∙ SOME EVENTS JUST GET EVERYTHING RIGHT ∙ On the first Saturday of May, we headed over to The Fleur de Lys in Lowsonford for the launch of its very first Makers Market, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like one of those wonderfully relaxed days out that reminds you why it’s so great to champion local businesses.

∙ A PERFECT SETTING ∙ For anyone who hasn’t visited before, The Fleur de Lys is one of our favourite pubs in Warwickshire and the Cotswolds. Set right alongside the Stratford Canal and surrounded by beautiful countryside, it already has one of the most enviable pub gardens in the region. The launch of a monthly artisan market in this setting was just a match made in pub garden heaven.

Market is FREE to attend, but if you fancy combining your visit with a delicious lunch, you can book a table here.

∙ CELEBRATING LOCAL MAKERS ∙ The market itself was set up under the pub’s sail-style canopy, creating a lovely atmosphere regardless of the weather. It felt vibrant without being crowded, busy without being hectic, and people were just enjoying themselves. What stood out most was the quality and variety of the artisans and independent businesses taking part. From handmade crafts and gifts to handmade products and creative makers, there was plenty to browse and discover. It wasn’t just a market; it felt like a celebration of local talent.

∙ A WONDERFUL FAMILY ATMOSPHERE ∙ What we particularly loved was how family-friendly the event felt. There were people of all ages enjoying the afternoon, browsing the stalls, catching up with friends and making the most of the beautiful surroundings. The canal, gardens and countryside setting all added to the relaxed, feel-good atmosphere.

∙ GREAT FOOD AND CANAL VIEWS ∙ Of course, no visit to The Fleur de Lys would be complete without food. We had lunch and can happily report that the vegan burger was excellent, as was the side of chunky chips and cold drinks. Enjoying great food while overlooking the canal and watching visitors explore the market was the perfect way to spend a spring afternoon.

∙ BOOK YOUR TABLE FOR LUNCH HERE ∙

∙ THE MARKET UK PARTNERSHIP ∙ The markets are organised in partnership with The Market UK, founded by Emma Gillett, whose focus is on creating carefully curated events that champion independent businesses and strengthen local communities. We hadn’t been to one of Emma’s markets before, but after experiencing this one, it’s easy to see why the concept works so well. The combination of talented makers, a fantastic venue, and a welcoming atmosphere created something that felt genuinely special.

∙ A RELAXED COMMUNITY FEEL ∙ Perhaps what we enjoyed most was that there was no rush. People wandered, chatted, browsed and relaxed. It felt less like a shopping event and more like a community gathering centred around creativity, craftsmanship and supporting local businesses.

∙ MORE MARKETS TO COME ∙ If you missed the May market, don’t worry. The Fleur de Lys will be hosting further Makers Markets on the first Saturday of June and July, and based on our experience, they’re well worth adding to your diary.

Whether you’re looking for unique handmade gifts, want to support local artisans, fancy a stroll along the canal or simply want an excuse to spend a few hours at one of the loveliest pubs in Warwickshire, this is exactly the sort of event that deserves to succeed.

We’ll certainly be back on 6 June and 4 July x

∙ BOOK YOUR TABLE FOR LUNCH HERE ∙

Beautiful outdoor space

The Fleur de Lys sits on the banks of the Stratford Canal, between winding country roads that used to be part of the Forest of Arden. Its one-acre gardens were a big factor in the pub being named among The Top 100 Restaurants for Outdoor Dining by OpenTable recently. Co-owner Emma Woodhouse says: “There’s such a big, beautiful outdoor space here at the Fleur De Lys that it seems foolish not to put it to good use as often as possible, which is why we’re so delighted that Market UK has seen the potential to bring their unique brand of makers markets out here to sleepy Lowsonford. “Championing local independent businesses is one of our favourite things to do, so packing our garden full of the West Midlands and Warwickshire’s finest artisans, makers, creators, alchemists and producers is really exciting. If you haven’t explored this gorgeous corner of countryside before, we’ve got everything you need to make a day of it, with a wholesome walk along the canal before you begin shopping at the market and of course there’s plenty of award-winning pies and refreshments after you’ve met some of the finest makers in the county.”