1pm: Gan Yam Brewery: Jonathan Le Mare discusses locally brewed beer
June 12
- 11am: Cross Apiary: Tom Cross delves into beekeeping and honey production
- Noon: Black Horse Flowers: Jude Ashton on seasonal growing and soil health
- 1pm: Dan’s Plants: Dan Stearn shares his top tips on the best summer-flowering perennials
July 10
- 11am: Ginger Bakers: Lisa Smith shares her business journey and bakes
- Noon: Piper Hole Goat Farm: Frank Hunter in conversation with BBC’s Caz Graham
- 1pm: Askerton Castle: Chris Evans on organic farming and regeneration
August 14
- 11am: Leaf TRNR: Olivia Dacosta demonstrates fresh smoothie making
- Noon: Martindale Muscovies & Waterfowl: Laura Robinson on egg production
- 1pm: Bean & Dunne: Mike Dunne demonstrates coffee roasting techniques
September 11
- 11am: Catlow Yarns: Georgina on sustainable wool and natural dyeing
- Noon: My Gourmet Mushrooms: Steve Gorst explores the world of fungi
- 1pm: Pennington’s Spirits and Liqueurs: Mike Pennington on artisan distilling
Each session offers a chance not only to learn practical skills but also to help build connections with the producers themselves.
Through demonstrations, tastings and open conversation, the Food School helps demystify food production while celebrating the craftsmanship, care and stories behind every product.
Kendal Farmers’ Market manager Marian Graveson said: “Our Food School has quickly become a valued part of the market.
“This year’s programme brings together an exceptional range of producers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping people get the very best from locally sourced food. It’s a brilliant way to connect with the stories behind what you buy and to experience the market in a completely new way.
“The Food School captures everything that makes Kendal Farmers Market special, a genuine connection between producer and customer.
“It’s about slowing down, asking questions, and really understanding where your food comes from. Whether you come to learn a new skill, discover a new flavour or simply be inspired, there’s something here for everyone.”
