The Frome Independent

A couple of weeks ago I visited The Frome Independent. Billed by its organisers as ‘more than a market’ it is nevertheless a vibrant and bustling affair with independent small business producers and traders setting up enticing stalls full of delicious looking (and smelling) food, vintage furniture and gifts in the characterful Somerset town of Frome. 

As we were flanked by two small kiddies we made frequent pit stops for food and fun. Lots of young families congregate at the pop-up ‘village green’ to listen to vintage mobile disco ‘Donna Somerset’ which sets up here every market Sunday. We sat down on benches to munch food we’d bought from the pedestrianised food market. The music was quite loud which didn’t suit our littlies but lots of children were running amok on the village green’s Astroturf next to the makeshift disco decks. Having placated the tots enough for a quick whizz around the vintage market we managed a look at some lovely old stuff before making our way to the Vintage Tea Party at Rook Lane Chapel.

Positive Action on Cancer put on a really great little tea party with rolled up sides of a bell tent welcoming little adventurers to play, face painting, tea and cake and local musicians creating nice backing tracks to a relaxed afternoon. Rook Lane Chapel was a lovely location. It is a converted chapel which now runs as an arts centre. If I lived in Frome I would definitely check out its exhibitions. If its tasteful conversion is anything to go by its exhibitions and shows will be great!

The Frome market is a throwback to when the high street was dominated by independent producers with very few cars around and people mingling and talking with other people from their community. There’s a great vibe and, as long as you keep plying the kids and yourself with yummy things (you’ll be hard pressed to resist the temptations!)  is a great day out. Market days are the first Sunday of each month March-December. The market is on from 10am-3pm. Happy browsing!