Carlisle hosts the ‘tastes of Europe’

Shoppers in Carlisle wanting to taste the ‘real flavour of Europe’ will be able to sample a shopping experience not to be missed this Easter bank holiday weekend.

A continental market, arranged by Carlisle City Council in partnership with Market Place Europe Ltd, will include a variety of stalls from Europe and will be open to the public between this Thursday (20 March) and Saturday (22 March), 10am to 5pm, in the city centre pedestrianised shopping area.

Back after popular demand, the market last visited Carlisle at Christmas to resounding success and will include more than 30 stalls from the far reaches of Europe. Goods will include charcuterie specialist meats from Corsica, freshly baked French Apple and Fruit sponges, a Spanish trader cooking authentic paella and wine and beer merchants selling quality Bordeaux.

British food suppliers will also be represented and will include a pie baker to the Royal House of Sandringham – Harry Toms Lime Tree Pantry. Bexton cheese from Cheshire and an imaginatively decorated Gingerbread House packed full of sweets and fudge will also be on show for those with a sweet tooth. Entertainment will also be provided on the bandstand.

Green-fingered shoppers will not be disappointed, as the market will include the ‘Flying Dutchman’, Dick van de Wardt, one of the largest plant, flower and bulb specialists from Holland.

John Bell, Carlisle City Council’s Tourism Manager said

The Continental Market promises to be even bigger and better and will include some exciting new traders. Shoppers will also be delighted to hear that some of their old favourites such as Dutch Plant seller Dirk van de Wardt will also be attending again. The Continental Market is a regular feature in the city centre and is a popular attraction for residents and tourists alike. Shoppers will be spoilt for choice, with a collection of market stalls with a wide range of products.

Allan Hartwell, Director of Market Place said

We are absolutely delighted to have been invited back to Carlisle, it’s a great City which just keeps getting better and better and the warm welcome we receive from the people of Carlisle really does take some beating.