Hidden in the suburb of Broomhill, something special happens every Saturday morning. As the city wakes up, a queue of regulars forms outside a small but vibrant market, eager to get their hands on homemade pies, freshly picked salad, and handcrafted preserves. This is Sheffield Country Market, a long-established community cooperative that has been a cornerstone of local food and crafts for over 50 years.
But despite its loyal following and deep-rooted values, the market is at a crossroads. Without new producers stepping forward, this cherished institution may not be able to continue. If you’ve ever dreamed of selling your homemade bakes, jams, or homegrown veg—or simply want to support local food—you might be just the person Sheffield Country Market is looking for.
More than just a place to shop, Sheffield Country Market embodies everything that ShefFood stands for, and they’ve been a partner for a long time. Here’s how they represent each of ShefFood’s five core themes.
Food & Health: The market champions homemade, low-processed foods made with fresh, local ingredients. Whether it’s a wholesome ready meal, a batch of traditional chutney, or homegrown fruit and veg, everything on offer is crafted with care.
Community Food Provision: By setting up in Broomhill and attending markets across the city, Sheffield Country Market brings good food closer to the people who need it. It’s affordable, accessible, and a world away from the anonymous supermarket experience.
Growing: Many of the fruits and vegetables sold at the market come from local gardens, reducing food miles and cutting down on packaging waste. The market also sells vegetable plants, helping others to start their own growing journey.
Local Economy: Every purchase directly supports Sheffield’s small-scale producers. Unlike large retailers, where profits disappear into corporate pockets, this cooperative ensures that the people who grow, cook, and craft the products benefit directly.
The Good Food Movement: More than just a transaction, Sheffield Country Market is a place where people connect. It’s a weekly hub of conversation, discovery, and community, making it a true celebration of Sheffield’s food culture.
Sheffield Country Market is part of a national network of country markets that traces its roots back to the Women’s Institute (WI) during wartime Britain. Since its founding in 1972, the Sheffield branch has flourished, with a dedicated group of bakers, gardeners, and craftspeople keeping traditions alive while embracing modern changes like online ordering.
But now, with a dwindling number of producers, the future of the market is uncertain. The demand is there, but the current team simply isn’t big enough to keep up. Without fresh faces joining the cooperative, the market may have to close its doors—a heartbreaking loss for Sheffield’s food scene.
Sheffield Country Market is looking for home bakers, growers, and makers who’d love to share their goods with the community. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just love making jam in your spare time, this could be an opportunity to turn your passion into extra income.
There’s no need for a huge investment—the cooperative can guide you on getting started, and you can work at your own pace. Whether you contribute a few jars of homemade chutney or a regular selection of baked goods, every little bit helps.
If you’re curious, the best way to learn more is to visit the market in person! The team is always delighted to chat and answer any questions you might have. Join them at Sheffield Country Market every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Spooner Rd, Broomhill.
If you can’t make it to Broomhill, you can still support Sheffield Country Market at one of these pop-up events: Sharrow Vale Farmers Market – 13th April 2025, Crookes Street Market – 11th May 2025, or Nether Edge Market – 22nd June 2025
Local markets aren’t just places to shop—they’re lifelines for small producers, meeting points for communities, and a way to keep money circulating locally. Sheffield Country Market has been a vital part of this ecosystem for over half a century, but now it needs a new generation of producers to keep it going.
So, if you love good food, value sustainability, and want to be part of something special, why not get involved? Your homemade bakes, homegrown produce, or handmade crafts could be the next big hit at Sheffield Country Market.
To find out more, visit the market one Saturday morning and have a chat—you might just discover your new favourite local food spot or even become part of its future.
