Since its opening, the Ashby Farmers and Artisan Market has become a staple part of the town and welcomes locals and visitors from across the county.

The market first began in March 2025, and was originally held in the North Street car park, next to the leisure centre and lido.

It has since moved to Brook Street, where the road is closed off on the second Sunday each month, giving plenty of room for more stalls and trade.

Teegan Arnold, 25, from Kegworth, runs the Thirsty Farmer Cider stall and attends each month.

"I love working at farmers markets. You get to meet so many different people and the Ashby market is always such an inviting place," she said.

"We used to sell our drinks in supermarkets but we prefer selling it directly to people, and we get lots of return customers here which is brilliant.

"Some people prefer to buy things directly from traders at markets. Customers can talk to the businesses and it can feel a bit alien doing all your shopping in one shop," she added.

The farmers market is praised by residents for its variety of traders and has over 30 stalls selling food, clothing, jewellery and handmade goods.

It's organised by the local community group RealFest CIC, who also run the Ashby Food Festival which is held in May.

Jade Keevins, 25, from Ashby, has been organising the event since it opened its doors.

"It's grown so much since it started last year, and we see more people each month," she explained.

"We have regular traders who come to every market, but we also welcome new stalls each month, which helps with variety and gives something new to the town.

"It feels like a family because all of the stalls support each other, and it really helps to create a friendly atmosphere," she said.

Luke Stevens, 33, and Katie Whitby, 33, live in Ashby and regularly attend the market.

Katie said: "We were really happy when they announced the first market and since moving to Brook Street, it's become so much bigger and busier."

"The food is fantastic and living nearby, it's really convenient for us," Luke added.

Stall holders note how the market generally has steady footfall throughout the year, however, the busiest periods are during the winter and autumn months.

Michelle and Matthew Chambers from Whitwick started selling at the market last year.

They sell handmade chocolates and sweets while also running their shop in the Newmarket, Coalville.

Michelle, 45, said: "Because we make chocolate, our business is quite seasonal. We sell loads during Christmas, but struggle during summer.

"But we've now also started selling sweets, which has boosted our sales all year round."

Matthew said: "There are lots of shops on the high street, but quite a few are closed on Sundays so the market is a good alternative and great for gift shopping."

Although, not all stalls are affected by the seasonal changes.

Chaz Barnes, 42, from Hinckley, is one of the founders of Heat Horse who create hot sauces and seasoning blends.

"The closer to Christmas, the busier the market gets, but also we tend to do okay during summer, because people buy our sauces and spice rubs for BBQs.

"The market definitely helps to bring more people to Ashby. I've met people who have travelled from as far as Birmingham which is brilliant and proof that we're doing something right.

"Heat Horse has been going for three years now and it's going really well. We're still working full-time while doing this, but we're hoping at some point this will be our main income."

Alberto Garcia, 35, who is originally from Spain, moved to Ashby 10 years ago and visited the market for the first time.

"I've often seen it walking on Market Street and I thought I should check it out.

"It's really nice to look around it with family and it's a great way to support local businesses.

"I'll definitely come again," he added.