Why Glenarm Community Market keeps visitors coming back month after month

Visitors looking for a taste of local creativity, fresh produce and community spirit can find it all at Glenarm Community Market, which returns on the first Saturday of every month.

Held in the heart of the historic village, in the Eglinton Yard Barn, the free market has become a popular stop for both locals and tourists exploring the Antrim Coast, offering everything from handmade crafts and artwork to locally reared food in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

A showcase for local talent

One of the market’s most distinctive features is its “Made in Glenarm” stall, which brings together products created by makers from across the village.

Native Yarn

Visitors can browse ceramics, artwork, greetings cards, textiles and handcrafted woodwork, all produced by local artisans.

Market organiser Deb Biddleston said the stall gives smaller makers an opportunity to showcase their work without the commitment of running their own stand.

“It’s a way for small makers from the village to have their skills highlighted, without having to produce enough to take their own stall. We have a lot of talent within our small village.”

Fresh local food

Braid Farm Shop with its home-produced free-range pork, bacon and sausages

Food is another major attraction, with Braid Farm Shop bringing its home-produced free-range pork, bacon and sausages to every market.

Visitors can also enjoy freshly cooked breakfasts and lunches from the farm’s hot food van, serving burgers, bacon baps and sausage sandwiches—making the market an ideal stop for anyone spending a day on the Causeway Coastal Route.

Free parking is available at the venue, while sheltered picnic benches provide space for families and visitors to relax. Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic or enjoy food purchased at the market.

Traditional skills on display

The market also offers the chance to see traditional crafts in action.

Local spinner, hand weaver and second-generation textile artist Lorna Shannon demonstrates the art of spinning wool using fleece from native breeds of sheep. Visitors can watch the process, buy skeins of hand-spun wool for knitting or crochet, or purchase finished woven and knitted pieces.

Supporting local charities

Alongside supporting local businesses and makers, the market also helps raise money for two charities.

Maureen Morrow creates handmade cards and gifts, with all proceeds donated to Air Ambulance Northern Ireland.

Cora’s Candies raises funds for Angel Wishes Children’s Cancer Charity

Meanwhile, Cora’s Candies raises funds for Angel Wishes Children’s Cancer Charity by selling sweets and confectionery. The stall is run by schoolgirl Cora, who is supported by her grandfather.

A welcoming stop on the Antrim Coast

Dog-friendly, family-friendly and free to enter, Glenarm Community Market has built its reputation on combining local produce, traditional skills and community spirit in one welcoming setting.

With a changing mix of stalls each month and a focus on supporting local makers, it continues to offer visitors another reason to stop and explore Glenarm while travelling along Northern Ireland’s scenic coastline.

The next market will take place on Saturday 1 August, 10:30am to 3:30pm.