Market Scene Spring 2022

FREE
Edinburgh
Edible
Flowers
in Spring?
We catch up with
Jackie & David
from Tatton Horticulture
in Balerno
p16
CASTLE STREET
Famous literary & artistic
residents and a tale or two
CAURNIE SOAPERIE
Three generations and a century
of natural soap & skincare
KELSO FARMERS’ MARKET
The Oldest Farmer’s Market
in the Borders'

Gecko Gifts showcases original jewellery,
beautiful handmade leather work,
crystals and vibrant textiles! All personally
selected from wonderfully skilled Indian,
Nepalese and Tibetan artisans.
www.geckogifts.shop
66 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2LD

Welcome to the Spring edition of Market Scene!
In this 3 rd edition of the Market Scene Magazine we make several stops to visit
markets in Edinburgh and to the oldest market in the Borders’. Come join us on
a wondrous market exploration journey. We visit Castle Street and discover the
literary, artistic and influential greats that lived there, the dark past and what you
can expect to find now.
Spring
2022
Discovering edible flowers, a delicious addition to salads, we meet David &
Jackie Tatton who run Tatton Horticulture, a local Balerno business.
We also catch up with Jim Little from Caurnie Soaperie, a business set up by
his grandfather Jim C Little in 1922 after coming back from WW1, and now
celebrating 100 years of trading.
This edition we also visit three markets; Castle Street Market, located in the
heart of Edinburgh, facing onto Princes Street, Grassmarket Market, located in
the Old Town and Kelso Market in the Borders’.
Many of the regular markets are open all year, so check out the map and websites
on p13-15 to see where and when they are taking place. Edinburgh’s markets
have an incredible range of unique artisan gifts and delicious food and drinks on
offer, so whether you are nine or ninety - there is something for everyone.
_______________________________________________________________
Castle Street
The literary, artistic and influential greats as well
the dark past and the regular Castle Street Market
Caurnie Soaperie
We catch up with Jim Little from Caurnie Soaperie
Product Showcase
Get a sneak peek at some wonderful gifts available at the markets
Map of the Markets: 3-page spread
Your definitive guide to What’s On, When & Where!
Tatton Horticulture
Meet up with David and Jackie Tatton from Balerno
Grassmarket
We take a look at this incredible historic street
and wonderful market in the Old Town
Trader Profiles
Q & A with local market traders
Kelso Farmers’ Market
A visit to the Borders oldest market
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
On the cover: Jackie Tatton from TATTON HORTICULTURE.
Photo: Sky Tatton. Cover feature: Lindsay Allen.
Feature writers and contributors: Fiona Stewart, Frances Anderson, Lindsay Allen, Olya Arren.
Additional Photo credits: Frances Anderson, Peter Yule.
© Copyright Market Scene. All rights reserved. Produced and Published by LocalMotive Markets.
Design by Holly Stevens, Lead Creative. Printed by Out of Hand Scotland on FSC-certified paper.
For more information about Market Scene, including editorial, advertising opportunities,
circulation and distribution, email editorial@marketscene.co.uk or call 07914 254 334.
Please check individual market websites (available on p13) for up-to-date information regarding market dates.
Market Scene is not responsible for accuracy of available products or published market dates.
Jackie Tatton

shop local - eat local - support local - enjoy local
castle
street
markets
Facing onto Princes Street
in the heart of the city
Fashion, Jewellery,
Soaps, Candles,
Knitwear, Food and
Drinks, Wood, Craft,
Ceramics,
Conservation,
Glassware, Art,
Photography
and much more...
2 - 8 MAY
6 - 12 JUNE
4 - 10 JULY
5 - 21 AUGUST
5 - 11 SEPTEMBER
3 - 9 OCTOBER
26 NOV TO 23 DEC
local - scottish - fair trade & ethical gifts
localmotivemarkets.co.uk
handupevents.co.uk

Castle Street Market
a street with an
intriguing cultural heritage
by Fiona Stewart
________________________________________
Meredith Jewellery, regulars to Castle Street Market.
In the heart of the city, Castle Street is a beautiful
pedestrianised area, home to bustling bars, shops and
restaurants and regular street markets. It is set in what
can only be described as one of the most beautiful
locations in the UK - facing onto Princes Street, the
gardens and a stunning view of the castle.
We will find out what was once at the end of the street,
the literary, influential and artistic greats that lived there
and the dark past that would make anyone’s blood run
cold and what we can expect to find there now.
The Nor’ Loch
Imagine a time when these Georgian streets did
not exist, but was instead, a cavernous dank area full
of the city's detritus - a place known for dark deeds
and punishments. The area was called the Nor’ Loch
with steep banks leading up to the city with a body
of water stretching the length of what is now Princes
Street gardens. It was a loch, man-made in the 1400’s
to bolster the defences of the castle and it was said that
this was also a location where “witches” were tried and
judgment came through the use of the “ducking”. This
unrealistic practice saw eleven women drowned in one
day in 1624 but in 1685, Scotland went on to outlaw
this practice as a form of execution.
The Nor Loch was drained between 1813 and 1820
to make way for the North Bridge and the creation of
Princes Street Gardens - an infinitely more pleasant
environment - and hard to fathom that the fabulous
view from Castle Street to the Castle that is much
photographed today - did not exist before then.
5

Above: Home of Kenneth Grahame, Author, Wind in the Willows. Inset: Home of Sir Walter Scott, 39 Castle Street, painted by J.M.W Turner.
Literary and cultural
links to Castle Street
Sir Walter Scott was born in College Wynd and later
moved to No.39, North Castle Street - his marital
home from 1802 to 1826, before eventually moving
to Abbotsford in the Borders. Famed for writing Rob
Roy, Ivanhoe, Waverley, Heart of Midlothian and The
Bride of Lammermoor and many other influential
literary works.
In 1834, Joseph Mallord William Turner, contemporary
of Scott, visited No. 39 North Castle Street and created
a sketch of the former home of Sir Walter Scott as part
of an homage to the author.
Later in the century, 1859, Kenneth Grahame was born at
No 32 Castle Street. Known for his well-loved children’s
tale, “The Wind In The Willows”, was first published in
1908 featuring Mole, Mr. Toad, Ratty and Badger. Today
there is a bar bistro at number 32, Castle Street called
Badger and Co - giving a nod to Mr Grahame with its
“Wind In The Willows’’ influenced decor.
Scottish artist William Crozier (1893 - 1930), studied
at Edinburgh College of art and lived in Paris while on
a Carnegie Travelling Scholarship and in 1923 studied
with cubist painter André Lhote. He went on to paint
a scene in the cubist style of Edinburgh Castle titled
Edinburgh from Castle Street (verso), showing the
view we see today as we look up to the castle. His work
Edinburgh from Salisbury Crags c. 1927 is held in the
National Gallery of Scotland.
Renowned Scottish contemporary artist Jack
Vettriano, known for his famous and distinctive work
The Singing Butler, also lived on North Castle Street
for some time. Vettriano has an incredible life story
taking him from mining at 15 to white-collar jobs to
follow a hugely successful internationally recognised
artistic career and has set up a Vettriano Trust for
future philanthropic ways.
6

Statue of Thomas Guthrie
(1803 - 1873)
A precursor to the vibrant community action and social
enterprise movement today in Scotland, the statue,
sited at 117 Princes Street and in full view of Castle
street, is that of Thomas Guthrie - reminding us of
the importance of philanthropy and education for all
today. He was a preacher, philanthropist and education
reformer and one of the most popular influencers of
his day. He was best known for his association with
the temperance movement, church reform and more
notably being the founder of Ragged Schools, which
were charitable organisations dedicated to the free
education of destitute children in 19 th century Britain.
Market Scene and
Castle Street markets
“In past years, we also welcome international and fair
trade exhibitors from Peru, Chile, India, Zambia and
Kenya, and look forward to their return this year -
bringing their artisan crafts direct from their ethically
run projects in their home countries."
“The heritage of the street and the amazing influencers,
artists and writers that lived here bring a real depth
of visitor experience. You can enjoy the market, meet
the makers, then sit in a local cafe and soak in the
atmosphere of our cultural heritage from Sir Walter
Scott to Kenneth Grahame and the rich seam of
artistic and architectural history."
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
www.localmotivemarkets.co.uk
www.handupevents.co.uk
Castle Street has also been the home to a well known
arts, crafts and artisan food market for over 15 years led
by Tania Pramschufer who runs LocalMotive Markets
and Hand Up Events, two social action companies.
Castle Street Market is one of the most established
and busiest markets in Edinburgh. “With such a rich,
cultural backdrop here on Castle Street and facing
onto Princes Street our visitors, shoppers and traders
all love it - especially for the view. Our bright red and
white coloured gazebos attract people to our stalls to
browse and invariably take Instagrammable
pictures of the market and castle."
"We platform such a great variety of local
made quality gifts, supporting hundreds of
local independent businesses over the years.
This mostly arts and crafts market offers
everything from artworks, to ceramics, hand
crafted soaps and candles, photography,
wood craft, bakery produce, fudge, jams and
chutneys as well delicious food and drink."
Castle Street Market against a beautiful backdrop and Thomas Guthrie.
7

Making sure your Spring Fayre is Fair
FAIR, FINE AND ETHICAL FOOD
from around the world
www.jts.co.uk | info@jts.co.uk | 0141 255 0901
Just Gifts
Pacari
Just Trading Scotland
Just Gifts
Yho!Yho!
Pacari Chocolate
A guaranteed supplier of
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doing good for the planet
whilst helping producers
work their way out of
poverty with dignity.
JTS.co.uk
Just Gifts is an eclectic
mix of ethically sourced
handcrafted gifts from
skilled artisans around
the world.
Follow
FB @justgiftsedinburgh
Insta @just_gifts_edinburgh
Yho!Yho! sells South
African crafted gifts for
children using animal
designs and local fabrics.
Original beadwork
accessories complement
our range.
yhoyho.com
Pacari Chocolate, fair
trade certified and the
most ethical chocolate is
made in Ecuador with the
finest organic cacao. Guilt
free, perfect for discerning
chocolate lovers.
pacarichocolates.uk
A Fairtrade University since 2004
The University of Edinburgh is committed to fair trade procurement and to raising awareness on
fairness in trade through our procurement, teaching and research: edin.ac/fair-trade
facebook.com/edinfairtrade

Clockwise from top right: Young Jim using the hand soap cutting machine. Nettle moisturiser and soaps.
Grandfather and Founder, Jim C Little. Jim at the soaperie in 2022.
Tucked away in the quiet Scottish town of Kirkintilloch
is a small soaperie celebrating a big anniversary.
Founded a hundred years ago, 2022 marks the
centenary of Caurnie Soap Soaperie.
A small soaperie
celebrating a
big anniversary
by Frances Anderson
Returning from the battlefields of the first world war,
weary of the misery he had seen, Scotsman Jimmy
Little built a small humble building in Kirkintilloch
and began making soap. The aim was simple: to create
Scottish natural skin care products from organic herbs
and essential oils. The business was an instant success,
and today his grandson Jim Little runs the soaperie
which still operates from the same small premises and
uses the same traditional hand made methods. As a boy
back in the 1960’s, Jim would help out on Saturdays
and after graduating in the late 1970s in chemistry, he
joined the family run business full-time.
9

Visiting Caurnie Soaperie is like stepping back in time.
From the soap splattered granite floor to the rafters
full of drying herbs filling the air with scents and the
hundred year old soap cutting tools, this family run
business is truly traditional and authentic, right down
to its name; ‘Caurnie’ was the old name used for the
town of Kirkintilloch.
The oldest and last working
soaperie in the world
Set within it’s own organic herb garden, this unique,
local award winning business creates the finest Scottish
natural skin care products from
organic herbs and essential oils.
Their products are all vegan and
hand made using extracts of
Scottish plants and old-fashioned
methods that create a purer,
gentler product. They offer a
wide range of natural skin care
products including: fresh herb
soap, including Nettle soap and
botanical soaps, organic shampoos,
shower gels and body washes, body
butters and skin lotions, including
the award-winning bog myrtle
body butter. “Our top 5 products
are Nettle soap, Nettle shampoo,
Nettle moisturiser, Calendula
lotion, Yarrow geranium soap, and I
have to include the solid shampoo”,
says Jim.
This working soaperie also
happens to be the oldest and last working soaperie
in the world operating the cold process. The cold
process is known as the natural way of soap making.
Retaining the oils natural glycerine (or glycerol) to
help make the soap cleanse in a very gentle way and
retaining the skins natural oil mantle more effectively
(Historically there were two mainstream soap making
methods, the cold process and the boiling process).
10
“All our soaps are made using the cold-process method
and double saponified which creates a gentler soap
that is kinder to use and respects the skins natural oil
mantle. The time tested methods we use and decades of
customer experience, have been beneficial to Caurnies
range and the products are known to be unique. Pure
soap made since the first days is still sought after by
Multiple Chemical Sufferers (MCS) and it has been
associated with beneficial long term use”, explains Jim.
“For over 100 years we’ve been making an organic
Vegan Nettle range, a favourite with people who
suffer from psoriasis, eczemas or sensitive skin. It is
hugely popular and helps so many of
our skin problem sufferers. We love
hearing from customers who tell us
our products have changed their
lives and we have over 600 video
testimonials”, says Jim.
Homegrown organic
herbs hanging from
the rafters
The hand cutting assembly, and
other machinery purchased in 1921
is unique and still used daily at
the soaperie to hand press and cut
every single bar of soap made today.
Caurnie grow all their own organic
herbs including Lavender, Thyme,
Sage, and Bog Myrtle, all of which
can be seen hanging and drying in the
soaperie building. All the herbs are
sourced from central Scotland, and
the main gardens surrounds the soaperie building itself.
“We have planted over 20 types of herbs, from which we
crop and incorporate into a range of body care products.
For over 19 years we have been growing a Yarrow lawn.
Yarrows Latin name, Achillea Millefolium, hints at its
long tradition as a wound herb. Achilles of the Troy
Wars fame, is reputed to have used it on his wounded
men to repair skin back to normal health”.

“One of my favourite aspects of the soaperie is combining
plants grown in my organic herb garden with benefits to
customers in a simple energy efficient way. Being a custodian
of the cold process is great as well”, says Jim. “We make our
soap by hand in small batches which is a sustainable, ecofriendly
method of production. The old fashioned production
method is energy efficient, it produces no waste discarded bits
in the process and makes a skin kind product”.
The original pure soap was delivered to customers doors on
a monthly basis till the mid 1970s. In the 1970s whole-food
shops across the UK and further stocked the UFO shaped
glycerine soaps in cucumber, rose, lavender, mandarin,
almond and fern to name a few. Caurnie then began doing
markets, with their very first one in Kirkintilloch, and they
are now regulars at the Edinburgh Farmers Market in
Castle Terrace on Saturdays and the Stockbridge Sunday
market, as well as at markets across Scotland and at The
Country Living shows.
Jim says, “Markets have had a hugely positive impact to
Caurnie in the 30 years we’ve been doing them. Interacting
directly with customers allows us to get to know them and
build a relationship, as well as building on our existing
customer base and meeting lots of new people. The pandemic
has brought a renewed appreciation of the benefits of
shopping locally and we have been fortunate to have new
customers. Our simple vegan zero waste soap has stood the
test of time and is gentle on skin especially when we are all
washing our hands more frequently”.
Left: Jim’s Father, Ian Little in the 1950s.
Above: Jim at the market.
“Helping customers skin and enhancing the lives of
customers with simple, amazing essential oil products
hugely motivates me, and looking to the future, I see the
company continuing to build on our wonderful history and
legacy. Here’s to the next 100 years!”.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
You can buy directly from the Caurnie website, or catch
Caurnie Soaps at one of the local farmers markets.
Caurnie Soaperie - Canal Lane, Kirkintilloch, Glasgow
G66 1QZ | 0141 776 1218 | caurnie.com
@CaurnieSoaperie
@caurnie_soaperie
11

PRODUCTShowcase
TIGEROLA
A wildly nutrient dense, high fibre & refined
sugar-free plant-based granola.
@tigerolaroar
@tigerolaroar
___________________________________
Portobello Market
100% Handmade Cards
Designed & created for over 29 years,
right here in Scotland.
@100percenthandmadecards
100percent-handmade-cards.co.uk
___________________________________
Ocean Terminal Market / Castle Street
12
Leamne Art Studio
Colourful watercolour and collage paintings
and other unique gifts by Leamne Arias Deniz’
@artbyleamne
@leamne_artstudio
___________________________________
Markets Ocean Terminal / Castle Street
Dogs With Rosie
Paws up to the many natural dog treats
on sale at Dogs With Rosie.
@dogswithrosie @dogswithrosie
dogswithrosie.com
___________________________________
Portobello / Balerno / Newhailes House Market

MAP
of the
MARKETS
Your Definitive Guide to What's On, Where and When. More details overleaf.
BALERNO FARMERS' MARKET
balernovt.org.uk
Facebook: @balernofarmersmarket
CASTLE STREET MARKET
localmotivemarkets.co.uk
handupevents.co.uk
EDINBURGH
FARMERS’ MARKET
edinburghfarmersmarket.co.uk
GRASSMARKET
stockbridgemarket.com/grassmarket
MARKET on the CROFT
earth-in-common.org/market-on-the-croft
LEITH ARCHES MARKET
leitharches.com
LEITH FARMERS' MARKET
stockbridgemarket.com/leith
NEWHAILES HOUSE MARKET
Facebook: @NTSNewhailes
OCEAN TERMINAL
MAKERS' MARKET
localmotivemarkets.com
Facebook: @oceanterminalmarket
THE PITT ST. FOOD MARKET
thepitt.co.uk
PORTOBELLO MARKET
pedal-porty.org.uk/food/portobello-market
STOCKBRIDGE MARKET
stockbridgemarket.com/stockbridge
SEASONAL POP-UP
WAVERLEY MALL ROOFTOP
_______________________________
waverleymall.com
Outdoor Markets are dependent on weather. Please check individual
market websites for up-to-date information regarding market dates.
Market Scene is not responsible for accuracy of
available products or published market dates.
13

FIRTH
MARKET
________________
Forth
Bridge

TH of FORTH
OCEAN
TERMINAL
MAKERS'
MARKET
Royal Yacht
Britannia
Ocean Drive
Commercial St.
LEITH
Ferry Road
Leith
A900
John’s St.
LEITH
ARCHES
MARKET
Leith Walk
STOCKBRIDGE
PORTOBELLO
MARKET
NO
Charlotte
Square
Lothian Rd
Circus
Place
Queen St.
CASTLE
STREET
MARKET
Castle
Terrace
EDINBURGH
FARMERS'
MARKET
Princes St.
Gardens
Edinburgh
Castle
New
Town
George St. St. Andrew’s
Princes St.
The
Mound
Square
The Royal Mile
Victoria
St.
GRASSMARKET
Broughton St.
York Place
Waverley
Station
Old Town
Greyfriars
Bobby
The Bridges
Omni
Centre
Calton
Hill
The Royal Mile
NEWHAILES
Holyrood
Palace
Arthur’s Seat
Portobello High St..
Toll Cross

Horticulture
Article by Lindsay Allen
Now in its third year, this local business focusing on
small scale local production wowed us last year when
appearing at local farmers markets with Artisan
salads, edible flowers, micro greens and herbs.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
I was amazed by their stunning salads which were a
work of art with the most beautiful edible flowers and
generous sprigs of herbs. They also tasted amazing
and lasted really well in the vegware compostable
packaging. I was interested to find out more about this
small family run business that seemed to have a truly
ethical ethos.
I went to visit David and Jackie Tatton on their small
plot of land nestled in the Pentlands just outside
Balerno. With just quarter of an acre, it is a beautiful
space. We chatted in one of their polytunnels while
the wind blew a hoolie outside. It felt like an oasis of
calm. The plot may be small but you can see the passion
David has for the space. He has converted the land from
a small piece of scrub land to a viable herb nursery and
market garden. There are polytunnels and beautifully
cared for beds. As it’s a small plot, everything is "no
till", cared for by hand tools and with absolutely no
chemicals or pesticides.
The ethos is to use just a good quality, sustainable, peat
free compost, care and attention. There is a small pond
he has built to encourage wildlife and a small group
of chickens. The space is lovely and full of the feeling
that spring is just about to spring as they prepare for
the growing season ahead.
He tells me: “Regeneration of the land and local food
systems is at the core of our business and is the driving
factor in any choices and decisions we make. It is

often complicated and usually more expensive but as
custodians of our little piece of land, it is our moral
duty to care for it and the people who work there,
as well as providing an example of how this can be
achievable to others.”
“I think people thought we were mad when we said we
were going to start growing edible flowers in Scotland.
Largely, this is done in the south of England! However,
although our growing season is not as long and the
weather a little less predictable, we are able to grow
a beautiful range of delicious and attractive edible
flowers for anything from weddings to cocktails to
cakes or just dressing salads and dishes. And what’s
even better is that our customers are able to buy locally
and with confidence in our growing methods.
David tells me: “A large challenge for us was around how
to deliver social responsibility and equitability as well
as our environmental responsibilities. The difficulties
here were around the production of ‘Premium’ products
with a price tag that was not inclusive to all. We have
tried to address this through a number of small steps
and initiatives. We will be offering the option for our
customers to ‘pay it forward’ via salad share markets or
our website so that we can supply fresh greens to local
partners delivering food to families who find themselves
in hardship in our local community. Additionally we
will be growing extra each week this year specifically
for this food cooperative. Within our communities, we
have the capacity to deliver food equity and change
through small thoughtful steps and actions”.
So looking forward to the year ahead David tells me:
“Our weekly salad share delivery service has been
successfully taken up and looks to grow further in this
coming year, delivering a variety of packages to suit
every household and budget. Harvested, packaged and
delivered direct. We will also be at Balerno farmers
market and Newhailes market.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
You can order direct from their website:
www.tattonhorticulture.co.uk

The
Market
Heritage - markets - vintage
and more
by Fiona Stewart
________________________________________
The Grassmarket has been a focal point of trade since
the 1300s and was used for cattle, horse fairs and corn
sales. It has always been the scene of busy markets and
lively taverns and local colour.
A rich heritage on every corner - it is home to one
of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh, well over 500 years
old, the White Hart Inn was visited in 1791 by Robert
Burns as he bade farewell to his love Nancy Macklehose
(Clarinda) before she left for Jamaica to be reunited
with her husband - inspiring his song “Ae Fond Kiss”.
19

Now a recognised UNESCO heritage site, once again
it has weekly markets, events, a rich array of restaurants
and bars. There is also a fine selection of independent
shops including Bill Baber’s beautifully coloured
designer knitwear shop; Gecko Gifts selling ethically
sourced jewellery and gifts; and vintage clothing
emporium W. Armstrong & Son, established in 1840.
The award-winning Grassmarket Community Project,
a community action and social enterprise, is also on
the market doorstep, taking an innovative approach
to creating community and providing support and
sanctuary for people and further bringing the area to
life with cinema and ceilidh events and more.
A market in easy
reach of the
city-centre and
tourism hot spots
The Grassmarket has several
vantage points - a slow walk
down the colourful Victoria
Street just a short walk from
the Royal Mile or a stroll
from the West Port. Steeped
in history, visitors come to
view the architecture and
landmarks including the
nearby Greyfriars Bobby statue. Each Saturday from
10am – 5pm the centre of the Grassmarket becomes
a flurry of excitement with the arrival of the weekly
market, home to art, crafts, jewellery, gifts, not to
mention amazing locally made food.
Catching up with market coordinator Sara, we hear
how the market scene in the Grassmarket built its
reputation over the years and now has a regular
following as well as being a draw to tourists looking
for gifts, antique markets, hot food stalls and jazz!
Sara explained: “The aim of the market is to promote
local independent businesses among communities and
help bring locals together to meet each other. Although
the majority of shoppers in the markets are locals, and
the Grassmarket in particular is a tourism hot spot. In
the heart of the Old Town overlooked by Edinburgh
Castle - there isn’t a nicer spot to enjoy everything an
outdoor market has to offer. The markets are open all
year round to ensure that more people are shopping
local and businesses are supported throughout the year.
We are not just for Christmas or the Festival!”
Sara got the market life bug when she had a chance
to work behind a bread stall and that triggered a big
life change: “You are outside, meeting people, working
very hard but in an immediately rewarding way. The
social interaction aspect of the market is a massive part
of what we aim for and of course shopping local and
seven years ago I followed my passion and joined the
“At the Market’’ team.
At the Market runs three markets in Edinburgh:
Grassmarket, Leith and Stockbridge. All three are
owned by husband and wife team, Beth Berry and
Jean Francois Toulouze. Beth and Jeff have years of
background experience between them: Jeff was a street
trader in Edinburgh for 25 years and Beth worked in
IT as a business analyst and database designer. Beth
and Jeff are still involved with the markets but are now
beginning to enjoy semi-retirement.
20

The day to day running is now handled by “partner
in life and work team”, Sara (Roseburgh) and partner
Chris (Harkess). Sara worked in finance before joining
the market team in 2015 and Chris, an automotive
engineer and garage owner joined in 2019. The rest
of the team works on a part-time basis, mainly at
weekends and are a crucial addition to help things run
smoothly, they help to set the market up in the morning
and take it down at night. During the day they sell
produce on one of the three stalls the market runs itself.
The Grassmarket was launched in July 2013 a couple
of years after Stockbridge and Leith Market followed a
few years later in July 2016, and all three have since been
staple favourites throughout the city on the weekend.
amazing and watching “market life” open up again.
A lot of the stall owners have gone on to open shops
and offer wholesale to other businesses, but they still
take a stall at the market. Other traders are just starting
on their self-employment journey or are happy to keep
their focus on trading at the market.”
Events and the
market stall experience
Talking us through the market experience at the
Grassmarket, Sara said: “We are delighted to announce
our partnership with the Jazz Festival again with a
Mardi Gras day right here in July and of course the
return of our antique and vintage markets. It brings
a really lively carnival style
vibe to the market and is a
big tourism draw."
Grassmarket return post pandemic
Commenting on the pandemic Sara noted: “Of course,
it has not all been plain sailing as we will feel the
effect of the pandemic for some time to come. We
had to close the market for long spells of time - as
the Grassmarket identity is predominantly an arts,
crafts and antiques market and not a farmers’ market.
This had a massive consequence for us, as we could
not trade non-essential goods - and of course with no
tourists from USA or Asia, it made a massive dent in
our income stream. However, it has been such a relief
to return to the market after such a trying time. Seeing
both traders and shoppers come back to shop has been
“At our regular markets we
have a superb variety of
food stalls such as Spanish
Lovely Paella or Harajuku
Japanese Kitchen with
their much loved gyoza
and noodles. There are
also food produce stalls
where you can buy cakes,
sweets, fresh French bread,
cheeses, sausage rolls and many more. There are also
handmade jewellery stalls, local artists, leather and
wood craft and handmade soaps. There is something
for everyone to enjoy. The motto of the market is ‘eat,
meet, greet or treat’ and we want to encourage people
to join us on a Saturday.”
___________________________________________
See details of all 3 markets and how to join here:
www.stockbridgemarket.com
21

Weekend
18 & 19 June
Save the date!
Free
All Day
Event
Information Stalls | Bands | Activities | Food and Drinks
Ross Band Stand, Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh
For information visit mindbekind.org
Mind Be Kind - Social Enterprise SC724818
3SevenGallery.com
Edinburgh artist Catherine Mackie enjoys creating
unique art, jewellery and gifts direct to your door.
We are open to commissions for large and small pieces,
personalised to your own colours and style preference.
3SevenGallery.com
catherine.mackie.100bb

inging his chocolate business to market p. 24 & 25
WIN TICKETS - WIN TICKETS - WIN TICKETS - WIN TICKETS - WIN TICKETS
USHER HALL
EDINBURGH
WE HAVE A PAIR OF TICKETS
UP FOR GRABS TO THIS
FABULOUS HIGH ENERGY
CONCERT ON WORLD FAIR
TRADE DAY, MAY 14TH.
Q: WHERE AND WHEN
IS THIS CONCERT
TAKING PLACE?
Email YOUR answer to
editorial@marketscene.co.uk
by 30 April.
One winner will be selected and notified.
To buy tickets to this smashing concert,
Market Scene has a special readers
DISCOUNT CODE: WFTRADE22 so tickets just
£12 +booking fee (please use at checkout).
Please note concert access for over 14's only.
Under 16's with an adult 18+.
Buy tickets:
The only magazine
dedicated to showcasing the individuality and
history of Edinburgh’s Spectacular Markets
BONUS
Edinburgh
MARKETSCENE
Autumn 2021
Map of the Markets - Centre Spread
FREE
MARKETSCENE
Map of the Markets - Centre Spread
Edinburgh
Christmas 2021
FREE
Map of the Markets - Centre Spread
Edinburgh
Tipico
will
Tickle yer
Taste Buds
P.10
Meet the traders
that bring the
Markets
to
Life p.20
The Magic of
Edinburgh’s
Christmas
Markets p.5
Gail
Porter’s
Treats p.8
Favourite Festive
Edible
Flowers
in Spring?
We catch up with
Jackie & David
from Tatton Horticulture
in Balerno
SCOTLAND'S NATIONAL PIPER
Exclusive interview with
Edinburgh piper, Louise Marshall. p.6
EDINBURGH FARMERS' MARKET
Bringing the best local produce to
Castle Terrace for 21 years. p.17
EXCLUSIVELY HIGHLANDS
Travelling north to the
Scottish Highlands. p.22
CHRISTMAS PRODUCT PAGES
Products from some of the many regular markets
in and around Edinburgh p. 10-12 & 18-20
KEEPING IT LOCAL
Balerno Christmas Market.
21 years in the making p. 16
COCOAMANIA
Created in lockdown, Ian Mabon spi ls the beans on
CASTLE STREET
Dark past that would make
anyone’s blood run cold
CAURNIE SOAPERIE
Three generations and a century
of natural soap & skincare
KELSO FARMERS’ MARKET
The Oldest Farmer’s Market
in the Borders
FREE map of markets every edition plus products, trader
profiles, historical Edinburgh and markets elsewhere.
10,000 copies distributed in and around Edinburgh
and available online at facebook/marketsceneedinburgh
SUMMER Market Scene out July
To advertise your business, event or activities
email: editorial@marketscene.co.uk
Deadline for SUMMER edition 30 May.

Trader SPOTLIGHT
Shining a light on the people who bring the markets to life! Q & A with Olya Arren
locally whenever possible. Als main
inspiration is to create fun, modern
and affordable artwork inspired by his
love for animals, farming, Edinburgh
and Scotland.
Als Couzens Designs
____________________
Owner: Alisdair Couszens
alscouzens.com
@alscouzensdesigns
@alscouzensdesigns
Als, or Alistair for long, is a Graphic
Designer by trade who has worked
on a wide range of local, national and
international projects. In his spare
time, he started to create and design
his own artwork and photography,
that he then started selling at local
markers. The business has naturally
grown and evolved over the past
few years with products being sold
at markets throughout Scotland and
online to customers all over the world.
With Louise’s help, everything
is run from their studio with a
strong commitment to produce
Als and Louise love working at the
markets because it is a great way to
meet a lot of lovely folk, get to know
other local businesses while spending
time outdoors. They have got a regular
spot at the Grassmarket market,
which takes place every Saturday.
They have been doing a market stall
there for five years now and they
really love it. No matter the weather,
Als and Louise are there - rain or
shine! You can also find Als Couzens
Designs in the Stockbridge market
(about once a month), and other local
markets throughout the year.
The best thing that Als and Louise
most love about the markets is
being able to meet and chat to
customers directly!
Frangipani Toby Jewels
____________________
Owner: Frances Durack
@FrangipaniTobyJewels
@frangipanitobyjewels
Frangipani Toby Jewels is run by
Frances Durack and her husband
Suchat Chuphithaktham who both
make handmade jewellery and
leather crafts in the capital, ether
their home or the workshop space
at Edinburgh Palette. Frangipani
refers to Frances, as she loves
Frangipani Flowers, whilst Toby is
her Husband’s nickname.
Frances met her husband in Thailand
when she was travelling about 20
years ago and this is where they both
learnt to make jewellery. Initially it
was a small hobby, but in some time
the couple began to sell from a wee
table on the beach in Krabi, Thailand.
It was when Frances and Toby
24

moved to Edinburgh in 2008 when
they decided to put all their effort
into making their business work.
The inspiration behind their
handmade products comes mainly
from where they learnt to make
them... by the beach, and with a
relaxed and casual style in mind.
Macrame style, which is the ancient
art of knotting, is couple’s favourite.
Frances shared that it is super
relaxing and calming and that she
hopes it is something that is passed
on through their products.
In terms of the leather products,
Toby initially started using Leather
to practice Tattooing. From there
he ventured into leather craft using
offcuts of leather to make various
bags - all hand-stitched with patience
and precision!
Frangipani Toby Jewels
Frances usually does the selling part
at the markets, mainly because she
loves to chat. She particularly enjoys
face to face market style as it keeps
her connected to the customers and
products. You can find Frangipani
Toby Jewels in a regular attendance
at Ocean Terminal Market which is
local to Frances, who also shared that
she prefers local markets because
community forms a very important
aspect of her life. Frances is also
attending Castle Street Market.
Studio Allure
____________________
Owner: Darshita Shukla
studioallure.com
@studioallure999
@studioallure999
"Sustainable Fashion
Retailer of the Year"
Based in South Queensferry,
Edinburgh, Studio Allure offers
timeless and sustainable fashion.
The contemporary, chic, and elegant
range of women’s clothing and
accessories are sourced from local
small-scale enterprises, artisans and
craftswomen belonging to different
parts of India and as such, creative
manufacturing techniques and
handicrafts are preserved.
The story of Studio Allure is one
about empowering women, providing
dignified work, and delivering
fashionable quality products to
discerning and socially conscious
buyer. The inspiration comes from
artisans who create beautiful,
handcrafted products, each one with
its own special story. Every purchase
of a Studio Allure product benefits
those artisans and enables them to
pass their rich traditions on to the
next generation. It also ensures that
these artisans gain greater economic
and social freedom, effecting lasting
change for them, their children, and
communities.
The line of products truly embodies
the timeless fashion moniker, such as
their pashmina scarves and shawls,
handmade authentic jewellery and
Chikankari handmade embroidery;
one of the most luxurious and
evergreen embroideries from the
Indian subcontinent.
Darshita Shukla, the owner of
Studio Allure, loves attending
markets because they provide a great
opportunity to meet and interact
with a wide variety of customers
and small business owners. So it is
the wonderful community of small
business owners and their amazing
products all in one place, as well as
the prospect of meeting old and new
customers, is what Darshita most
appreciates about the markets.
You can find Studio Allure at Ocean
Terminal Market, Castle Street
Market and Newhailes Market.’
25

KELSO
Farmers’ Market
Kelso is a beautiful market town near the dramatic
meeting point of the River Tweed and the River
Teviot. It has the largest cobbled town square in
Scotland overlooked by elegant Georgian and
Victorian buildings. It is also home to the monthly
Kelso Farmers’ Market.
The Oldest Farmer’s
Market in the Borders
by Fiona Stewart
I caught up with the Kelso Farmers’ Market team who
coordinate the monthly market and also create strong
community links through their community outreach
programmes. Talking to Steve Jack, the chairman of
Kelso Farmers’ Market we hear how the market has
developed over the years. “Like many towns across
Scotland, the local market space was empty until one
very enterprising lady and current trader, Brenda Leddy
from Stitchill Jerseys - creator of Stitchill cheese and
cream - worked hard to bring a market back to Kelso,
leading us on to the successful market we have today.
The market is very much part of
the back-bone of the town now
“In 2005, we received Lottery funding and this really
helped get the market under way. We are set up as a
dedicated non-profit organisation and run by a truly
dedicated volunteer committee. The market is very
much part of the back-bone of the town now, as
we give back to the community, giving fundraising
support and direct financial contribution to a wide
range of organisations including the local rugby club
and mountain rescue team. Over the years we have
contributed around £25,000 to £30,000.”
“In addition” Steve added: “we really want to get the
"farm to fork" message out there and we are delighted
to financially support the Border Union Agricultural
Society annual educational day where approximately
1,200 primary 5 school-children from all over the
Scottish Borders attend the Showground in Kelso to
learn all about where their food comes from.”
Market stall coordinator and trader, Alison Tuke of
Hardiesmill Ethical Scotch Beef, explained how she

had been involved with the market for 18 years and
what it means to her to shop local; “A supermarket shelf
doesn't talk and what I mean is, there is no meaningful
interaction between the customer and the producer.
It is a very soul-less experience. At our market you
are speaking directly to the person who produced the
food or created the crafts. So, you can really learn the
backstory from the traders and how they make their
products in a relaxing way."
“We look for stall holders that are really passionate
about the market and what they offer and that quality
shines through. We also aim to keep a good balance in
the market of products and that is why people return, as
they know they can buy a good range of fresh products
here. We can bring our passion for our products to
the market and it is that spark we look for when new
traders join us.”
Alison added: “We are truly a "farm to fork" business
and as a farmer at Hardiesmill, I rear a stock of 450
cattle, so we are delighted to talk to our customers
about our meat - as we use grass/haylage and no cereals
or legumes in production."
A visitor experience to
Kelso Farmers’ Market
With a growing trend of outdoor market fans looking
for a day out - they can add Kelso Farmers’ Market
to their “must-visit” list. It is thought to be the oldest
farmers’ market in the Borders and has been running
for over 20 years.
For visitors that have time - there is a beautiful
riverside walk, the fishing museum, visit 15th century
Smailholm Tower (need a car to travel to this) and
lots of lovely local shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs
within Kelso many of which are independent or
nearby Floors Castle built in 1721 by William Adam
- the spectacular home of the Duke and Duchess of
Roxburghe. Visitors to the market can enjoy a wide
range of local produce from cheese, bread, meat, fish
and berries to a variety of crafts from 24 stalls to
browse from.
Mags Clark, secretary on the Kelso team added: “We
have some lovely food here and although we don’t have
hot food stands as such - you can pick up a coffee, an
artisanal style Rola Mor sausage roll and delicious tray
bakes and eat on the go.”
“We have some amazing bread by Laura, The
Breadmaker and incredible sweet treats by The Dessert
Diva - and more recently we have a “kimchi” maker,
Jude’s Good Food, which is proving really popular.”
“It is well worth a stroll around the market to meet
the traders - who will be able to help you create some
delicious meals or find a bespoke gift or two."
“A full list of our regular stall holders is pinned to the top
of our Facebook page and we confirm the final stallholder
list a few days ahead of each monthly market."
“We also like to let people know in advance that not all
traders have a card machine - but there are a couple of
cash machines nearby."
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Getting there, dates and times
Just over an hour’s drive from Edinburgh through the
rolling Roxburghe country-side, visitors can also take
a train to Tweedbank on the Galashiels line and then a
bus to Kelso. Check out www.bordersbuses.co.uk
It can be found in Kelso Square on the fourth Saturday
of the month - open from 9.30am to 1.30pm with
forthcoming dates coming up on 26 March, 23 April,
28 May, 25 June, 16 July, 27 August, 24 September, 22
October, 26 November, 17 December.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
For visitor attractions and information on what
Kelso has to offer, check out - www.visitkelso.com
27

SATURDAY MAY 14TH
USHER HALL
FOR TICKETS AND INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.USHERHALL.CO.UK