What the market is
Edgbaston Village Artisan Market is a monthly market on Greenfield Crescent, within the Calthorpe Estate in Birmingham. The pedestrian-friendly setting hosts independent businesses selling artisan food and drink, handmade arts and crafts, and gifts. The market has grown to become Birmingham’s largest artisan market (Calthorpe Estates).
The market supports local artisans and small businesses, draws visitors to the area, and complements Edgbaston Village’s restaurants, bars, cafes and home stores. It also provides a place for residents and visitors to meet and enjoy local produce and crafts. These aims align with Calthorpe Estates’ vision of creating a leisure and lifestyle destination (Edgbaston Village).
History
The market began in June 2021 as a pilot project to support small businesses and help revitalise the local community. Its inaugural event on Greenfield Crescent had 24 stalls and attracted around 2,000 visitors (Calthorpe Estates; Edgbaston Village).
By September 2021, the market had grown to 40 stalls and approximately 6,000 visitors. It had expanded to 60 stalls by December 2021. By 2023, more than 70 independent businesses were taking part, and the market attracted over 25,000 visitors annually (Edgbaston Village).
Plans have been described to expand the market further, increase the number of participating businesses and introduce new attractions.
What to see
Food and drink
Market offerings include:
- Rourke’s Pies, known for savoury pies.
- Taartie Doughnuts, making handmade doughnuts.
- Hussingtree Gin, a local distillery offering handcrafted gins.
- Lightwood Cheese, with a range of artisanal cheeses.
- Chill Your Beans, offering vegan sausages and scotch eggs.
- Pudding Shop, known for steamed puddings.
- Wildjac, offering gin, vodka and rum (source).
Arts and crafts
Stalls feature handmade jewellery, paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photography, illustrations and paper cuts. Many of the artworks are exclusive to the market (Calthorpe Estates; source).
Practical visiting information
Hours and dates
The market is held monthly, but published schedules give different regular dates and hours:
- One schedule says it is typically held on the last Saturday of each month, from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm (Edgbaston Village).
- Another says it is typically held on the second Saturday of each month, from 10 AM to 3 PM (source).
Special events may have extended hours. During the Commonwealth Games, the market operated from 10:30 am to 6 pm (Edgbaston Village).
Tickets and admission
Admission is free.
Getting there and accessibility
The market is accessible by public transport. Five Ways train station and local bus routes are nearby, and the Edgbaston Village Metro stop is another option (Birmingham Mail; source).
There are pay-and-display car parks and free on-road parking within walking distance. The market is outside the clear air congestion zone (Birmingham Mail).
Special events
The market holds themed and seasonal events, including:
- A Christmas Lights Switch On Event, held alongside the November market, with extended hours and festive activities (source).
- A Christmas Special Market in December, with holiday-themed stalls and products (source).
Events during the Christmas season and the Commonwealth Games have featured extended hours and additional attractions.
Families and dogs
The market is described as family-friendly, with stalls and activities for different age groups. Its pedestrian-friendly location on Greenfield Crescent provides a setting for families to visit. The market is also dog-friendly, and several eateries and shops in Edgbaston Village welcome dogs (source).
Tips
- Check the market date and schedule before visiting, as published descriptions give different regular Saturdays and hours.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and have the best selection of products.
- Bring cash for smaller purchases, although many vendors accept card payments.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for walking around the market and surrounding area.
- Allow time to explore Edgbaston Village’s restaurants, cafes and shops (source).
Nearby places
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens a 15-acre botanical garden with exotic plants and landscapes.
- Winterbourne House and Garden an Edwardian historic house and botanic garden.
- Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery a collection of international importance, including art, ceramics and artefacts.
FAQ
What are the market’s visiting hours?
Published schedules differ: one gives the last Saturday of the month, 10:30 am to 4:00 pm; another gives the second Saturday, 10 AM to 3 PM.
Do I need a ticket?
No. Admission is free.
How can I get to the market?
The market is near Five Ways train station and local bus routes. The Edgbaston Village Metro stop is also an option. Pay-and-display car parks and free on-road parking are available within walking distance.
Are there special events?
Yes. Events include the Christmas Lights Switch On alongside the November market, a December Christmas Special Market and Commonwealth Games events, which have included extended hours.
Is the market family-friendly?
Yes. It has stalls and activities for different age groups.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. The market is dog-friendly, and several eateries and shops in Edgbaston Village welcome dogs.
