There is little doubt that Emsworth is a unique place, positioned at the top of Chichester Harbour, this pretty, old fishing town would be just as happy sitting by the sea in Cornwall or even Brittany. In the main the fishing boats and its once famous oyster industry may have gone, but Emsworth, unlike so many similar communities has still managed to maintain its sense of place.
Part of the reason for this is the fact that Emsworth still has a wonderful array of independent shops, pubs and restaurants. There are very few small towns left on the south coast that can still offer two family owned butchers, a greengrocers and a fishmongers. Add into the mix some of the area’s finest restaurants and some wonderful traditional pubs and you can see why Emsworth is cherished both by its residents and visitors alike.
To highlight both itself and the growing ‘shop local’ movement, Emsworth has recently reintroduced a monthly market day and has attracted the highly regarded Hampshire Farmers’ Market to participate. Local food for local people that’s what the Hampshire Farmers’ Market is all about which fits in perfectly with Emsworth’s independent traders. Everything sold at Hampshire Farmers’ Markets must have been produced in the county or within 10 miles of its borders and must be sold either by the producer or someone directly involved with it – now that’s produce with a real sense of place!
Emsworth Market Day also sees many of the local shops, pubs and restaurants offering special offers making it a great way to both shop locally and save money. Emsworth now has its own ‘Extra Card’, which you can use at any time, including on Market Day, in participating businesses, for the chance to win some great prizes every month. Add into this some entertainment laid on in Emsworth’s picturesque square from 10.30am and there is every reason to make Market Day a date in your diary every month!
