We sat down with Lisa Cowley of Independent Street, which operates Burnley’s monthly Artisan Market for a quick Q&A to find out why it’s so popular and how budding traders can get involved.
For those who haven’t visited before, can you tell us a little about the Burnley Artisan Market and what makes it such a popular monthly event?
The Burnley Artisan Market has become a firm favourite in the town, bringing together around 65 – 70 of the region’s finest independent makers, bakers, artists, food producers and creative businesses on the first Saturday of every month. It’s much more than a mere market, it’s a community event where people can enjoy live music, free family activities and discover unique products they simply won’t find on the high street. Taking you back to the days when the high street was King, every stall is carefully curated, so visitors know they’re supporting genuine independent businesses while enjoying a fantastic day out in the heart of Burnley. The event is now seen as a flagship market in Lancashire and we are so proud of how the event has evolved over the past 5 years.
2. What can visitors look forward to over the next few months?
We’ve got an exciting programme lined up with even more fantastic artisan traders, delicious street food, live entertainment and free children’s activities. Every month brings something different as we welcome new independent businesses alongside many of our much-loved regular traders. Many of whom have traded with us for five years in Burnley! Whether you’re looking for handmade gifts, locally produced food and drink, homeware, artwork or simply somewhere to spend a relaxing Saturday with family and friends, there’s always something new to discover at Burnley Artisan Market.
3. The market is a fantastic platform for independent businesses. How can budding entrepreneurs, makers and local artisans get involved and what advice would you give to someone considering their first stall?
We love supporting small businesses and many of our traders have grown significantly after starting with us. Anyone interested in trading can apply through the Independent Street website, where we carefully curate our events to ensure a great mix of products. My biggest piece of advice is to just go for it. You don’t need a huge business to get started – passion, quality products and enthusiasm go a long way. Invest in a welcoming stall display, chat to your customers and remember that every successful business starts somewhere. Markets are a fantastic way to build confidence, receive valuable customer feedback and grow your brand. We offer an affordable platform for start-up businesses and it is a great way to test the water for a new concept, idea or brand. Proudly three of our Burnley artisan traders have gone from pop up to permanent shops in Burnley which shows… it is possible.. dreams can become reality.
4. Burnley will celebrate its Year of Culture in 2027. How do you see the Artisan Market contributing to the town’s cultural celebrations and supporting the local creative community?
Artisan markets naturally celebrate creativity, craftsmanship and community, so we’re incredibly excited to be part of Burnley’s Year of Culture. Independent businesses, artists and makers all play an important role in shaping the identity of a town. Our markets create opportunities for local creatives to showcase their talents while encouraging people to spend time in Burnley, support local businesses and experience everything the town has to offer. We hope to play a small part in showcasing Burnley as a vibrant destination full of creativity, talent and community spirit.
5. What do you love most about bringing the Artisan Market to Burnley each month and what makes the town such a great place to support independent businesses?
For me, it’s seeing the community come together. Watching visitors meet the people behind the products, seeing traders succeed and hearing how much people enjoy spending time at the market makes all the hard work worthwhile. Burnley has such a strong sense of community and people genuinely want to support local businesses. There’s a real appreciation for quality, creativity, and independent enterprise and that’s exactly what our markets are all about. We’re incredibly proud to work alongside our partners in Burnley and look forward to continuing to grow the market for many years to come. To get involved contact [email protected].
